Exploring Kanazawa: A Family Adventure in Japan

Kanazawa's Hidden Charms
Today was a day of unexpected discoveries and quiet contemplation in Kanazawa. I always find that the best travel experiences are the ones that lead you off the beaten path, revealing hidden corners and local secrets that you wouldn't find in a guidebook. Today was one of those days. From exploring temples shrouded in mystery to indulging in the local cuisine, every moment was a delightful surprise.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme. The name itself is quite a mouthful, isn't it? Luckily, the food spoke for itself. It's located in a remodeled dressmaking school, which gave it a unique, artsy vibe. Maximilian and I opted for the chef's choice Omakase, which turned out to be an excellent decision. Each course was a work of art, blending French techniques with local Japanese ingredients. Linnea, surprisingly, was captivated by the presentation, carefully examining each plate with wide eyes. I savored the delicate flavors, a fusion of Nordic and Japanese cuisine, and appreciated the chef's creativity. The restaurant also offers a selection of Japanese wines, which Maximilian, ever the wine enthusiast, was eager to sample.


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

After breakfast, we ventured to Myouryuji Temple, also known as the Ninja Temple. This was an experience I had been particularly excited about, and it didn't disappoint. From the outside, it appears to be a modest, unassuming temple, but inside, it's a labyrinth of secret passages, hidden staircases, and trap doors. It was originally built as a defensive structure for the Maeda clan, designed to protect against potential attacks. Although actual ninjas never resided here, the temple's intricate design earned it the nickname Ninja Temple.


Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Myouryuji Temple in Kanazawa, a tranquil Buddhist haven steeped in history.

We joined a guided tour, and while it was conducted in Japanese, we were provided with a detailed English booklet to follow along. Linnea was absolutely thrilled, imagining herself as a stealthy ninja warrior as we navigated the hidden corridors. I was fascinated by the ingenuity of the design. The temple has numerous hidden rooms, secret passageways, maze-like stairwells, and trap doors. It felt like stepping into a historical mystery novel. Unfortunately, photography wasn't allowed inside, but the memories of the experience are vividly etched in my mind.

Sometimes, the most unassuming places hold the greatest secrets.

Next on our itinerary was Myozenji Temple. In contrast to the secretive Ninja Temple, Myozenji exuded a sense of tranquility and peace. Founded in 1748, this temple is a significant religious site in the Shirakawa-go region. What makes Myozenji unique is its thatched roof, a rarity in temple architecture. The main hall, storehouse, and bell tower gate all feature these distinctive roofs.


Explore Myozenji, a serene Buddhist temple in Shirakawa, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.

We strolled through the grounds, admiring the traditional wooden structures and the serene gardens. The temple's bell tower gate, built in 1801, is particularly noteworthy for its two-layered structure. Linnea enjoyed ringing the temple bell, its resonant sound echoing through the peaceful surroundings. Inside the main hall, we admired the fusuma sliding doors painted in the nihonga Japanese style by artist Taisuke Hamada. The artwork added a touch of elegance and artistry to the sacred space.


For lunch, we headed to Sushi Ippei, a small, family-run sushi restaurant in the Katamachi area. This place came highly recommended, and I was eager to try their authentic Kanazawa sushi. The restaurant is run by a lovely older couple, and their warm hospitality made us feel right at home. Maximilian and I opted for the recommended sushi set, and each piece was incredibly fresh and flavorful. Linnea, who is usually a bit picky with her food, surprised us by devouring several pieces of the sushi. The owners were so kind and welcoming, making our lunch a truly memorable experience.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Sushi Ippei, where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry in Kanazawa's vibrant dining scene.

After lunch, we decided to do some shopping at Hands Kanazawa Store. This store is a treasure trove of unique and interesting items, from Japanese cosmetics to home goods and stationery. I was particularly drawn to the traditional crafts, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Linnea, of course, was captivated by the colorful stationery and insisted on getting a set of adorable animal-shaped erasers. I found a beautiful silk scarf with a traditional Japanese design, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our time in Kanazawa.


Explore a captivating range of unique gifts, home goods, and Japanese crafts at Hands Kanazawa Store, your perfect souvenir stop in Kanazawa.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Iki-iki Tei for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood bowls and its lively atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to savor the delicious seafood. Maximilian and I shared a seafood rice bowl, a generous assortment of fresh fish and shellfish served over a bed of rice. The flavors were incredible, a true taste of the sea. Linnea opted for the grilled pork belly, which she thoroughly enjoyed.


Discover authentic sushi at Iki-iki Tei in Kanazawa – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Chirihama Beach Driveway and Natadera Temple. I'm excited about the prospect of driving on a beach and exploring another beautiful temple. But for now, I'm content to reflect on the day's adventures, cherishing the memories we've created in this captivating city. Kanazawa continues to surprise and delight, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating lasting memories that we'll treasure for years to come.


As I sit here writing this, I feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing famous landmarks, but also about discovering the hidden gems and connecting with the local culture. Kanazawa has a way of captivating your heart, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the simple beauty of life. It's a city that I know I'll never forget, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.