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In one of the earliest examples of “shakkei” (borrowed scenery technique), these hills are incorporated into the design of the garden adding a sense of depth. Having maintained its original form and beauty throughout the centuries, the garden lies at the base of the forested hills of Arashiyama. By surrounding the picturesque Sogenchi Pond, the garden’s path allows visitors to see the scenery from different perspectives, while the meticulously arranged white sand represents a pattern of gentle waves and the stones arranged around the pond portray the coastline of China.

One of the most famous sights of the garden is the one featuring the Kasumiga Pond and the Kotoji lantern, a stone lantern floating in the water, but with its area of 11.4 hectares, the garden offers something to explore in every season! Visitors can enjoy the view of plum and cherry blossoms in spring, the colorful panorama of azaleas and irises popping out the lush greenery in summer, the red hues of the leaves in autumn, and the snow-covered scenery of the Japanese pine trees protected by the “yukizuri” (traditional winter protections to prevent damage by snow) in winter.ĭesigned by the Zen priest Muso Soseki in the mid 14th century, this garden in Arashiyama, Kyoto boasts elements of pond gardens and dry landscape Zen gardens. It is rightfully one of the three most famous gardens in Japan, and is located next to the remains of the old Kanazawa Castle as it was once the castle's outer garden. The name “Kenrokuen” means the “Garden of Six Qualities,” namely flowing water, sense of space, seclusion, ingenuity, scenic views, and an air of antiquity. Established in the late 1600's by the Maeda family, the feudal lords who ruled the area, it has been maintained carefully by the family for generations. This picturesque garden in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture is an exceptional example of an Edo Period (1603 - 1868) Japanese stroll garden, a garden where different views can be enjoyed one after another by promenading along the path circling a pond.
