Top attractions and experiences in Kanazawa

Nestled on the less-explored western coast of Japan, Kanazawa is a renowned historical city celebrated for its classical architecture and meticulously designed gardens. Regardless of your starting point in Tokyo, Nagoya, or Osaka, the Hokuriku Shinkansen train line ensures a convenient journey of approximately 2.5 hours to reach this charming destination.

In 2009, Kanazawa earned UNESCO recognition as a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art. But it's not just about observing; Kanazawa invites you to engage in Japanese culture actively. Whether donning exquisite Kaga Yuzen kimonos or learning the secrets of crafting local Kaga cuisine, Kanazawa provides hands-on experiences in Japanese traditional crafts. Immerse yourself in the culture and embrace these opportunities!

The optimal periods for a visit to Kanazawa are from September to mid-November during the fall season and from March to May in the spring. However, due to Kanazawa's temperate climate, it remains accessible year-round. Remember that the summer months (June, July, and August) in Kanazawa can be characterized by hot and humid weather.

Kanazawa, a historical city on Japan's less-traveled western coast, is celebrated for its traditional architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Key attractions include Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, the Contemporary Art Museum of the 21st Century, the Nagamachi Samurai District, and the Higashi Chaya District.

Kanazawa is famous for its seafood, particularly sushi and sashimi, thanks to its proximity to the Sea of Japan. Try Kaga cuisine, which includes specialties like jibuni (a duck stew) and gold leaf-topped soft-serve ice cream.

In central Kanazawa, the standard fare for city buses is 210 yen per journey. The Kanazawa Loop Bus is particularly convenient for tourists, as it links Kanazawa Station with most key attractions. This bus service operates every 15 minutes in both directions, priced at 210 yen for each ride.