Experience Kanazawa: Private Autumn Morning Tour of the Historic Tsuji Family Garden

Unraveling the Philosophy of Japanese Garden Design with an Internationally Acclaimed Master Gardener

Overview

Step into the serene, morning tranquil of the Tsuji Family Garden, a masterpiece designed by Jihei Ogawa VII, one of the premier figures of modern Japanese landscape architecture. This exclusive experience offers private access to the entire grounds during the early morning hours, when the autumn leaves are at their absolute peak.
Guided by internationally recognized master gardener Mr. Kurato Fujimoto, you will decode the hidden aesthetic philosophy and intricate details woven throughout the garden—from dynamic rock formations utilizing the natural terraces of the Sai River to the vibrant flow of water and the carefully framed views from the main residence.
The tour concludes in the prestigious "Gunjo-no-Ma" (The Ultramarine Room), a Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed conversation with Mr. Fujimoto over a warm cup of Kaga Bocha (premium roasted stem green tea).

About the Tsuji Family Garden

(Official Website: https://produce.novarese.jp/tsujike-teien/)
Originally part of the estate belonging to the Cho family, senior vassals of the Kaga Domain, this historic site was later developed as a villa and guest house by the Yokoyama family, renowned as the "Mining Kings of Hokuriku." It stands as a rare and precious garden in the Hokuriku region designed by Kyoto’s legendary landscape architect, Jihei Ogawa VII. The main residence, front gate, and surrounding walls are designated as Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Properties, and today the estate serves as an elegant venue for weddings and special occasions.

Guided Garden Tour by a Master Gardener

What intentions and principles lie behind the profound beauty of a Japanese garden? Master gardener Mr. Kurato Fujimoto, who brings his craft to an international audience, will answer these questions through his expert commentary.
He will guide you in interpreting the harmonious interplay of stone, water, and plant life—including dramatic features preserved from its original creation, such as a waterfall built with Mount Fuji lava rocks and terrain designed to mimic deep mountain valleys. This immersive tour elevates garden viewing into a lifelong, enriching experience.

About the Master Gardener: Mr. Kurato Fujimoto

President of a Kanazawa-based landscape design firm, Mr. Fujimoto has served as an advisor for tree care and management in the United States for over 14 years. Every winter, he spends roughly three months in the U.S. Following a request from officials at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., he has been actively involved in the preservation and care of historic cherry trees in the region. His dedicated work has earned high international acclaim and media recognition, including feature coverage by the United States National Arboretum (USNA).

Tour Schedule

• 8:20 AM — Registration opens at the Front Gate of the Tsuji Family Garden

• 8:30 AM — Guided tour: Front Gate & Main Residence

• 9:00 AM — Guided tour: Garden Grounds

• 9:30 AM — Tea time with Kaga Bocha in the "Gunjo-no-Ma" (Ultramarine Room)

• 9:55 AM — Commemorative Group Photo

• 10:00 AM — Conclusion of the tour