The garden was constructed by Yataro Itami, who made his fortune in the rice trade.
Over 100 types of maple trees are planted throughout the grounds.
The garden is renowned for the thick carpet of moss that covers the ground, requiring delicate maintenance.
The name 'Kunen-an' is derived from the Buddhist concept of living one's life fully and mindfully.
The estate was designated a National Site of Scenic Beauty in 2008.
Kunen-an Gardens is a historic private residence and landscape garden in Kanzaki, Saga, formerly the vacation home of the wealthy businessman Yataro Itami. The estate is widely recognized for its extensive use of moss and maple trees, which create a vibrant landscape during the autumn season. The garden features traditional Japanese aesthetics, including stone-paved paths, small water features, and a carefully preserved wooden villa. It is a designated National Site of Scenic Beauty. The site is notable for being open to the public only during specific limited windows, primarily when the autumn foliage is at its peak. Visitors can view the interior of the historic residence, which showcases architectural elements from the Taisho period.
The view from the porch of the main villa looking out onto the moss garden and maple trees.
Wear comfortable, slip-on shoes as you will be required to remove them to enter the villa interior.
The paths are uneven and primarily made of stone, so ensure you have stable footwear.
Visit on a weekday if possible, as the limited opening period draws significant crowds on weekends.
Do not attempt to touch the moss or step off the designated stone paths.
Open to the public for a brief period in the autumn and occasionally for a few days in the spring.
You must remove your shoes before entering the house; photography inside the house is often restricted.
