kenrokuen, A Quintessence of Delicate Japanese Elegance

1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa-ken 920-0936, Japan

There are many small landscapes in the small garden

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Introduction

Kenrokuen Garden, located in the center of Kanazawa, Japan, is an elegant and exquisite Japanese-style garden. It is one of the three most famous gardens in Japan due to its grand scale and artistic beauty. The garden, which was constructed by several generations of the Maeda family, features a large central pond surrounded by Japanese-style rock formations and pavilions, offering panoramic views from any location. Inspired by an ancient legend, the design concept includes multiple small islands in the pond facing the sea, where immortal beings from myths reside, symbolizing eternal youth and prosperity for the Maeda family. Kenrokuen Garden is renowned for its unique landscape elements, including grandeur, tranquility, artistry, antiquity, water features, and distant views, making it a representative of Japanese gardens. The iconic koto-shaped lanterns scattered throughout the garden and the water fountains that use natural water pressure created by elevation differences are among its most famous features. Each season in Kenrokuen Garden showcases different natural beauty, including cherry blossoms and plum blossoms in spring, rhododendrons and irises in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and a touch of poetic beauty with snow on the pine trees after November 1st each year.