Solo Adventure through Kanazawa's Historical and Cultural Gems

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of diving deep into Kanazawa's historical heart, exploring the lives of geishas and samurai, and savoring the flavors this city has to offer. It was a fascinating blend of culture and cuisine, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for this gem of a city. And I even managed to pick up a few souvenirs along the way!

The day began with a visit to the Geisha House Shima in the Higashi Chaya District. Stepping inside felt like traveling back in time. The meticulously preserved architecture and lacquered wood surfaces whispered stories of a bygone era. It was easy to imagine the elegant geishas entertaining guests with music, dance, and witty conversation. I opted for the matcha tea ceremony in the back of the house, and it was a serene experience, sipping the tea while surrounded by such history. The house itself is a national important cultural asset, and it's easy to see why. Even though Lena would have loved the elegance, I think Mateo would have been a bit bored, to be honest.


Discover the charm and history of Kanazawa at Geisha House Shima, a beautifully preserved heritage site showcasing Japan's geisha culture.

Next, I ventured to the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum, a stark contrast to the opulence of the geisha house. This museum offered a glimpse into the lives of the ashigaru, the foot soldiers of the samurai class. The two preserved houses, once home to these lower-ranked samurai, were simple but evocative. It was humbling to see how these warriors lived, a far cry from the lavish lifestyles often associated with samurai. The small garden was a tranquil space, and I appreciated the museum's effort to recreate the daily life of these often-overlooked members of society.


Explore the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum to uncover the intriguing history of Japan's foot soldiers and their impact on samurai culture.

Kanazawa offers a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression.

Lunch was a culinary adventure, with not one, but three restaurants on the agenda! First up was Nyumba, a dining bar. I decided to try their take on Japanese-Italian fusion. The atmosphere was relaxed, and it was a great spot to recharge before continuing my explorations. Then, I headed to Iki-iki Tei for some authentic sushi. Located near Omicho Market, it's an Izakaya known for its diverse menu made with fresh ingredients every day. I indulged in some of the freshest sashimi I've ever tasted. The presentation was as impressive as the flavor, and I savored every bite. Reviews mentioned the Kanazawa specialty, Jibu-ni, which I made sure to try, enjoying the broth as well. Finally, craving something different, I ventured to Spice Box for a taste of India. The aroma of spices filled the air, and I opted for a vegetarian set menu with various curries. The flavors were sensational, and the staff was incredibly friendly. It was a welcome change of pace and a testament to Kanazawa's diverse culinary scene.


Experience modern izakaya dining at Nyumba in Kanazawa—where tradition meets contemporary flavors for an unforgettable culinary journey.


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


Savor authentic Indian cuisine at Spice Box - where vibrant flavors meet a cozy izakaya atmosphere in Kanazawa.

With my stomach happy, it was time for some retail therapy at Kanazawa Hyakubangai. This shopping district, located within Kanazawa Station, is a treasure trove of souvenirs, local crafts, and fashion boutiques. I wandered through the various sections, picking up some local sweets and a few small gifts for Lena and Mateo. It was a great place to find unique items that capture the essence of Kanazawa.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Seison-kaku Villa and venture to Yamanaka Onsen for a relaxing experience. I'm looking forward to delving deeper into Kanazawa's beauty and history, and maybe even trying some more local cuisine. I might even check out JIGGER BAR St.Louis for a nightcap.

This solo trip has been a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture and learn about the history of this beautiful place. I know Lena and Mateo would love it here, and I can't wait to share my experiences with them when I return to Berlin. Until then, I'll continue to explore and share my adventures with you all!

A Chef's Perspective

As a chef, I find myself constantly drawn to the culinary scenes of the places I visit. Kanazawa is no exception, with its fresh seafood, unique regional dishes, and diverse influences. Today's exploration of local eateries was a true delight.

My culinary journey started with lunch, or rather, lunches. First, I sampled the Chicago pizza at Nyumba and their perfectly roasted beef, cooked low and slow, and their fluffy chiffon cake that's perfect for dessert. I then went to Iki-iki Tei, a place that exemplifies the freshness of local ingredients. The sashimi was impeccably prepared, and the flavors were clean and vibrant. It was a reminder of the importance of sourcing high-quality ingredients, a principle I hold dear in my own kitchen. I was impressed by the chef's attention to detail and the respect for the ingredients.

Then, I went to Spice Box, a restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, featuring a diverse à la carte menu. The curries were rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices. It was evident that the chefs were passionate about their craft, and I appreciated the authenticity of the dishes. It's always inspiring to see how different cultures can influence and enrich a city's culinary landscape.

Iki-iki Tei offered a glimpse into the art of sushi making. The chefs were meticulous in their preparation, and the final product was a work of art. Each piece was carefully crafted, and the flavors were perfectly balanced. It was a reminder that sushi is not just about the ingredients, but also about the skill and precision of the chef.

The culinary scene in Kanazawa is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural diversity. It's a place where traditional Japanese cuisine meets international influences, creating a unique and exciting dining experience. As I continue my journey through Kanazawa, I look forward to discovering more hidden culinary gems and sharing my experiences with you all.

Samurai History

Today was a deep dive into the samurai history of Kanazawa. From the austere homes of the foot soldiers to the echoes of geisha entertainment, I gained a new appreciation for the complex social fabric of this city.

My first stop was the Geisha House Shima, where I learned about the role of geishas in samurai society. These women were not just entertainers; they were also skilled artists, musicians, and conversationalists who provided a sophisticated form of companionship for the samurai class. The house itself was a testament to the wealth and power of the samurai, with its intricate architecture and luxurious furnishings.

Next, I visited the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum, which offered a contrasting perspective on samurai life. The ashigaru were the foot soldiers of the samurai army, and their lives were far less glamorous than those of their superiors. The museum provided a glimpse into the daily routines, social roles, and living conditions of ashigaru families, offering a more grounded perspective compared to the grander samurai estates nearby.

The contrast between the geisha house and the ashigaru museum was striking. On one hand, there was the opulence and refinement of the samurai elite, and on the other hand, there was the simplicity and austerity of the samurai foot soldiers. It was a reminder that samurai society was not monolithic but rather a complex hierarchy with its own distinct social classes and customs.

As I wandered through the streets of Kanazawa, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe for the samurai who once walked these same paths. Their legacy is still visible in the city's architecture, its traditions, and its spirit. It was a privilege to learn about their history and to gain a deeper understanding of their impact on Japanese culture.

Shopping Extravaganza

No trip is complete without a bit of shopping, and today I indulged in some retail therapy at Kanazawa Hyakubangai. This shopping district is a treasure trove of local crafts, souvenirs, and fashion boutiques, offering something for everyone.

As I walked through the various sections of Hyakubangai, I was struck by the diversity of goods on offer. There were traditional crafts like lacquerware and ceramics, as well as modern fashion brands and trendy accessories. It was a great place to find unique items that capture the essence of Kanazawa.

I started my shopping spree in the souvenir section, where I picked up some local sweets and a few small gifts for Lena and Mateo. I wanted to bring them something that would remind them of Kanazawa and its unique culture. I also found some beautiful gold-leaf crafts. Lena would love the cosmetics and oil blotting paper. They are a favorite of Kanazawa beauties, according to the store. I also picked up a few pieces of Kutani-yaki style ceramics, which are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Next, I ventured into the fashion section, where I browsed the latest trends and styles. I was impressed by the quality of the clothing and the attention to detail. I found a few items that caught my eye, and I couldn't resist treating myself to a new shirt and a pair of shoes.

Overall, my shopping experience at Kanazawa Hyakubangai was a delight. It was a great way to immerse myself in the local culture and to find unique souvenirs and gifts for my loved ones. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kanazawa.

While researching for my blog, I noticed a number of events happening in Kanazawa, including the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival from June 6-8, 2025, the Kenrokuen Garden in the Evening (Fireflies in the Night) on select dates, and the Hokkoku Fireworks Display on July 26, 2025. While I won't be able to attend these events, it's worth checking them out if you're planning a trip to Kanazawa.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city. Kanazawa has captured my heart with its history, its culture, and its culinary delights. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!