What is Kanazawa?

Kanazawa is a historic city on Japan’s west coast, facing the Sea of Japan in Ishikawa Prefecture. Often called “Little Kyoto,” it boasts preserved samurai districts, traditional crafts, and one of Japan’s top three gardens—Kenrokuen. Unlike Kyoto, Kanazawa was largely spared during World War II, so many of its historical areas remain intact.

With a perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and walkable sightseeing, Kanazawa offers an authentic experience for those looking to explore Japan beyond the typical Tokyo–Kyoto route. It’s especially ideal for travelers interested in architecture, traditional arts, and slow-paced exploration.

History of Kanazawa

Kanazawa’s origins trace back to the late 16th century, when the powerful Maeda clan established it as the center of the Kaga Domain—then the wealthiest feudal domain outside of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Under the Maeda family, the city flourished as a cultural and economic hub during the Edo period. Unlike many Japanese cities, Kanazawa was largely spared from destruction during World War II. As a result, it retains much of its traditional charm with well-preserved samurai neighborhoods, geisha districts, and gardens.

The city’s historical prosperity also fostered the growth of traditional crafts such as Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing, Kanazawa lacquerware, and gold leaf production—which remains a symbol of the city to this day.

Today, Kanazawa combines this rich feudal heritage with modern convenience, making it a top destination for travelers seeking an authentic slice of historical Japan without the overwhelming crowds of Kyoto.

Top Things to Do & See in Kanazawa

What to Eat & Where to Stay

Must-Try Foods in Kanazawa

• Kaisen-don (Seafood Bowl): Enjoy fresh local catches from the Sea of Japan at Omicho Market or local sushi restaurants.
• Jibuni: A hot pot dish made with duck meat, vegetables, and wheat flour dumplings in a soy-based broth—perfect in colder months.
• Gold Leaf Ice Cream: Kanazawa produces over 99% of Japan’s gold leaf. Try the edible version atop soft-serve ice cream for a fun local treat.

Where to Stay

• Ryokan Yamamuro: A traditional inn near the market, offering tatami rooms and local cuisine.
• UAN Kanazawa: A boutique hotel with a modern design and nightly soba service.
• Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel: Comfortable and central, ideal for first-time visitors. Staying near Korinbo or Kanazawa Station gives you easy access to most attractions on foot or by bus.

How to Get to Kanazawa

Kanazawa is well-connected to major cities in Japan, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the Hokuriku region.

From Tokyo

By Shinkansen (Hokuriku Shinkansen): Approx. 2.5–3 hours from Tokyo Station to Kanazawa Station via the Kagayaki or Hakutaka trains.
By highway bus: Takes around 7–8 hours, more economical but longer.

From Kyoto or Osaka

By Limited Express Thunderbird: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes from Kyoto Station and 2 hours 45 minutes from Osaka Station to Kanazawa Station.

From Nagoya

By Limited Express Shirasagi: Around 3 hours via Maibara (transfer to Hokuriku Main Line).

From Takayama or Shirakawa-go

By Nohi Bus: Kanazawa is connected to both Takayama and Shirakawa-go by direct buses.

• Takayama → Kanazawa: Approx. 2 hours 15 minutes
• Shirakawa-go → Kanazawa: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes

Station Info

Kanazawa Station is a major terminal with a beautiful modern design. Look for the Tsuzumi Gate, one of the city’s landmarks.

📍 You can easily explore Kanazawa on foot, or by using the Kanazawa Loop Bus for major tourist sites.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“I didn’t know much about Kanazawa before coming, but the castle, gardens, and samurai district blew me away. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, especially about local crafts. The lacquerware and Kaga Yuzen dyeing demo were unforgettable.”

Recommended Tours

・Hokuriku Japan Tour The Haiku Route 9 Days

Q&A – Kanazawa Travel Tips

Visitor Info

Location

Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture

Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and colorful scenery, but winter snow on the gardens and rooftops creates a magical atmosphere.

Main Attractions Admission

• Kenrokuen: ¥320
• 21st Century Museum: Free outdoor art, exhibitions from ¥400
• Nomura Samurai House: ~¥550

What is Kenrokuen Garden?

Kenrokuen Garden (兼六園), located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, alongside Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama. The name “Kenrokuen” means “Garden of Six Attributes,” referring to the six essential qualities of a perfect garden: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water features, and panoramic views.

Originally developed in the 17th century as the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen was built and refined over generations by the Maeda Clan, one of the most powerful feudal families during the Edo period. It was opened to the public in 1874 and has remained a beloved destination ever since.

Its beauty shifts with the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant maples in autumn, and snowy yukitsuri ropes protecting trees in winter make it a favorite among both photographers and cultural travelers.

History of Kenrokuen Garden

Kenrokuen Garden was originally built in the 17th century by the Maeda clan, who ruled the Kaga Domain (modern-day Ishikawa Prefecture). The garden was developed over generations as part of the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle, with the earliest section completed in 1676.

The name “Kenrokuen” (兼六園) means “Garden of the Six Attributes,” referring to the six characteristics of an ideal landscape garden, according to Chinese tradition: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and broad views.

During the Edo period, the garden was used exclusively by the ruling family. In 1874, after the Meiji Restoration, Kenrokuen was opened to the public and has remained a beloved landmark ever since. Today, it is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, along with Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama.

Garden Highlights

Kenrokuen is a strolling-style landscape garden designed to offer beautiful scenery in all four seasons. The highlights include:

• Kasumigaike Pond A large, central pond that reflects the surrounding trees and sky. It features an island with a small shrine and is home to koi fish and wild birds.
• Kotojitoro Lantern (琴柱灯籠) Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Kenrokuen, this two-legged stone lantern stands gracefully by the edge of Kasumigaike Pond. It’s often featured in photographs of the garden.
• Yugao-tei Tea House The oldest structure in the garden, dating back to 1774. Visitors can enjoy a traditional tea ceremony here while overlooking the serene garden.
• Karasaki Pine (唐崎松) A massive pine tree grown from seed brought from Lake Biwa’s Karasaki. Its carefully pruned branches extend outward in dramatic, low arcs supported by wooden poles.
• Shigure-tei Pavilion This small, elevated structure offers views across the garden and is especially lovely during the rainy season or early morning mist.
• Seasonal Landscapes
  • Spring: Plum and cherry blossoms
  • Summer: Lush greenery and irises
  • Autumn: Maple leaves in fiery red and orange
  • Winter: Snow-covered trees supported by yukitsuri ropes—an iconic Kanazawa winter image

How to Get There

• From Kanazawa Station: 　• Bus: Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (left or right loop), get off at “Kenrokuen-shita” stop (approx. 15–20 minutes). 　• Taxi: About 10–15 minutes from the station.
• On Foot: A 25–30 minute walk from Kanazawa Station through the scenic city center.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“I visited during early April, and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. The Kotojitoro Lantern framed against the pink trees was breathtaking. The paths were quiet in the morning, and I had tea at Yugao-tei while watching petals fall into the stream—unforgettable.”

“As a landscape design student, I appreciated the attention to detail—every stone, stream, and slope felt intentional. I booked a guided tour and learned how each part reflects traditional garden principles. Highly recommend for culture lovers!”

Recommended Tours

・Hokuriku Japan Tour The Haiku Route 9 Days

Q&A – Kenrokuen Travel Tips

Visitor Info

Location

Kenrokuen Garden (兼六園)
1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0937, Japan

Opening Hours

• March 1 – October 15: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• October 16 – End of February: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission

• Adults: ¥320
• Children (6–17): ¥100
• Free for preschoolers

Official Website

https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kenrokuen/e/index.html