Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa: A Solo Journey

A Day of Reflection and Gold in Kanazawa

Today was a day for quiet reflection and artistic indulgence in Kanazawa. After nearly a week and a half of exploration, I found myself drawn to the more serene corners of this beautiful city, seeking experiences that would soothe the soul and ignite the imagination. It was a day of gardens, gold, and gastronomic delights, a perfect blend of Kanazawa's rich cultural tapestry.

My day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Genzaemon. I always appreciate starting the day with a traditional meal, and it fueled me up for a day of exploring. The first stop was the famed Kotoji Toro, the iconic stone lantern in Kenrokuen Garden. Although the lantern is located within Kenrokuen Garden, I was still able to appreciate its beauty. Its unique design, with legs resembling the bridges of a *koto* (Japanese harp), is truly captivating. It's fascinating how such a simple object can become a symbol of an entire city. I learned that the Kotoji Toro is not only a symbol of Kanazawa, but also a token of friendship, with reproductions found in Kanazawa's sister cities around the world. It's a reminder of the connections that bind us across cultures and continents. I took some time to just sit and observe the lantern, appreciating its elegance and the way it harmonizes with its surroundings.


Explore Kotoji Toro, the iconic stone lantern of Kanazawa, nestled in the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden, a must-visit for every traveler.

From there, I ventured to the Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden, a hidden gem with a history stretching back 400 years. This garden, unlike the more expansive Kenrokuen, offers a more intimate and tranquil experience. Maintained by the Nishida family since the early 20th century, it exudes a sense of peace and history.


Experience the serene beauty and cultural heritage of Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden in Kanazawa, a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Gardens are not just collections of plants; they are living tapestries that reflect the history, culture, and spirit of a place.

The Gyokusen-en garden was initially created in the mid-17th century by Wakita Naokata, a samurai retainer of the Maeda clan. Later, the Nishida family acquired the property during the Meiji Era and has maintained it since. The garden's name is derived from Gyokusen-in, the wife of Maeda Toshinaga, highlighting its deep connection to the Kaga clan. As I wandered through the meticulously landscaped grounds, I discovered that the garden predates Kenrokuen by 120 years. The serene pond, the carefully placed stones, and the lush greenery created a calming atmosphere. I particularly enjoyed the tea ceremony experience at Saisetsu-tei, the oldest teahouse in Kanazawa, where I savored matcha tea while gazing out at the picturesque landscape. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to connect with the beauty of nature and the traditions of Japan.

After my peaceful garden visits, I decided to indulge in a bit of Kanazawa's famous gold leaf artistry. I headed to Kinpakuya Sakuda Head Shop & Workshop, eager to witness the intricate process of gold leaf creation. This shop specializes in gold leaf products, and they offer visitors the chance to observe artisans at work. I was fascinated as I watched the workers delicately peel paper-thin gold leaf and carefully decorate objects with it. The owner explained how the gold leaf is pounded between sheets of paper until it's incredibly thin, a testament to the dedication and skill of these artisans. I even participated in a gold-leafing workshop, creating my own personalized item. It was a truly unique experience, and I left with a newfound appreciation for this traditional craft.


Explore exquisite gold leaf artistry and unique gifts at Kinpakuya Sakuda in Kanazawa's historic Higashiyama district.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Bird Yakitori. I savored the smoky, savory flavors of grilled chicken skewers, a perfect mid-day treat. In the afternoon, I returned to Kinpakuya Sakuda Head Shop & Workshop for their workshop. Gold leaf production in Kanazawa began 400 years ago, and the city now produces 99 percent of Japan's gold leaf. I was able to decorate my own souvenirs with Kanazawa's famous gold leaf.


Discover authentic yakitori at Bird Yakitori in Kanazawa - a cozy haven for food lovers seeking traditional Japanese flavors.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Yutaro for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Kanazawa cuisine, and I was eager to sample some local flavors. I opted for a seafood dish, savoring the freshness of the ingredients and the delicate balance of flavors. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural immersion and artistic exploration.


Explore Yutaro, the cultural heart of Kanazawa, where tradition meets modernity in a captivating tourist attraction.

Before dinner, I also made a stop at Kinpakuya Sakuda Head Shop & Workshop. There, I learned how artisans create delicate gold leaf designs. I was captivated by the meticulous process, which involves hammering gold between sheets of paper until it's incredibly thin. The artisans then carefully apply the gold leaf to various objects, from chopsticks to jewelry boxes.

Tonight, I dined at Kanazawa Note Dining Bar. I enjoyed sampling local seafood and sake. I am looking forward to tomorrow, my last full day in Kanazawa, where I plan to visit Myouryuji (Ninja Temple), Kanazawa Utatsuyama Kogei Kobo, and Kuragarizaka. I also plan to visit Bar Spoon for a nightcap.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Japan at Kanazawa Note Dining Bar - where modern izakaya meets tradition in a lively setting.

As I reflect on my day, I'm struck by the way Kanazawa seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. From the serene gardens to the shimmering gold leaf artistry, this city offers a wealth of experiences that nourish the soul and inspire the mind. It's a place where the past and the present coexist in perfect harmony, creating a truly unique and unforgettable travel destination. I am glad I was able to experience this city on my own. Being alone allowed me to explore at my own pace, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Tomorrow marks the final day of my solo journey in Kanazawa. I plan to make the most of it by visiting the Myouryuji (Ninja Temple), exploring the Kanazawa Utatsuyama Kogei Kobo, and taking a stroll through Kuragarizaka. And, of course, I'll be sure to cap off my adventure with a visit to Bar Spoon for a well-deserved nightcap. I am looking forward to one last day of sightseeing before I head back to Toronto. I will miss the relaxing atmosphere, but I am excited to see James and Eglė again. I am sure they are eager to hear all about my adventures. I can't wait to share my photos and stories with them and relive the memories of this incredible journey.

“The best journey always takes us home, in more ways than one.”