Gyokusenin-maru Garden (Ishikawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | The Charm and Highlights of Kanazawa Castle Park’s Hidden Gem Garden
Located in Kanazawa Castle Park in the heart of Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Gyokusenin-maru Garden is a daimyo garden that was cherished by successive lords of the Maeda clan of the Kaga domain. In contrast to the splendor of Kenroku-en Garden, this garden functioned as a private retreat space for the domain lord. With its restoration completed in 2015, it has brought the garden’s Edo period appearance back to life in the present day. This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting, including the history, highlights, operating hours, and access methods of Gyokusenin-maru Garden.
About Gyokusenin-maru Garden | A Daimyo Garden Beloved by Successive Lords of the Kaga Domain
Gyokusenin-maru Garden is a scenic strolling garden with a pond (shoyusensui kaiyushiki) that existed in Gyokusenin-maru within Kanazawa Castle from the early Edo period until the abolition of the domain system. The garden we see today was restored and opened to the public in March 2015 (Heisei 27), with a dedication ceremony held one week before the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa.
The Origin of the Name Gyokusenin-maru
The name “Gyokusenin-maru” derives from Eihime (the fourth daughter of Oda Nobunaga), the principal wife of Maeda Toshinao, the second lord of the Kaga domain. After her husband’s death, Eihime took the name “Gyokusenin” and built her residence at this location within Kanazawa Castle. The creation of the garden is said to have begun when the third domain lord, Maeda Toshinari, ordered its construction in 1634 (Kan’ei 11), marking the beginning of Gyokusenin-maru Garden.
A Garden with a Different Character from Kenroku-en
Gyokusenin-maru Garden is said to have begun its construction even before Kenroku-en Garden. While Kenroku-en served as an “outer garden” for entertaining outside daimyo and guests, Gyokusenin-maru Garden functioned as a private “inner garden” for the domain lord, serving as a space for relaxation. It was a more private space that successive domain lords continued to refine and appreciate.
History of Gyokusenin-maru Garden | From the Edo Period to Modern Restoration
Gyokusenin-maru Garden in the Edo Period
Gyokusenin-maru Garden, which began construction by the third domain lord Maeda Toshinari in 1634 (Kan’ei 11), underwent successive modifications by subsequent domain lords. In particular, the garden’s scenic strolling layout centered on a pond maximized the limited space within the castle grounds, creating an innovative landscape that took advantage of elevation changes.
The elevation difference from the pond bottom to the top of the stone wall reached approximately 22 meters, and this three-dimensional structure gave the garden its unique dynamism. Throughout the Edo period, the domain lords enjoyed the changing seasonal scenery in this garden and used it as a place of respite during their administrative duties.
Decline After the Meiji Restoration and Excavation Research
After the Meiji Restoration and the abolition of the domain system, Gyokusenin-maru Garden fell into decline in the Meiji period. For a long time, its appearance was lost, but through excavation surveys and document research conducted by Ishikawa Prefecture, the garden’s appearance in the late Edo period gradually came to light.
The excavation surveys confirmed the stone arrangements of the pond, the remains of embankments, the placement of garden stones, and other features. Through cross-referencing with old documents and maps, valuable materials for restoration were accumulated.
The Heisei Period Restoration Project
Ishikawa Prefecture promoted the restoration and development of Gyokusenin-maru Garden with the aim of enhancing the appeal of Kanazawa Castle Park and inheriting its historical value. Based on the Edo period’s final appearance and using the knowledge obtained from excavation surveys and historical records, a restoration as faithful as possible was carried out.
Following the dedication ceremony on March 7, 2015 (Heisei 27), and coinciding with the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa on March 14, Gyokusenin-maru Garden was reborn in the modern age. Through this restoration, new charm was added to Kanazawa Castle Park, creating a spot where one can experience the atmosphere of a daimyo garden different from Kenroku-en.
Highlights of Gyokusenin-maru Garden | The Harmonious Fusion of Unique Stonework and Garden Design
The Shikishi Tanzaku Cumulative Stone Wall | The Crystallization of Unparalleled Technique
The greatest highlight of Gyokusenin-maru Garden is the “Shikishi Tanzaku Cumulative Stone Wall” that towers behind the pond. This stone wall is constructed using a unique stacking method that combines stones of various sizes and shapes like colored paper and tanzaku poetry strips, and is known as a rare technique nationwide.
A waterfall is incorporated into the stone wall, and the sight of water cascading down harmonizes beautifully with the sculptural beauty of the stonework. This is truly a landscape unique to Kanazawa Castle, where the techniques of castle fortification stonework are fused with garden aesthetics. The stone wall, standing at approximately 22 meters high, exudes an overwhelming presence and continues to captivate visitors.
The Structure of the Scenic Strolling Garden with a Pond
Gyokusenin-maru Garden is a scenic strolling garden centered on a pond. While walking around the pond, one can enjoy scenery that changes depending on one’s viewing angle. The pond features an island, and natural stones are placed along the shoreline, with the garden’s details throughout recreating Edo period gardening techniques.
The entire garden can be viewed from the rest pavilion “Gyokusen-an,” and the panoramic view from this vantage point is also extraordinary. The image of the stone wall and trees reflected in the pond presents different faces depending on the season and time of day.
Gyokusen-an | Savoring a Luxurious Moment with Matcha and Fresh Sweets
A rest pavilion called “Gyokusen-an” is located within the garden, where one can enjoy matcha tea and seasonal fresh confections. A cup of tea enjoyed while viewing the garden is truly a luxurious experience that lets you savor the feeling of being a domain lord.
From Gyokusen-an, the entire garden can be seen at a glance, making it a popular spot for photography. Especially during the autumn foliage season and snowy season, a landscape as beautiful as a painting unfolds.
Illumination | The Mystical Nighttime Garden
Regular illumination events are held at Gyokusenin-maru Garden. During “Kanazawa Castle Park and Gyokusenin-maru Garden Illumination,” the stone wall and pond are lit up, creating an entirely different mystical atmosphere from the daytime.
During illumination, the light reflections in the pond and the shadows of the stone wall are emphasized, allowing you to enjoy a more three-dimensional and mysterious landscape. Since themed illumination events change with the seasons, it is recommended to check the official website before visiting.
Scenery Through the Four Seasons
Gyokusenin-maru Garden possesses different charms in each season.
Spring: Cherry blossoms and fresh green foliage color the garden, spreading a landscape full of vitality.
Summer: Densely green trees and the cool water surface of the pond create a space that makes you forget the heat.
Autumn: Autumn leaves display a flaming beauty against the backdrop of the stone wall, making this the most popular season.
Winter: The snow-covered garden is wrapped in serene beauty, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of ink wash painting.
Basic Information | Operating Hours, Fees, and Access
Location and Contact Information
Address: 〒920-0937 1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture (within Kanazawa Castle Park)
Phone Number: 076-234-3800
Operating Hours
The operating hours of Gyokusenin-maru Garden vary by season.
- March 1 – October 15: 7:00 – 18:00
- October 16 – End of February: 8:00 – 17:00
The garden is open year-round with no closures, allowing visits any day. However, temporary closures may occur due to weather or maintenance, so it is recommended to confirm in advance.
Admission Fee
Admission to Gyokusenin-maru Garden is free. Kanazawa Castle Park is also generally free to explore, though some facilities (Hishiyagura, Gojikken Nagaya, Hashizume-mon Tsuzuki-yagura, etc.) require paid admission.
The matcha service at Gyokusen-an is charged separately; please confirm details on-site when using.
Access Methods
Access by Bus
Nearest Bus Stop: “Kenroku-en-shita/Kanazawa Castle” Bus Stop
The garden is just a short walk from the bus stop, making it very easily accessible.
The following bus routes are available from Kanazawa Station:
- Shiokacho-machi Kanazawa Shuyu Bus
- Hokutetsu Bus Routes
- Machi Bus
Travel time is approximately 15 minutes.
Access on Foot
From Kanazawa Station on foot, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Walking while enjoying the city’s scenery is also recommended.
From Kenroku-en Garden to Gyokusenin-maru Garden is approximately a 5-minute walk after crossing Ishikawa Bridge. A sightseeing route visiting both gardens at once is popular.
Access by Car and Parking
Gyokusenin-maru Garden does not have a dedicated parking lot, but several paid parking areas are available in the vicinity.
- Ishikihiki Parking Lot (closest to Kanazawa Castle Park)
- Kenroku Parking Lot
- Other nearby private parking lots
During peak tourist seasons and weekends, parking areas become congested, so using public transportation is recommended.
Entry from Gyokusenin-maru Gate
Entry to Gyokusenin-maru Garden is most convenient from the “Gyokusenin-maru Gate.” This entrance is closest to the garden and features a design that considers barrier-free accessibility.
Surrounding Tourist Spots | Attractions in the Kanazawa Castle Park Area
Kanazawa Castle Park
Gyokusenin-maru Garden is part of Kanazawa Castle Park. The park contains the following attractions:
- Hishiyagura, Gojikken Nagaya, and Hashizume-mon Tsuzuki-yagura: Reconstructed wooden buildings that allow interior viewing (paid)
- Ishikawa Gate: A nationally designated important cultural property and representative gate of Kanazawa Castle
- Sanjikken Nagaya: A weapons storehouse designated as a nationally important cultural property
- Tsurumaru Storehouse: The oldest existing structure
Kenroku-en Garden
Located approximately a 5-minute walk from Gyokusenin-maru Garden, this is one of Japan’s three most celebrated gardens. Known as a masterpiece of scenic strolling garden design, it offers the beauty of all four seasons. Visiting both Gyokusenin-maru Garden and Kenroku-en together allows you to compare daimyo gardens of different characters.
Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Art
A popular contemporary art museum. Located approximately a 10-minute walk from Kanazawa Castle Park.
Higashi Teahouse District
A traditional teahouse district representative of Kanazawa. You can stroll through picturesque streets. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from Kanazawa Castle Park.
Recommended Points and Precautions for Your Visit
Best Seasons
While Gyokusenin-maru Garden offers beautiful scenery year-round, particularly recommended times are:
- Spring (early to mid-April): Peak cherry blossom season
- Autumn (mid to late November): Prime autumn foliage season
- Winter (December to February): Snowy landscapes
Special experiences are also available during illumination events.
Time Required for Viewing
Viewing Gyokusenin-maru Garden thoroughly typically requires 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you plan to enjoy matcha at Gyokusen-an, it is recommended to allocate an additional 30 minutes or so.
If viewing the entire Kanazawa Castle Park, a time allocation of 2 to 3 hours is ideal.
Photography Spots
- Panoramic photography from Gyokusen-an: An excellent vantage point overlooking the entire garden
- Viewing the stone wall from the pond’s edge: A composition that captures the stone wall’s impressive scale
- Close-ups of the Shikishi Tanzaku Cumulative Stone Wall: Recording the unique stone stacking technique
- Reflections in the pond: The water surface reflections are beautiful on clear days
Clothing and Belongings
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the garden
- In summer, bring a parasol or hat; in winter, warm clothing is necessary
- In rainy weather, prepare an umbrella or raincoat
- Don’t forget to charge your camera or smartphone
Historical and Cultural Value of Gyokusenin-maru Garden
Significance as a Nationally Designated Historic Site
Gyokusenin-maru Garden is included within Kanazawa Castle Ruins, a nationally designated historic site. Additionally, Kanazawa Castle is selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles, holding high historical and cultural value as a heritage site.
The Fusion of Castle Fortification Stonework Techniques and Garden Aesthetics
The greatest feature of Gyokusenin-maru Garden is the remarkable fusion of the stone wall, a defensive facility of the castle, and the garden for appreciation—elements that originally served different purposes. This innovative approach demonstrates the Kaga domain’s high cultural level and technical prowess.
In particular, the Shikishi Tanzaku Cumulative Stone Wall can be called an artistic work embodying the pinnacle of stonework technique, possessing a uniqueness not found in other castle gardens.
The Inheritance of Daimyo Garden Culture
Many Edo period daimyo gardens were lost after the Meiji era. The restoration of Gyokusenin-maru Garden is a valuable endeavor that revives the lost daimyo garden culture in the modern age and serves as important material for studying the gardening techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of that period.
The Position of Gyokusenin-maru Garden in Kanazawa Tourism
Integration into Model Courses
Gyokusenin-maru Garden is easily incorporated into standard Kanazawa sightseeing model courses due to its convenient location.
Recommended Half-Day Course:
Kanazawa Station → Kenroku-en Garden → Kanazawa Castle Park (including Gyokusenin-maru Garden) → Higashi Teahouse District
Recommended Full-Day Course:
Kanazawa Station → Omicho Market (breakfast) → Kenroku-en Garden → Kanazawa Castle Park (including Gyokusenin-maru Garden) → Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Art → Higashi Teahouse District → Nishi Teahouse District
Comparative Appreciation with Kenroku-en
Visiting both Kenroku-en and Gyokusenin-maru Garden allows you to experience the differences in character and design philosophy between these two gardens, both created by the Kaga domain.
- Kenroku-en: An outward-facing “public garden,” expansive and open
- Gyokusenin-maru Garden: An inward-facing “private garden,” compact and intimate
Being aware of this contrast enables deeper garden appreciation.
Conclusion | Experiencing the Aesthetic Sensibility of Kaga Million Koku at Gyokusenin-maru Garden
Gyokusenin-maru Garden is a historical and cultural heritage of which Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, can be proud, and a precious space that conveys the refined aesthetic sensibility of the Maeda clan, lords of the Kaga domain, to the present day. Since the completion of its restoration in 2015, it has continued to captivate many tourists as a daimyo garden with charm different from Kenroku-en.
The three-dimensional structure taking advantage of a 22-meter elevation difference, the unique Shikishi Tanzaku Cumulative Stone Wall found nowhere else, scenery that changes through the four seasons, and the serene atmosphere as a private space for the domain lord—all of these elements combine to provide a garden experience truly one of a kind.
When visiting Kanazawa, be sure to visit Gyokusenin-maru Garden and touch the history and culture of Kaga Million Koku. This garden, which offers free admission and excellent accessibility, is certain to become an essential spot in Kanazawa sightseeing. Please confirm operating hours and seasonal event information in advance, and fully savor the garden’s beauty in its finest state.
