Cultural Family Adventure in Kanazawa, Japan

A Royal Welcome to Kanazawa

After months of planning and dreaming, our family adventure in Kanazawa, Japan, has officially begun! The journey from Bonn was long, but the moment we stepped onto Japanese soil, the excitement washed away any lingering fatigue. There's something magical about arriving in a new country, a feeling of stepping into a living postcard. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Kanazawa, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

The weather in Kanazawa this October is proving to be quite pleasant. The temperature is mild, with a slight breeze, making it perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions. I made sure Sofia had a light jacket, just in case, remembering my mother’s wise words: "Always be prepared, *ma fille*!"

Our first stop was the magnificent Kanazawa Castle Park. As we approached, the imposing structure stood proudly against the clear blue sky. The castle, with its white walls and gray lead tiles, is a sight to behold. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the lords and samurai who once walked these grounds. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the stone walls, each telling a story of different eras and purposes. Klaus, ever the engineer, was impressed by the intricate construction and the sheer scale of the fortifications. We spent a good couple of hours wandering through the park, soaking in the history and enjoying the crisp autumn air. It’s amazing to think that parts of this castle were rebuilt after a fire in 1884, showcasing the dedication to preserving Kanazawa’s heritage.


Discover the serene beauty of Kanazawa Castle Park, where history and nature unite in a tranquil setting perfect for exploration and relaxation.

In the heart of Kanazawa, history whispers through ancient stones and blossoms in tranquil gardens, inviting us to embrace the beauty of a timeless journey.

Next on our itinerary was Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens. Just a short walk from Kanazawa Castle Park, this serene oasis was a welcome contrast to the grandeur of the castle. As we entered, we were greeted by a landscape of meticulously manicured trees, tranquil ponds, and picturesque bridges. The garden is designed to reflect six essential attributes: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and broad views. I must say, it lived up to its reputation. The vibrant autumn colors were just beginning to emerge, painting the garden in hues of red, orange, and gold.


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

Sofia was captivated by the Kotoji-toro Lantern, an iconic symbol of Kenroku-en with its unique two-legged design. Klaus, meanwhile, was fascinated by the ingenious water system that diverts water from a distant river to feed the garden’s streams and ponds. I found myself drawn to the tea houses, imagining the elegant ceremonies that must have taken place here over the centuries. It’s easy to see why Kenroku-en is considered a perfect garden; every corner offers a new perspective and a sense of tranquility. Apparently, there are autumn illumination events at Kenrokuen Garden from mid-October to late November, maybe we will have a chance to come back and see it.

By lunchtime, our appetites were calling, so we headed to Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen for a delightful breakfast. This cozy spot is known for its creative cuisine and innovative twists on traditional flavors. The chef was incredibly friendly, making our experience even better with great conversation. We enjoyed a variety of tapas-style Japanese dishes, each beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to refuel before our next adventure. I’m so glad we made a reservation; it seems to be a popular spot, and for good reason.


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured into Omicho Market, Kanazawa's vibrant kitchen. This bustling market has been a hub of fresh food and local produce since the Edo period, and it’s still going strong today. As we navigated through the narrow, covered streets, we were bombarded with sights, sounds, and smells. The market is a feast for the senses, with vendors selling everything from fresh seafood and vegetables to clothing and kitchen tools.


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

The seafood selection was particularly impressive, with an array of colorful fish, crabs, and shellfish. Sofia was wide-eyed as she watched the vendors prepare the seafood right in front of us. Klaus, ever the adventurous eater, sampled some local delicacies, while I picked up some fresh produce for our accommodation. We even found a vendor selling gold leaf ice cream, a Kanazawa specialty. Of course, Sofia insisted on trying it, and I must admit, it was quite a unique experience. It’s amazing to think that this market has been a vital part of Kanazawa’s culinary scene for over 300 years.

For lunch, we decided to try Kourin Sushi, a small sushi restaurant located near Kanazawa Castle Park. We were drawn to this place because of the good reviews and the promise of fresh, local seafood. Fortunately, we arrived at the right time, because there were a couple of seats available. The restaurant is indeed pretty small, but the sushi was delicious and incredibly fresh. We ordered the Chef's choice sushi, and it was very affordable. The fish was melt-in-your-mouth good, and the chef's unique take on sushi was a pleasant surprise. Sofia especially loved the tuna and shrimp, declaring it the best sushi she's ever had. I was happy to see her enjoying the local cuisine, and it was a great way to introduce her to the art of sushi-making.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Kourin Sushi in Kanazawa - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

As evening approached, we made our way to Itaru for dinner, an izakaya known for its excellent food and lively atmosphere. We were lucky to find this place on our walk back from the castle. The food was absolutely incredible and such good value. We had the sashimi, grilled chicken, plum fried chicken, and the Japanese omelette. After finishing the mackerel sashimi they brought us back the deep fried bones of the rest of the fish to eat - and it was absolutely delicious. The chefs are incredibly skilled and friendly, and the waiting staff are really helpful. Itaru is a highlight Izakaya in a trip full of Izakayas. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring, and we were excited to sample some local sake and traditional dishes.


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

Reflecting on today, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Kanazawa with my family. It’s moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. As I sit here in our cozy hotel room at the APA Hotel Kanazawa Katamachi EXCELLENT, I can’t help but feel excited for what tomorrow holds. We’ll be exploring the Higashi Chaya District and the Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence, delving even deeper into Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Kinpakuya Sakuda Head Shop & Workshop to learn more about the art of gold leafing. But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. Good night from Kanazawa!


Experience comfort and convenience in the heart of Kanazawa at APA Hotel Katamachi, perfect for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

Tomorrow promises new adventures as we explore the Higashi Chaya District and the Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence. I'm particularly excited about visiting Kinpakuya Sakuda Head Shop & Workshop to witness the intricate art of gold leaf application firsthand. But for now, it's time to rest and dream of the cultural wonders that await us. *Inshallah*, tomorrow will be another day filled with unforgettable memories.