Exploring Kanazawa: A Family Adventure in Japan

Kanazawa's Gentle Charms
Today was a day of gentle exploration and delightful discoveries in Kanazawa. Maximilian, Linnea, and I set out to soak in the city's serene atmosphere, sample its culinary treasures, and find unique souvenirs. It's amazing how each day here unfolds with its own distinct character, revealing another layer of Kanazawa's charm. I am so happy to be able to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that I know we will cherish for years to come.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Fuwari. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with Fuwari's delicious offerings. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. Maximilian chose the mochi pizza, a creative twist on a classic dish, and Linnea enjoyed a small bowl of udon noodles. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making it a perfect start to our day.


Discover authentic izakaya dining at Fuwari in Kanazawa – where tradition meets modern flavor.

After breakfast, we made our way to Oyama Shrine. As we approached, the unique Shinmon gate immediately caught our attention. This gate is a fascinating blend of Japanese, Chinese, and European architectural styles, a testament to Kanazawa's rich history and cultural influences. Linnea was particularly intrigued by the stained-glass windows on the third floor, which cast colorful patterns on the ground.

Explore the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of Oyama Shrine, a must-visit Shinto shrine in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.

We strolled through the shrine grounds, taking in the peaceful ambiance. The shrine is dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Kaga domain, and his wife Omatsu. A statue of Maeda Toshiie on horseback stands proudly, a reminder of his significant role in the region's history. The stroll garden was lovely, with ponds shaped like Japanese lutes and decorative bridges connecting small islands. It was a perfect place for a quiet reflection.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of a city, where history and nature intertwine.

Next on our itinerary was the iconic Kotoji Toro (Stone Lantern) in Kenrokuen Garden. Though the lantern is located within Kenrokuen Garden, we took a moment to admire it. This stone lantern is one of the most recognizable symbols of Kanazawa. Its unique design, with two legs resembling the bridges of a koto (Japanese harp), is truly captivating. We took the obligatory photos, joining the queue of other tourists eager to capture the lantern's beauty. Even though it was crowded, the serene atmosphere of the garden permeated through, making it a worthwhile stop.

Explore Kotoji Toro, the iconic stone lantern of Kanazawa, nestled in the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden, a must-visit for every traveler.

For lunch, we decided to try Dining Tsuzumi, enticed by its blend of Western and Japanese culinary traditions. The restaurant was conveniently located and offered a relaxed atmosphere. I opted for a classic Italian pasta dish, while Maximilian chose a French-inspired seafood gratin. Linnea was thrilled with her simple yet delicious margherita pizza. The fusion of flavors was delightful, and the presentation was impeccable.

Discover exquisite Western cuisine at Dining Tsuzumi in Kanazawa, where French and Italian flavors meet Japanese hospitality.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Ishikawa Local Products Center in search of souvenirs and local crafts. This center is a treasure trove of Ishikawa's traditional treasures and famous products. The first floor was filled with wagashi confectionery, lacquerware, and accessories, all made locally in Ishikawa. We sampled various sweets, finally settling on a selection of colorful and intricately designed wagashi to take back home. Maximilian was fascinated by the local sake selection and purchased a bottle of his favorite.

Explore Ishikawa Local Products Center for authentic souvenirs and local delicacies that embody Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage.

Linnea was particularly excited about the DIY workshops offered at the center. We decided to try our hand at painting daruma dolls, each of us carefully adding our own personal touch. Linnea's doll was a vibrant mix of colors, while Maximilian opted for a more traditional design. I chose a serene blue and white palette, reminiscent of Swedish porcelain. It was a fun and creative activity that allowed us to immerse ourselves in local culture.

As evening approached, we indulged in a special dinner at Kanazawa Temakizushi Coil. This restaurant offers a unique DIY sushi experience, where you select your fillings and roll your own hosomaki. The interior was bright and minimalist, with a modern Japanese sensibility. We chose a variety of fillings, including fresh seafood, local vegetables, and even some tempura. Rolling our own sushi was a fun and interactive experience, and the results were surprisingly delicious. The tempura was light and crisp, and the overall atmosphere was classy and enjoyable.

Discover the art of sushi making at Kanazawa Temakizushi Coil - where fresh ingredients meet creativity in every hand roll.

Tomorrow, we're planning a day trip to Shirakawa-go and the World Heritage Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village. I am excited to see the traditional gassho-style farmhouses and experience the unique culture of this region. I have heard so many wonderful things about Shirakawa-go, and I can't wait to explore it with my family. We plan to have breakfast at Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen before heading out, and I've already made reservations for lunch at Daimyo Chaya. In the evening, we'll try Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme for dinner, and perhaps stop by Sturgis for a drink.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kanazawa's gentle charms with my family. From the serene Oyama Shrine to the delectable flavors of Kanazawa Temakizushi Coil, each moment has been a precious memory in the making. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, knowing that each day in Japan holds new adventures and discoveries.