Winter Scenery · Chubu & Hokuriku

Kenroku-en Garden Yukitsuri

KanazawaPark & nature❄ Best season: Mid Dec – Late Feb✦ Illumination
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Overview

Overview

At Kenroku-en in Kanazawa, yukitsuri (snow-protection ropes) that protect tree branches from the weight of snow are a winter tradition. The conical rope structures are beautiful even without snow, and when snow falls the whole garden turns pure white.

Peak Time

When to Go

Best seasonThe yukitsuri are usually complete by around mid-December and can be seen until they are removed in spring. For snowy scenery, visit on days with snow on the ground
December
January
February

Snowfall varies greatly with each year’s weather. Check the official website for the latest snow and road information

This season’s events & operating dates

2027 Fuyu no Dan: February 6–10, 13, 20 and 27 (planned)

Seasons are typical guides. Snow, ice and drift ice depend heavily on each year’s weather.

Highlights

Highlights

The biggest highlight is the yukitsuri on the Karasaki Pine. Work on the yukitsuri usually begins with the Karasaki Pine in early November and is complete by around mid-December. Around January you can also enjoy the combination of white snow and red camellias. In winter there is also an evening illumination, Fuyu no Dan.

📷 Best views
Karasaki Pine

The first pine to receive its yukitsuri. Beautiful with or without snow, it is the iconic sight of Kenroku-en in winter

Illumination

Illumination & winter lights

Period
February 6–10, 13, 20 and 27, 2027 (planned)

In 2026, Fuyu no Dan ran 18:00–20:45 (garden closed at 21:00) with free admission. Held at the same time at Kanazawa Castle Park and Gyokusen-inmaru Garden

Hours

Opening hours

October 16 to the end of February8:00–17:00

Last entry 16:30

In winter, hours can change and services can be suspended because of the weather. Check the official website before you go.

Admission

Admission & fares

Admission (individuals)Adults ¥320, children ¥100

Children are ages 6–17. Free admission December 31 – January 3

Prices may change. Check the official website before you go.

Tips

Tips for travelers

  • ✓Garden paths are slippery on snowy days, so watch your step
  • ✓On Fuyu no Dan illumination days you can also see the yukitsuri at night
Access

Getting there

Nearest station / bus stop
  • Kenrokuen-shita / Kanazawa-jo (bus stop)Kanazawa Loop Bus
From major stations & airports
  • Kanazawa Station (Kenrokuen Exit, stop 6): Kanazawa Loop Bus (clockwise), adults ¥200 (About 10–15 min)
Driving & winter roads
Use parking lots such as the Kenroku-en parking lot near the Kenrokuen-shita intersection
Open in Google Maps ↗
Weather

Temperature & staying warm

Typical temperatures
January normals for Kanazawa: high 7.1°C, low 1.2°C (Japan Meteorological Agency)
What to wear & bring
There are many days of snow or cold rain, so wear a waterproof jacket, non-slip shoes and gloves
Facilities

Facilities

Payment
Admission can be paid in cash or by credit card and other methods
Where to Stay · Agoda

Places to Stay near Kenroku-en Garden YukitsuriPR

Prices and availability are shown on Agoda.

Events

Events & festivals in Kanazawa

June

Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri

Chubu & Hokuriku ・ Kanazawa

Usually 3 days in early June (the Hyakumangoku Procession is on Saturday; June 5–7 in 2026, procession on June 6)

Attractions

Attractions in Kanazawa

Experience

Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Chubu & Hokuriku ・ Katsuyama, Fukui

A dinosaur-themed museum in Katsuyama, Fukui Prefecture. It displays 51 complete dinosaur skeletons along with fossils, dioramas, and life-size models, and a new wing was added in 2023. Tickets are generally bought in advance for a specific date and time, so book on the official website once your itinerary is set.

☂ Mostly indoors · rain-friendlyAdvance, date-specific tickets required
Winter Scenery

Winter Scenery in Chubu & Hokuriku

Mountain & highland

Amaharashi Coast

Chubu & Hokuriku ・ Takaoka, Toyama

❄ Best season: Early Nov – Late Mar

Mountain & highland

Shinhotaka Ropeway

Chubu & Hokuriku ・ Okuhida, Gifu

❄ Best season: Early Dec – Late Apr

Old town

Narai-juku

Chubu & Hokuriku ・ Kiso Valley (Tsumago & Magome)

❄ Best season: Early Feb

✦ Illumination
Frozen waterfall & icicles

Hirayu Great Falls

Chubu & Hokuriku ・ Okuhida, Gifu

❄ Best season: Mid Feb – Late Feb

✦ Illumination

Seasons, hours, prices and access are based on official sources such as the spot’s own website, local governments and tourism associations. Winter weather often causes suspensions and road closures, so check the official website before you go.

Last checked: 2026-10-06