The Enchanting Beauty of Kenroku-en: A Garden of Six Attributes
Discover the serene beauty of Kenroku-en, one of Japan's most exquisite gardens, where nature and artistry blend in perfect harmony.
Kenroku-en, located in the heart of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a must-visit for any tourist seeking to experience the epitome of Japanese garden design. As one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Kenroku-en boasts an exquisite layout that embodies the six essential attributes of a perfect garden: spaciousness, tranquility, artifice, antiquity, water, and magnificent views. Each season brings a new charm to this expansive 25.1-hectare landscape, where visitors can witness vibrant cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and serene snowscapes in winter. The garden features a wealth of historical elements, including ancient trees, picturesque ponds, and traditional tea houses, all harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings. The iconic Kasumiga-ike pond, with its picturesque reflections and surrounding walking paths, offers visitors the perfect spot for photography and contemplation. Seasonal events, such as cherry blossom viewing and the illumination of the garden in winter, add to the enchanting experience of Kenroku-en. For those interested in Japanese culture, Kenroku-en also provides insight into traditional gardening techniques and aesthetics, as well as the historical significance of the area. With its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Kenroku-en is not just a garden but a captivating journey through the beauty of nature and art, making it an essential stop on any travel itinerary in Japan.
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and stunning natural light for photography.
- Don't miss the seasonal exhibitions, particularly the cherry blossoms in spring and the colorful leaves in autumn.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on various terrains, including gravel paths and wooden bridges.
- Check the local weather and plan your visit accordingly, as some attractions may be less visible during rain.
- Take your time to explore the tea houses within the garden; they often offer traditional refreshments and a quiet place to relax.
A brief summary to Kenroku-en
- 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Kenrokumachi, Ishikawa, 920-0936, JP
- +8176-234-3800
- Visit website
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.
Attractions Nearby to Kenroku-en
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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
Landmarks nearby to Kenroku-en
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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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Nokabanzai Ichibaya Omicho Sohonten