A Romantic Weekend in Kanazawa, Japan

Escape to the enchanting streets of Kanazawa for a romantic adventure.

22 April 2023

Kanazawa is a picturesque city on the coast of Japan, famed for its historic architecture and tranquil gardens. For a romantic getaway, visitors can stroll through the beautifully preserved streets of Higashi Chaya and take in the city's traditional tea houses and artisanal craft shops. Kanazawa is also home to one of Japan's most stunning gardens, Kenrokuen, where couples can enjoy a romantic stroll among the cherry blossoms and trickling streams.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Kanazawa

  • Check in to the luxurious Hotel Nikko Kanazawa and enjoy the stunning view from your room.
  • Take a stroll through the Kenrokuen Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.
  • Stop by the nearby Kanazawa Castle, a historic site with a rich history.
  • Treat yourself to a traditional Kaga cuisine dinner at Hakuichi. Their gold leaf dishes are a must-try.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Nakamura Tokichi Honten, known for their delicious matcha sweets.
Day 2

Exploring Kanazawa

  • Experience the art and culture of Kanazawa with a visit to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Visit the Kanazawa Noh Museum and learn about the traditional Japanese performing art of Noh.
  • Walk through the Higashi Chayagai district, a preserved geisha district filled with traditional tea houses.
  • Have lunch at Omicho Market, where you can taste local seafood like snow crab and sea urchin.
  • End the day with a visit to the Nagamachi Samurai District, where you can step back in time and explore traditional samurai houses.
  • Kanazawa may not be on everyone's radar, but this city has so much to offer. With beautiful gardens, traditional culture, and great food, Kanazawa is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kanazawa by plane is to fly into Komatsu Airport, which is approximately 25 km away from the city center. From there, you can take a bus or train to Kanazawa Station.

Car

To get to Kanazawa by car, you can take the Hokuriku Expressway from Tokyo or Osaka. From Tokyo, the trip takes approximately 5-6 hours, while from Osaka it takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Train

There are several train options to get to Kanazawa, including the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which links Tokyo to Kanazawa. Other options include the Thunderbird Limited Express and the Shirasagi Limited Express. Both of these trains run between Osaka and Kanazawa.

Boat

There are no direct routes to Kanazawa by boat. However, you can take a ferry from Vladivostok, Russia to Toyama Port, which is approximately 60 km away from Kanazawa. From there, you can take a bus or train to Kanazawa.

Bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take a highway bus from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station or Osaka's Umeda Station. The trip takes approximately 8-9 hours from Tokyo and 4-5 hours from Osaka, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

More travel plans

Explore Kanazawa's Charm on a Day Trip

Kanazawa is a hidden gem located on the west coast of Japan. With its beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, it’s a perfect destination for those interested in Japanese history and culture. From admiring the serene Kenrokuen Garden to tasting fresh seafood at Omicho Market, there’s plenty to experience in this charming city.

Kanazawa's Culture, Cuisine, and Castles Tour

Visiting Kanazawa on a budget is possible by opting for affordable accommodations such as hostels or capsule hotels. Explore the city's highlights like the Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and Higashi Chaya District by walking or renting a bike. Experience local cuisine by dining at street food stalls, izakayas, and casual eateries.

Kanazawa, Japan: A Day Trip of Time Travel and Artistry

A family friendly trip to Kanazawa, Japan offers a perfect blend of historical charm and modern attractions. Explore the beautifully preserved Kenrokuen Garden and be transported back in time while visiting the stunning Kanazawa Castle. Treat the kids to a fun-filled day at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, where interactive exhibits and engaging art installations will captivate their imaginations.

Kanazawa on a Budget: The Ultimate 5 Day Guide

Kanazawa is a charming city to explore in Japan even with a limited budget. There are many affordable accommodations and restaurants scattered across the city that serve delicious traditional Japanese cuisine. Visitors can also visit beautiful gardens and parks, as well as museums and galleries, which offer free admissions or discounts.