yuka Why Visit Kanazawa in 2025
Kanazawa was once the second-richest domain in Japan during the Edo period. Since then, traditional crafts and performing arts have flourished and been carefully passed down to the present generation.
Because the city didn’t experience large-scale destruction during wars, many narrow streets and old buildings still remain. Walking through Kanazawa gives you a real sense of history and atmosphere.
At the same time, Kanazawa embraces modern art and contemporary design. It is a city where tradition and innovation blend together in a sophisticated way.
How to Get to Kanazawa
- From Tokyo: Easy! Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen, and you’ll arrive in Kanazawa in about 2.5 hours.
- From Osaka or Kyoto: Take the Limited Express Thunderbird to Tsuruga, then transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The entire trip takes around 2 hours.
- From Komatsu Airport: A 40-minute bus ride connects the airport to Kanazawa Station.
Top Things to Do in Kanazawa
Kenrokuen Garden
You cannot miss Kenrokuen Garden. This garden is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, and perhaps the most famous. In 2024, more than 2 million visitors came here.
The garden embodies six elements of beauty—spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water features, and scenic views. These six elements are difficult to achieve in the same garden. That’s why it is named Ken(mix) Roku(six) En(garden). It’s a must-see year-round, especially in spring and winter.
Kanazawa Castle
Located right next to Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle was originally built in the late 16th century by the Maeda clan. Over the centuries, several major fires destroyed key structures, including the main tower. It was never rebuilt; instead, the focus shifted to restoring other parts of the castle.
After the Meiji Restoration, the castle grounds were used by the Imperial Japanese Army, and later became part of Kanazawa University. Today, it is a beautifully maintained castle park open to everyone. And I am so happy that I can visit there anytime.
Higashi Chaya District
Higashi Chaya District was created during the Edo period as an entertainment quarter for wealthy merchants and samurai. It was deliberately built across the Asano River to keep such amusements away from the castle town.
The historic teahouses, with their lattice windows and wooden facades, have been preserved for centuries. Even today, geisha perform traditional dances and music here, just as they did in the samurai era.
Nagamachi Samurai District
Nagamachi was once home to middle- and high-ranking samurai and their families. The district retains its earthen walls, narrow lanes, and water canals. Interestingly, the streets look straight but are designed with subtle curves—a defense strategy to confuse enemies and protect the castle.
If you want to step inside an actual samurai residence, visit the Nomura Samurai House in the Nagamachi district. The beautifully restored house features elegant tatami rooms, a small but exquisite Japanese garden, and displays of samurai armor and artifacts. It gives you a real sense of how high-ranking samurai lived centuries ago.
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
One of Japan’s most famous modern art museums, the 21st Century Museum stands out for its unique architecture. The building is a perfect glass circle, allowing visitors to enter from any side.
The design was intended to make the museum feel open and welcoming, more like a public park than a traditional museum. Both the exhibitions and the architecture are worth experiencing.
Don’t forget to experience “Swimming Pool”!
Omicho Market
Feeling hungry? Head to Omicho Market, Kanazawa’s main food market for over 300 years.
You can fine fresh seafood, vegetables, and daily ingredients. For visitors, it’s a great place to taste Kanazawa’s culinary culture—don’t miss the famous kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) and seasonal specialties.
Come and join
Kanazawa is a city where the old and the new harmoniously coexist. Whether you’re strolling through historic districts, exploring many museums, or enjoying great local food, Kanazawa offers a truly memorable experience.
So, are you ready to discover Kanazawa in 2025?
If you’re visiting Kanazawa and curious about local life, I’d be happy to show you around on one of my tours.