Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kanazawa

Kanazawa's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Kanazawa, a day where history whispered from ancient temples and the soul of Japan revealed itself in unexpected corners. It's days like these that remind me why I traded the familiar streets of Dublin for this adventure, seeking stories etched in time.

My day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Kagaya Kanazawa. Fuelled up, I was ready to explore. I've found these mornings are crucial; a good start sets the tone for the day, and today promised a blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty.

Tentokuin: A Princess's Legacy

My first stop was Tentokuin Temple. This Soto Zen Buddhist temple is dedicated to Tamahime, the beloved princess who married into the powerful Maeda clan. Her story is quite moving: she came from Edo (now Tokyo) to Kanazawa at the tender age of three to marry Toshitsune Maeda. Though their marriage was arranged, it's said they were a devoted couple. She died young, and Toshitsune built Tentokuin in her memory.

The temple itself is a haven of tranquility. The Sanmon gate, dating back to 1693, is the only original structure that survived a fire in 1768. The other buildings were reconstructed quickly after the blaze. Inside, I was fascinated by the collection of wind-up dolls that depict Tamahime's life. Apparently, she loved dolls, and some of her own are on display. There are also karakuri puppet shows that tell her story at various times during the day. Sadly, I missed the show times, but I did catch a glimpse of the Mokusho-Zen-tei garden behind the main hall.

I learned that Tamahime's marriage was a strategic move to maintain peace between the Tokugawa and Maeda families. Her presence in the Maeda family symbolized the Tokugawa's trust. It's a poignant reminder that even in royal life, personal happiness was often secondary to political strategy. As an antiques dealer, I'm always drawn to the stories behind objects, and Tentokuin is filled with them.

Visiting Tentokuin is like stepping back in time, a serene reminder of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.

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

Saigawa-Ōhashi Bridge: A River's Reflection

Next, I headed to the Saigawa-Ōhashi Bridge. This bridge isn't just a way to cross the Sai River; it's a landmark in its own right. The current concrete arch bridge was built in 1922, replacing an earlier wooden structure. For a time, it even carried streetcars. The bridge offers stunning views of the Sai River. The riverbanks are lined with cherry trees, so I can imagine how beautiful it must be in spring. Even in August, the green leaves provided a lovely contrast to the water.

I took a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The Saigawa River is considered one of the most beautiful in the Hokuriku region. From the bridge, you can see several scenic districts, including Kazuemachi and Higashiyama. I could see why artist Kawase Hasui immortalized the Asano River (which is nearby) in his prints.

Crossing the bridge toward Teramachi, I walked upriver along Muro Saisei Street. This led me to the W Slope, which offers another stunning view of the Saigawa River from a higher elevation. The slope has several historical names, including Ishikiri Slope, named after a village of stonemasons.


Explore the breathtaking Saigawa-Ōhashi Bridge, a stunning architectural gem that seamlessly blends nature and modernity in Kanazawa, Japan.

Shirakawa-go: A Journey to a Fairytale Village

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly my trip to Shirakawa-go. Although not directly in Kanazawa, this UNESCO World Heritage site was well worth the journey. I hopped on a bus and headed into the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. The journey itself was scenic, with lush greenery and glimpses of traditional Japanese life.

Shirakawa-go is famous for its gassho-style farmhouses. These houses have steeply pitched thatched roofs that resemble hands clasped in prayer. The design is meant to withstand the heavy snowfall that this region experiences in winter.

I wandered through Ogimachi Village, the largest village in Shirakawa-go. Many of the houses are over 250 years old. Some have been converted into guesthouses, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Japanese living. I didn't stay overnight, but I made a mental note to do so on a future trip. The rice paddies surrounding the houses were a vibrant green. I learned that the rice seedlings are planted in May during a rice planting festival.

I climbed up to the Shiroyama observation deck for a panoramic view of the village. From above, the village looked like a miniature world, nestled in the mountains. I visited the Shirakawa Hachiman Shinto Shrine. This shrine is important to the village's history and is the site of the Doburoku Festival in the fall.

It was quite hot and humid, typical of August. I was glad I'd packed my comfortable walking shoes and a bottle of water. I did notice signs indicating that the Seseragi Parking lot will be closed for repairs until the end of September, so it’s important to check for parking information before heading there.


Explore Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO Heritage Site with captivating gassho-zukuri houses and breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps, perfect for cultural immersion.

A Culinary Journey

For lunch, I stopped at Turban Curry Main Store. This restaurant is known for its rich and flavorful Japanese curry. I ordered the L-set curry, which came with pork cutlet, hamburger steak, and sausage. It was served on a stainless steel plate with a spoon, Kanazawa style. The curry was thick and spicy, and the portions were generous. It was definitely a comforting and satisfying meal. I found the staff friendly and the atmosphere welcoming.


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

In the evening, I had dinner at Daimyo Chaya. This restaurant specializes in crab dishes and kaiseki cuisine. I opted for a crab kaiseki meal, which was a multi-course delight. The crab was incredibly fresh, and each dish was beautifully presented. The restaurant has a traditional Japanese atmosphere, with private rooms and historical decorations. It's located near Kanazawa Station, making it easily accessible. It was a fitting end to a day of cultural exploration.


Experience exquisite crab dishes and authentic kaiseki cuisine at Daimyo Chaya in Kanazawa – a true culinary delight!

A Few Souvenirs

Before heading back to the hotel, I popped into the Museum Shop. I was looking for unique souvenirs that captured the essence of Kanazawa's culture. The shop had a wide array of items, including handmade crafts, traditional textiles, and pottery. I picked up a few small gifts for Aoife and Liam, as well as a couple of items for my antiques shop in Dublin. I resisted the urge to buy too much, knowing I still have a few days left on this trip. Perhaps I'll visit the Kaburaki Kutani Porcelain Shop & Museum later to get some exquisite porcelain. Or maybe I'll check out the Ninja Weapon Museum Shop for some unique items.


Discover unique gifts and local crafts at the Museum Shop in Kanazawa, where Japan's rich heritage comes to life in every item.

As I reflect on today, I'm struck by the seamless blend of history and modernity in Kanazawa. The city has a unique charm that's both captivating and calming. I'm looking forward to exploring more tomorrow, with plans to visit the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck, Kanda House, and Seison-kaku. And perhaps I'll unwind with a drink at the Bar of Shrine HOLY.

Kanazawa is a city that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the beauty of the present moment, all while honoring the traditions of the past.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this remarkable city and share my journey with you all.