Solo Cultural Exploration in Kanazawa

A Day of Balance: Temples, Shrines, and Shopping Sprees

Today was all about finding balance – a little bit of the spiritual, a little bit of the historical, and a healthy dose of retail therapy. Kanazawa continues to surprise me with its blend of tradition and modernity. It's a city that caters to both the soul-searcher and the shopaholic, and today, I embraced both sides of that coin.

My day began, as most days here do, with a caffeine fix at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. It's becoming my go-to spot for a morning pick-me-up, and today I opted for their breakfast sandwich plate. The Seattle-style café offers vegetarian and vegan options, which is always a plus. It’s run by a lovely couple, Sol and Yuko, and the atmosphere is just so welcoming. It’s the perfect place to plan out the day ahead.

With a spring in my step, I headed to Tentokuin Temple, a Soto Zen Buddhist temple built in honor of Tamahime. Tamahime was quite the historical figure; the daughter of the shogun Tokugawa Hidetada, and her marriage to Maeda Toshitsune was arranged to keep peace between the Tokugawa and Maeda families. Talk about pressure! But apparently, they were a very happy couple, which is rather heartwarming.

The temple itself is beautiful, and I was particularly impressed by the Sanmon gate, which dates back to 1693 and survived a fire in 1768. Inside, they have karakuri dolls that tell the story of Princess Tamahime. I caught the 10 a.m. performance, and it was a unique way to learn about the temple’s history. It’s amazing how these mechanized puppets bring the past to life.

Visiting Tentokuin is like stepping back in time, a serene escape into the heart of Japanese history and artistry.

Discover the tranquil beauty of Tentokuin, a serene Buddhist temple in Kanazawa, where spirituality meets stunning nature in a peaceful retreat.

Next on my list was Ishiura Shrine, supposedly the oldest shrine in Kanazawa. It's known as a place for those seeking soulmates, which explains why it’s so popular with women. Even if you're not looking for love, it's worth a visit. The shrine has a cute mascot called Kima-chan and the charms and emas (good luck placards) are adorable. The polka-dot pattern on the charm is said to mean “all is well,” which is a lovely sentiment. I took the Kanazawa Loop Bus to get there, hopping off at the Hirosaka/21st Century Museum stop.

The vibrant greenery made the red torii gates stand out, creating an ethereal atmosphere. It's a small shrine, but it has a unique charm. I picked up a goshuin stamp as a memento of my visit; the priestesses were very kind. Apparently, there’s also a special prayer for athletic success, so I might have to come back and light a candle for Arsenal!


Discover the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Ishiura Shrine in Kanazawa, a must-visit destination for every traveler exploring Japan.

After all that spiritual contemplation, it was time for lunch. I headed to Nyumba, a restaurant I’d heard good things about. It was a delightful experience, and I savored every bite, recharging for the afternoon's adventures.


Experience modern izakaya dining at Nyumba in Kanazawa—where tradition meets contemporary flavors for an unforgettable culinary journey.

My final stop for the day was Kanazawa Forus, a shopping mall right outside the east exit of Kanazawa Station. After a day of temples and shrines, I felt I deserved a bit of retail therapy. This seven-story building has everything from fashion to books to music. I spent a good few hours browsing the shops, picking up a few souvenirs and maybe a little something for myself.

I was particularly impressed with the dining section on the 6th floor, called “Kuugo”. It has 20 different restaurants and cafes, so you’re spoiled for choice. I resisted the urge to indulge in American-style burgers or Hawaiian pancakes, opting to save my appetite for dinner.


Explore Kanazawa Forus – your ultimate shopping destination with diverse shops, delightful dining, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Kanazawa.

Speaking of dinner, tonight I went to Itaru, an izakaya known for its fresh fish and local sake. It’s a popular spot, and I had to leave my name in the afternoon and come back later to secure a table. It was worth the wait. I tried the nodoguro meshi, which is blackthroat fish served over rice with black throat broth. It was delicious, and the smoky flavor was incredible. The atmosphere was cozy and casual, and I enjoyed watching the chefs at work. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Itaru Izakaya in Kanazawa – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

As I walked back to the Henn na Hotel Kanazawa Korinbo, I reflected on the day. Kanazawa has this amazing ability to balance the old and the new, the spiritual and the material. It’s a city that feeds both the soul and the senses. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow's adventure: a trip to Yamanaka Onsen and Utatsuyama Park Hanashoubuen. I'm hoping to soak away any lingering tension from today's shopping spree at the onsen. Plus, I've heard FREE SPACE is a great spot for a nightcap, so I might just have to check that out too. Until then, Kanazawa, you’ve been a treat!


Discover the charm of Kanazawa with a comfortable stay at Henn na Hotel Kanazawa Korinbo, featuring modern amenities and a prime location.

It's funny how travel can sometimes feel like a mirror reflecting different aspects of ourselves. Some days, like today, I find myself drawn to the quiet contemplation of ancient temples, while on others, the allure of a bustling shopping mall is simply irresistible. Perhaps it's about finding that perfect equilibrium, just like Kanazawa itself seems to have mastered.

Back in Halifax, Emily will be keen to hear about the karakuri dolls, I'm sure, and Oliver will be all ears about the shopping mall, no doubt wondering if I brought him back any treats. These little mental snapshots, the anticipation of sharing my experiences with them, make these solo trips all the more meaningful. And who knows, maybe one day I'll bring them both here, to experience the magic of Kanazawa firsthand. But for now, it's time to rest up and prepare for another day of exploration. Oyasumi nasai, Kanazawa!