Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kanazawa, Japan

Saying Goodbye to Kanazawa Through its Flavors

As my time in Kanazawa draws to a close, I wanted to soak in every last bit of this enchanting city. Today was all about savoring the local flavors, from the bustling Omicho Market to a refined Kaiseki dinner. It’s funny how food can encapsulate the essence of a place, creating memories that linger long after you’ve left.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. Maximilian and I were excited to try this spot, especially after reading so many rave reviews. Located in a renovated machiya house, the cafe had a cozy Seattle-style ambiance, a charming blend of Japanese and American influences. The owners, Yuko and Sol, were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. I ordered a latte with oat milk – a small luxury that always makes my morning brighter – and Maximilian went for a cappuccino. We shared a pulled pork sandwich, which was absolutely divine! The combination of flavors was perfect, and it was the ideal start to our last day in Kanazawa. It’s these little moments, shared over good food and coffee, that I cherish the most.


Experience the charm of Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café in Kanazawa – where delicious brunch meets vintage vibes.

After breakfast, we headed straight to Omicho Market, known as Kanazawa's Kitchen. The market was a vibrant explosion of colors, sounds, and smells. Fresh seafood, local produce, and various other delicacies were on display. The energy was infectious, with vendors calling out and locals bustling about their daily shopping. Maximilian, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the array of unfamiliar seafood. We sampled some spicy pickled squid and sweet shrimp, a truly unique experience. Wandering through the market, I couldn't help but reflect on how much this city values its culinary heritage. The market has been serving the city since 1721, offering a variety of food items including the locally harvested Kaga vegetables, and fresh seafood. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture. I picked up some local sweets to take back home as souvenirs, hoping to share a taste of Kanazawa with my friends and family in Germany.


Explore Omicho Market in Kanazawa, a vibrant hub of fresh seafood, local produce, and delectable street food that showcases Japan's culinary delights.

Food is not rational. Food is culture, habit, craving and memory.

Next on our itinerary was the Kanazawa City Tourism Association. We wanted to gather some last-minute information and perhaps find a few hidden gems we might have missed. The staff was incredibly helpful, providing us with maps and recommendations. They highlighted a few local festivals and cultural workshops that we unfortunately wouldn't have time for, but it was great to learn more about the city's vibrant cultural scene. It's always a good idea to check in with the local tourism association; they often have insights that you won't find in guidebooks. Maximilian was particularly interested in learning more about the local crafts, so the staff pointed us toward Kanazawa Bikazari Asano, a shop specializing in traditional Ishikawa crafts.


Explore the rich heritage, stunning gardens, and vibrant arts of Kanazawa, Japan, a city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity.

Kanazawa Bikazari Asano was a treasure trove of beautiful items. The shop carefully selects somewhat kawaii and absolutely lovable items for daily use from the 36 traditional crafts of Ishikawa. From Kutani ware porcelain to Kaga Yuzen dye, Kanazawa Gold Leaf, Kaganui embroidery works, and Paulownia Crafts, the store offered a wide array of Ishikawa's traditional crafts created by artists who are adding new dimensions to the world of traditional craft. I was particularly drawn to the delicate gold leaf jewelry and ended up purchasing a small pendant as a memento of our trip. Maximilian, always appreciative of fine craftsmanship, admired the intricate details of the Kaga Yuzen dyed goods. We learned that Kanazawa Bikazari Asano also offers gold-leafing experiences, where you can create your own craftwork. Although we didn't have time to participate, it sounded like a fun and unique activity. I made a mental note to try it on our next visit.


Explore the essence of Kanazawa at Bikazari Asano, where local artistry meets authentic Japanese craftsmanship in the heart of Higashiyama.

For lunch, we decided to try The Godburger, a place that had been highly recommended for its American-style cuisine. After days of traditional Japanese meals, we were both craving something a bit more familiar. The Godburger did not disappoint! The burgers were juicy and flavorful, and the fries were perfectly crispy. Maximilian, being a burger aficionado, declared it one of the best he’s ever had. I opted for the vegetarian burger, which was surprisingly delicious. The chef-owner creates a loose patty by cooking mushrooms, onions, and seasonal vegetables together on the griddle. It was a delightful surprise for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The atmosphere was casual and inviting, and the staff was friendly and spoke excellent English. It was a nice change of pace and a satisfying meal.


Experience gourmet burgers with local flair at The Godburger in Kanazawa – where culinary creativity meets comfort food.

As the day wound down, we prepared for our final culinary experience: dinner at Kifune, a Michelin-starred Kaiseki restaurant. Getting a reservation here was no easy feat, but I had booked well in advance, knowing that it would be the perfect way to conclude our Kanazawa adventure. Kifune is nestled in a renovated traditional home from the Taisho era, located near Higashi Chayagai district in Kanazawa. The restaurant offers a blend of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, with dishes like bamboo shoot sushi and pickled sayori on the Morikomi platter. Overlooking the Asano River, this renowned restaurant serves seasonal dishes that represent the best ingredients of each season. The ambiance was serene and elegant, with a sense of timelessness that permeated the air. Each dish was a work of art, meticulously prepared and beautifully presented. The flavors were subtle yet complex, showcasing the best of local ingredients. It was a true culinary journey, a celebration of Japanese gastronomy.


Experience exquisite Kaiseki dining at Kifune in Kanazawa – where tradition meets flavor in every beautifully crafted dish.

The Kaiseki experience was a multi-course affair, each dish thoughtfully paired with local sake. The chef explained the origins and preparation of each course, enhancing our appreciation for the artistry involved. I particularly enjoyed the sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. Maximilian, always eager to learn, asked numerous questions about the different types of sake and their brewing processes. The staff was patient and knowledgeable, providing us with a deeper understanding of Japanese culinary traditions. As we savored each course, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a refined and authentic meal. It was a fitting end to our culinary exploration of Kanazawa.

As we walked back to the Tmark City Hotel Kanazawa after dinner, the city was quiet and peaceful. The lights twinkled along the streets, casting a magical glow. I reflected on our time in Kanazawa, cherishing the memories we had made. From the serene Kenrokuen Garden to the bustling Omicho Market, from the delicate gold leaf crafts to the exquisite Kaiseki dinner, Kanazawa had captured my heart. It’s a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a unique and enriching travel experience. I’m already looking forward to our next visit, whenever that may be.


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

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” This quote resonates deeply with me, especially after this trip. Kanazawa has shown me a different facet of Japan, a place where history and culture are still very much alive. It’s a reminder that there’s so much to see and learn, so many stories to uncover.

Tomorrow, we leave Kanazawa and head back to Germany. While I’m excited to return home, I’ll carry the spirit of Kanazawa with me, a reminder to embrace the beauty of simplicity and the richness of cultural heritage. Until next time, Kanazawa, arigato!

I hope you've enjoyed following our journey through Kanazawa. Stay tuned for more travel adventures on my blog!