basic information

Kenrokuen is justifiably classified as one of Japan's "three most beautiful landscape gardens" alongside Mito's Kairakuen, and Okayama's Korakuen. In fact, many people consider it the best of them all.

The spacious garden used to be the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle. Constructed by the ruling Maeda family over a period of nearly two centuries, it was not opened to the public until 1871.

Kenrokuen features various ponds, streams, waterfalls, bridges, teahouses, trees, stones and flowers. The water for the many streams and rivers of the park is diverted from a distant river by a sophisticated water system constructed in 1632.

The name Kenrokuen literally means "Garden of the Six Sublimities", referring to spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water and broad views, which according to Chinese landscape theory are the six essential attributes that make up a perfect garden.

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how to get there

Frequently departing city buses provide access from Kanazawa Station (East Exit bus stop number 3) to Kenrokuen in about 15 minutes. Get off at Kenrokuen-shita bus stop, which is a short walk from the main entrance of Kenrokuen.

Kenrokuen is also a stop along the Kanazawa Loop Bus. The ride from Kanazawa Station to Kenrokuen takes approximately 20 minutes.

How to get to and around Kanazawa

hours and fees

Hours:	Regular Hours: March 1 to October 15: 7:00 to 18:00 October 16 through February: 8:00 to 17:00 Early Admission Hours: from 5:00 (Apr to Aug from 4:00, Nov to Feb from 6:00)
Closed:	December 29 to January 3
Admission:	300 yen (free if entered during early admission hours)

news and reports

Kanazawa Cherry Blossom Report April 13, 2009

travel community

Users who have been to Kanazawa: 249
Users who have been to Kenrokuen: 166

1st of 9 most visited sights in Kanazawa.
109th of 509 most visited sights nationwide.

Rating by users:		highly recommended (94/100, 100 votes)
Rating by staff:		highly recommended
Overall Rating:		best of the best

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hotels & ryokan

Kanazawa Central Hotel A comfort hotel, 3 min walk from Kanazawa Sta. Free LAN Internet and fine amenities in room. Public baths. Helpful staff. Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Perfect location for sightseeing in Kanazawa. Easy access to Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen.

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