Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kanazawa, Japan

First Impressions of Kanazawa: Gardens, Castles, and Samurai Residences

After an overnight flight and a train journey, Maximilian and I were eager to immerse ourselves in the cultural heart of Kanazawa. Today was all about experiencing the city's renowned historical sites, starting with the famed Kenroku-en Garden. I was particularly excited, as I'd read so much about its meticulous landscaping and serene atmosphere. We planned a full day, from the early morning tranquility of the gardens to an evening savoring local delicacies.


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

Our day began with an early breakfast at Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen. The restaurant is set in a renovated Japanese storehouse over 100 years old, and the fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine was a delightful start to our culinary journey. I opted for the avocado tuna on seaweed, while Maximilian chose the flounder stick tempura. Both were delicious and set the perfect tone for a day of exploration.


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

Kenroku-en: A Garden of Six Attributes

Stepping into Kenroku-en, I immediately understood why it's considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The name 'Kenroku-en' refers to the six essential attributes of a perfect garden: spaciousness, serenity, artifice, antiquity, water sources, and magnificent views. These elements were harmoniously blended to create a landscape that felt both natural and carefully curated. The Kasumigaike Pond reflected the surrounding greenery, and the iconic Kotoji-tōrō lantern stood gracefully by the water's edge. Maximilian, with his keen eye for detail, was immediately captivated, snapping photos from every angle.

In the quietude of Kenroku-en, I felt a profound connection to Japanese history and artistry, a moment of serene beauty that transcended time.

We wandered along the winding paths, discovering hidden teahouses and meticulously pruned trees. The Yūgao-tei, a traditional teahouse, offered a glimpse into the art of tea ceremonies, and we paused for a moment to appreciate the tranquility. I tried to imagine what the garden would be like in winter, covered in snow, with the *yukitsuri* (ropes supporting the tree branches) creating a stark, beautiful contrast against the white landscape. I made a mental note to return sometime during the colder months to witness this spectacle.

I learned that during June, Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden often host nighttime illuminations, and I wished we could have stayed later to experience that. I also read about the firefly viewing events that sometimes take place in late June and early July, and it sounds like a magical experience.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Kanazawa Castle Park, where history meets nature in a serene Japanese landscape.

Kanazawa Castle Park: Echoes of Feudal Japan

Just a short walk from Kenroku-en, Kanazawa Castle Park awaited us. The castle, once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan, is a testament to the region's rich history. Although much of the original structure was destroyed by fire, the reconstructed buildings, such as the Ishikawa-mon Gate and the Hishi Yagura turret, were impressive.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the park, admiring the architecture and learning about the castle's strategic importance during the Edo period. The vast open spaces provided a sense of grandeur, and I could almost picture the samurai warriors patrolling the grounds. Maximilian was particularly interested in the castle's defensive features, pointing out the clever design elements that would have protected it from invaders.

Interestingly, the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival, a major event celebrating the entry of Lord Maeda Toshiie into Kanazawa Castle in the 16th century, occurs annually in early June. We were just a few days late to witness the impressive parade of warriors, traditional performances, and historical reenactments, but the atmosphere of history was still palpable.

Omicho Market: A Culinary Adventure

By lunchtime, we were both quite hungry, so we headed to Omicho Market, known as 'Kanazawa's Kitchen'. This bustling marketplace has been the city's primary fresh food market since the Edo period. The market was a feast for the senses, with vendors hawking their wares, from fresh seafood to local produce. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere were infectious.


Discover the flavors of Kanazawa at Omicho Market, a vibrant fresh food market showcasing local seafood, produce, and culinary delights.

We decided to have lunch at Iki-iki Tei, a small restaurant within the market specializing in seafood bowls. I ordered the 'Mini Kanazawa Bowl', a delightful assortment of fresh seafood served over rice. Maximilian opted for the 'Ikiiki Tei World', a more extravagant bowl featuring premium local fish. Both were incredibly fresh and flavorful, a true taste of the Sea of Japan.


Discover authentic sushi at Iki-iki Tei in Kanazawa – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

After lunch, we wandered through the market, sampling local delicacies and purchasing some souvenirs. I bought some *umeboshi* (pickled plums) and *tsukemono* (pickled vegetables), while Maximilian picked up a bottle of local sake. The market was a perfect place to experience the local culture and cuisine, and we thoroughly enjoyed the lively atmosphere.

Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence: A Glimpse into Samurai Life

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Nagamachi Samurai District to visit the Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence. This well-preserved house offered a fascinating glimpse into the life of a high-ranking samurai family. The residence belonged to the Nomura family, who served the Maeda clan for generations.


Explore the Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence in Kanazawa, a historical gem showcasing the elegance of samurai life and Japanese culture.

The house itself was a masterpiece of traditional Japanese architecture, with tatami mats, intricately painted *fusuma* (sliding doors), and a beautiful inner garden. I was particularly impressed by the attention to detail, from the cypress-wood ceiling to the meticulously arranged stones in the garden. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, was captivated by the samurai armor and weaponry on display.

The garden, though small, was exquisite. It featured a 400-year-old bayberry tree, a meandering stream, and a stone lantern. I learned that the garden had been recognized as one of the top three gardens in Japan by the *Journal of Japanese Gardening*, and I could see why. It was a tranquil oasis, a perfect place for contemplation and reflection.

To walk through the Nomura-ke residence is to step back in time, to feel the weight of history and the quiet dignity of a samurai's life.

We sat for a while in the tea room, admiring the garden and sipping *matcha*. The tea was bitter but refreshing, and the view was simply stunning. I tried to imagine what it would have been like to live in this house, to be a part of the samurai culture. It was a world of discipline, honor, and tradition, a world that seemed so different from our modern lives.

As we left the residence, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this unique aspect of Japanese history. The Nagamachi Samurai District, with its preserved streets and traditional houses, was a reminder of a bygone era, a time when samurai walked these same paths.

Teppanyaki Makibi San-An: A Culinary Finale

For our final stop, we had dinner at Teppanyaki Makibi San-An. The restaurant is known for its teppanyaki that locks in the flavor of branded Wagyu beef and brings out its deliciousness. Maximilian and I both opted for the Noto beef, raised in a rich environment blessed with nature. The chef cooked the beef on an iron plate, using oak and cherry firewood to add aroma to the delicate flavor of the Wagyu beef and preserve its tasty juice. It was a truly memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic teppanyaki dining at Teppanyaki Makibi San-an in Kanazawa—where culinary artistry meets vibrant flavors.

Reflections on a Day Well-Spent

As we walked back to the Tmark City Hotel Kanazawa, I reflected on the day's experiences. We had seen so much, from the serene beauty of Kenroku-en to the bustling energy of Omicho Market. We had learned about the history of Kanazawa, from its feudal past to its modern-day vibrancy. And we had tasted the flavors of the region, from fresh seafood to succulent Wagyu beef. It was a day that had engaged all of my senses, a day that had left me feeling both inspired and grateful.


Experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity at Tmark City Hotel Kanazawa, your ideal base for exploring this charming city.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, the Higashi Chaya District, and the Geisha House Shima. I am excited to see the contrast between the traditional and the modern aspects of Kanazawa. Before dinner at A_RESTAURANT, we might stop by Oriental Brewing for a drink.

I am looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this fascinating city. Kanazawa, with its blend of history, culture, and cuisine, has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am also grateful to be sharing this experience with Maximilian, who is always ready to explore and discover new things with me. It is moments like these that make our travels so special and memorable. I feel so lucky to have him by my side.

I'm also glad that, despite forgetting the power adapter and portable charger, we managed to capture so many memories today. I will definitely need to remember to buy those tomorrow!