Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kanazawa, Japan

A Day of Discovery in Kanazawa

Today was a wonderful immersion into Kanazawa's past and present. Maximilian and I explored historical residences, artisan workshops, and savored the local cuisine. It's days like these that remind me why I love traveling – the opportunity to learn, to experience, and to connect with different cultures.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Spice Box. I opted for the curry lunch, and Maximilian chose the Maraitika. The Sri Lankan flavors were a delightful change of pace, and the spices woke up our senses, preparing us for the day ahead. It was a cozy little place, filled with locals, which is always a good sign.


Savor authentic Indian cuisine at Spice Box - where vibrant flavors meet a cozy izakaya atmosphere in Kanazawa.

First on our itinerary was a visit to Seison-kaku Villa. This elegant villa, built in 1863 by Maeda Nariyasu for his mother, Shinryu-in, is a true gem. As we wandered through the villa, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate details and the seamless blend of Japanese and international design elements. The main floor, built in the buke-shoin style, featured a formal guest chamber and a covered walkway that opened onto a serene garden. I was particularly fascinated by the Horsetail corridor, a 20-meter long walkway with no supporting beams – a testament to Meiji-period architectural innovation. The second floor was equally captivating, decorated in vibrant reds, blues, and purples, with shōji screens featuring glass panes imported from the Netherlands.


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

The beauty of Kanazawa lies not just in its well-preserved history, but in the way it continues to embrace and celebrate its cultural heritage.

After immersing ourselves in the refined elegance of Seison-kaku, we made our way to the Kanazawa Utatsuyama Kogei Kobo. Here, we delved into the world of traditional Japanese crafts. The Kobo serves to preserve and develop KOGEI (crafts) in Kanazawa as well as promote cultural activities. This wasn't just a museum; it was an immersive experience. From delicate ceramics to intricate textiles, each piece told a story of cultural significance and craftsmanship. I was particularly drawn to the hands-on workshops, where visitors can try their hand at various crafts under the guidance of skilled artisans. Though we didn't participate today, it's definitely something I'd consider for a future visit. I was quite impressed by the handbag dyeing workshop with Nahoko Yamazaki. Maximilian, always the supportive husband, pretended to be interested, but I could tell he was more excited about the prospect of lunch.


Discover the rich heritage of Japanese craftsmanship at Kanazawa Utatsuyama Kogei Kobo, an inspiring handicraft museum and training center.

For lunch, we headed to Sushi Ippei, a family-run establishment known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious sushi. We were greeted by the wife of the chef, who spoke excellent English and made us feel right at home. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and I savored every bite. Maximilian, who usually prefers cooked dishes, even admitted that it was some of the best sushi he'd ever had. The place was cozy and intimate, and it was clear that the owners took great pride in their craft. It was a delightful experience, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kanazawa.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Sushi Ippei, where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry in Kanazawa's vibrant dining scene.

Our final stop of the day was the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum. Located in the Nagamachi samurai district, this museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the ashigaru, the foot soldiers of feudal Japan. The museum consists of two faithfully preserved Edo-period homes of common foot soldiers and their families. It was humbling to see how these lower-ranking samurai lived, especially compared to the more stately samurai houses in the area. The houses, though humble, reflected the wealth of the Kaga domain, with detached homes and gardens. Exhibits of restored household items helped us imagine the daily lives of these families, providing a deeper understanding of Kanazawa's history.


Explore the rich legacy of Japan's foot soldiers at the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to unwind at The Londonya Bar. This British-style bar offered a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a pre-dinner drink. I ordered a gin and tonic, while Maximilian opted for a local craft beer. The bar had a distinct Japanese flair, blending Western and Eastern influences seamlessly. We chatted about our day, reminiscing about the beautiful villa, the intricate crafts, and the humble homes of the ashigaru.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selection at The Londonya Bar in Kanazawa's lively Katamachi district.

For dinner, we had reservations at Restaurant N, a French restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and use of local ingredients. The restaurant had a relaxed atmosphere with private rooms available. We chose the chef's omakase, which featured seasonal ingredients from the Hokuriku region. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant N in Kanazawa, where local flavors meet classic culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kanazawa's rich history and culture. From the elegance of Seison-kaku to the craftsmanship of the Utatsuyama Kogei Kobo and the simplicity of the Ashigaru Museum, every moment was a learning experience. And of course, the delicious food added another layer of enjoyment to our day. Kanazawa truly is a city that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul.

Tomorrow, we're planning to venture a bit further afield, with a trip to Yamanaka Onsen, a visit to Mount Utatsu, and a stroll through Utatsuyama Park Hanashoubuen. I'm also hoping to find some time to explore Kinpakuya Sakuda Head Shop & Workshop, where I can learn more about the art of gold leaf application. Until then, I bid you goodnight from Kanazawa, a city that continues to surprise and delight me at every turn.

I'm also reminded to pack my power adapter and portable charger for the remainder of the trip – a lesson learned from my initial packing mishaps!

I am looking forward to sharing more of my adventures with you all soon!