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Kanazawa: A 4-Day Adventure of History, Art, and Delights

Discover endless wonders in Kanazawa, where family fun meets Japanese tradition.

19 July 2023

Kanazawa, Japan, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and family-friendly attractions for an unforgettable trip. Spend a day exploring Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan's most stunning gardens, with its beautiful landscapes and picturesque tea houses. Visit Kanazawa Castle, an impressive 16th-century fortress, and immerse yourselves in the city's rich samurai heritage with a trip to the Nagamachi District, where you can even try on traditional samurai armor.

Travel plan

• Start your day at Kenroku-en, a stunning historic garden with winding paths and breathtaking views.
• Visit the Kanazawa Castle, an imposing fortress that offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
• Indulge in a delectable lunch at Omicho Market, where you can sample the freshest seafood and local delicacies.
• Discover the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture at the Higashichaya District, a preserved geisha entertainment area.
• Unwind at a traditional tea house in the district, sipping on matcha tea while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
• Finish the day with a visit to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, a modern haven of artistic wonders.

• Start your day with a visit to the Seisonkaku Villa, a tranquil retreat filled with stunning gardens and intricate craftsmanship.
• Wander through the Nagamachi Samurai District, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the samurai.
• Enjoy a unique lunch experience at Nagamachi Yuzenkan, where you can try your hand at traditional textile dyeing.
• Explore the Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum to learn about the city's rich tradition in gold leaf craftsmanship.
• Experience a traditional Kabuki performance at the Kanazawa Noh Museum, be captivated by the mesmerizing art form.
• End the day by strolling along the picturesque Asanogawa River and enjoying a riverside dinner.

• Begin the day at Myoryuji Temple, also known as the "Ninja Temple," with its secret passages and trap doors.
• Explore the D.T. Suzuki Museum, dedicated to the life and teachings of Zen philosopher Daisetz Suzuki.
• Have a memorable lunch at a local izakaya, where you can savor a variety of delicious Japanese small plates.
• Discover the enchanting beauty of the Nomura Samurai House, a well-preserved samurai residence.
• Visit the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of local and international artworks.
• End the day with a relaxing soak at a traditional onsen (hot spring) to rejuvenate both body and soul.

• Start the day with a visit to the Kanazawa Morning Market, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling local food scene.
• Satisfy your taste buds with a sushi breakfast at the market, indulging in the freshest seafood delicacies.
• Explore the Hakuza Gold Leaf Store, where you can witness skilled artisans creating intricate gold leaf designs.
• Enjoy a wholesome lunch at a traditional kaiseki restaurant, savoring seasonal flavors presented with artistic finesse.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Gyokusen-en, a hidden gem in Kanazawa.
• End your trip on a sweet note with a visit to Kinkei, a famous wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionery) shop.