Kenrokuen Garden: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and History

• Helloこんにちは
  [kon-ni-chi-wa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [sa-yo-u-na-ra]
• Yesはい
  [ha-i]
• Noいいえ
  [i-i-e]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [do-u-zo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [a-ri-ga-to-u go-za-i-ma-su]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [su-mi-ma-se-n]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [o-ge-n-ki de-su ka]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [ge-n-ki de-su. a-na-ta wa]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [e-i-go o ha-na-se-ma-su ka]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [wa-ka-ri-ma-se-n]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [me-n-yu-u o mi-se-te ku-da-sa-i]
• I don't eat meat私は肉を食べません
  [wa-ta-shi wa ni-ku o ta-be-ma-se-n]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [kan-pa-i]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [o-kai-kei o o-ne-ga-i shi-ma-su]

• Help!助けて！
  [ta-su-ke-te]
• Go away!去って！
  [sa-t-te]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [ke-i-sa-tsu o yo-n-de]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [i-sha o yo-n-de]
• I'm lost道に迷いました
  [mi-chi ni ma-ya-i-ma-shi-ta]
• I'm ill具合が悪い
  [gu-a-i ga wa-ru-i]

• I'd like to buy...これを買いたいです
  [ko-re o ka-i-ta-i de-su]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [mi-te-ru da-ke de-su]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [i-ku-ra de-su ka]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [so-re wa ta-ka-su-gi-ma-su]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [ne-da-n o sa-ge-te mo-ra-e-ma-su ka]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [i-ma na-n-ji de-su ka]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [i-chi-ji de-su]
• Half past (10)十時半です
  [ju-u-ji ha-n de-su]
• Morning朝
  [a-sa]
• Afternoon午後
  [go-go]
• Evening夜
  [yo-ro]
• Yesterday昨日
  [ki-no-u-ta]
• Today今日
  [kyo-u]
• Tomorrow明日
  [a-su]
• 1一
  [i-chi]
• 2二
  [ni]
• 3三
  [sa-n]
• 4四
  [shi]
• 5五
  [go]
• 6六
  [ro-ku]
• 7七
  [na-na]
• 8八
  [ha-chi]
• 9九
  [kyu-u]
• 10十
  [ju-u]

• Where's a/the...?どこに...がありますか？
  [do-ko ni ... ga a-ri-ma-su ka]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [ju-u-sho wa na-n de-su ka]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せていただけますか？
  [chi-zu de mi-se-te i-ta-da-ke ma-su ka]
• When's the next (bus)?次のバスはいつですか？
  [tsu-gi no ba-su wa i-tsu de-su ka]
• A ticket (to ....)チケット（...まで）
  [chi-ke-tto (... ma-de)]

Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated gardens, was initially established in the early Edo period (1603-1868) as the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle. The garden's name, which translates to 'Six Attributes Garden', reflects its design principles, which are based on the six essential attributes of a perfect garden: spaciousness, tranquility, artifice, antiquity, water sources, and scenic views.

The garden was developed under the patronage of the Maeda clan, the feudal lords of the Kaga Domain, who were known for their wealth and cultural contributions. The third lord, Tsunanori Maeda, significantly expanded the garden in the 17th century, incorporating various elements such as ponds, tea houses, and flowering plants, which enhanced its beauty and made it a center for cultural gatherings.

Throughout the Edo period, Kenrokuen served as a venue for traditional tea ceremonies and seasonal festivals, becoming a vital part of Kanazawa's cultural landscape. The garden's exquisite beauty attracted poets, artists, and scholars, making it a hub for artistic expression and intellectual exchange, reflecting the cultural richness of the Kaga Domain.

In the Meiji era (1868-1912), Kenrokuen underwent significant changes as Japan modernized. However, restoration efforts began in the Taisho era (1912-1926) to preserve the garden's historical significance. These efforts included the construction of the iconic Kasumigaike Pond and the careful management of the diverse plant species that thrive within its landscape.

In 1922, Kenrokuen was designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, and in 1985, it became a National Special Historic Site. These recognitions have helped to ensure its preservation for future generations, solidifying Kenrokuen's status not just as a garden but as a cultural treasure of Kanazawa and Japan, showcasing the harmonious relationship between nature and human artistry.

Kenrokuen Garden is conveniently located in Kanazawa, easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From Kanazawa Station, take the Hokuriku Railroad Bus (Kanazawa Loop Bus) which stops directly at Kenrokuen. Alternatively, a 30-minute walk from the station will take you through the city and to the garden's entrance. Taxis are also available and provide a quick, hassle-free option.

Once at Kenrokuen Garden, the area is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes. Bicycles can be rented nearby for those who prefer to cycle. The Kanazawa Loop Bus also has stops near the garden for easy access to other attractions in the area, such as Kanazawa Castle and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Kenrokuen Garden is generally a safe area for tourists. However, it is wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. While Kanazawa is known to have low crime rates, petty theft can occur, particularly in busy tourist spots. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when approached by strangers.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police or 119 for fire and medical services in Japan. The nearest hospital to Kenrokuen Garden is Kanazawa Medical Center, located a short taxi ride away. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor medical issues, there are pharmacies in the vicinity.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, and dress appropriately for the season. During visits to shrines or temples, modest clothing is encouraged. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in areas around temples and shrines. Public Transport: Do be polite and considerate when using public transport, and don't speak loudly. Greetings: Do greet locals with a slight bow and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local snacks available in nearby shops. Don't eat or drink while walking in the garden.

To experience Kenrokuen Garden like a local, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist hours and enjoy a more serene atmosphere. Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas of the garden. Engage with local gardeners or staff to learn more about the flora and history of the garden. Check the seasonal events, such as cherry blossom viewings in spring or autumn foliage, to enhance your visit.