Kenrokuen Garden is a breathtaking landscape of ponds, hills, lush greenery, and seasonal flowers, truly embodying the essence of Japanese beauty.
Overview
Kenrokuen Garden, located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is one of Japan's Three Great Gardens and is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Created by the Kaga clan lords during the Edo period, the expansive grounds feature lush landscapes of ponds, hills, and pine trees, offering stunning seasonal views. From cherry blossoms in spring to verdant foliage in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and the enchanting snow-laden pines of winter (yukitsuri), the garden transforms throughout the year. A wide variety of pine trees and flowers are planted throughout the grounds, captivating visitors with their beauty.
Kenrokuen's highlights include:
* Kotoji Lantern (Kijin Toro): An iconic symbol of Kenrokuen. This lantern, shaped like a koto (Japanese string instrument) bridge, is considered the face of the garden.
* Kasumi-ga-Ike Pond: A central pond surrounded by greenery, offering a tranquil and serene atmosphere.
* Karasakino Pine: A pine tree growing in the pond. Its appearance resembles a crane drinking water, hence the alternative name "Tsuru Sho Ume".
* Fountain: Built in the late Edo period, this is one of Japan's oldest fountains, harmonizing with the seasonal scenery.
* Neagari Pine: A unique pine tree with its roots exposed above ground, conveying a sense of tenacious vitality.
Other highlights include Kyokusui (a water channel), Hanami Bridge, and the Kijo Bridge.
Kenrokuen Garden is a must-see destination for any visitor to Kanazawa. Experience its breathtaking seasonal beauty firsthand.
By Car:
From the Hokuriku Expressway Kanazawa-Morimoto IC, Kanazawa-Higashi IC, or Kanazawa-Nishi IC, drive 15-25 minutes toward Kanazawa city center.
Public Transportation:
Take a Hokutetsu Bus (including the Kenrokuen Kanazawa sightseeing route) or West Japan JR Bus from Kanazawa Station (or Nomachi Station, Nishi-Kanazawa Station, Higashi-Kanazawa Station) and get off at the following bus stops:
"Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa-jo" bus stop (Katsusaka-guchi is the closest)
"Hirosaka・21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa" bus stop (Mayumizaka-guchi is the closest)
"Demachi" bus stop (Kodateno-guchi is the closest)
There are also nearby "Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art・Kenrokuen (Mayumizaka-guchi)" bus stops for the Machinori bus, and bus stops for the Kanazawa Furatto Bus Zaimoku route and Kikukawa route.
Rental Cycle:
Machinori's Kenrokuen Port [15] and Kenrokuen-shita Port [16] are located nearby. Show route
Op.Hours
7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (March 1st to October 15th), 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (October 16th to the end of February) *Shiguretei: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)
Cld.Days
Open all year round (Shiguretei teahouse closed from December 29th to January 3rd)
Fee
《Entrance Fee》Adults: ¥320, Children (6-18 years old): ¥100, Free for children under 6 and seniors over 65 (proof of age required) 《Shiguretei Tea Ceremony》Sencha (green tea): ¥310, Matcha: ¥730
INFO
Smoking is prohibited within the garden.
Pets are not allowed in the garden.
Motorcycles are not allowed in the garden.
Please be careful as some of Kenrokuen's pathways are paved with smooth gravel and may be slippery.