Exploring the Cultural Riches of Kanazawa, Japan

Echoes of History in Kanazawa

Today, Maximilian and I delved deeper into the heart of Kanazawa, seeking out the stories etched into its ancient stones and whispered through its serene gardens. It was a day of quiet contemplation, punctuated by moments of delightful discovery and culinary indulgence.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Umi & Tsuchi. The restaurant's creative cuisine, blending French techniques with local Japanese ingredients, was the perfect start to a day dedicated to exploring Kanazawa's cultural tapestry. Maximilian particularly enjoyed the Japanese wine selection, a testament to Japan's burgeoning wine industry. It reminded me of our wine-tasting trips in the Ahr Valley back home in Germany, though the flavors here were distinctly Japanese.


Discover exquisite Kaiseki dining at Umi & Tsuchi, where Kyoto's culinary traditions meet modern elegance in Kanazawa.

First on our itinerary was Tentokuin Temple, a place shrouded in the poignant history of Tamahime, the doll-loving princess. The temple, dedicated to her memory, exudes a sense of tranquility that is both captivating and a little melancholic. The story of Tamahime, married at a young age and passing away at twenty-four, is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life. The temple itself is beautiful, with its solemn atmosphere and the serene presence of the Niō guardians at the front gate.


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

The past is never truly gone; it lingers in the stones, the gardens, and the stories we tell.

Next, we ventured to Myouryuji Temple, famously known as the Ninja Temple. Despite its nickname, it has no actual connection to ninjas. However, it was built as a secret armed outpost in 1643 to protect Kanazawa Castle from attack. The ingenuity of its design was remarkable, with hidden rooms, secret passageways, and trap doors aplenty. It felt like stepping into a historical puzzle box. Maximilian, with his data scientist's mind, was particularly fascinated by the temple's complex layout and the clever ways it circumvented the shogunate's rules on building heights. It was a little tricky to book the tour, having to call and make a reservation over the phone, but it was definitely worth it.


Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of Myouryuji Temple in Kanazawa, a tranquil Buddhist haven steeped in history.

After the Ninja Temple, we needed a bit of retail therapy, so we headed to Kanazawa Loft. I was hoping to find a portable charger, as I had forgotten mine, but alas, no luck. However, I did manage to pick up some unique Japanese novelties and cosmetics, perfect little mementos of our trip. I even found a lovely calligraphy set, which I plan to use to practice my Japanese when we return to Bonn.


Explore Kanazawa Loft: Your ultimate shopping destination for cosmetics, home goods, and unique Japanese novelties in the heart of Kanazawa.

For lunch, we indulged in the smoky goodness of yakitori at Bird Yakitori. This restaurant is nestled in the heart of Kanazawa. The aroma of grilled chicken filled the air as we stepped inside. The yakitori was expertly prepared, each skewer perfectly seasoned and grilled over charcoal. Maximilian and I shared a variety of skewers, savoring the different cuts of chicken and seasonal vegetables. It was a delightful, casual meal that left us feeling satisfied and energized for the rest of our explorations.


Discover authentic yakitori at Bird Yakitori in Kanazawa - a cozy haven for food lovers seeking traditional Japanese flavors.

In the late afternoon, we strolled through Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The garden was beautiful, with its meticulously manicured landscapes, serene ponds, and ancient trees. The Kotoji Toro (Stone Lantern) was especially picturesque, its elegant form reflected in the still waters of the Kasumigaike Pond. We took our time wandering through the garden, soaking in the tranquility and admiring the artistry of its design. It was a perfect example of the Japanese aesthetic, blending natural beauty with human craftsmanship.


Explore Kotoji Toro, the iconic stone lantern of Kanazawa, nestled in the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden, a must-visit for every traveler.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Teppanyaki Icho for dinner. Located on the 29th floor of Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, the restaurant offered stunning panoramic views of the city. The teppanyaki chef was a master of his craft, skillfully grilling wagyu steaks and fresh seafood right before our eyes. The meal was a feast for the senses, with the enticing aromas, sizzling sounds, and exquisite flavors all combining to create a truly memorable dining experience. We opted for a course that included both sirloin and fillet, and the flavors were indeed outstanding. It was the perfect way to end a day of cultural immersion and exploration.


Discover an unforgettable Teppanyaki dining experience at Icho in Kanazawa's Hotel Nikko—where flavors meet artistry against stunning city views.

Today was also the day of the SKIF Seminar with Nobuaki Kanazawa, which I'm sure some locals and tourists enjoyed.

Reflecting on the day, I realize how much Kanazawa has captured my heart. It's a city that effortlessly blends the old and the new, the traditional and the modern. The whispers of the past are ever-present, yet the city is also vibrant and forward-looking. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, as we plan to journey to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Before heading there, we'll have breakfast at Kanazawa Note Dining Bar. I've heard they have a lovely selection of local pastries.

After Shirakawa-go, we'll have lunch at Gyokusen-tei, and then in the evening, we'll head back to Kanazawa for dinner at Kagaya Kanazawa. Maximilian is looking forward to unwinding with a drink at Sturgis bar.

As I sit here writing, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we have had today. Kanazawa has revealed its soul to us, and I am eager to continue exploring its hidden corners and uncovering its many treasures. Good night from Kanazawa!