[Latest 2025 Travel Guide] Kanazawa

🏙 Introduction to Kanazawa

Kanazawa, located in Ishikawa Prefecture, is a cultural hub in the Hokuriku region, known as "Little Kyoto." It preserves the ancient streets of the Edo period, boasts Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three most famous gardens, and boasts a vibrant art and culinary scene. Its distinct seasons offer a unique charm, from spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn maples, and winter snow.

📍 Must-see attractions in Kanazawa

1. Kenrokuen Garden

  • Highlights : One of Japan's three most famous gardens, it is known for its six major beauties: grandeur, seclusion, human effort, antiquity, springs, and panoramic views.
  • My personal recommendation : The snow-capped mountains in winter are fantastic, and the spring cherry blossoms and autumn maples are also charming.
  • Access : Approximately 15 minutes by bus from Kanazawa Station.

2. Kanazawa Castle Park

  • Highlights : The former residence of the Maeda family of Kaga Domain, where the white tiles and stone walls complement each other beautifully.
  • Editor’s Tips : It is recommended to visit Kenrokuen together as the two places are adjacent to each other.
  • Transportation : Same as above, take the bus to Kenrokuen-shita stop.

3. Higashi Chaya District

  • Highlights : The teahouse building from the Edo period is preserved, full of nostalgic atmosphere.
  • My personal recommendation : try the gold leaf ice cream. Kanazawa is Japan’s top producer of gold leaf!
  • Access : Take a bus from Kanazawa Station to Hashibacho Station for about 10 minutes.

4. Omicho Market

  • Highlights : Known as the "Kitchen of Kanazawa," it offers a wide selection of fresh seafood and local ingredients.
  • Editor’s Tip : Go in the morning for the widest selection, and the seafood donburi is a must-try.
  • Access : About a 15-minute walk from Kanazawa Station or a 5-minute bus ride.

5. 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

  • Highlights : Known for its innovative architecture and interactive art, the transparent swimming pool installation is a must-see.
  • My personal recommendation : When there are many people taking photos, it is better to enter the museum earlier to get a better view.
  • Access : Take a bus from Kanazawa Station to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art Hirosaka stop, about 20 minutes.

6. Nagamachi Samurai District

  • Highlights : The preserved samurai residences and earthen-walled alleys give you a sense of the times when you stroll through them.
  • Editor's Tip : You can visit the Nomura family and learn about the life of samurai.

🍣 Must-try food in Kanazawa

  1. Seafood Donburi

    • Kanazawa is close to the Sea of ​​Japan, so the food is extremely fresh.
    • Recommended places: "Inoya" and "Yamako Sushi" in Omi Town Market.

  2. Gold Foil Dessert

    • Common gold foil ice cream and gold foil pudding are must-sees.
    • Recommended store: Chaoyi (はくいち).

  3. Zhibuzhu

    • A traditional Kanazawa dish, made with duck or chicken stewed in wheat bran, creating a rich broth.

  4. Kaga cuisine

    • It includes many exquisite side dishes that showcase the culinary culture of the Kaga Domain.

  5. Desserts and Japanese confectionery

    • We recommend the Japanese confectionery from Morihachi, which is perfect as a souvenir.

🚆 Kanazawa Transportation Guide

City transportation

  • Kanazawa Tour Bus : There are two buses, one going clockwise and the other going counterclockwise, which can take you to major attractions.
  • Walking + Bicycle : There are many attractions in the city center, so renting a bicycle is also a good option.

Traveling from major cities

  • From Tokyo : Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen Kagayaki, which takes about 2.5 hours to Kanazawa Station.
  • From Osaka/Kyoto : Approximately 2.5-3 hours by limited express Thunderbird train.
  • From Nagoya : Approximately 3 hours by the Limited Express Shirasagi train.

💡 A friendly reminder from the editor

  • Kanazawa often experiences snow in winter, so it is recommended to wear waterproof shoes and a warm jacket.
  • The restaurants in Omicho Market are often full at noon, so go early to reserve a table.
  • If you plan to visit Shirakawa-go and Takayama , you can save on transportation costs by using the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass.
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