Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa: A Family Adventure

A Day of Cultural Immersion

Today in Kanazawa was a vibrant tapestry of art, history, and culinary experiences. From the thought-provoking exhibits at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa to the majestic Kanazawa Castle and the glittering allure of gold leaf crafts, every moment was filled with discovery and delight. Join me as I recount the day's adventures, offering a glimpse into the cultural heart of this enchanting city.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Aashirwad, an Indian restaurant known for its authentic flavors. It might seem odd to start a day in Japan with Indian cuisine, but I've always believed in embracing culinary diversity wherever I go. Aashirwad, which translates to blessing, certainly lived up to its name. The aroma of spices filled the air, and the warm naan and flavorful curries provided the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.


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

With our appetites satisfied, we set off for the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. As a financial analyst specializing in Asian markets, I appreciate the blend of tradition and modernity that defines Kanazawa. This museum perfectly embodies that spirit, showcasing cutting-edge art in a city steeped in history. The museum itself is an architectural marvel, designed by Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa. Its circular structure and glass walls create a seamless connection between the art within and the world outside. I was particularly struck by the Swimming Pool installation by Leandro Erlich. From above, it appears to be a regular swimming pool filled with water, but as you descend below the surface, you find yourself in a dry space where you can look up at the shimmering water above.

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

Wei was absolutely fascinated, and Mei and I enjoyed watching his wonder. The museum's collection is diverse, featuring works by both international and Japanese artists. While some pieces were thought-provoking, others were, admittedly, a bit perplexing. But that's the beauty of contemporary art, isn't it? It challenges your perceptions and encourages you to see the world in new ways. I found myself drawn to the Lines – Aligning your consciousness with the flow” exhibit, which featured large-scale pieces that stretched the boundaries of the gallery space. The sheer size and vibrancy of the artwork were captivating, and I left feeling artistically rejuvenated.

After immersing ourselves in the world of contemporary art, we ventured to Kanazawa Castle, a symbol of the city's rich history. From 1583 to the end of the Edo Period, Kanazawa Castle was the seat of the powerful Maeda Clan, lords of Kaga. The castle has been rebuilt several times due to fires, but the reconstructed structures are a testament to the Maeda Clan's wealth and engineering prowess. We entered through the Ishikawa-mon Gate, which dates back to 1788 and faces Kenrokuen Garden. The castle grounds are vast, with meticulously manicured lawns and imposing stone walls. We explored the Hishi Yagura turret, the Gojikken Nagaya Storehouse, and the Hashizume-mon Gate, admiring the traditional carpentry and the panoramic views of the city.


Explore the exquisite beauty and historical significance of Kanazawa Castle, a majestic landmark in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.

The Gyokuseninmaru Garden, a traditional-style garden with a central pond and circular walking path, was a tranquil oasis amidst the historical grandeur of the castle. As we strolled through the garden, I couldn't help but reflect on the Maeda family's legacy and their patronage of the arts and culture. It was their vision that transformed Kanazawa into the cultural hub it is today. Volunteer guides offer free walking tours of the castle, providing valuable insights into its history and architecture. The guides are available daily from March to December, and on Saturdays in January and February.

For lunch, we indulged in a traditional Kaiseki meal at Gyokusen-tei, a restaurant renowned for its exquisite Japanese cuisine and serene atmosphere. The restaurant is located near Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle, making it the perfect place to relax and refuel after a morning of sightseeing. We were seated in a private room overlooking a meticulously landscaped garden, which added to the intimate and special atmosphere. Each dish was served with a detailed explanation of its ingredients and preparation, showcasing the chef's dedication to culinary artistry. The flavors were delicate and refined, highlighting the freshness of the seasonal ingredients. The fish was incredibly fresh, the rice was perfectly cooked, and the tofu was a revelation.


Experience exquisite Japanese cuisine at Gyokusen-tei in Kanazawa – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

After lunch, we headed to Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store, located in Kanazawa Station, to experience the glittering world of gold leaf crafts. Kanazawa is known for its gold leaf production, and Hakuichi is one of the leading purveyors of this exquisite art form. The store offers a wide variety of goods, from crafts and cosmetics to sweets and edible gold leaf. Mei was particularly interested in the cosmetics, while Wei was fascinated by the edible gold leaf ice cream. Of course, we had to indulge in a cone, which was as visually stunning as it was delicious. The store is conveniently located near the ticket gate, making it easy to pop in for a quick shopping trip.


Explore Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store for unique souvenirs, home goods, and a taste of Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage.

As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed a Teppanyaki dinner at Teppanyaki Icho, located on the 29th floor of Hotel Nikko Kanazawa. The restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of the city, including Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden. The chef prepared our meal on a teppan grill right before our eyes, showcasing his culinary skills with flair and precision. We savored the Wagyu steak, the abalone, and the fresh seafood, each dish cooked to perfection. The combination of delicious food, magnificent scenery, and impeccable service made for a truly memorable dining experience.


Discover an unforgettable Teppanyaki dining experience at Icho in Kanazawa's Hotel Nikko—where flavors meet artistry against stunning city views.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the D.T. Suzuki Museum and Myouryuji (Ninja Temple), further immersing ourselves in Kanazawa's cultural heritage. And in the evening, we'll unwind at Oriental Brewing, a local bar known for its craft beers.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Kanazawa has captured our hearts with its blend of art, history, and culinary delights. It's a city that truly embodies the spirit of Japan, where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. I'm already looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery.

Before heading back to the Kanazawa New Grand Hotel Prestige, I spent some time reviewing photos and making notes of the day’s events. I’m quickly learning that while traveling is fun, writing about travel is hard work!


Experience comfort and convenience at Kanazawa New Grand Hotel Prestige, your ideal base for exploring the historic city of Kanazawa.

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” - Aldous Huxley

It's always interesting to see how others perceive the places I've been lucky enough to visit. It's a good reminder that travel is a personal journey, and what one person finds amazing, another might find ordinary. That's why I try to share my own experiences as authentically as possible, so you can decide for yourself if Kanazawa is a place you'd like to explore.

Good night from Kanazawa!