The “Three Great Gardens of Japan” are a trio of exquisite and historic landscape gardens that capture the essence of Japanese beauty and culture. These remarkable gardens, namely Kenroku-en, Koraku-en, and Kairaku-en, have captivated visitors for centuries with their harmonious blend of natural and human-made elements. Join us as we explore these magnificent gardens, their unique features, interesting facts, and access information.
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Koraku-en (Okayama, Okayama)
Located in Okayama City, Koraku-en was constructed during the Edo period by the daimyo (feudal lord) Ikeda Tsunamasa. The garden is designed in the “kaiyu-shiki” style, meaning it is a strolling landscape garden meant to be enjoyed by walking around its many paths. Koraku-en is known for its vast lawns, ponds, tea houses, and the stunning Okayama Castle, which can be viewed from within the garden.
Koraku-en is not only an enchanting landscape garden but also a fascinating representation of Japanese culture and history. The garden features an unusual rice field, known as the Enyoutei Rice Field, a symbol of the importance of agriculture during the Edo period. As you explore the garden, you’ll also come across the unique Kojigoku-no-Taki, a small waterfall named after a Buddhist hell reserved for stingy people, urging visitors to be generous and kind.
Moreover, Koraku-en is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 100 species of birds calling the garden their home, creating a harmonious symphony of natural sounds.
Access to Koraku-en
Koraku-en is a 25-minute walk or a 10-minute tram ride from Okayama Station. If you choose to take the tram, disembark at Shiroshita Station, and the garden is a 5-minute walk away.
Kenroku-en (Kanazawa, Ishikawa)
Meaning “Garden of the Six Attributes,” Kenroku-en is situated in the historic city of Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture. The garden was developed during the Edo period (1603-1868) by the Maeda family and is said to possess the six attributes of a perfect landscape: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, waterways, and panoramas.
One of Kenroku-en’s most captivating features is its age-old fountain, the oldest in Japan, which operates purely through natural water pressure. This fusion of traditional engineering and natural beauty is a true testament to Japanese ingenuity.
Additionally, the garden is famous for its use of yukitsuri, a technique of suspending ropes from the branches of pine trees to protect them from heavy snowfall. As you stroll through the garden, you’ll notice the iconic Karasaki Pine, a symbol of resilience and strength, which is also featured on the Ishikawa Prefecture’s emblem.
Access to Kenroku-en
Kenroku-en can be easily reached from Kanazawa Station via bus. The ride takes about 15 minutes, and the garden is a short walk from the bus stop.
Kairaku-en (Mito, Ibaraki)
Kairaku-en, situated in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, was created by Tokugawa Nariaki, a regional lord, in 1842. Unlike the following two gardens, Kairaku-en was designed for the enjoyment of the general public as well as the ruling family. The garden is famous for its over 3,000 plum trees that bloom in late February and March, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Kairaku-en is best known for its magnificent display of plum blossoms, with over 3,000 trees adorning the garden in shades of white, pink, and red during late February and March. The annual Mito Plum Festival celebrates this vibrant display, attracting countless visitors who come to enjoy the fragrant blossoms, traditional tea ceremonies, and live music performances.
As you venture through the garden, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Kobuntei, a three-story wooden house that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the serene Lake Senba and the bustling Mito City. This fusion of nature and urban life creates a truly unique experience for visitors.
Access to Kairaku-en
From Mito Station, take the bus bound for Kairaku-en and disembark at the Kairaku-en Bus Stop. The ride takes about 15 minutes, and the garden is just a short walk away.
The Three Great Gardens of Japan – Kenroku-en, Koraku-en, and Kairaku-en – are not only mesmerising examples of landscape design but also living pieces of history, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the country. Each garden offers visitors a unique experience, with spectacular seasonal changes, historical landmarks, and an atmosphere of serenity that can only be found in Japan. When planning your next visit to the Land of the Rising Sun, be sure to include these exquisite gardens in your itinerary.
