Kanazawa's Delights: Crafts, Gardens, and Hidden Gems

Discover the charm of Kanazawa, where tradition meets adventure for an unforgettable family vacation.

19 July 2023

Kanazawa, Japan offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with its combination of historical charm and modern attractions. Take a stroll through the beautifully preserved Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most exquisite landscaped gardens, and visit the nearby Kanazawa Castle. Explore the fascinating Higashi Chaya District, with its traditional teahouses and local crafts, or immerse yourselves in hands-on activities like gold leaf decoration workshops, making it a memorable trip for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Kanazawa's Hidden Treasures

  • Indulge in a heavenly breakfast at Higashiyama Hanao Café, where fluffy pancakes and aromatic coffee await.
  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of Kenroku-en Garden, a picturesque wonderland with vibrant foliage and tranquil ponds.
  • Step back in time at the Nagamachi Samurai District, wandering through narrow streets lined with traditional samurai residences.
  • Savor a delectable lunch of local delicacies at Omicho Market, where the freshest seafood and tantalizing street food tempt your taste buds.
  • Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of Kanazawa Castle, a stunning castle reconstructed with an impressive blend of history and art.
  • Unleash your inner artist at 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, exploring mind-boggling exhibits that challenge your perception.
Day 2

From Samurai Tales to Golden Beauty

  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design, a hipster haven where caffeine and nostalgia collide.
  • Dive deep into the captivating history of samurai lords at the Kanazawa Samurai House, where tales of honor and valor come alive.
  • Embark on a quest for gold at the awe-inspiring Myoryuji Temple, also known as the Ninja Temple, famed for its secret chambers and hidden traps.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Kazuemachi Chaya District, savoring traditional tea and mouthwatering wagashi sweets amidst charming geisha houses.
  • Witness the brilliance of Kanazawa's Golden Pavilion, the stunning elegance of the Higashi Chaya District, and the mesmerizing Nishi Chaya District.
  • Conclude the day by feasting on a delectable kaiseki dinner, a multi-course culinary extravaganza showcasing the finest of Kanazawa's gastronomic delights.
Day 3

Crafts, Gardens, and Hidden Gems

  • Start the day with a delightful breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design, enjoying their signature avocado toast and locally roasted beans.
  • Immerse yourself in the world of traditional crafts at the Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum, witnessing the delicate art of gold leaf gilding.
  • Experience tranquility amidst the extraordinary landscape of the D.T. Suzuki Museum, dedicated to the Zen philosopher's teachings.
  • Take a scenic stroll along the Asanogawa River, admiring the charming teahouses and idyllic scenery of the Chaya District.
  • Indulge in a delightful lunch at Itaru Honten, feasting on a hearty bowl of ramen crafted with local ingredients and rich broth.
  • End your Kanazawa adventure by exploring the enchanting beauty of Utatsuyama Temple and its peaceful Zen garden, finding serenity before bidding farewell to this remarkable city.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Kanazawa

Welcome to a city where the fish are fresh and the pedestrians are cautious. Kanazawa, where you can admire traditional Japanese architecture while avoiding colliding with bicycles.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Kanazawa Family Extravaganza: 2 Days of Fun and Culture

Kanazawa, Japan offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, stunning gardens, and cultural experiences. Explore Kanazawa Castle, a reconstructed castle that provides a glimpse into Japanese feudal era, and stroll through the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden, known as one of the country's top gardens. Engage in interactive activities like traditional tea ceremonies and gold leaf workshops, making it an educational and fun destination for the entire family.

Romantic Long Weekend in Kanazawa, Japan

Kanazawa, Japan is an ideal destination for a romantic trip. The city is known for its picturesque gardens, charming teahouses, and serene temples. Visitors can also indulge in delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural history of the region.

A Weekend in Kanazawa: Art, Crafts & Seafood

Kanazawa is a historical city located on the west coast of Japan that is known for its breathtaking gardens, authentic cuisine, and traditional crafts. Visitors can explore Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top three gardens, and visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art for a modern art experience. Travelers can also indulge in Kanazawa's local delicacies such as gold leaf sushi and fresh seafood.

Five-Day Romantic Getaway to Kanazawa, Japan

Explore the charming Kanazawa, the cultural capital of Japan, with your loved one on a romantic trip. Immerse in the traditional architecture, art, and cuisine of the city, and stroll through the serene Kenroku-en Garden. Indulge in the excellent local seafood, sake, and tea, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem.