Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa

Kenroku-en is often hailed as one of Japan’s  “Three Great Gardens and its name translates as the "Garden of the Six Sublimities," and beautifully captures the essence of an ideal garden.  When examining Chinese landscape theory, we find six key qualities that make a garden truly exceptional: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and expansive vistas.  These elements combine to create a harmonious and inviting space, reflecting the thoughtful design of this remarkable garden.

What makes Kenroku-en so remarkable is that all six of these qualities are carefully woven into a single sculpted experience. Wide-open lawns flow into intimate, shaded paths; ponds, streams, and waterfalls bring the garden to life; centuries-old pines stand beside meticulously placed stones and lanterns. It’s not just a stroll—it’s a layered, living work of art designed to change with the seasons.  This place is truly magical.

Kenrokuen was formerly the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle, serving as a private enclave for the ruling Maeda family.  It was opened to the public in 1871 and has since attracted garden lovers from around the world.

A highlight is the Yūgao-tei Tea House, built in 1725, which still stands as the oldest structure in the garden.  Visiting during the day, you’ll find tranquil beauty in the light and shadow dancing across its ponds and bridges.  But if you return at night, when the garden is softly illuminated, it feels entirely transformed—almost ethereal.

Kenrokuen is the kind of place where words cannot do it justice.  Once again, we recommended a day and evening visit.  During the day, a lovely tea house, constructed in 1725, is visible, and at night, the lights are simply sublime.

兼六園 Kenroku-en Garden 
(81) -76.234.38001 
Kenrokumachi Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture 920-0936, Japan 
www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kenrokuen/