Kenroku-en: The Jewel of Kanazawa
Explore Kenroku-en, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, where tranquility and nature converge in the heart of Kanazawa.
Kenroku-en, one of Japan's most celebrated gardens, embodies the beauty of nature with meticulously crafted landscapes, serene ponds, and seasonal blossoms. This urban oasis invites tourists to explore its picturesque pathways, unique plantings, and historical tea houses, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of Kanazawa.
A brief summary to Kenroku-en
- 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Kenrokumachi, Ishikawa, 920-0936, JP
- +8176-234-3800
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning lighting for photography.
- Check the seasonal highlights calendar on the official website to catch the garden in full bloom during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll want to explore the extensive walking paths throughout the garden.
- Bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery, especially during cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons.
- Don’t miss trying matcha (green tea) served in the traditional teahouses located within the garden.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from Tosa, head north on Route 56 towards Kochi. After about 30 km, merge onto the Tokushima Expressway. Continue on the expressway for approximately 100 km until you reach Kanazawa. Once you arrive in Kanazawa, follow the signs to the city center and then to Kenroku-en, located at 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0936. Parking is available nearby, but be aware that parking fees may apply, typically around 500-1000 JPY per day.
-
Public Transportation (Train)
From Tosa, take a train from Tosa City Station to Kochi Station. This journey takes about 30 minutes. From Kochi Station, transfer to the Limited Express train to Kanazawa Station. The train ride will take approximately 3 hours. Once at Kanazawa Station, exit the station and take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (either Bus No. 1 or No. 2) towards Kenroku-en. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes, and a single fare is around 200 JPY. Get off at the Kenroku-en stop, and you will find the entrance to the garden nearby.
-
Public Transportation (Bus)
If you prefer traveling by bus, take a highway bus from Tosa to Kanazawa. The journey will take about 4-5 hours depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Kanazawa Bus Terminal, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to Kenroku-en, located just about 1.5 km away. Alternatively, you can take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from the terminal as described above. The bus fare is approximately 200 JPY.
Discover more about Kenroku-en
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gankou-Bashi (Flying Geese Bridge)
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kanazawa's Gankou-Bashi, the Flying Geese Bridge, nestled in the heart of Kenrokuen Garden.
Sekirei-jima (Wagtail Island)
0.1 km
A symbolic island within Kanazawa's Kenrokuen Garden, representing life's journey through birth, marriage, and death.
Kenrokuen Garden Kamisaka Gate
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, a masterpiece of Japanese landscaping and a must-visit for every nature lover.
Ryuseki
0.1 km
Discover Ryuseki, a hidden gem in Kanazawa, offering a tranquil escape near the famed Kenrokuen Garden.
Kaiseki Pagoda
0.1 km
Discover the enigmatic Kaiseki Pagoda in Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa – a historic stone structure shrouded in mystery and surrounded by serene beauty.
Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well
0.2 km
Explore the serene Kinjo Reitaku Sacred Well in Kanazawa, a historical landmark surrounded by nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Kenrokuen Garden Kodatsuno Gate
0.2 km
Discover Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa: A landscape masterpiece blending history, artistry, and natural beauty in one of Japan's most celebrated gardens.
Ishikawa Local Products Center
0.3 km
Discover Ishikawa's cultural heart: local crafts, flavors, and hands-on experiences await near Kanazawa's famed Kenrokuen Garden.
Northwest Turret Remains
0.5 km
Explore the Northwest Turret Remains at Kanazawa Castle Park, a window into the history and strategic design of the Maeda clan's stronghold.
Gojukken Nagaya - Kanazawa castle
0.5 km
Explore Gojukken Nagaya, a historic storehouse in Kanazawa Castle Park, showcasing Edo-period architecture and defensive ingenuity of feudal Japan.
Kahoku-mon Gate
0.5 km
Explore the meticulously restored Kahoku-mon Gate, the main entrance to Kanazawa Castle, and step back in time to feudal Japan.
Sanjikken nagaya
0.5 km
Explore the historic Sanjikken Nagaya storehouse in Kanazawa Castle Park, a surviving treasure of Edo-era architecture and history.
Hishi Yagura
0.5 km
Discover Hishi Yagura, a historic castle tower in Kanazawa, showcasing stunning architecture and breathtaking views of Japan's feudal past.
KAMU KANAZAWA
0.6 km
Discover the captivating realm of contemporary art at KAMU KANAZAWA, where innovation meets creativity in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.
Kaname Inn Tatemachi
0.8 km
Experience Kanazawa in style and comfort at Kaname Inn Tatemachi, perfectly located on historic Tatemachi Street for exploring the city's best attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kasumiga-ike Pond
0.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Kasumiga-ike Pond in Kanazawa, a tranquil oasis showcasing nature's artistry in every season.
Tiger Stone
0.1 km
Explore the captivating beauty of Tiger Stone in Kanazawa, where nature and culture unite in a serene Japanese landscape.
Kotoji Toro (Stone Lantern)
0.1 km
Explore Kotoji Toro, the iconic stone lantern of Kanazawa, nestled in the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden, a must-visit for every traveler.
Seison-kaku
0.1 km
Explore Seison-kaku, a historic gem in Kanazawa, where traditional architecture meets serene gardens, embodying Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Suitaki
0.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Suitaki, a serene garden in Kanazawa, where nature's beauty and Japanese culture come together in harmony.
Fountain
0.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Kenrokuen Fountain in Kanazawa, a stunning garden that embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics and nature.
Yugao-tei (Gourd Tea House)
0.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Yugao-tei, a historic gourd tea house in Kanazawa's beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, where tradition meets nature.
Renchi-mon Gate
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Renchi-mon Gate, a gateway to the enchanting Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa, where history meets nature.
Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural heritage of Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden in Kanazawa, a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center
0.2 km
Experience the elegance of Kaga-Yuzen silk dyeing at the Kimono Center, a cultural gem in Kanazawa showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Kenrokuen Garden Katsurazaka Gate
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, a masterpiece of Japanese landscaping art in Kanazawa, offering seasonal beauty and tranquility.
Ishiura Shrine
0.3 km
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ishiura Shrine, a cultural gem in Kanazawa, where tradition and tranquility meet.
Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater
0.3 km
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Noh theater at Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater, a cultural treasure in Kanazawa, Japan.
Kanazawa Castle Park
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kanazawa Castle Park, where history and nature unite in a tranquil setting perfect for exploration and relaxation.
Hondanomori Park
0.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Hondanomori Park in Kanazawa, where lush landscapes and serene paths invite relaxation and exploration.
Essential places to dine
Kotobuki
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kotobuki in Kanazawa, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Miyoshian Suitei
0.1 km
Discover the exquisite art of Kaiseki dining at Miyoshian Suitei in Kanazawa – where every dish tells a story of seasonal beauty.
Miyoshian
0.2 km
Experience authentic Kaiseki dining at Miyoshian in Kanazawa—where every meal is a celebration of Japan's culinary artistry.
Kikantei
0.2 km
Experience the essence of Japanese culinary art at Kikantei in Kanazawa - a delightful destination for authentic flavors.
Kenrokutei
0.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kenrokutei, a charming café in Kanazawa offering exquisite dishes in a serene atmosphere.
兼六坂 金澤さくら亭
0.2 km
Discover authentic Kaiseki dining at Kenroku-saka Sakura-tei in Kanazawa, where tradition meets culinary artistry amidst serene garden views.
Shiroyamatei
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Shiroyamatei in Kanazawa—a perfect blend of tradition and flavor awaits you.
お食事処堤亭
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of Japan at お食事処堤亭 in Kanazawa – your gateway to authentic dining experiences.
Gyokusen-tei
0.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Gyokusen-tei in Kanazawa—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Atsushi
0.3 km
Discover authentic sushi craftsmanship at Atsushi, where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Sekitei Kaiseki restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese kaiseki cuisine at Sekitei in Kanazawa, where each dish is a work of art reflecting seasonal flavors.
Japanese Dining Yamatoku
0.5 km
Discover authentic izakaya dining at Japanese Dining Yamatoku in Kanazawa, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.
Itaru Honten
0.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Itaru Honten, Kanazawa's beloved izakaya offering traditional dishes in a vibrant setting.
Ageha
0.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Ageha Izakaya in Kanazawa – where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Turban Curry Main Store
0.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Japanese curry at Turban Curry Main Store in Kanazawa – where flavor meets affordability.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
浪漫
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Kanazawa at 浪漫, where local crafts meet contemporary design in a delightful shopping experience.
Imai Kinpaku Hirosaka Store
0.3 km
Explore the rich traditions of Kanazawa at Imai Kinpaku Hirosaka Store, your go-to destination for exquisite Japanese souvenirs and local crafts.
Hokusai Graphic
0.3 km
Explore Hokusai Graphic in Kanazawa, a treasure trove of art-inspired gifts celebrating the legacy of Japan's iconic artist, Katsushika Hokusai.
Hakuichi Kenrokuen Store
0.4 km
Explore the essence of Kanazawa at Hakuichi Kenrokuen Store, where traditional souvenirs and local delicacies await every traveler.
Museum Shop
0.4 km
Explore the Museum Shop in Kanazawa for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the artistry and culture of Japan.
[g]ift
0.5 km
Explore [g]ift in Kanazawa for unique handicrafts, novelties, and souvenirs that capture the heart of Ishikawa culture.
Sanrio
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Sanrio in Kanazawa, where cute characters and unique souvenirs come to life in a delightful gift shop experience.
Daiwa Korinbo Store
0.8 km
Discover the charm of Kanazawa at Daiwa Korinbo Store, where tradition meets modern retail in a shopper's paradise.
Animate Kanazawa
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant world of anime and manga at Animate Kanazawa, your ultimate destination for pop culture merchandise in Japan.
CoCoTTo KANAZAWA
0.8 km
Experience shopping like never before at CoCoTTo KANAZAWA, where modern boutiques meet vintage charm in a vibrant setting.
[JFK]kanazawa
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant world of vintage fashion at JFK Kanazawa, where unique and sustainable clothing finds await every fashion enthusiast.
UNDERCOVER Kanazawa
0.8 km
Explore the stylish world of UNDERCOVER Kanazawa, where unique fashion accessories meet the vibrant culture of Ishikawa.
原荒物雑貨店
0.8 km
Discover the essence of Japan at 原荒物雑貨店, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design in the heart of Kanazawa.
MM6 Maison Margiela Kanazawa
0.8 km
Discover avant-garde fashion at MM6 Maison Margiela Kanazawa, where contemporary style meets luxurious craftsmanship in a chic shopping experience.
F.I.L. KANAZAWA
0.8 km
Explore F.I.L. Kanazawa, where contemporary fashion meets traditional craftsmanship in a captivating shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar
0.7 km
Experience Kanazawa's vibrant nightlife at this premier bar, where exceptional drinks and a welcoming atmosphere come together to create unforgettable evenings.
Kanazawa Music Bar
0.8 km
Discover Kanazawa Music Bar: A lively venue blending live music, delicious drinks, and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Kohaku Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Kohaku Bar, a must-visit destination in Kanazawa's nightlife scene.
漱流
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kanazawa at 漱流, where artisanal cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Bar Quinase
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kanazawa at Bar Quinase, where tradition meets modern sophistication in a delightful ambiance.
The Londonya Bar
0.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks at The Londonya Bar in Kanazawa, a perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar polish
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Kanazawa at Bar Polish, where expertly crafted drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you after a day of exploration.
Kirikou
0.9 km
Discover Kirikou, a vibrant bar in Kanazawa, where local culture and delightful drinks come together for a memorable nightlife experience.
ヨーク
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at ヨーク in Kanazawa, where local drinks and lively ambiance meet Japanese hospitality.
Bar Spoon
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kanazawa at Bar Spoon, where exquisite cocktails meet a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Bar Tobira (Door)
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar Tobira in Kanazawa – a perfect blend of traditional and modern ambiance with exceptional drinks.
金沢・片町 BAR de JOAO(バードジョアン)
0.9 km
Discover the lively BAR de JOAO in Kanazawa - a cocktail bar offering an unforgettable nightlife experience with exquisite drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
Orbital bar
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kanazawa at Orbital Bar, where creativity meets relaxation in a stylish atmosphere.
FURANSU COCKTAIL BAR フランス
0.9 km
Discover the art of cocktail creation at Furansu Cocktail Bar in Kanazawa, where each drink tells a story of flavor and elegance.
THE HIDEOUT
1.0 km
Discover The Hideout in Kanazawa, a lively bar offering a vibrant atmosphere and an exquisite selection of drinks for an unforgettable nightlife experience.