Kotoji Lantern at Kenrokuen

(Kotoji Lantern)


Kenrokuen is one of the three most important and sacred Japanese gardens. Originally an outer garden of the Kanazawa castle and controlled by the Maedas clan, the garden was not opened to the public until 1871. Japanese gardens by definition are reproductions of natural scenery within a given space and Kenrokuen is no exception. The name Kenroukuen in fact means a garden combining the six attributes of a perfect garden: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water and broad views. Spanning over 25.9 acres, Kenrokuen is Kanazawa'a most popular tourist attraction. Stone lanterns are an indispensable component of Japanese gardens. There 18 different lanterns throughout the garden, the most famous being the two legged Kotoji (pictured above) which has become a symbol for the city.