Best Things to Do in Kanazawa

Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa, is a vibrant, historical city, with convenient access from Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Ishikawa has something for everyone, from historic sites and time-honoured traditions to natural hot springs and rural landscapes. We’ve rounded up the best things to do in this must-visit destination.

Kenrokuen Garden – Japan’s most celebrated landscape garden. As the seasons change the gardens flourish from month to month. The grounds are teeming with water features, bridges, teahouses, incredible plants, trees, flowers, stones and view points as well as cute hidden nooks.

Seisonkaku Villa – The Seisonkaku Villa was built in the last years of the Edo Period by a Maeda lord for his mother. It is one of the most elegant, remaining samurai villas in Japan. Seisonkaku Villa is located directly adjacent to Kenrokuen Garden.

Omicho Market – Omicho Market has been Kanazawa‘s largest fresh food market since the Edo Period (1603-1868). Today, it is a busy and colourful network of covered streets lined by about 200 shops and stalls. While most shops specialize in the excellent local seafood and produce, you can also find flowers, clothing, kitchen tools and more on sale.

Nishi Chaya District – A chaya (lit. teahouse) is an exclusive type of restaurant where guests are entertained by geisha who perform song and dance. Kanazawa has three well preserved chaya districts, Higashi Chayagai (Eastern Chaya District), Nishi Chayagai (Western Chaya District) and Kazuemachi. Each of the three districts has its own charms and mix of shops, cafes and chaya.

For more information visit: https://www.ishikawatravel.jp/en/things-to-do/