things to do in kanazawa
Kanazawa is a coastal city in western Japan, known for its well-preserved Edo-era (1603-1868) architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some things to do in Kanazawa:
Kenrokuen Garden: This is one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, and a must-visit attraction in Kanazawa. The garden features a stunning collection of plants, teahouses, and walking paths.
Higashi Chaya District: This historic district is home to many traditional shops, tea houses, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the old streets, try local sweets and tea, and buy souvenirs.
Kanazawa Castle: This 16th-century castle has been beautifully restored and features a museum, gardens, and a stunning view of the surrounding area.
Nagamachi Samurai District: This historic district showcases traditional samurai housing and offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and visit some of the preserved homes.
Museum of Contemporary Art (21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art): This striking museum features an impressive collection of modern art from around the world.
Kanazawa’s Traditional Handicrafts: The city is famous for its beautiful handmade crafts, such as Kaga-yuzen silk dyeing, Kutani pottery, and handmade gold leaf.
Fish Market: Kanazawa’s fish market (Omi-Cho Market) is a bustling place where visitors can sample fresh seafood, sushi, and local specialties.
Lake Noto: This scenic lake offers boating, swimming, and fishing in the summer, and beautiful autumn foliage in the fall.
Takada House: This is a traditional Japanese house turned into a museum, showcasing the everyday life of a Kanazawa merchant in the Edo era.
Tessen-tei House: This ancient teahouse offers traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
Myoryuji Temple: This ancient temple features intricate woodcarvings, paintings, and other art pieces. It’s also known as the "Ninja Temple" due to its unusual design.
Omicho Market and streets: Close to Omi-Cho Market, these charming shopping streets provide local craft goods and local speciality shopping in an intimate retail environment.
- Tamagawa River: The lovely Tamagawa River runs through the city center. Beautiful walking and cherry blossom trees are laid out the entire length of its riverwalks.
When to visit: The best time to visit Kanazawa is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and there are several festivals and events.
Getting around: Kanazawa has a compact city center, and most attractions can be reached on foot. There is also a convenient bus network and a local loop bus that covers major tourist spots.
Accommodation: Kanazawa offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Many of these are located near the city center or close to major attractions.
Language: Japanese is the main language spoken in Kanazawa, but many signs and tourist information are translated into English. Some locals also speak some English, making it relatively easy for foreign visitors to navigate the city.
