Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa: A Family Adventure

A Fond Farewell to Kanazawa

As our family adventure in Kanazawa draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared over the past eight days. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of Kanazawa's charm, from tranquil temples to breathtaking views and, of course, more of its delicious food. It’s hard to believe our time here is already up, but we’re determined to make the most of every moment.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Turban Curry Main Store. I've heard so much about Kanazawa curry, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant was cozy and bustling with locals, a great sign in my book. I ordered the L-set Curry, which came with a crispy pork cutlet, a juicy hamburger steak, and savory sausage, all smothered in a rich, dark curry sauce. Wei was thrilled with his milder version, while Mei and I enjoyed the slight kick of the spices. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Turban Curry Main Store in Kanazawa - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

With our bellies full, we set off to Tentokuin, a Soto Zen Buddhist temple with a unique history. This temple is dedicated to Tamahime, the daughter of the shogun Tokugawa Hidetada and wife of Maeda Toshitsune. Her story is quite touching; married at the tender age of three to maintain peace between powerful families, she lived a short but devoted life, passing away at 23 after having seven children. I found myself pondering the weight of such responsibility placed on someone so young.

The temple itself was beautiful and serene. The large Sanmon gate, which remarkably survived a devastating fire in 1768, was particularly impressive. We learned that Tamahime loved dolls, and the temple displays some that belonged to her. What truly captivated us was the karakuri doll performance, a traditional mechanized puppet show that tells the story of Tamahime's life. Wei was absolutely mesmerized, and even Mei and I were enchanted by the intricate craftsmanship and poignant narrative. It was a beautiful and unique way to connect with the history of the temple and the woman it honors. As someone with a keen interest in history, I appreciated this personal touch.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Tentokuin, a serene Buddhist temple in Kanazawa, where spirituality meets stunning nature in a peaceful retreat.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of history, where personal stories intertwine with grand narratives.

Leaving Tentokuin, we made our way to the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck. Although technically located in Shirakawa-go, the views promised to be spectacular, and I wasn't disappointed. The observation deck offered a panoramic vista of the surrounding landscape, with the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses nestled amidst lush greenery. It felt like stepping into a postcard. The gassho-zukuri houses, with their steeply thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow, were particularly fascinating. I explained to Wei how these houses were built without nails and have stood since the 1800s, even surviving earthquakes. He was suitably impressed.


Experience unparalleled views of Shirakawa-go from Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck, a must-see destination for every traveler in Gifu Prefecture.

We spent a good hour at the observation deck, taking photos and simply soaking in the scenery. The air was crisp and clean, and the views stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a perfect moment of tranquility and a reminder of the beauty that exists beyond the hustle and bustle of city life. It was a little bittersweet knowing this was our last major sightseeing stop, but I was grateful for the opportunity to witness such a breathtaking view.

For lunch, we decided to try Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE, a local spot known for its authentic Neapolitan pizza. After days of traditional Japanese cuisine, we were all craving something a little different. The pizzeria was charming and inviting, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel right at home. I ordered the Margherita pizza, while Mei opted for the Quattro Formaggi, and Wei chose a simple Marinara. The pizzas were cooked in a traditional stone oven, giving them a perfectly crispy crust and a delicious smoky flavor. Each pizza featured high-quality ingredients, from the tangy San Marzano tomatoes to the creamy mozzarella cheese. The owner, who seemed genuinely happy to see us, told us they import high quality flour from Italy to give the dough its perfect texture. It was a delightful change of pace and a satisfying meal that left us all feeling content. I even enjoyed a glass of local sake, savoring the last tastes of Kanazawa.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE in Kanazawa - a culinary journey through Italy awaits you.

As evening approached, we prepared for our farewell dinner at Genzaemon, an izakaya known for its Kanazawa cuisine and local sake. The restaurant had a warm, inviting ambiance, with wooden interiors that exuded a traditional Japanese charm. We ordered a variety of dishes, including blackthroat seaperch, sweet shrimp, and Kanazawa oden. The seafood was incredibly fresh, delivered daily from Kanazawa Port, and the oden was flavorful and comforting. I particularly enjoyed the blackthroat seaperch, grilled to perfection and bursting with savory goodness.


Discover the flavors of Japan at Genzaemon Izakaya in Kanazawa – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

Of course, no izakaya experience is complete without sake. I sampled several local varieties, each with its own unique flavor profile. The staff were knowledgeable and helpful, guiding me through the selection and offering recommendations based on my preferences. Mei enjoyed some non-alcoholic drinks and Wei was very happy with his rice and fish. It was the perfect way to celebrate our last night in Kanazawa, savoring the flavors of the city and reminiscing about our adventures.

After dinner, with Wei safely tucked in bed, I decided to check out ZOWIE, an Irish pub near Kanazawa Station. I was curious to see how an Irish pub would fit into the Kanazawa scene, and I was pleasantly surprised. The pub had a lively atmosphere, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying a wide selection of beers, including Kanazawa craft beers. I struck up a conversation with a friendly local who shared some insights about the city and its culture. It was a fun and relaxed way to end the evening, and I appreciated the chance to connect with someone outside of the tourist circuit.


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

Reflecting on our time in Kanazawa, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we've had and the memories we've created. From exploring historic districts to indulging in local cuisine and immersing ourselves in cultural traditions, Kanazawa has truly captured our hearts. It's a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new, offering something for everyone. As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that we'll carry a piece of Kanazawa with us, and I hope to return someday to continue exploring its hidden gems. Tomorrow, we head back to Tokyo for our flight back to Zurich. It’s always a little sad to leave a place you’ve grown to love, but I know we’ll be back to Japan again soon. Until then, sayonara, Kanazawa!

The blend of tradition and modernity, the culinary delights, and the warmth of the people have left an indelible mark on our family. As we prepare to return to Zurich, I know that the memories of Kanazawa will stay with us for years to come.