Kanazawa

This is your travel guide for Kanazawa, Japan

1 : Visit Kenrokuen Garden [2 hrs]

Kenrokuen Garden is one of the top three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan. It features stunning seasonal landscapes with cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vivid autumn colors, and snow-covered scenery in winter. The garden has unique features like Kotojitoro Lantern, Kaisekito Pagoda, and the oldest fountain in Japan, the Yugao-tei.

2 : Explore Higashi Chaya District [2 hrs]

Higashi Chaya District is a well-preserved geisha district with traditional wooden tea houses where geishas entertain guests with performances, tea ceremonies, and traditional music. Visitors can stroll along the beautiful streets lined with historic buildings, shops selling local crafts, and enjoy matcha tea in traditional teahouses. The district comes alive during the annual Higashi Chaya Matsuri festival held in February.

3 : Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art [2 hrs]

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art showcases modern art installations, interactive exhibits, and rotating contemporary art collections. Highlights include Leandro Erlich’s “Swimming Pool,” an optical illusion art piece, and James Turrell’s “Blue Planet Sky,” a mesmerizing light installation. The museum’s unique circular design and glass walls create a visually intriguing architectural experience.

4 : Discover Kanazawa Castle and Park [1.5 hrs]

Kanazawa Castle is a historic landmark that offers insights into Japan’s feudal past with well-preserved castle structures, watchtowers, and Ishikawa-mon Gate. The adjacent Kanazawa Castle Park features strolling gardens, ponds, cherry blossoms in spring, and colorful maple trees in autumn. The park provides a serene escape in the heart of the city.

5 : Experience Nagamachi Samurai District [1.5 hrs]

Nagamachi Samurai District is a charming area known for its well-preserved samurai residences, earthen walls, and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can explore traditional samurai houses like the Nomura-ke Residence, showcasing the lifestyle and artifacts of the samurai warriors. The district offers a glimpse into Kanazawa’s historical heritage and the lives of its former samurai residents.

Background Info

Weather

Kanazawa experiences mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 29°C throughout the year. The city is known for its heavy rainfall, especially during the rainy season in June and September. Humidity levels can be high, averaging around 70-80%, and air quality in Kanazawa is generally good.

Language

Japanese is the primary language spoken in Kanazawa. English is not widely spoken, so it is advisable to carry a basic Japanese phrasebook or use translation apps to communicate effectively.

Cost Of Living

Kanazawa has a moderate cost of living compared to other cities in Japan, making it an attractive destination for travelers. Expenses for accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonable, offering good value for money.

Other

Kanazawa is known for its traditional arts and crafts, including Kutani ceramics, gold leaf products, and Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing. The city’s rich cultural heritage, culinary delights like seafood and Kaga cuisine, and proximity to scenic landscapes like the Noto Peninsula make it a popular destination for tourists.