Kanazawa, often called “Little Kyoto,” is one of Japan’s most underrated travel destinations. This historic city, located on the western coast of Honshu, boasts beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, breathtaking gardens, and a rich cultural heritage. Unlike more crowded tourist hotspots, Kanazawa offers an intimate glimpse into traditional Japan while maintaining a peaceful and authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re drawn to historic sites, stunning landscapes, or exquisite cuisine, Kanazawa has something special to offer.
1. Stroll Through Kenrokuen – One of Japan’s Most Beautiful Gardens
Kenrokuen is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens and an absolute must-visit in Kanazawa. This meticulously designed landscape garden offers stunning seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and serene snow-covered scenery in winter. The garden’s name, “Kenrokuen,” means “garden of six attributes,” referring to its perfect balance of space, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, water features, and panoramic views.
Highlights:
- The iconic Kotoji-toro Stone Lantern, a symbol of Kanazawa
- The oldest fountain in Japan, powered by natural water pressure
- Seasonal beauty with cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and winter snow
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (late March–April) for cherry blossoms
- Autumn (November) for stunning foliage
- Winter (December–February) for a snowy wonderland
2. Step Back in Time in Higashi Chaya District
Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya District is the city’s most famous geisha quarter, featuring well-preserved wooden teahouses dating back to the Edo period. Unlike Kyoto’s Gion, Kanazawa’s geisha culture remains more intimate and less commercialized, allowing visitors to experience the charm of old Japan at a slower pace. Many of the teahouses have been converted into cafes, shops, and museums, offering a chance to enjoy local crafts and sweets.
Highlights:
- Shima Teahouse, a historic geisha house open to the public
- Hakuza, a shop selling gold leaf-covered products, including edible gold ice cream
- Traditional matcha tea experiences in an authentic chaya (teahouse)
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening for a peaceful, illuminated atmosphere
- Daytime for shopping and cultural experiences
3. Explore Nagamachi Samurai District
For a glimpse into the life of Japan’s samurai, head to the Nagamachi Samurai District. This historic area, once home to Kanazawa’s samurai class, features earthen-walled residences, narrow stone-paved streets, and well-preserved gardens. One of the highlights is the Nomura Samurai House, a beautifully restored residence showcasing authentic samurai armor, weapons, and exquisite interior design.
Highlights:
- Nomura Samurai House, with a stunning inner garden
- Ashigaru Shiryokan Museum, featuring homes of lower-ranking samurai
- A stroll through picturesque streets lined with historic walls and waterways
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning for a quiet and immersive experience
- Late afternoon for soft lighting and fewer crowds
4. Visit Kanazawa Castle – A Symbol of the City’s Feudal Past
Kanazawa Castle, once the stronghold of the powerful Maeda clan, is a key historical landmark in the city. While much of the original structure was lost to fires, the castle has been beautifully reconstructed, including Kahoku-mon Gate and Gojikken Nagaya Storehouse. The surrounding Gyokuseninmaru Garden provides a scenic spot to relax.
Highlights:
- Gojikken Nagaya, a reconstructed wooden storehouse showcasing traditional architecture
- Gyokuseninmaru Garden, a peaceful escape with seasonal flowers and a tea house
- Stunning nighttime illuminations during special events
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring for cherry blossoms surrounding the castle
- Evening during seasonal light-up events
5. Discover the Beauty of 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
While Kanazawa is steeped in tradition, it also embraces modern art. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a striking circular glass building featuring avant-garde exhibits and interactive installations. The museum’s Swimming Pool installation by Leandro Erlich is particularly popular, creating an illusion of people walking underwater.
Highlights:
- Leandro Erlich’s Swimming Pool, a unique optical illusion
- Rotating exhibitions featuring Japanese and international artists
- A fusion of contemporary design in a historic city
Best Time to Visit:
- Weekdays to avoid crowds
- Any season, as exhibitions change throughout the year
6. Experience Omicho Market – Kanazawa’s Kitchen
Omicho Market, often referred to as “Kanazawa’s Kitchen,” has been the city’s main food market for over 300 years. This lively market is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly kanburi (winter yellowtail) and snow crab, which are local delicacies. Visitors can sample sashimi, sushi, and other seafood dishes at the many small restaurants and stalls.
Highlights:
- Fresh Kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) at local stalls
- Seasonal specialties like Kanazawa snow crab
- A bustling yet authentic market experience
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning for the freshest seafood
- Winter (December–February) for the best crab season
7. Admire Myoryuji (Ninja Temple) – A Feudal-Era Defensive Marvel
Myoryuji, commonly known as Ninja Temple, is not actually related to ninjas but earned its nickname due to its intricate defensive mechanisms. This temple, built by the Maeda clan, is filled with hidden traps, secret passageways, and escape routes to protect against potential attacks. Guided tours are available to explore its fascinating architecture.
Highlights:
- Hidden staircases, trap doors, and secret rooms
- A maze-like interior designed for defense
- A glimpse into the strategic mind of feudal Japan
Best Time to Visit:
- Year-round (advance reservations recommended for tours)
8. Enjoy Gold Leaf Crafting – Kanazawa’s Signature Art
Kanazawa produces over 99% of Japan’s gold leaf, used in everything from temple decorations to cosmetics. Visitors can try their hand at gold leaf workshops, where they can apply delicate gold sheets to souvenirs such as chopsticks, bowls, and even sweets.
Highlights:
- Make your own gold leaf souvenir
- Try Kanazawa’s famous gold leaf ice cream
- Learn about the traditional craftsmanship behind gold leaf production
Best Time to Visit:
- Anytime, as workshops are held year-round
Conclusion
Kanazawa is a city where history, art, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re wandering through samurai districts, admiring cherry blossoms in Kenrokuen, or indulging in fresh seafood at Omicho Market, this hidden gem offers a truly immersive cultural experience. Unlike the bustling crowds of Kyoto or Tokyo, Kanazawa invites you to explore Japan’s rich heritage at a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path destination, Kanazawa should be at the top of your list.
