Seisonkaku, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is a prime example of a daimyo (feudal lord's) residence from the late Edo period. Its elegant appearance, a stunning blend of Shoin-zukuri and Sukiya-zukuri styles, is a must-see!
Historic Sites
National Treasure
Castle
Highlights
A prime example of a daimyo residence from the late Edo period
A fusion of Shoin-zukuri and Sukiya-zukuri architectural styles
Designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan
From Kanazawa Station, take the Hokutetsu Railway or Hokutetsu Kanazawa Bus (Hokutetsu Bus) to “Demachi” and walk 3 minutes.
You can also take the Kanazawa Furatto Bus (Kikukawa Route) to the “Kenritsu Bijutsukan・Kokuritsu Kogeikan” bus stop.
While there is a Hokutetsu Railway bus stop, “Kenritsu Bijutsukan・Seisonkaku,” in front of the main gate, since April 2021, only the Kanazawa Light-Up Bus, operating on specific nights, stops there. A sign indicating a regular tour bus stop is also located here.
=== By Car ===
Approximately 20 minutes by car from the Kanazawa-Nishi Interchange or Kanazawa-Higashi Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway. Show route
Op.Hours
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
Cld.Days
Wednesday
Fee
Adults (High school students and above) ¥500
Children (Junior high school students and below) ¥300
INFO
Photography is permitted inside the building, but please refrain from using flash photography.
Seisonkaku is a daimyo residence built in 1863 (Bunkyu 3) by Maeda Naruyasu, the 13th lord of the Kaga Clan, as a retirement villa for his mother, Shinryuin (wife of the 12th lord, Maeda Narimasa). Initially called "Tatsumi Goten," it was later renamed "Seisonkaku." Seisonkaku is characterized by its magnificent architectural style, a fusion of Shoin-zukuri on the first floor and Sukiya-zukuri on the second. Shoin-zukuri, typically used for tea rooms and studies, is known for its simple and tranquil atmosphere, while Sukiya-zukuri, used for guest rooms and bedrooms, is characterized by its ornate and decorative spaces. In Seisonkaku, these two styles blend beautifully, creating a space that epitomizes the height of daimyo culture. Designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, Seisonkaku is an invaluable resource for understanding late Edo period architecture. Adjacent to Seisonkaku lies the beautiful "Hiryutei Garden," a designated Place of Scenic Beauty. Hiryutei Garden harmonizes with Seisonkaku, offering an elegant landscape featuring a pond, rock formations, and trees, providing a beautiful seasonal backdrop. Seisonkaku and Hiryutei Garden are symbolic of Kanazawa's culture and attract many tourists. If you want to experience history and culture, be sure to visit Seisonkaku.