Things To Do
in Kanazawa
Kanazawa, Japan is a beautifully preserved city that blends traditional culture with modern sophistication. Renowned for its stunning gardens, particularly Kenrokuen, and historic districts, it offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's past. The city is also famous for its artisan crafts, including gold leaf production and Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing.
With a vibrant food scene and rich history, Kanazawa is a must-visit destination on the Noto Peninsula.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most famous gardens. Enjoy the seasonal beauty and take plenty of photos.
Head to Kanazawa Castle, located adjacent to the garden, and explore its impressive structures and exhibits. Afterward, visit the Nagamachi Samurai District to step back in time.
Dine at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) in the Higashi Chaya District, famous for its traditional teahouses, and enjoy some local sake.
Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, which features innovative artworks and installations.
Explore the Omi-cho Market for lunch, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies. After lunch, visit the Kutani Pottery Kiln to see beautiful ceramics.
End your day at the D.T. Suzuki Museum, dedicated to the famous philosopher, and then enjoy dinner at a sushi restaurant.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi meal | $25 |
| 🍜Ramen bowl | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $4 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $2 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood.
- Beautiful gardens and natural scenery.
- Limited English signage can be challenging for some travelers.
- Public transportation may require some planning.
- Snowy winters can limit outdoor activities.
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you.
- "すみません" - Excuse me.
- "おいしい" - Delicious.
- "はい" - Yes.
- "いいえ" - No.
Places to Visit in Kanazawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its stunning landscapes, this garden provides picturesque views year-round, especially during cherry blossom season.
This historic district features traditional samurai houses and narrow alleys, perfect for capturing the essence of old Kanazawa.
The impressive architecture and scenic surroundings make this castle a great spot for photography.
Food in Kanazawa
Kanazawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty made from duck or chicken simmered with vegetables and a thickened broth, often served with rice.
Must-Try!
Traditional multi-course meals that showcase local ingredients, emphasizing seasonal flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find a wide variety of fresh seafood, produce, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintaining a quiet demeanor in public spaces is appreciated, especially in temples and gardens.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.
Using polite language and bowing as a greeting shows respect and is an important cultural norm.
Safety
Tipping in Kanazawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; excellent service is expected without a tip.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Enjoy cherry blossoms blooming in Kenrokuen Garden, with mild temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration.
Expect warm weather and occasional rain. Festivals like the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri take place during this season.
Witness beautiful autumn foliage in the gardens and enjoy cooler temperatures, perfect for sightseeing.
Cold with occasional snowfall, Kanazawa's gardens look magical under a blanket of snow, but be prepared for chilly weather.
Kanazawa at Night
Hiking in Kanazawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
These trails offer stunning views of the coastline and are ideal for both casual and serious hikers.
Located a bit further from the city, this park has numerous hiking trails leading to beautiful mountain scenery and diverse wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Kanazawa by plane.
Located about 30 minutes from Kanazawa, Komatsu Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kanazawa has a significant elderly population, and many services cater to their needs, reflecting a community that values respect for elders.
With several universities in the city, there is a vibrant student population contributing to the local culture and economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Kanazawa, with local teams that attract enthusiastic crowds.
While not as prominent as in other regions, sumo has a following, and local tournaments are sometimes held.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kanazawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check ingredients as fish-based dashi is common.
Communicating dietary restrictions can be challenging; a translation card can be very helpful.