Kasumiga-ike Pond

Kasumiga-ike Pond sits at the heart of Kenrokuen Garden, recognizable by the Kotoji-toro lantern positioned at its northern edge, its two legs resting at different heights in the water. This pond serves as the reservoir for the entire garden, fed by water diverted from the distant Saigawa River through a complex system of stone conduits. Lord Maeda Nariyasu enlarged the pond in eighteen thirty-seven, creating an artificial island intended to represent the dwelling of a Taoist hermit who possessed the secret to eternal youth.