Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa: A Family Adventure

Kanazawa's Warm Embrace: A Day of Gardens and Castles

After a long journey, arriving in Kanazawa felt like stepping into a serene painting. The air was fresh, carrying a hint of floral scents, and the city exuded a quiet charm that immediately put my family and me at ease. Today was all about immersing ourselves in Kanazawa's most iconic landmarks, and I couldn't wait to share the experience.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Kanazawa New Grand Hotel Prestige. The on-site restaurant offered a delightful spread of both Western and Japanese dishes, ensuring everyone in my family found something to enjoy. Wei was particularly thrilled with the pastries, while Mei and I savored the traditional Japanese breakfast options. Fuelling up for a day of exploration was essential, and the hotel's breakfast set the perfect tone.


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

Kenrokuen: A Stroll Through Perfection

Our first stop was Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens. As a financial analyst who spends most of his time crunching numbers, the tranquility of this garden was a welcome change. The name 'Kenrokuen' translates to 'Garden of the Six Sublimities,' referring to spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and broad views. And it truly lived up to its name. The garden was initially constructed by the Maeda family, the ruling family of the Kaga Domain, over nearly two centuries. It was opened to the public in 1871. As we strolled through the meticulously manicured landscapes, I couldn't help but marvel at the artistry and dedication that went into creating such a masterpiece. The weather in June is pleasantly warm, with temperatures peaking around 25°C, perfect for a leisurely walk.


Discover the serene beauty of Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top three gardens, featuring breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage in Kanazawa.

The Kasumigaike Pond, with its iconic Kotojitoro Lantern, was a sight to behold. The lantern, uniquely designed with two legs, stood gracefully by the water's edge, casting a picturesque reflection. Wei was fascinated by the fountain powered by natural elevation, shooting water 3.5 meters into the air. Mei, ever the enthusiast of flora, was captivated by the diverse array of flowering trees and plants. The Karasaki pine tree, with its branches extending over the pond, was particularly stunning.

Every element in Kenrokuen seemed to whisper tales of history, tradition, and the deep connection between nature and human artistry.

We spent a good two hours wandering through the garden, discovering hidden nooks, crossing charming bridges, and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. It was a perfect start to our Kanazawa adventure, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me, a feeling I rarely experience amidst the hustle of Zurich's financial district.

Kanazawa Castle Park: A Glimpse into Feudal Japan

Just a short walk from Kenrokuen lies Kanazawa Castle Park, a site steeped in history. The castle was once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan, and although the main keep was destroyed by fire in 1602 and never rebuilt, the reconstructed turrets, gates, and walls offered a fascinating glimpse into feudal Japan. The park is open from 7 am to 6 pm.


Discover the serene beauty of Kanazawa Castle Park, where history and nature unite in a tranquil setting perfect for exploration and relaxation.

As we entered through the Ishikawa-mon Gate, the oldest surviving structure dating back to 1788, I was struck by the imposing architecture and the sheer scale of the castle grounds. Wei was particularly intrigued by the Hishi Yagura turret and the Gojukken Nagaya storehouse, faithfully reconstructed based on old drawings and documents. The attention to detail was remarkable, and it felt like stepping back in time.

One of the highlights was learning about the castle's history. Originally, the site was home to a fortified temple called Oyama Gobo, which was replaced by Kanazawa Castle in 1580. The Maeda family ruled from this castle for almost three centuries, overseeing the city's growth into a cultural hub known for its exquisite crafts. Exploring the castle park, it's easy to imagine the lives of the samurai and lords who once walked these grounds.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch at Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen

After a morning of exploring gardens and castles, our stomachs started to rumble. We decided to have lunch at Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen, a highly recommended spot known for its local cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, a testament to its popularity. I opted for the Kaga cuisine, a regional specialty featuring fresh seafood and locally sourced vegetables. Mei chose a vegetarian option, while Wei happily devoured a kid-friendly set meal.


Explore innovative dishes at Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen, where local flavors meet creative cuisine in a cozy bar setting.

The flavors were exquisite, a delightful blend of traditional Japanese cooking techniques and local ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the fresh seafood, a testament to Kanazawa's proximity to the Sea of Japan. It was a satisfying meal that gave us a taste of Kanazawa's culinary heritage.

Shopping at Kanazawa Hyakubangai: Souvenirs and Local Delights

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured to Kanazawa Hyakubangai, a shopping complex conveniently located near the train station. This was the perfect opportunity to pick up some souvenirs and local delicacies to take back home to Zurich.


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

Kanazawa Hyakubangai is divided into three main areas: Anto, Rinto, and Anto Nishi. Anto is particularly popular with tourists, offering a wide array of souvenir shops and restaurants. We browsed through shops selling local sweets, confectionary, local sake, and crafts. Mei was particularly interested in the exquisite gold leaf handicrafts, a specialty of Kanazawa.

Wei, of course, was drawn to the confectionery shops, eager to sample the local treats. I picked up a bottle of local sake, hoping to share a taste of Kanazawa with my friends back in Zurich. The shopping complex was vibrant and bustling, offering a glimpse into the local culture and commerce.

Dinner at Fuwari: A Taste of Elegance

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Fuwari for dinner, a restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and refined cuisine. The restaurant offered a multi-course Kaiseki dinner, a traditional Japanese culinary art form characterized by its meticulous presentation and seasonal ingredients.


Discover authentic izakaya dining at Fuwari in Kanazawa – where tradition meets modern flavor.

The dinner was an experience in itself, each dish a work of art. The flavors were subtle yet complex, showcasing the chef's mastery of Japanese cuisine. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with cultural immersion and exploration.

Reflections on the Day and Anticipation for Tomorrow

As I sit here in our hotel room, reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kanazawa's beauty and history with my family. From the serene landscapes of Kenrokuen to the imposing architecture of Kanazawa Castle Park, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. The city has a unique charm that blends tradition and modernity, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Higashi Chaya District and the Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence. I'm particularly excited to wander through the historic streets of the Chaya District, known for its traditional teahouses and gold leaf crafts. And of course, we'll be sure to sample some more of Kanazawa's culinary delights, including a visit to the Kohaku Bar for a nightcap. Until then, I bid you goodnight from the enchanting city of Kanazawa.

“The best journey always takes us home, in ways we may not expect.” It’s a sentiment that feels particularly apt as I drift off to sleep, already dreaming of tomorrow’s adventures.

The weather forecast for the next few days indicates a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a moderate chance of rain. I'm glad I packed an umbrella, just in case. I also realize that I forgot to bring a portable charger, which would have been useful for keeping my phone powered throughout the day. Lesson learned for tomorrow!

Kanazawa has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Stay tuned for more tales from our family adventure in Japan!

The Kanazawa New Grand Hotel Prestige is proving to be an excellent base for our explorations. Its central location makes it easy to access the city's main attractions, and the family-friendly facilities ensure a comfortable stay for all of us. I highly recommend it to anyone planning a trip to Kanazawa with their family.