Solo Cultural Exploration in Kanazawa

Echoes of Edo in Kanazawa

Today, Kanazawa Castle whispered tales of samurai and shoguns, while golden treasures shimmered under my gaze. It was a day of historical immersion, a journey back in time that resonated with my own passion for the past. As a reenactor, I felt a kinship with the echoes of Edo that linger in this captivating city.

The day began, as any good day should, with coffee.  I ventured to Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café for breakfast. This wasn't just any café; it was a slice of Seattle nestled in Kanazawa, run by a delightful couple, Sol and Yuko. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a blend of American vintage and Japanese charm. I ordered their English muffin breakfast sandwich and a cinnamon latte, both were delicious and provided the perfect fuel for the day ahead. It's these little unexpected gems that make solo travel so rewarding.


Experience the charm of Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café in Kanazawa – where delicious brunch meets vintage vibes.

With caffeine coursing through my veins, I made my way towards Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck in Shirakawa-go, which wasn't actually in Kanazawa, but I was able to visit the place and have a look over the village. The deck offered breathtaking views of the village. Although there were no shuttles and it was a walk up, the view was totally worth it. From the top, the entire village was visible, with a great atmosphere and cool, comfortable air.


Experience unparalleled views of Shirakawa-go from Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck, a must-see destination for every traveler in Gifu Prefecture.

You'll be able to imagine what it was like to defend the castle from enemy attackers, and get a sense of how important the solid and meticulous design of the castle was for protection.

Next on the itinerary was Kanazawa Castle itself. This partially restored fortress was once the headquarters of the mighty Maeda Clan. The castle has suffered many devastating fires since it was built in 1580, but some buildings have been faithfully rebuilt. As I wandered through the grounds, I imagined what life must have been like for the samurai who once walked these same paths. The castle is adjacent to Kenrokuen Garden, which once formed the castle's private outer garden. Volunteer guides offer free walking tours of the castle daily from March to December, and on Saturdays in January and February. The grassy lawns inside the castle walls draw residents and visitors for relaxation and recreation.


Explore the exquisite beauty and historical significance of Kanazawa Castle, a majestic landmark in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.

I explored the Hishi Yagura turret, Gojikken Nagaya warehouse, and Hashizume-mon Tsuzuki Yagura turret, all restored in 2001 using traditional construction methods. The castle also consists of many stone walls built with many varying construction techniques throughout the ages. From 1949 to 1989, a portion of the castle site was turned over to Kanazawa University. The castle was designated a National Historic Site in 2008.

Lunch beckoned, and I headed to Teppanyaki Icho, located in Hotel Nikko Kanazawa. Situated on the 29th floor, the restaurant offered stunning views of Kanazawa. I savored the chef's special Wagyu beef, prepared with seasonal ingredients. The experience was more than just a meal; it was a performance, a culinary ballet that delighted all the senses.


Discover an unforgettable Teppanyaki dining experience at Icho in Kanazawa's Hotel Nikko—where flavors meet artistry against stunning city views.

In the afternoon, I indulged in a spot of shopping at Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store. Kanazawa is famous for its gold leaf, and Hakuichi offers a dazzling array of products, from crafts to cosmetics. I picked up a few small souvenirs, including some edible gold leaf. I couldn't resist the allure of adding a touch of golden extravagance to my life. It was fascinating to learn that Kanazawa produces 99% of Japan's gold leaf, a tradition stretching back 400 years.


Explore Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store for unique souvenirs, home goods, and a taste of Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage.

As evening approached, I ventured to Akadama Honten for dinner. This renowned restaurant, established in 1927, specializes in oden, a traditional Japanese stew. The minimalist dining room featured a long counter where the oden pot took center stage. I sampled a variety of oden options, each simmered in a flavorful soy sauce broth. The rich broth was delicious and just what I needed after a full day.


Experience authentic Japanese oden at Akadama Honten in Kanazawa—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Tomorrow, I’m venturing further afield to Shirakawa-go and the World Heritage Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village. I plan on grabbing breakfast at Gyokusen-tei before heading out. I might even treat myself to a drink at The Londonya Bar later in the evening.
As I reflect on today, I'm reminded of why I love these solo adventures. They allow me to fully immerse myself in the culture and history of a place, to discover hidden gems, and to connect with the spirit of a city in a way that's simply not possible when traveling with others. Kanazawa, with its blend of samurai history, culinary delights, and golden treasures, has certainly captured my heart.