Kanazawa is famous for its being flush with tradition. This is seen through its romantic cityscape, historical arts and crafts, and beautiful gardens. Translated as the ‘Garden of the Six Sublimities’, Kenrokuen Garden is designed according to Chinese landscape theory and six essential attributes needed to create an ideal garden. The garden is regularly cited as one of Japan’s most beautiful, with each season imbuing the grounds with its own unique beauty. Explore it at your own pace and find your favorite spot among the hundreds of scenes throughout the garden.

Opened to the public in 1871, Kenrokuen Garden was originally reserved for the ruling Maeda clan, whom behind the Togukawa Shogunate were the wealthiest and most powerful family during the Edo Period (1603-1868). Water features, landscaped gardens, bridges, viewpoints and teahouses make the garden very pleasant to wander through. Each season brings with it something special. The winter brings heavy snow and the beautiful golden tree supports that contrast well against the white snow. The spring starts at the end of February and March with plum blossoms that are followed by cherry blossoms around the first week of April. In summer the garden acts like an excellent retreat from the heat, with its forests and water features. The autumn leaves begin to change at the end of October but don’t come to full color until the beginning of November. There really is something for everyone in every season.

Kanazawa is quite friendly for those who are walking around the city and there are many sites that are within a 5-20 minute walk of Kenrokuen Garden. It directly adjoins Kanazawa Castle Park at its entrance but also is next to the daimyo villa of Seisonkaku and Ishiura shrine, famous for its pond and tunnel of torii gates. The Higashichaya Teahouse District, Oyama Shrine, DT Suzuki Museum, 21st Century Museum and Kazuemachi Geisha District are all also within a comfortable walk and help you dive even deeper into this fascinating city.

Want to experience Kanazawa’s unique culture for yourself?

Based in Central Japan and operating all-year-round, we offer a highly entertaining group-tour of Kanazawa that is sure to please. All tours are led by locally-based guides and will take you around all of the must-see sights in Kanazawa, as well as some lesser known gems. Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner or button below.

1 Day Tour

1-Day Tour from Kanazawa: Samurai, Matcha, Gardens and Geisha
Period	All Year Round
Time	09:00 – 17:30
Meeting Place	Kanazawa Station
Adult Rate	¥17,800
Child Rate	¥11,000

Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Kanazawa Area, and other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going. 

We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!

Got a question about visiting Kanazawa? Click the ‘INQUIRY’ button below or contact us and let’s get planning together!