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Kanazawa Castle Park

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Kanazawa Castle Park

A castle reminds us of the past prosperity of Kaga Hyakumangoku.

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Supervised by :  Kanazawa Castle Park

In 1583 (the period of Tensho 11th), Toshiie Maeda entered this castle as the first feudal lord, since then this castle had been used by the Maeda family of Kaga Domain until the early time of the Meiji, later the ruin of this castle was reconstructed to use as a large park for citizens. Ishikawa-mon gate and Sanjukken Nagaya remain their figures of what they were at the Edo period, while Kahoku-mon gate, Imori moat, and Gyokusen-in Maru Garden have successively been rebuilt and recollected their original figure. The construction of stone walls should be remarkable, for example, placing the stones in the correct direction to prevent from facing an unlucky direction and building based on an idea of septaria which are influenced by Chinese cosmology, the cosmic dual forces and the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire and earth).

Newly restored in 2001, the Hishi Yagura, the Gojukken Nagaya, and the Hashizume-mon Tuzuki Yagura, like the Ishikawa-mon gate, and Sanjukken Nagaya, are characterized by their exteriors using lead roof tiles and Namako wall, each of which are large-scaled wooden constructions after the Meiji period in Japan. These buildings were used to protect the Nino-Maru during the domestic war time, so lattice windows to drop stones or set guns for shooting and fireproof outer walls were used and still remained. You can look at them from a close distance.

Nezuta-mon gate and Nezuta-mon gate bridge were burned down in the Meiji period, and about 140 years later, they were completely rebuilt in 2020. Nezuta-mon gate is characteristic of its black outer walls with Namako plaster and was located on the west side of the castle. This gate was used as a doorway from Kanayade maru (currently on the premises of Oyama shrine). The wooden bridge connecting to the gate is the largest bridge in the castle.

Highlights

  • Kanazawa Castle Park is located next to Kenrokuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan.
  • Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, and Hashizume-mon Tuzuki Yagura have barrier-free access.
  • Kanazawa Castle Parkwill be illuminated in evenings. (Sunset to pm 9:00)

Videos

Photos

  • Ishikawa-mon gate was rebuilt in Tenmei 8 (1788). (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

    Ishikawa-mon gate was rebuilt in Tenmei 8 (1788). (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

  • Nezuta-mon gate is coated with black Namako plaster. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

    Nezuta-mon gate is coated with black Namako plaster. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

  • Hashizume-mon, the most prestigious gate in the castle. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

    Hashizume-mon, the most prestigious gate in the castle. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

  • The Kahoku-mon gate has been restored to its former condition after 130years.

    The Kahoku-mon gate has been restored to its former condition after 130years.

  • The inside of Gojukken Nagaya is open to the public. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

    The inside of Gojukken Nagaya is open to the public. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

  • Gyokusen-in Maru Garden amuse visitors with its seasonal scenery. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

    Gyokusen-in Maru Garden amuse visitors with its seasonal scenery. (photo courtesy of Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League)

  • Light-up Event at Kanazawa Castle

    Light-up Event at Kanazawa Castle

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
A

English, Chinese, Korean are available.

Q

Is parking available?
A

Not available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Lockers are available to use.

Reviews

5

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 楊雅雯
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    In Kanazawa, definitely plan to visit Kenroku-en and Kanazawa Castle on the same day! Kenroku-en and Kanazawa Castle are right next to each other, just a few minutes apart on foot, so they’re perfect to do together.

    Stroll through Kenroku-en and enjoy the garden scenery that changes with the seasons, then head into Kanazawa Castle, which is full of historic atmosphere. You can take in the impressive stone walls and architecture while experiencing both nature and history in one trip.

    Taking your time at both spots takes about half a day to a full day. The photo opportunities are beautiful, too. It’s a classic Kanazawa itinerary you absolutely shouldn’t miss!

  • Queenie
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    Kanazawa Castle Park is a classic must-see spot when visiting Kanazawa. It’s right next to Kenrokuen, so you can enjoy Japanese history and natural beauty in one trip.

    The park grounds are spacious, and the well-preserved Ishikawa Gate, impressive stone walls, and reconstructed Hishi Yagura and Gojikken Nagaya are all well worth seeing. It really feels like stepping back into the Edo period.

    Strolling along the lush green paths is beautiful both during the day and around sunset, and it’s a great place for photos. The cherry blossoms in spring and fall foliage in autumn are especially charming.

    If you’re traveling independently in Kanazawa, I recommend visiting it together with Kenrokuen to experience the unique appeal of this historic city.

  • 陳子安
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    It's right next to Kenrokuen, so it's easy to stop by and check out the park while you're there.

  • Michelle Lee
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    There are other attractions like Kenroku-en nearby, so it’s super convenient for a day trip.

  • 演歌好き
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    I stopped by after visiting Kenrokuen, but honestly, there wasn't much to see here. A bit disappointing.

Details

Name in Japanese
金沢城公園
Postal Code
920-0937
Address
1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa
Telephone
076-234-3800
Holiday
Open every day
Hours
March 1 - October 15 : 7:00am - 6:00pm (closing time)
October 16 - the end of February : 8:00am - 5:00pm (closing time)
*The operation hours vary by the facility. Please check the official website for details.
Admission
Free (Admission fees may apply to some facilities)
Directions
Ride the Kanazawa loop bus from Kanazawa station and get off at “Kenrokuen-sita/Kanazawa castle” or ”Hirosaka/21 century museum of contemporary art, Kanazawa”.
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)
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