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Higashi Chaya

Higashi Chaya District

4.2 (200)Tourist AttractionHistorical LandmarkHistorical PlacePoint Of InterestEstablishment

The Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa is a captivating portal to Japan's cultural past, specifically to the Edo period when the area flourished as a cultural hub. Established in 1820, this district is one of the few remaining "chaya" districts in Japan, where geisha have entertained guests with performances of traditional music and dance for nearly two centuries.

The term "chaya" literally means "tea house," but these establishments are much more than places for tea. They are exclusive venues where guests can enjoy the arts of the geisha, including live performances of song, dance, and classical music, along with elaborate meals and drinks. The district's historical significance is preserved through strict conservation measures that maintain its traditional wooden buildings and their distinctive, lattice-covered facades, which create an atmosphere of discretion and exclusivity.

Walking through the Higashi Chaya District, visitors can admire the beautifully preserved architecture and may even hear the faint sounds of shamisen (a traditional three-stringed instrument) echoing through the streets. Many of these historic teahouses are still operational and open to the public, providing a rare glimpse into the secretive world of the geisha.

Hours:

24/7

Closed: 

No closing days

Available: 

All year

Minimum Age: 

All ages are welcome.

Fees:

No entrance fee


Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Website
www4.city.kanazawa.lg.jp

The area

Address
1 Chome-13 Higashiyama, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0831, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Higashi Chaya District

Full of foreign tourists. Lots of Americans in groups. Very busy with tourists. Only a few streets. Screened business. High-quality artisan work in some stores. Great ice cream in square.easy to spend 2 hours minimum and lots more if you go into several of shops. Sake, beer, coffee, food, gold leaf, jewellery, food for gifts, etc. Temple mice at one street end. Relaxed area. I imagine at night I might see a Geisha but doubtful during the day. I didn't make a priority and certainly saw no sign of one. It's a high-end Geisha district. I'm sure tourist trade keeps this area alive now. It's worth a visit, but lucky you, if you spot a Geisha.
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Redfern Redfern
Apr 19, 2025
A nice place to walk around and see. It doesn’t take too long to explore, and it’s fun to look at the old streets and buildings. We used the bus loop to get there since it’s a bit of a walk from the gardens and the station. Worth a visit if you’re in the area!
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reeva soni
May 4, 2025
Alles around the area and it had some very beautiful houses and establishments, but it is smaller than expected. Also quite a distance from the station. Taxi is about 1200 yen (in 2025) one way. The gold leaf on ice was a small fun treat, but don't expect to spent hours in the area, unless you book a tea arrangement
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Mark G
Apr 26, 2025
Relaxing place to walk around the river and park. Has shops & food stalls along the way. Didn’t get to watch a geisha performance because I think a reservation is required.
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Yu 214
May 15, 2025
Interesting place to visit and walk around, 1 hour is enough time. Higashi Chaya is one of the few remaining geisha districts in Japan, dating back to the 1820s There are lots of traditional houses, narrow streets matcha tea shops. Kanazawa produces over 99% of Japan’s gold leaf, Many shops in Higashi Chaya sell gold-leaf-adorned items: cosmetics, crafts, and even gold leaf soft-serve ice cream.
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Kevin G
Apr 18, 2025

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