I'm here, bringing you the most comprehensive guide I can create. In an ancient city, the only thing you can do is learn and experience the most authentic cultural treasures. So, let's go together on this adventure.

This former castle town, once ruled by the powerful Maeda clan for nearly 300 years, preserves Japan's feudal heritage like no other city. Kanazawa offers travelers an intimate glimpse into traditional Japan, where samurai districts remain frozen in time and centuries-old crafts continue to thrive.

What to do in Kanazawa?

The city escaped the devastation of WWII, making it Japan's best-preserved Edo-period city. The Maeda clan transformed Kanazawa into a cultural powerhouse with artisans, merchants, and scholars. Nowadays, people walk the same stone-paved streets that the samurai walked and, at the same time, explore the districts where geisha practice ancient arts.

NOTE: Kaga Cuisine developed from the sophisticated food culture of the Maeda court. Its specialty is seafood thanks to its geographical location. You can book traditional cooking classes online or simply indulge your taste buds at a local restaurant.

What to do in Kanazawa? First-visit Destinations

Kenroku-en Garden

Kenroku-en was created by the Maeda lords over 200 years ago. The garden's name means "six attributes garden," representing:

• Spaciousness.

• Seclusion.

• Artifice.

• Antiquity.

• Water-courses.

• Broad views.

Construction began in 1676 with Renchitei, a landscaped garden that evolved over the centuries. By 1822, the garden adopted its current name, and in 1874, it opened to the general public.

Admission tickets are purchased at the garden's ticket office. The prices for adults and children are 320 yen and 100 yen, respectively. Its doors open from 8:00 a.m. until 5 or 6 p.m.

Higashi Chaya District

This district is known for being the home of geisha. It dates back to 1820, when the Maeda clan designated specific areas for teahouse entertainment. Since then, Higashi Chaya has been kept in such pristine condition that it seems frozen in time.

The ochaya (tea houses) are easy to recognize. They are made of wood and have distinctive latticed facades, which have remained virtually unchanged.

Shima Tea House (admission 500 yen) offers a traditional perspective on geisha culture. Hakuza showcases the craft of gold leaf. You can also find gold-leaf ice cream cones.

Fact: Kanazawa produces 99% of Japan's gold leaf.

Nagamachi Samurai District

The Nomura Family Samurai House, a wealthy family serving the Maedo clan, lived there from the 16th century until the end of the Edo period in the mid-19th century. At that time, most samurai houses were destroyed, but this one wasn't. The Nomura Family Samurai House sold much of its land. In the 20th century, businessman Kubo Hikobei bought the property and restored it. It now belongs to the city and has been restored to give visitors a glimpse into life during that era.

SPANISH SECTION:

Visita a la casa de Heidi en Suiza (guía definitiva)

Este rincón en los Alpes suizos nos transporta directo a un mundo donde no hay prisas porque el tiempo es más sencillo. Aquí parece que los 145 años que han pasado, desde la creación del cuento hasta hoy, no han surtido efecto. El viento, el césped alpino y el color del cielo son tal cual como los has imaginado todos estos años; quizá, mucho mejores.

Immerse yourself in traditional culture

Take the time to explore more of the city.

Omicho Market

Operating for 300 years, this market was where samurai and merchants alike purchased fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan. You can't miss kaisendon (seafood bowl) for ¥1,500-3,000.

The market reflects Kanazawa's position as a major port connecting inland Japan with maritime trade routes.

D.T. Suzuki Museum

Dedicated to the Kanazawa-born philosopher who introduced Zen Buddhism to the West, this minimalist museum designed by Yoshio Taniguchi offers contemplative spaces perfect for slow travel.