Kanazawa
金沢
Things to Do in and Around Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a castle town where the history of the Kaga Domain's million koku still breathes. While traditional landscapes such as Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and Higashi Chaya District remain, modern facilities like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art also coexist. The city is rich in traditional crafts and food culture, welcoming tourists with crafts like gold leaf and Kutani ware, as well as fresh seafood at Omicho Market.
Where is Kanazawa?
Kanazawa City is the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture and a central city in the Hokuriku region facing the Sea of Japan. To the east, it overlooks the sacred Mount Hakusan, and to the west, it borders the Sea of Japan. The northern part extends to the Noto Peninsula, while the southern part is adjacent to the Kaga region. The Saigawa and Asanogawa rivers flow through the city, dividing it into three hilly areas, creating a unique urban structure.
The surrounding area is rich with hot springs such as Wakura Onsen and Kaga Onsen-kyo, offering a quintessentially Japanese relaxation experience.
Getting Around
Kanazawa can be accessed from Tokyo City via the Hokuriku Shinkansen in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and from Osaka by the Thunderbird Limited Express in about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The main station in the city is Kanazawa Station, from where the loop bus "Machi Bus" tours the sightseeing spots.
Rental bicycles are also a convenient means of transportation, but since Ishikawa Prefecture is one of Japan's top snowfall areas, it is not recommended in the winter season.
From Kanazawa Station, it takes about 15 minutes by bus to tourist spots such as Kenrokuen and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. A sightseeing pass for foreign tourists is also available, which allows for efficient sightseeing.
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About Kanazawa
Kanazawa flourished as the castle town of the Maeda family of the Kaga Domain during the Edo period. It boasted such wealth that it was called "Kaga Hyakumangoku," and this prosperity is deeply rooted in the culture and streetscapes of present-day Kanazawa. The Maeda family also focused on cultural preservation, leading to the development of traditional arts such as tea ceremony and Noh theater.
Japan's Top Gold Leaf Production
Kanazawa is Japan's top gold leaf production area, accounting for over 99% of the country's gold leaf production. Thanks to traditional techniques dating back to the Edo period, ultra-thin gold leaf is produced. In the city, products using gold leaf, such as gold leaf ice cream and gold leaf-infused sake, are also popular.
A Treasure Trove of Traditional Crafts
Kanazawa is home to many traditional crafts, including Kutani ware, Kaga Yuzen, and Kanazawa lacquerware. These are not just tourist souvenirs but are still used in daily life and are rooted in the local community. There are also many facilities where you can tour and experience traditional craft workshops and see the artisans' skills up close.
Coexistence with Contemporary Art
While valuing tradition, Kanazawa also has a face as a hub for contemporary art, represented by the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. Renovated galleries and cafes in old townhouses are increasing, forming a unique cultural landscape where tradition and innovation coexist.
The City as a Student Hub
With several universities, including Kanazawa University, the city also exudes youthful energy. There are affordable eateries for students, and new initiatives by young creators can be seen. Students actively participate in traditional festivals and events, playing a role in the inheritance of traditional culture.