Kenroku-en: A Timeless Japanese Garden in Kanazawa
Explore Kenroku-en, Kanazawa's exquisite garden blending natural beauty and cultural heritage, perfect for a peaceful retreat and scenic photography.
Kenroku-en is one of Japan's most celebrated traditional gardens, blending serene landscapes with historical significance. This expansive garden offers visitors picturesque views, tranquil pathways, and seasonal beauty that captivates the senses year-round.
A brief summary to Kenroku-en
- 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Kenrokumachi, Ishikawa, 920-0936, JP
- +8176-234-3800
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Check the seasonal highlights calendar to catch the blooming cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas amidst the beautiful surroundings.
- Wear comfortable shoes to better explore the various paths and landscapes throughout the garden.
- Don't miss the chance to visit the tea houses for a taste of traditional Japanese tea and sweets.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Kenroku-en from the Chubu region, take the Hokuriku Expressway (北陸自動車道) towards Kanazawa. Exit at the Kanazawa-Nishi Interchange (金沢西IC) and follow Route 159 towards Kanazawa city center. Continue on Route 159 until you reach the Kenroku-en entrance, located at 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0936. There is parking available near the garden, but note that there may be a parking fee of approximately 500-1000 yen depending on the duration of your stay.
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Train
To reach Kenroku-en by train, take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Nagoya or Toyama to Kanazawa Station. Once you arrive at Kanazawa Station, exit the station and head to the Kanazawa Loop Bus terminal located outside the station. Board the 'Right Loop' bus, which will take you directly to Kenroku-en. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes, and a one-way fare is approximately 200 yen. Get off at the Kenroku-en stop, and you will find the entrance to the garden a short walk away.
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Bus
If you are utilizing local buses, you can take the Noto Railway or the Kanazawa city bus from various locations in Chubu that connect to Kanazawa. Once in Kanazawa, transfer to the Kanazawa Loop Bus at Kanazawa Station and board the 'Right Loop' bus towards Kenroku-en. Remember to have some cash handy for the bus fare, which is around 200 yen one-way. After about 15 minutes, disembark at the Kenroku-en stop, where you can easily access the garden.
Discover more about Kenroku-en
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gankou-Bashi (Flying Geese Bridge)
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Sekirei-jima (Wagtail Island)
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Ryuseki
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Kaiseki Pagoda
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Kenrokuen Garden Kodatsuno Gate
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Ishikawa Local Products Center
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Northwest Turret Remains
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Kahoku-mon Gate
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Kaname Inn Tatemachi
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Omicho Parking Lot
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Shinise Kinenkan Museum
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Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall
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Kuragarizaka
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Jimonotei
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kasumiga-ike Pond
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Shigure-tei
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Kenrokuen Garden Kamisaka Gate
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Tiger Stone
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Kotoji Toro (Stone Lantern)
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Seison-kaku
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Suitaki
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Fountain
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Yugao-tei (Gourd Tea House)
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Renchi-mon Gate
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Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well
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Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden
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Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center
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Kenrokuen Garden Katsurazaka Gate
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Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art
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Essential places to dine
Kotobuki
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Miyoshian Suitei
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Miyoshian
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Kikantei
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Kenrokutei
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Shiroyamatei
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お食事処堤亭
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Gyokusen-tei
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Atsushi
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Sekitei Kaiseki restaurant
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Japanese Dining Yamatoku
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Itaru Honten
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Ageha
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Turban Curry Main Store
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
浪漫
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Imai Kinpaku Hirosaka Store
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Hokusai Graphic
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Hakuichi Kenrokuen Store
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Museum Shop
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[g]ift
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Sanrio
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Daiwa Korinbo Store
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Animate Kanazawa
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CoCoTTo KANAZAWA
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[JFK]kanazawa
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UNDERCOVER Kanazawa
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原荒物雑貨店
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MM6 Maison Margiela Kanazawa
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar
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Kanazawa Music Bar
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Kohaku Bar
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Bar Quinase
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The Londonya Bar
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Bar polish
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Kirikou
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ヨーク
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Bar Spoon
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Bar Tobira (Door)
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金沢・片町 BAR de JOAO(バードジョアン)
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Orbital bar
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FURANSU COCKTAIL BAR フランス
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