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

Discover traditional beauty and family fun in Kanazawa, Japan.

19 July 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Traditional Treasures of Kanazawa

  • Start your day at the Kenrokuen Garden, a stunning oasis of serenity. Stroll along winding paths, marvel at vibrant flowers, and snap envy-inducing Instagram shots. Don't forget to make a wish at the iconic Kasumiga-ike Pond!
  • Take a trip back in time at the Nagamachi Samurai District. Wander through narrow lanes, admire well-preserved samurai residences, and feel like a character straight out of a historical drama. Bonus points if you find a hidden ninja!
  • Embrace your artsy side at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. Be prepared for mind-boggling installations, interactive exhibits, and the urge to create your own avant-garde masterpiece. They won't let you scribble on the walls though, unfortunately!
  • Sink your teeth into Kanazawa's culinary wonders at Omicho Market. From sashimi to sushi, and strange sea creatures you've never heard of, this food mecca will leave your taste buds dancing in delight. Not recommended for picky eaters or those on a tight budget!
  • Wrap up your day with a visit to Kanazawa Castle. Unleash your inner samurai as you explore the imposing castle grounds, climb up turrets for scenic views, and channel your warrior spirit. Who knows, you might even find a hidden treasure... or a Pokémon!
  • Note: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, unleash your curiosity, and carry a fully charged camera to capture the magic of Kanazawa!

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

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.

Romantic One-Day Trip to Kanazawa

Kanazawa is an exquisite destination in Japan for a romantic trip. This city is famous for its stunning gardens, traditional neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks. With a range of romantic activities such as strolling hand in hand through the Kenroku-en Garden, exploring the charming streets of the Higashi Chaya geisha district, or admiring the views from Kanazawa Castle, you and your partner are sure to have an unforgettable experience.

5 Days to Bliss: Kanazawa, Japan Travel Guide

Kanazawa, Japan offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture with its well-preserved gardens, historic districts, and traditional crafts. Visitors can explore the majestic Kenrokuen Garden, a stunning example of a Japanese landscape garden, marvel at the ornate Kanazawa Castle, or visit the old samurai district of Nagamachi for a taste of feudal Japan. Additionally, visitors can indulge in the local cuisine, such as seafood and local sake, that Kanazawa is known for.

Romantic Getaway: 3-Day Escape to Kanazawa

Kanazawa offers a unique blend of traditional Japan and modernity, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. The city is home to beautifully landscaped gardens, historic temples, and the famous Kenrokuen Garden. Couples can also indulge in local delicacies such as sushi, seafood, and traditional Japanese sweets while exploring the charming streets of Kanazawa.