Countries
The Four Seasons of Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen...
30
Apr
Date
30 Apr (Thursday)
Time
Thu, Apr 30 – Sat, May 2
Venue
Kenroku-en, 1 Kenrokumachi
Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
📝 Useful Information
The Four Seasons of Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden (also known as Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Four Seasons Tale) is a seasonal illumination event where these historic sites are lit up and open for free nighttime admission for limited periods each year.
While the winter phase has recently concluded, several upcoming stages are planned for 2026:
Would you like the exact dates for the summer firefly viewing or the full list of light-up bus operating dates for 2026?
Upcoming 2026 Event Schedule
Event Highlights & Features
Access Information
•Spring Stage (Cherry Blossoms): Expected to occur in early to mid-April 2026.
•Dates: Specific dates are typically announced following the cherry blossom forecast; current estimates suggest a start around April 5.
•Time: Sunset until 21:30.
•Early Summer Stage: Tentatively scheduled for late April to early May 2026 (aligned with Golden Week).
•Dates: Often held around April 26–27 and May 3–5.
•Time: 18:30 – 20:45.
•Summer Stage: Typically held in early June (during the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival) and early August.
•Autumn Stage: Usually runs from mid-October to late November to showcase autumn foliage and yukitsuri (snow ropes).
•Kanazawa Castle Park: Illuminations feature the Ishikawa Gate, Gyokusen'inmaru Garden (which has a dedicated light show), and the Hishi Yagura turret.
•Kenrokuen Garden: Signature sights include the golden-lit yukitsuri ropes on the Karasaki pine and reflections in the Kasumiga-ike Pond.
•Free Admission: Entering the garden is free during the designated illumination hours, though daytime admission still applies.
•Special Events: Occasional mini-concerts are held within the castle grounds or garden during these periods.
•Location: Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park.
•Transport: From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus to the "Kenrokuen-shita / Kanazawa-jo" stop. A dedicated Kanazawa Light-up Bus also operates on Saturday nights during event periods.
Updated at 18 Mar 2026