Kanazawa, a charming city located in the Ishikawa Prefecture on Japan’s Honshu island, is often heralded for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and regional handicrafts. Known as a lesser-traveled gem, Kanazawa offers a beautiful blend of history and modern culture, epitomized by its samurai and geisha districts alongside contemporary museums. It serves as a testament to the city’s ability to preserve its rich heritage while adapting to the modern era.
The city thrives with a variety of culturally significant sites, traditional landscapes, and renowned craft industries such as gold leaf production. Kanazawa’s weather is characterized by its picturesque snowy winters, which beautifully contrast with its vibrant spring blooms, making it a year-round destination. The convergence of the old with the new and the natural beauty of the season’s transitions make Kanazawa a unique and enchanting place to visit.
Regarded as one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens, Kenrokuen offers stunning seasonal beauty, distinguishing features like the Kotoji-toro lantern and centuries-old trees.
A symbol of feudal power and authority, the historically rebuilt castle features distinctive architecture such as the lead-tiled roofs that shine beautifully in the sun.
This museum is renowned for its innovative circular design and eclectic exhibits that include interactive installations by acclaimed artists like Leandro Erlich.
A well-preserved historical area, known for its charming teahouses where geisha have entertained since the Edo period. The district also offers boutiques and shops selling gold leaf products.
Formerly a samurai neighborhood, this area now features historic earthen walled residences and restored samurai houses open to the public like the Nomura-ke.
Known as Kanazawa’s kitchen, this vibrant market has over 200 shops and stalls offering fresh seafood, local produce, and delicious street food.
One of the most elegant surviving samurai villas in Japan, built with exceptional architectural precision and beautiful multicolored glass.
A unique museum that showcases a private collection of vintage phonographs and records, highlighting the audio history of Japan.
Although not historically a ninja temple, this intriguing temple is famous for its defensive mechanisms and secret tunnels, designed to protect its inhabitants from enemies.
A traditional hot spring area with a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and experiencing Japan’s famed onsen culture.