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Kenrokuen is a landscape garden built over a long period of 180 years by the successive lords of the Kaga Maeda clan. It is one of Japan's three great gardens, alongside Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama, and is classified as a strolling garden. Unlike a seated garden, which is viewed from the tatami rooms of a palace or study, a strolling garden allows visitors to appreciate the entire landscape as they walk through it. Spanning approximately 34,600 tsubo, the expansive area features ponds, winding waterways, and artificial hills, allowing visitors to enjoy a complete view as they move between different scenes.
The name "Kenrokuen" derives from the concept of "six attributes" (as described in the Song Dynasty book "Record of Famous Gardens in Luoyang"), representing the harmonious combination of six types of scenery that are difficult to achieve simultaneously. It skillfully blends contrasting landscapes, creating a beauty of contrast. Additionally, Kenrokuen is renowned for its seasonal scenery, with its nighttime illuminations (held regularly) transforming the garden into a dreamlike scene. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom; in summer, swallows and flowers thrive; in autumn, the leaves turn red; and in winter, the snow hangs from the branches, creating a stunning silver-white landscape.
The garden not only boasts a vast area but also features many must-see spots. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to walk through all the attractions. It is recommended to pick up a free map of the garden area at the service center in advance.
*Image provided by the Ishikawa Prefectural Tourism Federation.*
