Kenroku-en Garden: A Masterpiece of Japanese Landscape Design

Kenroku-en, a private garden in Kanazawa, Japan, is celebrated as one of the country's most beautiful gardens, though the author argues such rankings are meaningless given Japan's abundance of magnificent gardens. Originally built as the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle in the 17th century by the Maeda family, it features ponds, streams, a waterfall, a fountain, stone bridges, monuments, and votive lanterns. After a fire in 1759, it underwent continuous reconstruction and improvements. In 1874, following the abolition of the feudal domain, it opened to the public. The garden hosts 160 plant species and 8,200 trees. Starting November 1, gardeners construct yukizuri—rope structures supporting pine branches to prevent snow damage. The author contrasts Western and Japanese approaches to tree care, noting that Japanese gardeners support and nurture trees without cutting them. The garden reflects Shinto animism and pantheism, emphasizing harmony with nature. Kenroku-en was designated a National Site of Scenic Beauty in 1985.