In 2024, Ishikawa Prefecture faced a devastating earthquake, leaving an indelible mark on the region and its people. The tremors not only shook the land but also the hearts of many, disrupting lives and landscapes across the prefecture.
Amidst this turmoil, the resilient spirit of the community shone brightly. Residents and authorities alike banded together to rebuild and restore what was lost.
Despite this adversity, Kanazawa, a jewel of Ishikawa Prefecture, stands more vibrant and welcoming than ever.
The city, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, has remarkably rebounded from the disaster. Today, both the prefecture and the city of Kanazawa extend a warm invitation to visitors from around the world. They want you to witness firsthand the strength and beauty of their recovery. To explore the enchanting streets of Kanazawa. And, of course, to support the local communities. Your visit not only promises memorable experiences but also contributes to the region’s ongoing resurgence.
Text by Jake Adelstein and Francesca Annio
A remarkable rebound
Last year before the disaster, Kanazawa and JTB invited me to the city. I’d been there before but it remains one of my favorite places.
Kanazawa is located in the heart of Japan. Here, where past and present merge to create a tapestry of cultural heritage, lies Kanazawa City. This hidden gem on the coast of the Sea of Japan is often overshadowed by the luminance of Tokyo and the ancient allure of Kyoto. Yet it offers an array of remarkable sites that beckon the discerning traveler. Here, in Kanazawa, one can traverse the corridors of history, marvel at the artistry of traditional crafts, and wander through landscapes that have been meticulously curated over centuries.
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Frequently hailed as Kyoto’s smaller but equally enchanting sibling, Kanazawa stands out with its accessible charm, featuring well-preserved samurai and geisha districts easily explored on foot. This city, once a thriving castle town shaped under the Maeda clan during the Warring States period, retains its beauty unscathed by recent destruction. Miraculously spared from the air raids of World War II, Kanazawa’s Edo-era streetscapes, castles, and gardens provide a fascinating portal to a splendid bygone era.
A center of Japan’s cultural heritage
Kanazawa has etched its mark on Japan’s heritage, not merely for its historical importance, but also its intricate cultural fabric woven across centuries. Unhindered by wars, Kanazawa flourished in the realm of arts and culture, with the influential Maeda clan championing traditional crafts.
In this vibrant setting, Kanazawa emerged as the nucleus of Kaga Yuzen (an intricate fabric-dyeing technique), Kutani ware porcelain, Kanazawa lacquerware, and the graceful art of gold leaf. Equally noteworthy, feudal lords generously invested in performing arts, nurturing traditional Noh, classical music, and popular dances, ensuring accessibility for both samurai and townspeople alike.
Strategically positioned along the coastal side of Honshu, spanning 23.3 kilometers from the Toyama Prefecture border to the Sea of Japan, Kanazawa revels in its advantageous natural location. The city is flanked by mountains to the south and the sea to the north.
This geographical arrangement bestows upon Kanazawa an impressive diversity of landscapes, catering to both mountain enthusiasts and sea lovers. Acknowledged for its frequent rainfall, the city is playfully captured in the saying, “Don’t forget your umbrella even if you forget your lunch box.” Surprisingly, this abundance of rain and the ensuing humidity harmonize seamlessly with some of its key industries. Most notable is gold leaf production, of which Kanazawa boasts an impressive national share of 98%.
Must-eat food
Kanazawa’s culinary scene beautifully mirrors the comforting embrace of its coastal and mountainous landscapes. The nearby Sea of Japan provides a wealth of exquisite seafood. The exquisite flavors of snow crabs, sweet shrimp, and yellowtail, paired with the freshness of locally cultivated vegetables, create a sensory feast.
Notably, Kaga vegetables, a distinctive Kanazawa specialty, feature 15 varieties of fresh flavors that complement the richness of seafood. Adding a layer to its already diverse culinary scene is the influence of tea culture from the domain rule. This led to a specialization in Japanese sweets that positions Kanazawa among the top three cities for confectioneries, alongside Kyoto and Matsue.
The top five destinations in Kanazawa
If this broad glimpse into Kanazawa’s abundant offerings in food, culture, and history hasn’t piqued your interest, perhaps the five landmarks highlighted below will. Ranging from serene gardens to majestic castles, from bustling public districts to tranquil temples and museums, Kanazawa truly has it all. It stands as the ideal destination for those yearning for a taste of old Japanese atmospheres entwined within the lively and vibrant alleys of a modern city.
1. Kenrokuen Garden
A jewel among Japanese gardens, visitors celebrate Kenrokuen as one of the country’s three most beautiful. This sprawling haven of tranquility and natural beauty epitomizes the concept of a perfect landscape garden from the Edo period.
With its meticulously maintained trees, ponds, waterfalls, and bridges, alongside the iconic Kotojitoro Lantern and the ethereal beauty of the Karasaki Pine, Kenrokuen offers a serene escape into nature’s artistry. Each season cloaks the garden in a distinct palette. That makes every visit a unique experience.
Kenrokuen, alongside Kairakuen in Ibaraki and Korakuen in Okayama, stands tall as one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens.” These magnificent gardens boast over a century of history dating back to the Edo period. Crafted as delightful stroll-type havens featuring ponds and springs, they mirror the elegance and grandeur of feudal lords. They also provide a canvas for nature’s beauty to shine.
Kenrokuen in Kanazawa is the epitome of Japanese garden refinement. Its centrally positioned ponds, man-made hills, and artful stone arrangements secure its prestigious status as a place of scenic beauty.
Nestled alongside the outer moat of the neighboring castle, Kenrokuen stands as a testament to the shisenso philosophy, rooted in ancient Chinese beliefs about the pursuit of immortality through rigorous training. Crafted over 180 years ago, this picturesque garden sprawls across 11,000 square meters. They seamlessly blend the beauty of over 8,000 trees with carefully curated artificial elements.
The garden’s name, “the garden of the six attributes,” was thoughtfully chosen by Matsudaira Sadanobu, a former elder in the Tokugawa Shogunate. It perfectly encapsulates its defining features: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, abundant water, and panoramic views.
A deep history
In the fourth year of the Enpō era (1676), Maeda Tsunanori, the 5th lord of the Kaga domain, initiated the history of Kenrokuen by commissioning the construction of a villa facing Kanazawa Castle. Originally named “Renchi-tei,” it was envisioned as a natural retreat. The location featured a teahouse for entertaining guests amid the mesmerizing autumn maple foliage.
The garden faced challenges, such as the destructive Hoei fire of 1759. It endured several such cycles of destruction, reconstruction, renovation, and expansion. While initially exclusively enjoyed by the lord, the privilege of experiencing this splendid garden was extended to the public in 1874.
What it’s like exploring Kenrokuen
As you step into the garden, you’ll find yourself transported to a realm where the sheer beauty of nature harmonizes with human architectural brilliance. Your journey will unfold through enchanting highlights, notably the Kotoji lantern, a true emblem of the entire garden.
Situated on the north bank of the Kasumigaike pond, its embrace with ancient maple trees creates a fairy-tale ambiance. The trees themselves take center stage in this natural masterpiece. Standouts include the centennial Karasaki pine, meticulously cared for by feudal lords.
Another star contributing to the garden’s aesthetic is water. Water takes various forms here – from the pristine Hyo pond, Kenrokuen’s oldest, to the graceful 6.6-meter-high Midori waterfall. This adds a refreshing touch to this setting, mirroring the divine concept of eternal life.
In the heart of it all is the fascinating dance of nature, elegantly responding to the cadence of the seasons. Kenrokuen maintains its splendor year-round, offering a myriad of views that align with the natural wonders of each season.
In spring, you’ll be treated to picturesque scenes adorned with the soft pink tones of cherry blossoms, transitioning into a summery landscape of vibrant greens. If you happen to visit during winter, you might even be greeted by the magical atmosphere of a snow-covered expanse of trees, casting a serene white allure.
2. Higashi Chaya District
Walking through the Higashi Chaya District is akin to stepping onto the set of a historical drama. This well-preserved area was once a bustling entertainment district where geisha entertained affluent guests. It continues to enchant visitors with its traditional wooden teahouses and narrow, cobblestone lanes.
Today, shop owners have converted many of these teahouses into shops and cafes. Here, one can savor gold leaf-infused sweets or sip on matcha while immersing in the district’s timeless ambiance.
Just a bus ride from a natural and historical site lies one of Kanazawa’s representative cultural heritages—the Higashi Teahouse District. Dating back to the feudal era, this district flourished immensely under the Kaga domain. Along with its complementary Nishi and Kazuemachi districts, these areas embody the cultural essence of the entire city, immersing all visitors in a charming atmosphere that transcends time.
Thriving with tourists during the day, the atmosphere becomes more serene at night. Lanterns illuminate the area. The elegant notes of shamisen beckon visitors to take a nostalgic step back in time. As night descends, you can almost sense the shadows of people who once crowded these streets centuries ago. The atmosphere sweeps your imagination through the scenes of a splendid past.
Higashi Chaya’s teahouses
Traveling back in time, teahouse districts in Kanazawa unveil a lively chapter where entertainment triumphed over memories of war. Renovated to charming cafes now offering tea and coffee delights, these districts were once the heart of the city’s amusement.
Yet, the door to this world wasn’t open to all. Teahouses flourished as exclusive hubs for adult socializing and geisha performances. They extended their welcome only to wealthy merchants and townspeople. Samurai remained outside, left to imagine the lively spectacle within.
More than 90 teahouses bloomed, scattered around the Asano and Sai rivers, welcoming nightly crowds with a shared passion for entertainment. As time passed, the “deferred payment” system gave rise to a novel concept. Teahouses became intimate havens built on trust relationships between the establishment and its select patrons. That reshaped the social dynamics inherent in the system.
Truth be told, engaging in teahouses came with prerequisites. For a taste of the entertainment, patrons needed more than just a ticket. They had to be well-versed in the arts. Just like the geisha who graced the scene, patrons had to bring something to the table. They had to invest time to hone their artistic skills to match the refined ambiance of these establishments.
It was a cultured world where geisha and patrons exchanged talents. Entering this realm of leisure was a privilege reserved for the chosen few.
A visit to Shima is a must
The epitome of Kanazawa’s historical significance, this district has stood virtually untouched over time. It still showcases distinctive black-tiled roofs and perfectly aligned lattice windows adorning elegant houses. Paired with stove-paved streets, it forms a harmonious blend of elegance and order.
This meticulous precision extends to the layout of the buildings, strategically positioned at a close distance to create small gaps. This architectural style, known as “kimusuko,” is unique to the Higashi district. This trick grants visibility from within while keeping the outside world at bay.
Beyond its stunning beauty, this design served a dual purpose. Old Kanazawa residents could revel in entertainment within a sophisticated setting while safeguarding their privacy from prying eyes.
To fully immerse yourself in the splendor of that era, a visit to Shima is a must. This teahouse stands as a timeless gem, maintaining its elegant features since its construction in 1820. Recognized as an important cultural property, it graciously opens its doors, inviting the public to firsthand experience the grandeur of another time. The delicate tatami garden and rooms adorned with shibasen (a type of drum) and lanterns bring to life the spirit of Edo-style entertainment that continues to resonate within.
Other attractions in Higashi Chaya
As you wander through the district, you’ll come across other popular attractions like Hiromi Square, a vibrant space now filled with kimono shops and cafes nestled in traditional settings. Consider making a pit stop at Kaikaro, the largest teahouse in Kanazawa dating back nearly 200 years. If you’re intrigued to learn more about the story behind it all, don’t miss the chance to visit the Ochaya Museum – a former teahouse transformed into an exhibition of Kanazawa’s traditional crafts from that era.
The Higashi Chaya District is a must-see spot. Its beauty defies the cracks of time, offering a splendid streetscape that holds its charm year-round, unmoved amid the bustling crowd and shifting seasons.
3. Nagamachi Samurai District
The Nagamachi district offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the samurai class during the Edo period. Tucked away behind earthen walls and hidden gates, the city has preserved the area’s traditional samurai residences, known as bukeyashiki. Some of these historic homes are open to the public, offering insight into the austere yet refined lifestyle of Japan’s famed warriors. The Nomura-ke Residence, in particular, is renowned for its beautiful garden and elegant interior.
Journeying to the lively city center, a path leads to the serene district of Nagamachi — a sudden shift to a different era. This district, a living testament to samurai and warriors of old, immerses visitors in scenes from a distant past. The stone-paved alleys resound with history, seamlessly blending into the fabric of modern urban life. Amid the new lives of current citizens and bustling shops, the shadows of the past linger, leaving you suspended between two worlds.
What’s in a name?
The origins of the name Nagamachi are thought to be linked to the grand residence of the Chosu clan, famed for its wealth and loyalty to Maeda. Alternatively, some suggest it’s a nod to its location along a lengthy path stretching from Kazuemachi to the Toshobashi bridge.
In the prosperous days of the Edo period, Nagamachi bloomed with over 20 lodgings. It was a welcoming haven for the spirited samurai (heike) who animated the area. Nurtured under the influence of the Maeda clan, these residences warmly accommodated direct retainers of the ruling family.
Not every dwelling shared the same opulence. The size, gate style, and ornaments adhered to a meticulous system that favored those with higher social status and salaries. Even back then, wealth distribution followed a careful script!
Off-limits residences
The sophisticated charm of this area subtly reveals the exclusivity of its residents. Earthen walls and long-row gates grace the alleys, radiating a refined aura of elegance. Particularly striking is the earthy color of the walls, achieved through the direct pressing and fixing of stones with a trowel, foregoing the use of white plaster. This distinctive choice creates a stunning contrast with the colors of Kanazawa Castle’s town, enriching its unique fusion with the broader urban design.
Adding to the contrast is the crystalline water coursing through the district in the Ohno Sho Aqueduct. Sourced from the larger Sai River, this waterway once weaved its way throughout the entire area. It delivered refreshing water from residence to residence to meet the needs of the samurai. Its role extended beyond mere living requirements. It also served as the meandering streams of gardens and to transport timber during the construction of the castle.
Except for a select few, the insides of residences are off-limits to the public. That adds an extra layer of intrigue and mystery to the whole experience. Despite this restriction, the external areas provide a peek into the outdoor activities of samurai, retaining indelible traces of a past that spark the imagination.
Certain streets carry a more tangible historical touch, with subtly marked crank-shaped roads and warrior windows. It’s a nostalgic trip, catapulting you back to a time when homes were fortresses, carefully equipped to thwart external threats.
The houses you CAN enter
Wandering through the narrow streets, you’ll stumble upon distinctive features whispering tales of past daily life.
Take, for instance, the “goppo-ishi” – large stones strategically placed in front of residences to shake off snow caught between the teeth of wooden geta, ensuring smooth daily strolls. Then there are the “yukizuri” ropes and “komo-kake” (straw mats along the walls), diligently shielding houses from heavy snowstorms. This winter tradition lives on in the habits of Kanazawa citizens, infusing a dash of practicality into an otherwise elegance-focused environment.
As noted earlier, not all houses open their doors to the public, but some do, offering visitors an authentic peek into the domestic lives of samurai. One such gem is the Nomura family samurai house, named after the wealthy retainers it once hosted. Here, you can visualize how residences were intricately designed according to social status. Inside, an elegant setting complemented by a flawlessly crafted Japanese garden that has earned a prestigious two-star rating from Michelin. It’s a magnetic draw for tourists, beckoning them from both near and far.
While accessing other families’ houses might not be allowed, bear in mind that the neighborhood diligently preserves most of them. Noteworthy examples include the Oya family residence, recognized as a national tangible cultural property. Another striking attraction is the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum, where vivid reproductions of soldiers’ residences provide a glimpse into the duties and leisure of these legendary figures.
And if the historical aura enveloping the district satiates your spiritual cravings, don’t forget to appease your stomach with a quick visit to the notorious Suifu Sha. Established in 1876, this store specializes in traditionally roasted Japanese tea. Paired with delectable local sweets, it allows you to step into the shoes of an ancient samurai indulging in a well-deserved tea break.
4. 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
A striking contrast to the historical sites, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa is a testament to the city’s vibrant cultural evolution. This circular, glass-walled building is a space of innovation and interaction.
Here, contemporary art from Japan and around the world challenges and delights visitors. The museum’s dynamic collection includes interactive installations, such as Leandro Erlich’s “Swimming Pool,” inviting guests to become part of the art itself.
The “21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa” is nestled in the heart of Kanazawa’s residential area. it’s an authentic jewel for all visitors, appealing to both art enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Situated within walking distance from key attractions such as the castle and Kenrokuen Garden, the the acclaimed duo of Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa brought it to life in 2004. The two are celebrated for their outstanding contributions to architecture and have been honored with the prestigious Pritzker Prize, often likened to the Nobel Prize in the field.
The visionary minds behind the design didn’t just build a museum. They crafted a masterpiece with a bold mission — to forge a brand-new culture and town in sync with the evolving trends of the 21st century. Soaring well beyond the ordinary, their vision aimed to craft a museum seamlessly intertwined with the vibrant spirit of the city, offering an immersive journey through Kanazawa’s novel facet. This fresh perspective dances in harmony with a rich traditional heritage, echoing the dreams of aspirations of generations to come.
The atmosphere of the 21st Century
Conceived as a museum-like park, welcoming visitors at any time, it beckons casual strollers due to its strategic central location. The architectural concept comes to life through three key features: multi-directionality, horizontality, and transparency.
Fondly referred to as “marubi” (round building) by locals, its disc-shaped form embodies the artistic essence of its designers. The circular structure allows access from virtually any point within the area. It shatters traditional notions of entering spaces from a designated “front,” and perfectly blending with the surrounding neighborhood.
Elevating its role as an integral component of the cityscape, the structure boasts a horizontal arrangement, with facilities laid out akin to the organic spread of a town. Every element within its confines, from exhibition spaces to eateries and libraries, is thoughtfully organized. The architecture mirrors urban layouts in an entirely new artistic realm.
What sets it apart is the building’s ability to dissolve virtual boundaries, skilfully merging the exterior and interior through transparency. Extensive use of glass, replacing traditional walls, fosters a refreshing openness. They bathe the spaces in natural light, creating a vibrant and luminous atmosphere.
This atmosphere exudes a liberating feel. It urges visitors to break free from the daily confines that bind them to their individuality and instead, embrace a newfound symbiosis with others, nature, and art. The transparent design encourages encounters in a melodious exchange where each person can sense the presence and existence of others.
Swimming Pool
The collection showcases works created after 1980, including pieces by both local and international artists, bringing a fresh creative perspective to the city. A standout highlight is Leandro Erlich’s “Swimming Pool” (2004), offering visitors a magical experience with water.
Upon entering the private exhibition, you find yourself submerged underwater inside the pool. Looking down from above, you gain an outside perspective on the artwork. This interactive display encourages spontaneous interactions, with people above waving and observing visitors below, creating a truly unique urban encounter.
The museum places a premium on human connections, exemplified by Florian Kräl’s “Crankfeldt Number 3 for the Arena” (2004). This lawn installation features 12 tubular structures spaced apart. Paired without a fixed pattern, these tubes facilitate communication between visitors even at opposite ends of the lawn. It’s a delightful social experiment that lets you hear strangers’ voices and spark curiosity about their identities and stories.
Blending with the environment
The museum’s harmonious blend with the environment is evident in Patrick Blanc’s “Green Bridge” (2004), a towering wall adorned with plants that creates a relaxed connection with nature. Hosting nearly 100 types of plants, mostly sourced locally and well-suited to Kanazawa’s distinct climate, the artwork adapts to the seasonal rhythm. Visitors can witness camellias blooming in winter and azaleas blossoming in spring, offering a truly natural and ever-evolving spectacle.
A homage to Kanazawa’s cultural and historical richness, the building echoes the past through its historical tea rooms. Among them, “Shotoan” stands as a living relic from the late Edo period, erected under the Kaga domain amidst the thriving tea room tradition. Its tranquil ambiance seamlessly complements the loveliness of the surrounding park and the museum’s unconventional design.
A visit to the 21st Century Contemporary Art Museum is a must, offering an immersive dive into the authentic soul of the modern and youthful Kanazawa – cherishing its precious past while eagerly embracing the exciting future that lies ahead.
5. Myoryuji Temple
Kanazawa, with its rich heritage and forward-looking vision, offers a journey through time where the past is preserved not just in stone and gardens, but in the living culture of its people. It’s a city where every corner tells a story, every street echoes with history, and every visit leaves an indelible mark on the heart of the traveler.
Once a serene sanctuary for prayers and spiritual pursuits, Myoryuji evolved into a fascinating maze of intrigue. A must-visit for Kanazawa adventurers, this temple is steeped in a timeless enigma. Resembling a classic house with brown wood walls and tiled roofs, locals playfully label it the temple where once you step in, there’s no turning back.
No ninjas in the Ninja Temple
Interestingly, Myoruji goes by the moniker “Ninja Temple,” but don’t be misled into linking it with actual ninjas. Not a single ninja ever set foot inside.
But rest assured, if they had, they would have marveled at the elaborate array of devices scattered throughout the entire temple. Bursting with traps and not-so-amusing tricks, Myoryuji remains a genuine puzzle waiting to be unraveled. Today, it provides insights into the clever planning of an ancient defense system.
With its roots firmly planted in history, the story of this temple started in 1643 when Maeda Toshie shaped it into a prayer hall within Kanazawa Castle. After a brief yet fervent era serving as an intimate retreat for devoted lords, the third-generation Maeda Toshitsune envisioned a new purpose for the temple. It wove into a grand strategy, becoming a cornerstone of the “teramachi” – a city of temples strategically lining the virtual defense traced by the Sai and Asano Rivers. This era saw teramachi bloom, boasting nearly 70 temples that stand tall today, narrating intriguing scenes of the rich history of Kaga.
The Kaga Domain, with its vast expanse and powerful feudal lords, found itself at the heart of intense conflicts with the central Tokugawa shogunate. Kept under vigilant watch by the government to curb its expanding influence, Kaga became the focal point of an elaborate conquest plan by the Tokugawa. This led to the creation of the intricate temple town, acting as a barrier to preempting potential invasions from shogunate forces in the Fukui region and thwarting direct attacks on the castle.
A perplexing maze
Four floors, seven tiers, twenty-three rooms, and twenty-nine stairs — a perplexing maze that challenges one’s perception right from its exterior. Defying the shogunate’s decree limiting buildings to three stories, the temple cleverly adheres to the regulations only when viewed from the outside. Despite its apparent two-story facade, exploration within reveals a sprawling labyrinth. Its intricate internal passages purportedly connect to the underground of Kanazawa Castle.
Deceptive devices abound, ranging from pitfalls to concealed stairs, each ingeniously crafted to catch adversaries off guard. Among the 29 stairs, trapdoors lie beneath removable floorboards and secret stairs lurk behind closet walls. Some even feature shoji screens, allowing the occupants to spy on the shadows of potential intruders. A cleverly designed structure that could make the most accomplished ninjas green with envy!
Architecture for outsmarting your opponents
Further misleading traps feature a tatami mat-sized donation box strategically positioned on the main hall’s floor. Instead of facilitating generous donations, this box cunningly ensnares unsuspecting visitors in a 3-meter-deep pitfall.
The glass-covered observation tower is accessible from a tea room sporting a modern sukiya-style design. Intended as an observation platform, occupants could transmit coded messages through lights, establishing a discreet communication link with Kanazawa Castle.
Wrapped in mystery and open to speculation, the central well within the temple hints at uncharted depths. It suggests purposes beyond merely supplying water for tea ceremonies. Local legends even entertain the possibility of a lateral hole carved through its walls. Rumor has it this was a covert gateway to Kanazawa Castle for evading perilous situations.
In essence, the temple provides fascinating glimpses into the thoughtful urban planning of its time, with architecture as a clever tool in the hands of city shapers. It transports visitors to an era where invasions were a daily concern, and success hinged on outsmarting formidable opponents.
This reveals yet another layer of a city with myriad facets. Echoes of Kanazawa’s distant past blend with the lively beat of the modern era. It’s a magical fusion that naturally enchants and mesmerizes all who venture into its mysteries.
Looking for a trip to remember?
The influx of tourists to Japan has been a blessing and a curse. In February, the Chinese New Year, Kyoto becomes a mosh pit. Kanazawa has also been “discovered” by tourists seeking some fragments of “authentic Japan”. But it’s nowhere near as crowded as Kyoto and much more hospitable.
Don’t just go for the sights – go for the experiences. You can learn how to apply gold-leaf to the utensils of daily life, take a Japanese cooking class, and even learn how to wield a real Japanese sword like the samurai of old.
And you can visit knowing that your dollars and yen spent there go to help the entire Prefecture rebuild. Such an amazing city linked to Japan’s ancient past should be in your travel plans in the future.
For more information on Kanazawa, visit the Kanazawa City Tourist Association’s official website. If you want a detailed itinerary complete with more “unseen” locations off of the beaten path, contact Unseen Japan Tours and ask us to help you create one!
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