What other travelers are saying about Higashi Chaya District
Its a good place to experience the golden era of Japan. Would recommend to visit this place post 4 pm for quiter and less crowded experience. Just stroll through the lanes, and you feel as though you have travelled back in time. If you have JR west pass, Kanazawa JR loop bus is included which makes it convenient to reach this place. Most of the restaurants here are on advance reservation basis only.
The main street is a bit touristy but the neighbourhood is quite lovely and colourful, I much preferred coming here than to Nagamachi Samurai District. You’ll see many people wearing kimono (mostly for picture taking), and it’s quite fun. Many shops and cafés, and there’s one place that offers workshops about gold leafing but you have to book that in advance.
A visit here, with stops to take some pictures, will take 20-30 minutes if you don’t stop to eat/drink.
Not much to see if you’re walking from the castle or train station on your way, though.
Good stroll for couple of hours. Frankly, there's so many places like this all over Japan and most of them have turned into tourist traps with, except for the architecture, most of the essence of old days being lost. Want to do a real old town? Then do Narai or other post towns on the Nakasendo Trail route. Of course, that takes a little more effort than this highly accessible location. So, gawk at the architecture, take lots of selfies, buy few snacks and souvenirs and move on to the nice park/garden nearby to complete your day.
Nicely preserved or well maintained old town. Worth a wander around. Plenty of little shrines and old wooden buildings plus shops and cafes tucked away inside the buildings aimed at tourists.
Historic tea house district with charming old streets and well-preserved buildings. Many tea houses here offer dessert and the popular gold leaf ice cream.
The area is quite big and the streets are photogenic, perfect for a slow stroll. I visited on a Wednesday, and I am not sure if it is a bad day to visit Kanazawa, but some of the shops were not open. I should have spent more time here and explored the area across the river too. Feels like there is more to see if you take your time.
The Higashi Chaya District is one of Kanazawa's well-preserved Edo-period geisha districts, known for its historic wooden teahouses and atmospheric streets.
While geisha performances are less common than in Kyoto, some teahouses in the district occasionally host geisha performances or cultural demonstrations, often by reservation.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and experience the district's quiet charm. Evening visits offer a glimpse of the illuminated streets and traditional nightlife.
Look for Kaga Yuzen silk products, gold leaf crafts, and traditional sweets, which are all local specialties.
Sample local dishes like jibuni (duck stew), Kanazawa curry, and fresh seafood from nearby markets.
