yuka I’ve always loved reading. My dad was a huge book lover, and our home was filled with books. As a child, I often picked something from his shelves and discovered a new novel or author. For me, it felt just like having a library at home.
In Kanazawa, there are three city libraries, Tamagawa, Izumino, and Umi-mirai. They’re absolutely wonderful, and I’ve visited them many times. But unfortunately, they’re all a little far from my house.
The Most Visited Library in Japan
In 2022, the Ishikawa Prefectural Library was relocated close to my neighborhood. To be honest, I didn’t expect much, because the old one wasn’t very appealing. But I was wrong. I was completely stunned when I visited the new library for the first time.
It was far beyond my expectations.
1.2 million people visited Ishikawa Prefectural Library in 2025, the highest number among all libraries in Japan. In fact, it was the only library in the country that welcomed more than one million visitors.
This may sound surprising for a library, but once you visit, it quickly makes sense.
More Than Just a Library
There are several reasons why this library attracts so many people. The building itself is stunning, with beautifully designed circular bookshelves. In the Great Hall, sloped walkways connect the bookshelves, creating an open and unique atmosphere. You may feel almost like a cultural attraction rather than just a place to borrow books. It’s a comfortable place to spend time with many cozy spots where people can read, work, or simply relax.
The library has about 500 seats in all kinds of styles, which is really fascinating. Your find your favorite ones.
The children’s area offers books, board games, play spaces, and even little adventures.
And yes, there’s a cozy café.
You can bring drinks into the reading area, and chatting with friends is also okay, which is quite rare for a library!
The library also hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year. Once, I even came across an orchestra concert inside the library. It was amazing. From time to time, the library also collaborates with anime and manga, which makes the space feel even more lively and welcoming.
I visit every few weeks to borrow books. The library lets you borrow up to 10 books at a time for three weeks, and you can even extend it for another three weeks. Needless to say, staying in the Library and borrowing books are free. I see many students studying here. Eldery people spend their time in relaxed way. Not many foreign tourists visit this place. But if you are a book lover and interested in local life, you should never miss this place.
These are the books I am borrowing today. Yes, I am into Roman Empire History right now. Isn’t it interesting that Japanese people read books from top to bottom and right to left?
As long as this library is here, I’ll never get bored in Kanazawa.
If you’re visiting Kanazawa and curious about local life, I’d be so happy to show you around on one of my tours. Of course, there are many English books as well. Want to stay long hours? No problem!
Visitor Information
| Location | 2-43-1 Kodatsuno, Kanazawa, Ishikawa |
| Hours | 9:00–19:00 (Tue–Fri) 9:00–18:00 (Sat-Sun) |
| Closed | Mon |
| Admission | Free |
| Website | Ishikawa Prefectural Library |
| Good For | Book lovers / Architecture lovers |
Want to see Kanazawa with me?
I offer private walking tours where you can experience Kanazawa from a local perspective.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
