Best things to do in Kanazawa Japan
If you’re looking for an authentic and lesser-known destination in Japan you’ve come to the right place. Here you’ll discover the beautiful city of Kanazawa, one of my absolute favorites in the country. Nestled on the west coast and away from the tourist crowds, Kanazawa is the perfect setting to immerse in Japan’s rich history and culture. From strolling in the preserved neighborhoods, to visiting Samurai temples, and indulging in exquisite local cuisine – there’re just so many great things to do in Kanazawa. In this post you’ll discover my top picks for attractions, accommodations, dining spots, restaurants and travel tips. Here’s a quick preview of what you’ll find in this article:
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Best things to do in Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a hidden gem filled with wonderful sights and attractions. It was the most surprising city we visited in Japan, and I definitely recommend adding to your travel itinerary, along with classics destinations such as Tokyo and Kyoto. The historical center of Kanazawa is surprisingly preserved, as a result of being spared in the WWII bombings. It’s a great destination to admire traditional Japanese architecture and relish a more tranquil travel experience compared to the bustling metropolises. You’ll want to stay for at least a couple of days to enjoy the best things to do in Kanazawa. My curated suggestions are:
1) Kanazawa castle
Kanazawa Castle is the number one landmark in town. Standing proudly amidst an extensive park, the castle is a testament to Kanazawa’s rich heritage. The castle you’ll see is a reconstructed version, as the original building from 1580s, was burnt down in the 1800s. The castle’s towering walls are surrounded by a moat, creating an impressive sight – especially in spring when it’s surrounded by blooming Sakura trees. When you visit the area, I recommend walking around admiring the castle and gardens, including Gyokuseninmaru Park. If you’re interested in getting deeper insights into the castle’s past, visit the exhibition in the Gojukken Nagaya Storehouse and Turrets
The meticulously groomed gardens surrounding the castle were the highlight of our visit. Our timing couldn’t have been better, as we were fortunate to visit Kanazawa during full bloom of Sakura. Hundreds of cherry blossom trees adorned the area, creating the most breathtaking and romantic sceneries. We loved it so much, we felt compelled to return for more. The following day, we packed a picnic and joined local families and friends in celebrating Hanami under the trees. It was a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re visiting during spring, make sure to cross the bridge of Ishikawa-mon Gate from where you’ll see beautiful angles of the castle and dozens Sakuras in bloom!
Discover the 8 best places to visit in Japan during cherry blossom season
2) Oyama Jinja Shrine
A stone thrown away from Nezumita-mon Gate lies Oyama Jinja, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the esteemed founder of the local Maeda Clan. Although constructed in 1599, the temple features architectural elements of Japanese and Western influences. It’s not a place to stay for long, but I definitely recommend a short visit as you step out of Kanazawa Castle.
3) Kanazawa Kenrokuen
Not far from Kanazawa castle lies Kenrokuen Garden, a true masterpiece of Japanese landscape design. It’s one of Japan’s 3 most beautiful gardens and one of the coolest places we saw in Japan. Dating back to the 17th century, the garden boasts serene ponds, meandering streams, and a variety of cherry and plum trees that paint the landscape in hues of pink and white during spring. It’s a place of timeless beauty and embodies not only the essence of Japanese aesthetics, but also the six sublime qualities of a perfect garden. It’s free to visit and a must do in Kanazawa. The serenity of this place is unparallel and we absolutely loved exploring it at a leisure pace!
4) Traditional geisha districts
Visiting the preserved Chaya districts are amongst the best things to do in Kanazawa. Chayas are exclusive teahouses renowned for their elegant ambiance and captivating geisha performances. They were the epitome of entertainment during the Edo Period and are a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. While Chaya districts can be found in various cities across Japan, Kanazawa’s hold a unique allure due to surprisingly well-preserved state. So, when visiting Kanazawa, you’ll want to immerse in these historic districts where time seem to stand still. These are the 3 main geisha districts in Kanazawa:
Higashi Chaya District
Among Kanazawa’s trio of geisha districts, Higashi Chaya District stands out as the most popular. Its picturesque wooden buildings and vibrant atmosphere are a perfect setting for a relaxed stroll. And as we wandered around, many artisan shops and quaint cafes dragged our attention. What struck us the most was their fascination with gold leaves. We hadn’t heard about it before, so it was a surprise to discover Kanazawa has world-class expertise in this field. And that gold-leaf products are basically an obsession in town. We just had to try the gold-leaf ice cream and skin-care products, as these are once in a lifetime experiences!
Shima and Kaikaro are the most traditional teahouses within Higashi Chaya, and you can visit them during the day as first-time costumer. But perhaps the most rewarding experience is to wander with no itinerary, unveiling the district’s main streets and adjacent alleys. Our journey led us to the tranquil banks of the Asano River, where we witnessed a breathtaking sunset enveloped by the delicate hues of cherry blossoms—a moment etched in our memories forever.
Kazuemachi Chaya District
We visited Kazuemachi just as the sun dipped below the horizon, and it was simply love at first sight. Adorned with dozens of cherry blossom trees and traditional Japanese lanterns, this is one of the most idyllic and romantic areas in Japan. I highly recommend planning a leisurely stroll along the main street, tracing the gentle curve of the riverbank, as well as a curious exploration of the inner alleys. As twilight descends and the lanterns flicker to life, the atmosphere becomes even more magical and romantic. While the allure of the teahouses beckons, it’s unfortunately not possible to visit as tourists. But no stress, there’s plenty opportunity to create amazing memories in this district!
Nishi Chaya District
Nishi Chaya District stands as Kanazawa’s smallest and most tranquil geisha district. The highlight is undoubtedly the Nishi Chaya Shiryokan, a cultural institution where visitors can delve into the rich history and traditions of the area. Although the district may not boast an abundance of attractions, its proximity to Ninja Dera makes it a convenient stop in your itinerary.
5) Myoryu-ji Temple, aka Ninjadera
Built by the Maeda lords during the Edo Period, this temple may not have been home to actual ninjas, but its ingenious defenses and hidden passageways earned it the intriguing nickname of “Ninja Temple”. Designed to circumvent strict building regulations imposed by the shogunate, Myoryu-ji served as a cleverly disguised military outpost with elaborate escape routes and deceptive traps. We joined a guided tour across the labyrinthine corridors, secret rooms, and hidden tunnels and had a good time. I wouldn’t say this is a must-do activity but it’s interesting, plus you can combine with a visit to the riverbanks of Sai River and the Nishi Chaya District.
You must book your visit in advance by calling 076-241-0888. We were lucky to have joined a tour without booking!
6) Nagamachi, the Samurai district
Exploring Nagamachi was one of our favorite things to do in Kanazawa. Unlike the bustling entertainment districts, this area exudes a serene ambiance and offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the samurai elite. Upon entering the district, we immediately notice how distinctive the streets were compared to the rest of Kanazawa. Instead of traditional wooden buildings, mud walls adorn the area enveloping the residences of Samurais. Peering beyond these ancient earthy walls, we were astounded to discover elegant houses. The renowned Nomura-ke Samurai Residence of how sophisticated these actually were, reflecting the social status conferred to the Samurais. The inner rooms are very beautiful, and the courtyard gardens seem to have come out of a fairy tale. Definitely recommend a visit!
Still in Nagamachi, I recommend strolling along the tranquil Onosho Canal and exploring the interesting shops and restaurants in the area!
7) Kanazawa’s 21st century museum
The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit attraction for art enthusiasts. Boasting a diverse array of artworks and installations, this museum is a state-of-the-art building filled with natural sun light. Since we were mostly interested in historical and traditional attractions, we skipped visiting the museum while in Kanazawa, but I would definitely recommend adding to the list if you’re in town for longer period or during rainy days.
8) D.T. Suzuki Museum
Step into the serene world of Zen philosophy at the D.T. Suzuki Museum, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Kanazawa. Dedicated to the life and legacy of Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki, the museum pays homage to the influential figure who introduced Zen Buddhism to the Western world. While the museum may appear modest from the outside, its minimalist design serves as a profound reflection of Zen principles, inviting visitors to embrace stillness and contemplation amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life. As you explore the tranquil interiors, you’ll discover a curated collection of exhibits that illuminate Suzuki’s profound teachings and his impact on global spirituality.
9) Eat seafood at Ōmichō Market
I love exploring food markets around the world, but my excitement reached new heights when I set foot in Japan, home to my favorite culinary. My visit to the bustling Ōmichō Market in the heart of Kanazawa was no exception. I lost the track of time while absorbing the kaleidoscope of textures, aromas, and flavors. From fresh seafood straight from the coast to vibrant fruits and steaming bowls of ramen, Ōmichō Market has something for everyone. Despite the market’s popularity, the experience felt refreshingly authentic. A highlight of our visit was indulging in exquisite sushi at Omicho Ichiba Sushi, where the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs were just on point!
Other well recommended sushi places and restaurants at Ōmichō Market are: Omicho Croquette, Yamasan Sushi Honten, Kotetsu, Mori Mori Sushi Omicho, and Champion’s Curry
10) Photograph Tsuzumi-mon Gate
The imposing Tsuzumi-mon Gate, located in front of Kanazawa Station (east exit) has become somewhat of an attraction. As you’ll likely be arriving in Kanazawa by train, make sure to check the wooden gate before heading to your hotel.
11) Day trip to Shirakawa-go
While there’s enough to keep you busy for two full days in Kanazawa, it may be a good idea to plan for an extra day and take a day trip to Shirakawa-go. This picturesque farm town is one of the most unique in Japan, if not the world, and can be easily accessed from Kanazawa. You can either visit on your own or join an organized group trip which will take you to Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and to a wood Carving art class.
Where to say in Kanazawa
Kanazawa has a surprisingly wide list of amazing accommodations, ranging from traditional ryokans to modern luxury hotels. And what’s best of all? Prices are significantly lower than traditional destinations in Japan, such as Tokyo and Kyoto. Which means it’s a perfect place to splurge on luxury and boutique hotels.
We stayed at Soki Kanazawa and really liked it. The architecture and decor were Japanese minimalistic style, and they had a great wellness area, though split by gender. Location couldn’t be better, super close to Omicho Market and other points of interest. Other great places to stay Kanazawa are:
If you’re considering alternative accommodations beyond the ones I’ve recommended above, please research using our Booking.com link. When you book through this link, we may earn a small commission and you won’t pay extra for this. It’s a win-win, so thanks in advance! 🙂
Best restaurants in Kanazawa
The dining scene in Kanazawa is great, especially for seafood enthusiasts like ourselves. Nestled in the Ishikawa coastline and enveloped by the Sea of Japan, Kanazawa boasted some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever tasted. And you know what that means, right? Where there’s exceptional seafood, there’s exceptional sushi. So, it’s needless to say I has in heaven in Kanazawa, since sushi is my absolute favorite food. Although having had a short stay in Kanazawa, we were able to try many amazing restaurants. Here are my favorites:
- Food stalls at Omicho Market: There’s so much to try at Omicho Market, we literally spent hours browsing around. We had fresh oysters, ramen, sushi and the typical dish from Kanazawa – Kaisendon. Be adventurous and follow your instincts, there’s basically no wrong choice there!
- Mori Mori Sushi Kanazawa Ekimae: This unpretentious conveyor belt restaurant delivered so much in quality and atmosphere. We tried so many different sushi pieces and loved we could watch the sushi-men preparing the food in front of us!
- Omicho Ichiba Sushi: A small family restaurant at Ōmichō Markek where we tried Kaisendon. The seafood was as fresh as it gets and I loved the authentic feel of this restaurant. A must!
- Jiyuken: This is a great dining spot in Higashi Chaya, where we tried Omurice – a typical dish of rice involved in Japanese omelet. Although I confess it wasn’t my favorite dish, I think it’s worth a try when in Japan.
- barrier: a super cool and modern dining experience in Kanazawa. If you’re into meals that are more of an experience than just food, this is a place for you. Book in advance, though.
Kanazawa travel guide
Now that I’ve shared our curated recommendations of things to do in Kanazawa, let’s talk about practical aspects. Below, you’ll find comprehensive travel guide filled with useful and updated information on the destination. Click on the “+” sign to read the info.
Kanazawa can seamlessly fit into most travel itineraries across Japan. I’m sure you’re aware of how efficient the Japanese rail system is, and I recommend making the most of it. While the JR Rail Pass may seem pricier now than when we visited, it remains a worthwhile investment. It’s so convenient to jump on and off trains as we wish, and super easy to get to Kanazawa using the pass.
There are high-speed trains connecting Kanazawa to Osaka and Kyoto. The new Hokuriku Shinkansen makes it a mere 2.5-hour journey from Tokyo, while the Thunderbird Express offers a swift 2-hour ride from Kyoto. From Osaka, the trip takes a bit over 2.5-hours. No matter where you are in Japan, the extensive rail connections ensure a seamless route to Kanazawa. One more reason to add it to your plans!
Check our suggestion for a 2-week itinerary in Japan, including Kanazawa!
Kanazawa is an all-year-round destination. While spring and fall are especially attractive seasons to visit – not only Kanazawa but the rest of Japan- the truth is each month offers a unique experience. We were fortunate to witness Kanazawa in cherry blossoms full bloom last year, and it was simply perfect. Hundreds of cherry trees adorn the city with the most charming shades of pink and white. The experience was so memorable we consider Kanazawa one of our hand-picked 8 must-visit destinations to visit in Japan during spring!
We stayed 2 full days, and it was enough to enjoy the vast majority of sights and experiences listed above, except for museums. If you prefer to travel slower or would like to visit Shirakawa-go, I recommend planning for 3 days.
Kanazawa is a compact and flat city. Most of the attractions are within a walk distance, so walking is the best way to get around. Even the most distant points of interest, like the train station or Nishi Chaya, can be reachable within 20 to 25 minutes on foot from the center.
However, if you’re visiting only for a day or feel too tired to walk around, there’s a perfect solution for you. The municipality of Kanazawa offers 2 convenient bus lines for tourists that loop around the city, stopping at all the major attractions. A one-day pass for these buses cost Y500 for adults and Y250 for children. Single tickets costs ¥200 for adults and ¥100 for children, so it’s definitely worth purchasing the pass.
Remember to buy the pass at the Hokuriku Rail road Ticket Office when you arrive. It’s possible to buy in two other locations, but none is as practical as the office at the train station.
Absolutely. We expected Kanazawa to be nice, but we couldn’t have imagined how authentic, cool and romantic it actually is. Unlike the bustling metropolises of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, Kanazawa has a compact size and remains blissfully under the mass tourism radar. This preserves its serene and authentic atmosphere, making it perfect for couples, families, and even groups of friends. With a vibrant expat community, the city offers an exciting cultural and social scene, adding to its allure. Whether you’re seeking romance, gastronomy, or culture, Kanazawa has it all.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you’ll like to read other posts we’ve published. Clicking here you’ll find the full list of articles, but I specifically recommend reading:
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