Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kanazawa, Japan

Echoes of the Past in Kanazawa

Today was a day of immersion into Kanazawa's captivating history and culture. From the imposing Kanazawa Castle to the serene Kazuemachi Chaya District, every corner held a story waiting to be discovered. It’s days like these that remind me why I love traveling – the chance to step back in time and experience the world through a different lens.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme. The name itself was intriguing, and the food was equally impressive. Maximilian and I enjoyed a mix of traditional Japanese and Western breakfast items, fueling up for a day of exploration. It’s funny how a good breakfast can set the tone for the entire day, and today, it definitely did the trick.


Experience exquisite French cuisine in the serene ambiance of Kanazawa's Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme.

Kanazawa Castle: A Majestic Start

Kanazawa Castle was our first stop, and what a sight it was! The castle is a stunning example of feudal architecture, with its impressive gates, turrets, and meticulously reconstructed buildings. As we walked through the grounds, I couldn’t help but imagine what life must have been like during the Edo period. The vast courtyards and imposing stone walls spoke of power and resilience. It’s hard to believe that much of what stands today is a reconstruction, meticulously rebuilt to reflect its former glory after fires destroyed many original structures.


Explore the exquisite beauty and historical significance of Kanazawa Castle, a majestic landmark in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.

We explored the Hishi Yagura turret, the Hashizume-mon Gate, and the Gojikken Nagaya, each offering unique insights into the castle’s defenses and daily life. The intricate details of the woodwork and the strategic placement of the buildings were truly impressive. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, was in his element, reading every informational plaque and sharing interesting facts.

I was particularly fascinated by the lead tiles used on the roof of the castle. Apparently, these tiles could be melted down and used for bullets in case of a siege! It's details like these that bring history to life, making it more than just dates and names in a book.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall: A Glimpse into Merchant Life

Next on our itinerary was the Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, a beautifully preserved merchant house that once belonged to a family-run pharmacy. This museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Kanazawa’s merchants during the Meiji era. The term shinise refers to an old shop, and this building perfectly captured the essence of a traditional merchant’s home and business.


Explore Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, a museum showcasing the rich traditions and craftsmanship of Kanazawa's local heritage.

The building itself was a work of art, with its intricate wooden structure, tatami mats, and serene garden. Inside, we explored the old shop space, living quarters, and even a tea room. The exhibits showcased traditional handicrafts and tools used by local businesses, providing a tangible connection to the past. I especially loved the blossoming tree made entirely of sugar on the second floor – a testament to Kanazawa's confectionery fame!

Learning about the Nakaya family, who had been in the pharmacy business since 1579, was also incredibly interesting. Their dedication to traditional medicine and their contribution to the community truly resonated with me. It’s these personal stories that make historical sites so much more meaningful.

Lunch at Itaru: A Culinary Delight

By lunchtime, we were both quite hungry, so we headed to Itaru, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Kanazawa cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, traditional atmosphere. We ordered a selection of local specialties, including fresh seafood and regional vegetables. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was equally impressive. It’s always a pleasure to discover new culinary delights, and Itaru certainly didn’t disappoint.


Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Itaru Izakaya in Kanazawa – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

Kazuemachi Chaya District: A Stroll Through Time

In the afternoon, we ventured into the Kazuemachi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's three geisha districts. This area, located along the Asano River, is known for its well-preserved wooden buildings and charming atmosphere. As we strolled along the cobblestone streets, I felt like I had stepped back in time.


Discover the captivating Kazuemachi Chaya District in Kanazawa, a historical treasure showcasing traditional teahouses and rich cultural experiences.

The Kazuemachi Chaya District was established in the early Meiji era (1868–1912). The wooden buildings, cherry trees, and riverside location create a charming atmosphere. Though Higashi Chaya District tends to be more famous, Kazuemachi offers a less crowded, more intimate experience. There are still active tea houses in Kazuemachi, where geiko (the local name for geisha) entertain customers with music, dance, and games. I could almost hear the faint melodies of shamisen and singing drifting from the teahouses as we walked by.

We learned that Kazuemachi is also known as the setting for Hiroyuki Itsuki's novel Asano River Dusk, a tale of forbidden romance. Walking along the river, it was easy to see why this area has inspired so many stories and legends.

Shopping at Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store: Golden Treasures

Before dinner, we decided to do a bit of shopping at the Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store, located in Kanazawa Station. Hakuichi is famous for its gold leaf products, and this store offered a wide variety of crafts, cosmetics, and edible gold leaf items. I was amazed by the intricate designs and the sheer artistry of the gold leaf creations.


Explore Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store for unique souvenirs, home goods, and a taste of Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage.

We picked up a few souvenirs, including some gold leaf-infused sweets and a beautiful gold leaf fan. I even bought some edible gold leaf to sprinkle on our desserts back home – a little touch of Kanazawa to brighten our everyday life. The store's location in the station made it incredibly convenient, and I appreciated the opportunity to find such unique and high-quality gifts.

Dinner at Dining Tsuzumi: A Farewell Feast

For our final activity of the day, we enjoyed a memorable dinner at Dining Tsuzumi. This restaurant is known for its exquisite Kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. Each dish was a work of art, carefully prepared with seasonal ingredients and presented with impeccable attention to detail.


Discover exquisite Western cuisine at Dining Tsuzumi in Kanazawa, where French and Italian flavors meet Japanese hospitality.

The flavors were subtle yet complex, and the textures were equally delightful. From the delicate sashimi to the savory grilled fish, every course was a culinary masterpiece. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery. As we savored the last bite, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a rich and vibrant culture.

As we walked back to the Tmark City Hotel Kanazawa, Maximilian and I reflected on the day's adventures. We both agreed that Kanazawa had exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit the D.T. Suzuki Museum, Oyama Shrine, and the Nagamachi District. And perhaps, if we have time, we might even check out the Kohaku Bar for a nightcap. Until then, goodnight from Kanazawa!


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

I'm also realizing that I completely forgot to pack a power adapter and portable charger! It's a rookie mistake, but luckily, the hotel has been accommodating. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

I can't wait to share more of my Kanazawa adventures with you all tomorrow!