VISIT KANAZAWA, JAPAN - Official Travel Guide

Gyokusen'inmaru Garden is a daimyo garden that existed within Kanazawa Castle from the time its construction began in 1634 by Lord Maeda Toshitsune, the third feudal lord of the Kaga domain, until the late Edo period. Though lost after the abolition of the domain, it was faithfully reconstructed in 2015 based on excavation findings and historical maps. Its name originates from Gyokusen-in (Eihime), the principal consort of the second feudal lord, Toshinao, who resided in the estate.

Featuring a stroll-style pond garden layout, it offers a unique historical landscape characteristic of Kanazawa, blending the functional beauty of the castle with the artistic design of the garden.

Highlights:

・The Unique “Shikishi Tanzaku-Zumi Stone Wall”

The stone wall behind the garden features stones shaped like colored paper and tanzaku strips arranged in staggered tiers, creating an exceptionally high-design aesthetic. Incorporating the “Stepped Waterfall” fed by the Tatsumi Canal at its top, it boasts an unparalleled, original beauty. 

・A three-dimensional landscape with a 22m elevation difference

The striking elevation difference of approximately 22m from the pond's bottom to the topmost stone wall creates a highly dynamic, three-dimensional landscape. Walking around the pond with its floating central island allows visitors to enjoy ever-changing views.

・Abundant Water Scenery Supported by the Tatsumi Irrigation Canal

The water in the pond, the very lifeblood of this garden, is still drawn today from the Tatsumi Irrigation Canal, one of Japan's three great irrigation canals constructed during the Edo period. Advanced techniques, applying the principle of the inverted siphon (the principle of the buried siphon), push water up to the high ground within Kanazawa Castle and then pour it into the garden's waterfalls. This technology, spanning over 400 years, sustains this beautiful water scenery. 

・Enchanting Nighttime Illumination

Weekend evenings feature special light displays. Seasonal and time-specific lighting effects reveal a fantastical garden beauty distinct from daytime.

・Rest House “Gyokusen-an”

Located for panoramic garden views, this spot offers blissful moments savoring matcha tea and seasonal original wagashi sweets (available for purchase).