Things To Do
in Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a beautiful city located on the west coast of Japan. It is known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, such as the Nagamachi samurai district and the Chaya entertainment district. Kanazawa is also famous for its Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan.
The city is a cultural hub with traditional crafts, such as gold leaf production, and a vibrant food scene featuring fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Enjoy the stunning landscape and take some great photos.
Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art to explore innovative exhibits. Grab lunch at a nearby café showcasing local cuisine.
Stroll through the Higashi Chaya District, famous for its traditional tea houses. Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya while soaking in the ambiance.
Begin with a visit to Kanazawa Castle to learn about its history. The castle grounds are perfect for a leisurely walk.
Head to the National Crafts Museum to discover Kanazawa's exquisite crafts and arts. Participate in a hands-on workshop and create your own souvenir.
Relax at a traditional tea house and enjoy a matcha tea experience. Sample some seasonal sweets to fully immerse yourself in local culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including traditional crafts and museums.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Famous for its local cuisine, particularly seafood and traditional dishes.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger Japanese cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
- Less crowded and more relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable for a quieter lifestyle.
- Limited job opportunities in certain specialized sectors.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Fewer international amenities and services compared to major urban areas.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall can be challenging.
- Cultural adaptation may be necessary for newcomers.
Best Activities in Kanazawa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Stroll through one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, especially stunning during cherry blossom season.
Explore the historic grounds of Kanazawa Castle and enjoy the surrounding park, ponds, and cherry blossoms.
Take a leisurely walk through this well-preserved geisha district with traditional tea houses and shops.
A day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a chance to experience traditional thatched-roof houses in a picturesque setting.
Visit this temple known for its clever architectural features and hidden passages, often referred to as the 'Ninja Temple.'
Rent a bicycle and enjoy a scenic ride along the banks of the Sai River, taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kanazawa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kanazawa
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with seasonal flowers and stunning landscapes, offering great photo opportunities.
A historic geisha district with traditional wooden buildings, creating a picturesque scene for photographs.
An iconic castle park with scenic gardens and historic architecture, providing excellent views of the surrounding area.
Food in Kanazawa
Kanazawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique style of curry featuring a thick, sweet sauce brimming with local ingredients such as snow crab, Jibuni (simmered duck), and vegetables. Recommended place: Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Cafe.
Must-Try!
Feast on Kaga Yasai, a group of over 100 seasonal vegetables grown in the fertile Kaga Plain, renowned for its variety, freshness, and unique flavors. Try it at Kaikaro, a traditional Japanese restaurant.
Indulge in fresh, top-quality seafood with Kanazawa's renowned sushi. Visit Omicho Market for an authentic sushi experience at Uoriki, a popular sushi bar within the market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kanazawa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant array of fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies at Omicho Market. Indulge in local street food such as grilled fish on skewers, Kaga vegetables, and oden at various stalls throughout the market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, traditional ryokan, or certain restaurants in Kanazawa as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the indoor space.
In Kanazawa, bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect. The depth of the bow may vary depending on the situation, but it is generally a polite and respectful way to greet others.
In Japanese culture, including Kanazawa, respecting personal space is essential. It is important to be mindful of physical boundaries and not to invade others' personal space, particularly in crowded places such as public transport.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kanazawa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kanazawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kanazawa, Japan. It is generally not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Kanazawa, Japan, cash is the preferred method of payment at many traditional establishments such as small local restaurants, markets, and ryokans. However, credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, department stores, and larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions and to inquire about accepted payment methods in advance.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kanazawa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and milder temperatures. Expect the city to be bustling with tourists during the annual Kanazawa Cherry Blossom Festival.
Good time for outdoor activities and festivals. However, be prepared for high humidity and occasional heavy rainfall.
Ideal for fall foliage viewing, especially at Kenrokuen Garden. The weather is generally mild and pleasant.
Great for enjoying hot springs and the stunning snowscape. It can get quite cold, so proper winter clothing is essential.
Kanazawa at Night
Hiking in Kanazawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located west of Kanazawa, Mt. Hakusan is part of the Hakusan National Park and offers a range of hiking trails, stunning views, and rich biodiversity.
A beautiful coastal region that features various hiking routes along the shoreline, including scenic views of the Japan Sea and traditional villages.
A peaceful hiking destination with trails around the lake, offering views of lush flora and fauna, as well as opportunities for birdwatching.
Close to Kanazawa, this park offers various hiking trails suitable for all ages, surrounded by beautiful forest landscapes and picnic areas.
A mountainous area great for hiking, featuring hot springs and scenic trails that lead to beautiful landscapes and waterfalls.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kanazawa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kanazawa by plane.
Located in Narita, Chiba, about 250 kilometers away from Kanazawa, this is one of the primary international airports serving Tokyo and its metropolitan area.
Situated in Osaka, approximately 200 kilometers from Kanazawa, Kansai International Airport is a major international gateway serving the Kansai region.
Located on an artificial island in Ise Bay near Nagoya, this airport is about 150 kilometers from Kanazawa and serves as a hub for various international flights.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, Itami Airport is located about 210 kilometers from Kanazawa and primarily handles domestic flights along with some limited international connections.
Situated near Sapporo in Hokkaido, this airport is around 650 kilometers from Kanazawa and serves as the main international gateway to the northern region of Japan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kanazawa, encompassing various regional subgroups and cultural practices.
A significant minority group in Kanazawa, consisting of families with historical ties to Korea.
A smaller demographic group, including students and expatriates, often involved in trade and education.
Includes individuals from various countries, typically comprising workers, students, and expatriates.
The Soul of Kanazawa
Discover the essence of Kanazawa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kanazawa, with local clubs and school teams actively participating in regional leagues and tournaments.
Baseball has a strong following in Kanazawa, with many youth leagues and school teams nurturing talent and competitive spirit.
Basketball is widely played at schools and community centers, and Kanazawa has seen success in high school competitions.
As a traditional Japanese sport, sumo is celebrated in Kanazawa, with local events and training facilities for aspiring wrestlers.
Table tennis is a popular recreational activity in Kanazawa, with clubs and community centers offering facilities for players of all ages.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo, kendo, and karate, are practiced widely in Kanazawa, contributing to the city's sporting culture.
Cycling is both a popular pastime and a means of transportation in Kanazawa, with scenic routes attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kanazawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kanazawa cuisine heavily features seafood, several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Notable options include Kuroyuri, which specializes in vegetarian cuisine, and Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Cafe, offering vegan-friendly dishes and beverages.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable dining options at select restaurants in Kanazawa. It is advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining out to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kanazawa with these cultural adventures.
