Albert Kahn, a peaceful heaven

jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud

Le Jardin d’Albert Kahn is hidden on the outskirts of the city of Paris, right in the heart of the suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt.  Here, one will find the Musée Departmental d’Albert Kahn as well as a grandiose garden. Albert Kahn made a fortune working within the Parisian banking system. He worked his way up to become a principal associate at one of Europe’s most notable financial institutions.  With his newfound wealth, Kahn purchased a large plot of land in Boulogne-Billancourt, where he would eventually create a 4.2 hectare scenic garden.  

la serre tropicale @lesvisitesdemaud

The garden itself is a place where many parts of the world come together to form an idyllic paradise within the busy city.  Composed of Le Jardin Français, Le Village Japonais, Le Forêt Vosgienne, and more, this garden has it all.

At Le Village Japonais, one can find a traditional japanese garden with many winding paths, a trickling stream, and pavilion architectural features.  This garden was in line with a subtle movement of the time period, which mixed European garden styles with distinct Japanese elements.  In this garden, make sure to find the stone Japanese lanterns and sculptures, cross the red Guzei bridge over a gasp of koi, or climb to the apex of the hill for a stunning view of the entire garden.

Le jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud

Strolling over to le Forêt Vosgienne, you will find yourself encapsulated in a forest that mimics the southern Vosges Mountains, not too far from where Albert Kahn spent his youth.  Take a moment to relax or cool off in the shade under the canopy of trees.

La serre tropicale @lesvisitesdemaud

Le Jardin Français showcases a typical 17th century French garden, defined by a geometrical path and surrounded by a carefully appointed assortment of delicate fruit trees.  At the edge of the garden, you are able to take a look at the extensive greenhouse that houses a grand staircase under an abundance of natural light.

Le jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud

In the early 1900s, Albert Kahn began to travel the world and sought to capture the likeness of different places on camera.  Soon, his passion for travel led him to embark on another project: to capture all of the world’s places on film.  Although the project was stopped before completion, the images are on view at the Musée Departmental.  Khan’s project encapsulates many parts of the world and you can experience it here just as he intended.

Le jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud

To visit the garden : 
Les jardins d'Albert Kahn - Musée-Jardin
2, Rue du Port
92100 Boulogne-Billancourt