Gardens of Kenrokuen

Kanazawa’s number one attraction, ranked by the Japanese as one of the top three gardens in Japan, is a must-see for any visitor to Kanazawa. It is located right in the middle of town, within easy walking distance of the main shopping district and many of the other tourist sites of interest.

The name Kenroku-en refers to the six attributes traditionally considered vital in the creation of the perfect garden, all of which are said to exist here. One of these, seclusion, may seem a little hard to come by at certain times of year, but the worst of the crowds can be avoided by visiting just after opening or in the early evening.

With a bit of luck you’ll then be able to enjoy in peace the beautiful combination of ponds, streams, old trees and teahouses that have made the garden justifiably famous. On one edge of the garden is the Seisonkaku Villa, formerly the residence of the local feudal lord’s mother, and now open to the public as a museum.