Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa: A Family Adventure

A Day of Serenity and Reflection

Today, Kanazawa unveiled another layer of its enchanting character. It was a day of serene exploration, delving into the city’s spiritual and historical depths. With Mei and Wei by my side, I embarked on a journey that promised both beauty and contemplation, a welcome contrast to the hustle of my daily life in Zurich. The blend of tranquil gardens, historical shrines, and delightful culinary experiences made for a day that resonated deeply with my soul.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme. The name itself hinted at the tranquility to come, and it certainly delivered. The Japanese-style breakfast was a beautiful assortment of small dishes, each bursting with flavor. I particularly enjoyed the perfectly cooked rice and the delicate miso soup. Wei, of course, was a big fan of the Tamagoyaki, the sweet rolled omelet, while Mei savored the pickled vegetables. It was a perfect start to a day of cultural immersion. I always appreciate a good breakfast, especially when it incorporates local ingredients and flavors. It’s a great way to connect with the place you're visiting, and this breakfast did not disappoint. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes when I get back home; maybe it will help me bring a little bit of Kanazawa's calm back to Zurich.


Experience exquisite French cuisine in the serene ambiance of Kanazawa's Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme.

Our first destination of the day was Seison-kaku Villa, a place that whispered tales of a bygone era. Built in 1863 by the 13th lord of the Maeda family for his mother, this villa is a stunning example of Edo-period architecture blended with Western influences. As we walked through the meticulously designed rooms, I was struck by the intricate details – the openwork carvings of flowers and birds, the coffered ceilings, and the delicate painted screens. It was fascinating to see how traditional Japanese aesthetics were combined with elements like American-made chandeliers and Dutch painted glass. The villa offered a glimpse into the lives of the Maeda family, showcasing their refined tastes and immense wealth. Wei was captivated by the colorful animal motifs in some of the rooms, particularly the Tortoise Room and the Butterfly Room. Mei, with her keen eye for design, appreciated the seamless integration of different styles. I found myself admiring the way the villa was built around two small gardens, creating a sense of harmony and tranquility. It was evident that every detail was carefully considered to provide comfort and aesthetic pleasure.


Explore Seison-kaku, a historic gem in Kanazawa, where traditional architecture meets serene gardens, embodying Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of history, where beauty and serenity intertwine.

After Seison-kaku, we made our way to Oyama Shrine, a place dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Maeda Clan. The shrine's history is quite interesting; it was originally built in 1599 on Mount Utatsu and later moved to its current location in 1873. What makes Oyama Shrine particularly unique is its main gate, the Shinmon, which was designed by a Dutch architect and constructed in 1875. This gate is an intriguing blend of Japanese, Chinese, and European architectural elements. As we approached the gate, I was struck by its unusual design. The first story displays a mix of Japanese and Chinese influences, while the upper stories feature a Dutch style, complete with stained glass windows. It’s said that the third floor was once used as a lighthouse, which adds another layer of intrigue to its history. Wei was fascinated by the statue of Maeda Toshiie astride a horse, which seemed a bit out of place on the grounds of a shrine but highlighted the deep respect for the man in this town. Mei and I strolled through the garden, admiring the ponds and bridges that were designed to resemble harps and lutes. The whole atmosphere was one of peace and reverence.


Explore the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of Oyama Shrine, a must-visit Shinto shrine in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.

For lunch, we headed to Kaga restaurant, eager to sample more of Kanazawa's culinary delights. The restaurant is located on the 19th floor of a hotel, offering stunning views of the city. I was excited to try their teppanyaki, a style of Japanese cuisine where dishes are cooked on a large iron griddle right in front of the diners. We opted for a set menu that included a variety of dishes, from grilled Noto beef to fresh seafood and mountain delicacies. The chef's skillful preparation and the quality of the ingredients made for a truly memorable meal. Wei was particularly enthralled by the chef's performance, watching with wide eyes as he expertly flipped and sliced the food. Mei and I enjoyed the opportunity to savor the flavors of the Hokuriku region while taking in the panoramic views. I must say, the Noto beef was exceptionally tender and flavorful, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. It was a culinary experience that perfectly complemented our day of cultural exploration.


Discover Kaga: A Teppanyaki dining gem in Kanazawa offering stunning views and exquisite Japanese cuisine.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to seek out a bit of evening entertainment. That’s how we ended up at Kanazawa Music Bar. Nestled in the heart of the city, this bar promised a unique experience, blending music and mixology in a way that only Kanazawa could. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the warm glow of vintage lighting and the soulful sounds of vinyl records. The walls were adorned with album covers and music memorabilia, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The bartender, a friendly and knowledgeable fellow, introduced us to their menu of original cocktails inspired by music. I opted for a classic whisky sour, while Mei chose a concoction featuring local sake and citrus. Wei, of course, stuck to his usual orange juice. The music was fantastic, a mix of old classics and groovy tunes that set the perfect mood. We sipped our drinks, enjoying the ambiance and the company of fellow music lovers. It was a delightful way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Kanazawa Music Bar, where live music and delightful drinks create unforgettable memories in Kanazawa.

Dinner was at A_RESTAURANT, and it was a culinary experience unlike any other. This innovative restaurant is known for its artistic presentation and use of local ingredients. The restaurant itself is located on the second floor of a building with an impressive international atmosphere and high ceilings. We chose the chef's tasting menu, which featured a series of small, exquisitely prepared dishes. Each course was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The chef's creativity and attention to detail were evident in every bite. Wei was a bit hesitant at first, as some of the dishes were quite adventurous, but he ended up enjoying the experience, especially the meat dishes. Mei and I were both impressed by the chef's innovative use of local ingredients, showcasing the best of Kanazawa's culinary heritage. The wine pairing was also excellent, enhancing the flavors of each dish. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a fitting end to a day of cultural and culinary exploration.


Experience exquisite cuisine at A_RESTAURANT in Kanazawa, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kanazawa's beauty and tranquility. From the serene gardens of Seison-kaku to the unique architecture of Oyama Shrine, every moment was a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. The delicious meals and the soulful music added another layer of depth to our experience. It was a day that nourished both the body and the soul, a reminder of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple pleasures of life. As we prepare for our final day in Kanazawa, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. According to the itinerary, we will be exploring the Kazuemachi Chaya District and the Kanazawa Nishi-chaya Museum. I am particularly excited to wander through the historic streets and learn more about the city's geisha culture. We will also be visiting Kanazawa Loft for some shopping, and I am sure Wei will be thrilled to pick out a souvenir or two. It promises to be another day of discovery and adventure, a fitting conclusion to our cultural immersion in Kanazawa. I am looking forward to sharing those experiences with you all soon.

Tomorrow marks our last day here in Kanazawa, and I plan to make the most of it before we head back to Zurich. It’s always a bittersweet feeling, leaving a place that has captured your heart. But I know that the memories and experiences we’ve gathered here will stay with us long after we’ve returned home. I am also excited to try Teppanyaki makibi san-an for dinner tomorrow. I have heard great things about their teppanyaki.

I think I will remember this trip for a long time to come.