Solo Adventure through Kanazawa's Historical and Cultural Gems

Reflections on a Journey's End

As my Kanazawa adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past ten days. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of this city's unique charm, from its serene gardens to its exquisite culinary offerings. It's hard to believe this journey is almost over, but I'm determined to make the most of every moment.

My day began with a visit to the D.T. Suzuki Museum. As someone who appreciates spaces designed for contemplation, this museum was a must-see. Dedicated to the life and teachings of D.T. Suzuki, a renowned Buddhist philosopher, the museum offered a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The architecture, designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, was simply stunning. The minimalist design, with its clean lines and neutral colors, perfectly complemented the surrounding greenery. As I wandered through the museum, I found myself drawn to the water mirror garden, where the reflections of the sky and trees created a mesmerizing effect. It was the perfect spot to pause and reflect on my journey, much like I do when I'm back in Berlin, taking a stroll through Tiergarten.


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

The essence of Zen is seeing ourselves as we truly are.

Inside, the museum provided a glimpse into Suzuki's life and his impact on bringing Buddhism to the West. The exhibits were thoughtfully curated, encouraging visitors to contemplate the deeper meaning of life. There was a small library where I thumbed through some of his books. The space was designed to promote introspection, and I spent a good amount of time simply sitting and letting my thoughts wander. It was a refreshing change of pace, a moment to disconnect from the constant stimulation of travel and reconnect with myself. I think Lena would have enjoyed the quiet contemplation this place offered. I know Mateo would have been running around the water mirror garden, though!

Next on my itinerary was the Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center. I've always been fascinated by the artistry of traditional crafts, and Kaga-Yuzen, a unique style of silk dyeing, is a significant part of Kanazawa's cultural heritage. The center showcased the intricate process of creating these exquisite kimonos, from the initial design to the final dyeing. Unlike Kyo-Yuzen, which uses bolder and more colorful techniques, Kaga-Yuzen is known for its natural tones, fine lines, and elegant floral patterns. The kimonos on display were truly works of art, each telling a story through its delicate designs. I could easily see Lena wearing one of these masterpieces. She'd look absolutely stunning!


Discover the exquisite art of Kaga-Yuzen at the Kimono Center in Kanazawa, where tradition and craftsmanship come alive.

I learned that Kaga Yuzen dyeing dates back 500 years. The motifs often depict realistic depictions of flowers, birds, wind, and the moon, based on the Kaga five-color palette of deep red, indigo, ochre, grass, and ancient purple. The “itome-zuki” technique, where glue is placed on the boundaries of the colors to prevent them from blending, is particularly impressive. After dyeing, the glue is washed away, leaving a thin white line that accentuates the pattern.

After immersing myself in art and culture, it was time to indulge in Kanazawa's culinary scene. For lunch, I decided to try Itaru, an izakaya known for its fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant had a lively vibe, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the authentic Japanese cuisine. I opted for the Sea of Japan Sashimi Platter, a generous assortment of fish caught fresh that day. Each piece was incredibly flavorful, a testament to the quality of the ingredients. I also tried the grilled flatfish, which was perfectly cooked and seasoned. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The menu had both English and Japanese, and the staff was very attentive.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Itaru Izakaya in Kanazawa – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

In the evening, I had a bit of a craving for something familiar, so I ventured to The Godburger. I know, I know, having a burger in Japan might seem like a culinary sin, but sometimes you just need a taste of home. And let me tell you, The Godburger lived up to its name. This place is serious about its burgers. The patties were juicy and flavorful, the buns were perfectly toasted, and the toppings were fresh and delicious. I went for the classic cheeseburger with bacon and avocado, and it was a true delight. The fries were also noteworthy – crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly seasoned. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, a welcome change from the more traditional fare I had been enjoying. I almost felt like I was back in Berlin enjoying a burger at Burgermeister.


Experience gourmet burgers with local flair at The Godburger in Kanazawa – where culinary creativity meets comfort food.

Before heading back to the hotel, I decided to check out ZOWIE, an Irish pub near Kanazawa Station. I'm not usually one for Irish pubs when I travel, but I was curious to see what it was like in Japan. The pub had a cozy atmosphere, with a good selection of beers on tap, including some local craft brews. It was a laid-back spot, perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. I chatted with some of the locals and tourists, sharing stories and laughs over a pint of beer. It was a fun and unexpected way to end the day.


Discover the taste of Ireland at ZOWIE, an authentic Irish pub in Kanazawa offering delicious food, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

As I sit here in my hotel room, reflecting on the day's adventures, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I've had in Kanazawa. This city has a unique charm, a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that has captivated me from the moment I arrived. I've explored its gardens, admired its art, and savored its flavors. And tomorrow, it’s time to head back home. It feels like just yesterday I was on the train from Tokyo to Kanazawa. This trip has flown by!

Looking back on my trip, I realize that I forgot to pack a sunscreen. The sun was quite strong during the days I was exploring the outdoor attractions. I also forgot an adapter for my electronic devices, which made charging my phone and camera a bit challenging.

I’m already thinking about what I’ll do when I get back to Berlin. I definitely want to try recreating some of the dishes I’ve tasted here. Maybe I’ll even try making my own Kaga-Yuzen inspired artwork. And of course, I can’t wait to see Lena and Mateo and share all my stories with them. I might even drag them to a Tango class, just to keep the Argentinian spirit alive!

Even though my time in Kanazawa is coming to an end, the memories and experiences will stay with me forever. This solo journey has been a reminder of the joy of exploration, the beauty of cultural immersion, and the importance of taking time to connect with oneself. Kanazawa, you've been a true gem, and I'll cherish our time together always.