If you’re looking beyond Kyoto for your Japanese adventure, consider Kanazawa. This charming city offers a similar blend of history and culture, often with smaller crowds.
From stunning gardens and historic districts to contemporary art and local cuisine, Kanazawa has something for every traveler.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the 10 best things to do in Kanazawa and some exciting day trips! 😊
1. Kenroku-en Garden
a. Highlights of the Garden
- One of Japan’s top three most beautiful gardens
- Features ponds, streams, bridges, and teahouses
- Famous for the Kotoji-toro, a unique two-legged stone lantern
- Famous for its yukitsuri (snow-hanging ropes) protecting trees in winter
- Features the “Flying Geese Bridge” (Ganko-bashi)
- Offers an observation deck with panoramic views of the surrounding area
- Displays the “Midori-taki” waterfall, creating a serene atmosphere
- Showcases the picturesque Flower-Viewing Bridge (Hanami-bashi)
b. Best Time to Visit
- Summer offers lush landscapes and blooming irises
- Spring for cherry blossoms and fresh greenery
- Autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage
- Winter provides picturesque snow-covered scenes
c. Practical Tips
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the garden
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as paths can be uneven
- Early morning visits offer a quieter, more serene experience
- Download the map here to help you navigate the garden easily
d. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Kenroku-en bus stop in approximately 20 minutes, and the fare is 210 yen.
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2. Higashi Chaya District
a. What is a Chaya District?
- Historic entertainment district where geisha performed
- Chaya means “teahouse” but these were more like exclusive clubs
- Preserved area showcasing traditional Edo-period architecture
- One of Kanazawa’s main tourist attractions
b. Key Sights
- Shima Teahouse: Former geisha house turned museum, showcasing traditional architecture and geisha artifacts.
- Kaikaro Teahouse: Largest teahouse in Kanazawa, featuring a golden tearoom and occasional geisha performances.
- Gold Leaf Shops: Numerous stores selling gold leaf products, reflecting Kanazawa’s famous gold leaf production.
- Hakuza Hikari Kura Gold House: A stunning attraction featuring an old tea house with its exterior fully coated in pure gold platinum foil and inner walls covered in 24-carat gold. It’s a must-visit showcase of Kanazawa’s famous gold leaf craftsmanship.
c. Must-try Foods
- Gold Leaf Ice Cream (Hakuichi Higashiyama Store): A popular treat where soft-serve ice cream is topped with a sheet of gold leaf
- Shiratama dango (Fumuro Chaya): Small mochi balls, often served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and sweet red bean paste
- Hyakuman-san Manjū (TAKAMIYA): An adorable Hyakuman-san mascot-shaped flour-based dessert, with various fillings like red bean paste, matcha cream, or tofu cheesecake.
- Golden Takoyaki (Hakuza): Fried octopus balls covered in gold leaf
d. Tips for Your Visit
- Most shops and teahouses close around 5-6 PM
- Some establishments may require reservations, especially for geisha performances
- Photography might be restricted inside certain buildings
- Consider renting a kimono for a more immersive experience
e. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Hashiba-cho bus stop, and the fare is 210 yen. From there, it’s a five-minute walk to the Higashi Chaya District.
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3. Kazuemachi Chaya District
a. Overview
- Smaller and less touristy than Higashi Chaya District
- Located along the Asano River
- Spans about 100 meters along the river
- Known for its traditional wooden architecture and stone-paved streets
- Still home to working geisha
b. What to See
- Traditional machiya (townhouses) lining narrow streets
- Take in scenic views of the Asano River
- Take photos of the charming stone-paved streets and traditional facades
- Occasional glimpses of geisha heading to appointments
- Several teahouses, some open to the public for tea or meals
- Take photos of Nakano Hashi (中の橋), a famous bridge featured in many TV dramas in Japan.
- Explore Akari-zaka and Kuragari-zaka, two famous stone stair slopes where visitors can feel the unique atmosphere of a back alley of the Chaya district.
c. Best Time to Visit
- Late afternoon for soft lighting and fewer crowds
- Visit during cherry blossom season for stunning riverside vistas
- Autumn for colorful foliage reflecting in the water
- Evening for beautiful river reflections and lantern-lit streets.
d. Visitor Tips
- Respect the privacy of residents and working geisha
- Most establishments close early in the evening
- Consider combining with a visit to nearby Higashi Chaya District
- Great spot for photography, especially around sunset
e. Getting There
- A short walk from the Higashi Chaya District.
- Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from JR Kanazawa Station and disembark at the Hashibacho bus stop. The bus fare is 210 yen. From there, Kazuemachi Chaya District is a five-minute walk.
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4. Nagamachi Samurai District
a. Historical Significance
- Well-preserved neighborhood where middle and upper-class samurai lived
- Showcases the lifestyle of samurai during the Edo period
- One of the few remaining samurai districts in Japan
- Important part of Kanazawa’s cultural heritage
b. Explore the Historic Streets
- Walk through narrow lanes lined with earthen walls and tile-topped roofs
- Admire the well-preserved samurai residences and their traditional architecture
- Look for small canals running alongside the streets, adding to the area’s charm
- Take your time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and imagine life during the Edo period
c. Key Attractions
- Nomura Samurai House: Beautifully restored samurai residence with elegant antiques, family heirlooms, and a stunning inner garden
- Ashigaru Shiryokan: Two reconstructed houses of Kanazawa’s foot soldiers, offering a glimpse into the lives of lower-ranking samurai
- Maeda Tosanokamike Shiryokan: Museum displaying samurai armor and relics of the Maeda clan, offering insights into the ruling family’s history
- Kanazawa Shinise Kinenkan: Museum housed in a historical wooden townhouse, showcasing merchant life and local handicrafts
d. Visiting Tips
- Allow 2-3 hours to explore the area thoroughly
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on stone pavements
- Some houses require removal of shoes before entering
e. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Korinbo bus stop, and the fare is 210 yen. From there, it’s a five-minute walk to the Nagamachi Samurai District.
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5. Kanazawa Castle Park
a. Castle History
- Originally built in 1583, home to the powerful Maeda clan
- Largely destroyed by fires, current structures are reconstructions
- Showcases traditional Japanese castle architecture
- Offers insight into feudal Japan’s military and political history
b. Explore the Castle Grounds
- Walk through the expansive park, which was once the stronghold of the powerful Maeda Clan
- Admire the beautifully reconstructed buildings, including turrets and storehouses
- Check out the various types of stone walls, unique to Kanazawa Castle
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and well-manicured grounds
- Look for cherry blossom trees in spring, offering stunning views against the castle backdrop
c. Key Sights
- Gyokuseninmaru Garden: Reconstructed garden with a central pond and circular walking path, offering free admission
- Ishikawa-mon Gate: Impressive wooden gate with a massive stone base, dating from 1788 and facing Kenrokuen Garden
- Hishi Yagura: Reconstructed turret showcasing traditional carpentry techniques and offering historical displays
- Gojukken Nagaya: Long storehouse connecting the two turrets, featuring exhibits on traditional construction methods
d. Seasonal Highlights
- Spring: Cherry blossom viewing spots throughout the park
- Autumn: Beautiful foliage, especially around the moat
- Winter: Occasional light snowfall creates a serene atmosphere
- Summer: Evening light-ups and special events
e. Practical Tips
- Combine your visit with nearby Kenroku-en Garden
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on gravel paths
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the park and buildings
- Guided tours available in English (check schedule at information center)
f. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Kenrokuen bus stop, and the fare is 210 yen. From there, it’s a five-minute walk to the Ishikawa-mon Gate.
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6. Omicho Market
a. What is Omicho Market?
- Kanazawa’s largest fresh food market, operating for over 280 years
- Often called “Kanazawa’s Kitchen” by locals
- Features around 200 shops and stalls
- Sells fresh seafood, produce, flowers, and local specialties
b. Explore the Market
- Wander through the network of covered streets lined with about 200 shops and stalls
- Take in the lively atmosphere as vendors shout out their special offers
- Look for the diverse range of products, from seafood to produce, flowers, and kitchen tools
c. Best Foods to Eat
- Kaisendon: A bowl of fresh, assorted sashimi-grade seafood served over rice, showcasing the market’s renowned seafood
- Uni (Sea Urchin): Fresh sea urchin, known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, often available for tasting at seafood stalls
- Zuwaigani (Snow Crab): A local specialty, particularly popular during November and December when it’s in season
- Noto Beef Nigiri: Premium beef from the Ishikawa prefecture, served as sushi with local soy sauce or bamboo charcoal salt
d. Best Restaurants
- Mori Mori Sushi: Popular conveyor-belt sushi restaurant known for its fresh, local seafood and long queues
- Omicho Shokudo: Tucked-away spot within the market, serving set meals featuring sashimi and tempura
e. Best Times to Visit
- Early morning for the freshest produce and bustling atmosphere
- Lunchtime to try various local dishes at market restaurants
- Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends
- Avoid Wednesdays, when many shops are closed
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the market
f. Visitor Tips
- Most shops open around 8 AM and close by 6 PM
- Bring cash, as some smaller stalls may not accept cards
- Try the local specialty: nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch)
- Be mindful of vendors’ work spaces when taking photos
g. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Musashigatsuji･Ohmicho Market bus stop, and the fare is 210 yen. From there, it’s a one-minute walk to the Omicho Market.
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7. 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
a. Museum Overview
- Circular building designed by SANAA, opened in 2004
- Features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art
- Known for its innovative architecture and interactive installations
- Popular among both art enthusiasts and casual visitors
b. Key Sights
- Swimming Pool by Leandro Erlich: Illusion installation allowing visitors to appear submerged underwater without getting wet
- Blue Planet Sky by James Turrell: Light installation creating an immersive experience with changing colors and perceptions
- Color Activity House by Olafur Eliasson: Interactive pavilion of colored glass offering unique visual experiences
c. Practical Tips
- Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough visit
- Check the schedule for workshops and events
- The museum cafe is a nice spot for a break
d. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Hirosaka·21st Century Museum bus stop, and the fare is 210 yen. From there, it’s a one-minute walk to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
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8. Tsuzumi-mon Gate
a. About the Gate
- Modern landmark at the east entrance of Kanazawa Station
- Designed to resemble a traditional Japanese drum (tsuzumi)
- Combines traditional and contemporary architectural elements
- Officially named Tsuzumi-mon, but often called “Drum Gate”
b. Capture the Perfect Photo
- Position yourself in front of the gate for a classic shot with the entire structure
- Try different angles to include both the gate and the glass dome in your photos
- Look for reflections of the gate in nearby windows or puddles after rain
c. Experience the Night Illumination
- Stay until after sunset to see the gate illuminated
- Watch for the hourly color shifts showcasing the five “Kaga Gosai” hues. These changes occur every hour starting at 20:00 (for example, 20:00, 21:00, 22:00, etc.) and each lasts for two minutes
- Capture photos of the illuminated gate against the night sky
- Observe how the lighting enhances the gate’s architectural features
d. When to Visit
- Any time of day, but especially beautiful at sunset and night
- No specific opening hours as it’s part of the station structure
- Consider viewing both during day and night for different experiences
e. Getting There
The gate is right outside Kanazawa Station. Whether you’re coming from Tokyo, Osaka, or elsewhere, the Hokuriku Shinkansen drops you right at the station.
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9. Oyama Shrine
a. Shrine History and Significance
- Dedicated to Lord Maeda Toshiie, founder of the Kaga Domain
- Originally built in 1599, moved to current location in 1873
- Features a unique blend of Japanese, European, and Chinese architectural styles
- Known for its unusual gate with stained glass windows
b. What to See
- Three-story gate with distinctive Dutch-style stained glass
- Pay your respects at the main shrine dedicated to Maeda Toshiie and his wife
- Find the statue of Lord Toshiie on the shrine grounds
- Admire the three-storied shinmon gate, a blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Western styles
- Look for the stained glass window on the upper stories, a rare feature in Japanese shrines
- Notice the wooden carvings of dragons on the eastern gate, dating back to the 16th century
c. Visiting Tips
- No admission fee
- Allow about 30-45 minutes to explore the grounds
- Consider visiting during a festival for a lively atmosphere
d. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Minamicho·Oyama Jinja bus stop, and the fare is 210 yen. From there, it’s a three-minute walk to the Oyama Shrine.
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10. T. Suzuki Museum
a. Who was D.T. Suzuki?
- Renowned Buddhist philosopher who introduced Zen to the West
- Born in Kanazawa in 1870
- Wrote extensively on Buddhism and Japanese culture
- The museum honors his life and teachings
b. Museum Highlights
- Minimalist design by architect Yoshio Taniguchi
- Three main areas: Exhibition Space, Contemplative Space, and Learning Space
- Water Mirror Garden for reflection and meditation
- Library with Suzuki’s works and related texts
c. Explore the Three Gardens
- Walk through the Vestibule Garden as you enter the museum
- Spend time in the Water Mirror Garden, the most photogenic spot
- Visit the Roji Garden for a traditional Japanese garden experience
- Observe how each garden complements the museum’s architecture
d. Tips for Your Visit
- Allow 1-2 hours for a meaningful experience
- Dress comfortably for sitting in contemplation areas
- Photography is limited in certain areas
- Combine with a visit to nearby Kenroku-en Garden
e. Getting There
Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from bus stop #7 at the JR Kanazawa Station bus terminal, located at the Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit). The bus stops at Honda-machi bus stop, and the fare is 210 yen. From there, it’s a five-minute walk to the D.T. Suzuki Museum.
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Day Trip Option 1: Shirakawa-go
a. Overview
- UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses
- Located about 1.5 hours from Kanazawa by bus
- Known for its picturesque rural landscape and preserved village atmosphere
- Popular in all seasons, especially beautiful in winter with snow-covered roofs
b. Key Sights
- Wada House: Largest Gassho-zukuri building in Shirakawa-go, dating from the early Edo era and open for interior tours
- Ogimachi Village: Main village of Shirakawa-go, featuring over 110 traditional Gassho-style houses and UNESCO World Heritage site
- Shiroyama Park Observation Deck: Offers panoramic views of the village, accessible by a gentle sloping pathway or shuttle bus
- Shirakawa-go Kaido: Main street of Ogimachi, lined with farmhouses, restaurants, shops, and local food stalls
- Gassho-zukuri Open Air Museum: Showcases relocated and restored Gassho-style houses, providing insight into traditional village life
c. Practical Tips
- Allocate at least 3-4 hours for exploring the village
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, especially in winter
- Consider staying overnight in a Gassho-style house for a unique experience
d. Local Culinary Experiences
- Hida Beef: Premium local beef available as steak, in rice balls (onigiri), buns, or croquettes, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Gohei Mochi: Traditional savory snack made from pounded rice glazed in miso paste, often containing walnuts or sesame seeds
- Tochi Mochi: Local delicacy made from Japanese horse chestnuts, requiring days of labor to prepare and unique to the region
- Irori Dining: Traditional hearth-style dining experience in a Gassho-zukuri farmhouse, offering local Hida cuisine and set meals
- Hoba Miso Yaki: Local dish featuring ingredients grilled on a magnolia leaf with miso paste, often including Hida beef or vegetables
e. Getting There
- Take the Nohi Bus (Highway Bus) from Kanazawa Station West Exit Bus Stop No.4 to Shirakawa-go.
- The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Buses depart several times daily, including at 8:10 AM, 8:40 AM, 9:10 AM, 9:40 AM, 11:10 AM, 1:00 PM, 1:20 PM, 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
- Book your tickets in advance through Japan Bus Online.
- The one-way fare is 2,600 yen for adults and 1,300 yen for children.
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Day Trip Option 2: Takayama
a. About Takayama
- Historic mountain town known for its well-preserved old town
- Famous for its biannual Takayama Festival (spring and autumn)
- Known for high-quality beef, sake breweries, and traditional crafts
- Located about 2 hours from Kanazawa by train or bus
b. Explore the Old Town
- Start at Sanmachi Suji, the heart of Takayama’s historic district
- Wander through narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses
- Visit sake breweries and try free samples of local sake
- Explore the morning markets along the Miyagawa River
c. Visit Cultural Attractions
- Hida Folk Village: Open-air museum featuring over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region, demonstrating various architectural styles and crafts
- Takayama Jinya: Former local government office during the Edo period, now a museum showcasing historical artifacts and traditional architecture
- Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall: Museum displaying ornate festival floats used in the famous Takayama Festival, with detailed explanations of their history and craftsmanship
- Kusakabe Folk Museum: Well-preserved merchant’s house from the Edo period, offering insights into traditional Japanese living and architecture
- Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine: Important Shinto shrine dating back to the 4th century, known for its beautiful architecture and as the starting point of the Takayama Festival
d. Experience Local Cuisine
- Hida Beef (Kyoya | Maruaki): Premium wagyu beef known for its marbling and flavor, available as steak, sushi, or in various local dishes
- Takayama Ramen (Chitose | Kikyou-ya): Unique local ramen featuring a soy sauce-based broth and thin, curly noodles, often topped with green onions and char siu pork
- Mitarashi Dango (Fujimiya Honmachi Store | Fukutaro): Sweet rice dumplings grilled and coated with a sweet soy sauce glaze, popular street food in Takayama
- Sake (Hida Jizake kura Hon-ten | Harada Brewery | Aji-no-Yohei): Local rice wine produced by several breweries in the old town, often available for tasting at the breweries or local shops
e. Practical Tips
- Plan for a full day trip, leaving early and returning late
- Check the festival dates if you want to experience (or avoid) the crowds
- Many shops close early (around 5 PM), plan accordingly
- Consider staying overnight if you want a more relaxed pace
f. Getting There
- Take the Nohi Bus (Highway Bus) from Kanazawa Station West Exit Bus Stop No.4 to Takayama Nohi Bus Center.
- The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Buses depart at 8:10 AM, 11:10 AM, 1:20 PM, and 4:00 PM daily.
- Book your tickets in advance through Japan Bus Online.
- The one-way fare is 4,000 yen for adults and 2,000 yen for children.
Day Trip Option 3: Wajima
a. About Wajima
- Coastal city on the Noto Peninsula, known for lacquerware and morning markets
- Famous for Wajima-nuri, a high-quality lacquerware technique
- Home to one of Japan’s largest morning markets
- Offers a glimpse into traditional coastal life in Japan
b. Explore the Morning Market
- Visit the famous Wajima Morning Market, open daily from 8:00 AM to noon
- Browse over 200 stalls selling fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional crafts
- Watch elderly local women selling goods from their farms, adding to the market’s charm
- Note that the market is closed on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month
c. Key Sights
- Shiroyone Senmaida: Picturesque terraced rice fields overlooking the Sea of Japan, featuring 1,004 small paddies and stunning sunset views.
- Wajima Morning Market: Daily market dating back over a thousand years, featuring local produce, seafood, and traditional crafts from 8:00 AM to noon.
- Wajima Nuri Kaikan: Museum and shop dedicated to Wajima’s famous lacquerware, showcasing the production process and offering a wide range of products for sale.
- Kiriko Hall (Temporarily Closed): Museum housing massive illuminated festival floats (kiriko) used in summer festivals, with exhibits about local traditions and culture.
d. Planning Your Visit
- Start early to catch the morning market (8 AM to noon)
- Allow a full day for travel and sightseeing
- Consider staying overnight to fully experience the area
- Combine with other Noto Peninsula attractions for a more comprehensive trip
e. Practical Tips
- Allocate at least a full day to explore the city’s main attractions
- Stay overnight to fully experience the morning market and enjoy the relaxed pace of the city
f. Getting There
- Take the Noto bound express bus from Kanazawa Station West Exit Bus Stop to Wajima.
- The journey takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
- Buses typically depart at 7:35 AM, 9:50 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:00 PM daily.
- The one-way fare is 2,300 yen for adults 1,150 yen for children.
Please note: Reservations are not required for the Noto area express bus. However, since the seating is limited, if the bus is full, you may not be able to board.
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