Exploring Kanazawa: A Family Adventure in Japan

Whispers of the Past in Kanazawa's Hidden Quarter

Today, I found myself transported to another era as I wandered through the Nishi Chaya District in Kanazawa. It's amazing how a place can hold so much history within its narrow streets and traditional architecture. The whispers of geishas, the echoes of laughter, and the scent of incense seemed to linger in the air, creating an atmosphere that was both enchanting and serene. It was a day of exploration, delicious food, and a deeper connection to the cultural heart of Japan.


Experience the enchanting Nishi Chaya District in Kanazawa - a historical landmark showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and culture.

Our day began, as most do, with the quest for the perfect cup of coffee. We ventured out to Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café for breakfast. This wasn't just any café; it was a little slice of Seattle nestled in Kanazawa. The owner, who hailed from Seattle, has created a cozy spot that blends American and Japanese influences. I opted for a latte, while Maximilian enjoyed a strong espresso, and Linnea devoured a fluffy croissant. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.


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

With our caffeine fix sorted, we set off to explore the Nishi Chaya District. This area, one of Kanazawa's three well-preserved geisha districts, is a step back in time. Established in 1820, it was once a place where geiko (the Kanazawa term for geisha) entertained wealthy patrons with music, dance, and games. Today, it retains much of its historical charm, with traditional wooden teahouses lining the main street. Although smaller and quieter than the famous Higashi Chaya District, Nishi Chaya has a unique appeal.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing the echoes of the past that resonate within them.

Our first stop was the Kanazawa Nishi-chaya Museum. Housed in a former teahouse, the museum offers a glimpse into the lives of geishas and the history of the district. It is dedicated to Seijiro Shimada, a Taisho-era author who spent his childhood in Nishi Chaya. The exhibits showcase rare documents and explain his life, which ended too soon. The second floor features a vermilion-walled room with traditional musical instruments and a recreated tea room, evoking the Taisho period. It was fascinating to learn about the cultural significance of this district and the role it played in Kanazawa's history.


Explore the rich history of Kanazawa at the Nishi-chaya Museum, where traditional tea culture and craftsmanship come to life in an authentic setting.

After immersing ourselves in history, it was time for lunch. Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE came highly recommended, and since it was close to Kanazawa Station, it was an easy choice. The restaurant had a relaxed and fun atmosphere, perfect for a family meal. Maximilian and I shared a pizza, while Linnea enjoyed a plate of pasta. The open kitchen allowed us to watch the chefs at work, which added to the experience. It was a delightful meal that satisfied our cravings for Italian comfort food.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE in Kanazawa - a culinary journey through Italy awaits you.

With our bellies full, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at KANAZAWA M'ZA. This large department store offers everything from fashion and cosmetics to housewares and local crafts. We were particularly interested in the Kuromon Koji section on the first floor, which features local specialty foods and souvenir crafts. I picked up some beautifully crafted gold leaf ornaments, while Maximilian found a bottle of local sake. Linnea was thrilled with a set of Japanese-style erasers. It was the perfect place to find unique gifts and mementos of our time in Kanazawa.


Explore KANAZAWA M'ZA, a premier department store in the heart of Kanazawa, offering fashion, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs.

As evening approached, we had dinner at Teppanyaki makibi san-an. This restaurant is known for its teppanyaki and aburiyaki techniques, grilling high-quality meats and fresh vegetables over a firewood fire. The chef used oak wood, which is also used for whisky barrels, to grill the meat. The aroma was incredible, and the flavors were even better. We opted for a set menu that included Noto beef, seafood, and seasonal vegetables. It was a culinary experience that we won't soon forget.


Experience authentic teppanyaki dining at Teppanyaki Makibi San-an in Kanazawa—where culinary artistry meets vibrant flavors.

The day reminded me of a quote I once read by Marcel Proust:

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

Reflecting on our day, I realized how much Kanazawa has to offer. The blend of history, culture, and culinary delights makes it a truly special destination. The Nishi Chaya District, with its geisha heritage and traditional architecture, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The delicious food, from the Seattle-style coffee at Curio Espresso to the teppanyaki at Makibi san-an, is a testament to Kanazawa's culinary scene. And the shopping at KANAZAWA M'ZA offers a chance to find unique souvenirs and gifts.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kanazawa Castle and Ishiura Shrine. I'm excited to explore these historical landmarks and learn more about Kanazawa's rich heritage. I am also looking forward to trying Fuwari for breakfast, Grill Otsuka for lunch, and Kaga for dinner. And perhaps Maximilian and I will sneak away to Bar Spoon for a nightcap.

Even though I had remembered to pack most of our essentials, I realized that I forgot the travel adapter and rain ponchos! I´ll make sure to buy those tomorrow, just in case.

Good night from Kanazawa!