Exploring Kanazawa: A Family Adventure in Japan

A Day of Cultural Immersion

Today was a beautiful blend of art, reflection, and culinary exploration in Kanazawa. It's amazing how much this city has to offer, and I'm so grateful to be experiencing it with Maximilian and Linnea. Each day here brings new discoveries and deepens our appreciation for Japanese culture. Today was a day of modern art and quiet contemplation, with a dash of shopping and delicious food thrown in for good measure.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme. This restaurant is truly a hidden gem, offering a unique culinary experience that blends French techniques with local Japanese ingredients. The setting itself is charming, housed in a remodeled former dressmaking school. Maximilian and I opted for the omakase (chef's choice) course, which was a series of inventive and artfully presented dishes. Linnea, of course, was a bit more selective, but she thoroughly enjoyed the pastries and fresh fruit. The service was impeccable, making it a truly special start to our day.


Experience exquisite French cuisine in the serene ambiance of Kanazawa's Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme.

After breakfast, we headed to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. This museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the city, and I had been particularly excited to see Leandro Erlich's Swimming Pool installation. The museum's architecture itself is a work of art, designed by SANAA with the concept of a museum open to the city like a park. The circular building with glass walls creates a sense of openness and connection to the surrounding environment.


Explore modern artistry at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa - a cultural gem of Japan's contemporary art scene.

Linnea was absolutely thrilled by the interactive exhibits. The Swimming Pool was a definite highlight, as we descended into the space beneath the pool and looked up at the water and people above. It’s such a clever and playful piece that blurs the line between reality and illusion. We also explored James Turrell's Blue Planet Sky, an exhibit that explores light as a medium. It was fascinating to observe how the changing light transformed the space and our perceptions. We spent a good couple of hours wandering through the museum, taking in the various exhibitions. The museum truly encourages participation and offers new ways of enjoying art beyond just looking at it.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was the D.T. Suzuki Museum. This museum is dedicated to the life and works of D.T. Suzuki, a prominent Buddhist philosopher who introduced Zen Buddhism to the West. The museum is a serene and contemplative space, designed by architect Yoshio Taniguchi. The architecture itself reflects the principles of Zen, with clean lines, simple materials, and open spaces.


Discover the tranquil D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa, a serene tribute to Zen Buddhism and its profound philosophies.

As we entered the museum, we were immediately struck by the sense of tranquility. The main feature is the Water Mirror Garden, a large, flat pond that reflects the surrounding trees and sky. We spent some time in the Contemplative Space, a room with openings on all four sides that extends out into the garden. It was the perfect place to sit and reflect on Suzuki's teachings. Linnea, surprisingly, was also captivated by the peaceful atmosphere. She enjoyed watching the koi fish swimming in the pond and even sat quietly for a few minutes, observing the water.

After our moment of zen, it was time for a bit of shopping. We made our way to Kanazawa Hyakubangai, a shopping center located within Kanazawa Station. This is a great place to find souvenirs and local specialties. We explored the Anto area, which is known for its traditional crafts and food products. I picked up some gold leaf cosmetics, while Maximilian found a bottle of local sake. Linnea was delighted with the array of colorful candies and snacks.


Discover the ultimate shopping and dining experience at Kanazawa Hyakubangai, where tradition meets modernity in the heart of Kanazawa.

For lunch, we decided to try Aashirwad, an Indian restaurant that came highly recommended. We were all in the mood for something flavorful and spicy, and Aashirwad did not disappoint. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including samosas, chana masala, and aloo gobi. The food was delicious and authentic, with just the right amount of spice. Linnea enjoyed the naan bread and the milder vegetable curries. It was a satisfying and comforting meal that left us feeling energized for the rest of the day.


Discover the rich flavors of India at Aashirwad in Kanazawa—where traditional meets modern in a delightful dining experience.

As evening approached, we made our way to Bird Yakitori for dinner. This yakitori restaurant is known for its high-quality grilled chicken skewers and stylish ambiance. The interior has a bar-like feel, creating a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere. We ordered a selection of yakitori skewers, including different cuts of chicken and seasonal vegetables. The chicken was incredibly tender and juicy, with a delicious smoky flavor from the charcoal grill. Maximilian and I paired our meal with local sake, while Linnea enjoyed some grilled corn and chicken meatballs. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Discover authentic yakitori at Bird Yakitori in Kanazawa - a cozy haven for food lovers seeking traditional Japanese flavors.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Nagamachi District and visit the Nomura-ke Samurai Residence [places mentioned in Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I am particularly excited to step back in time and learn more about the samurai culture that once thrived in this area. We will also be having breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café, which I've heard has amazing coffee and a unique atmosphere. For lunch, we're planning to try Itaru, a local favorite known for its fresh seafood. And for dinner, we'll be indulging in the flavors of Spice Box. If we have time, we might even stop by Kohaku Bar for a nightcap. I'm also hoping to find some time to pick up a travel adapter and rain ponchos, as I realized we forgot to pack them. Evenings like these, writing about our adventures, make me feel grateful for these moments with my family.

Kanazawa continues to surprise and delight us with its blend of tradition and modernity. I'm already looking forward to another day of discovery in this beautiful city.

It is worth noting that there are several events and festivals happening in Kanazawa throughout the year. Depending on the time of your visit, you may be able to experience events such as the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival, the Yuwaku Bonbori Festival, or the Kawakita Fireworks Festival. These events offer a unique glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

I am so glad we decided to come to Kanazawa. It is a city that truly nourishes the soul. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings! And I am so thankful for Maximilian and Linnea, who make every experience even more special. It's moments like these that make me realize how important it is to slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and cherish the time we have together.

As I reflect on today, I am reminded of a quote by D.T. Suzuki:

In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few.

This quote encapsulates the spirit of travel and exploration. It reminds us to approach each new experience with a sense of openness and curiosity, just like a beginner. By embracing the unknown and letting go of our preconceived notions, we can discover new perspectives and deepen our understanding of the world. And who knows, maybe we'll even stumble upon a hidden gem or two along the way.

Good night from Kanazawa!