Solo Adventure through Kanazawa's Historical and Cultural Gems

Kanazawa's Kaleidoscope: Art, Tradition, and Flavors

Today was a whirlwind of experiences, a deep dive into the heart of Kanazawa. From the thought-provoking exhibits at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa to the enchanting streets of the Higashi Chaya District and the tantalizing tastes of local cuisine, it was a day that truly awakened my senses. I'm eager to share every moment of this incredible journey with you.

My day began with a visit to the famed 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. The weather in Kanazawa today was mild, with a bit of rain, which made spending the morning indoors even more appealing. As someone who appreciates both the classic and the avant-garde, I was eager to see what this modern art space had to offer. The museum's unique circular design, with its glass walls, immediately struck me. It felt open and inviting, a stark contrast to some of the more intimidating art institutions I've visited.


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

Inside, the exhibits were a fascinating mix of the thought-provoking and the whimsical. The museum's mission is to exhibit art that proposes new values, and it certainly lived up to that. Some pieces challenged my perceptions, while others simply made me smile. Leandro Erlich's The Swimming Pool was a definite highlight. The way it played with perspective, creating the illusion of people underwater, was simply brilliant. I spent a good amount of time there, watching visitors interact with the piece, their faces filled with wonder and amusement. It reminded me of the interactive exhibits Mateo loves back in Berlin – perhaps next time I’ll bring the family.

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

After immersing myself in the world of contemporary art, I decided to explore the Higashi Chaya District. This historic geisha district, established in 1820, is like stepping back in time. The beautifully preserved wooden buildings and lattice windows exude an air of elegance and mystery. As I strolled along the cobblestone streets, I imagined the wealthy merchants of the Edo period being entertained by geiko (the local name for geisha) with music, dance, and games. I even passed by Kaikaro, a working geisha teahouse that is open to the public during the day. The allure of possibly seeing a real geisha was tempting.


Explore the historic Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa, where traditional tea houses and cultural heritage await every visitor.

Many of the buildings in Higashi Chaya have been transformed into cafes, restaurants, and craft shops. I couldn't resist popping into a few of the gold leaf shops, as Kanazawa is famous for this particular craft. The shimmering gold leaf products were exquisite, and I even considered trying my hand at applying gold leaf to an accessory, but decided to save that for another time. I did, however, purchase a small gold leaf ornament as a souvenir for Lena. She appreciates the finer things in life, and I know she'll love this little piece of Kanazawa's history.

By this point, my stomach was starting to rumble, so I set out in search of a good lunch spot. Based on some recommendations I found, I decided to try Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. This charming café, owned by a couple (one from Seattle, the other Japanese), had a cozy, Seattle-style ambiance that immediately made me feel at home. As someone who now calls Berlin home, I always appreciate finding places with international influences. I ordered their pulled pork sandwich, which came highly recommended, along with a chai latte. The sandwich was delicious, and the chai spice mix had a unique, warming flavor. The owners were incredibly friendly, and we chatted about their experiences living in Kanazawa. It's always inspiring to meet people who have followed their dreams and created something special.


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

For dinner, I had my sights set on Sushi Ippei, a small, counter-seating-only restaurant run by an elderly couple. This place came highly recommended for its fresh and delicious sushi, and I was eager to experience a truly authentic Japanese sushi meal. Luckily, I managed to get a seat at the counter. The restaurant was small and intimate, and the couple who ran it were incredibly welcoming. The wife spoke excellent English and helped me navigate the menu. I opted for the chef's special, a selection of 10 pieces of sushi chosen by the husband. Each piece was a work of art, and the flavors were simply incredible. The fish was so fresh it practically melted in my mouth. It was exactly the kind of authentic culinary experience I was hoping for. As I savored each bite, I thought about Mateo and how much he would love this. I'll have to bring him here someday.


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

After dinner, I decided to check out Oriental Brewing, a local craft beer bar. I opted for their tasting set, which included four different beers brewed in Kanazawa. Each beer had its own unique flavor profile, and I enjoyed sampling the local brews. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, and I struck up a conversation with a few locals who were eager to share their recommendations for things to see and do in Kanazawa. It's moments like these that make traveling so rewarding – connecting with people and learning about their culture.


Explore Oriental Brewing: A Craft Beer Paradise in Kanazawa with Unique Brews, Delicious Pizzas, and a Cozy Atmosphere.

Before heading back to the hotel, I took a stroll through the streets of Kanazawa, soaking in the atmosphere. The city has a unique charm, a blend of the traditional and the modern. The Kanazawa Castle Park also has lighting every Saturday, something I missed today but will try to see. As I walked, I reflected on the day's experiences. I was struck by the city's commitment to preserving its history and culture while embracing contemporary art and culinary innovation. It's a place that truly nourishes the soul.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Nagamachi District and visit the Nomura-ke Samurai Residence. I'm eager to learn more about the samurai history of Kanazawa and to see the traditional architecture of this well-preserved district. I also plan to try some local delicacies at Fuwari and Kourin Sushi. With each passing day, I fall more in love with this captivating city.

Now, as I sit here in my hotel room, sipping a cup of green tea, I feel grateful for the experiences of the day. Kanazawa has exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I'm already planning a return trip with Lena and Mateo. This is a place they simply have to experience for themselves.