Cultural Family Adventure in Kanazawa, Japan

Farewell, Kanazawa: A Day of Tradition and Treasures

As our Kanazawa adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of this city's unique charm, from the elegant geisha district to the tranquil gardens and bustling local markets. It's a bittersweet feeling, but I know we'll carry these memories with us always.

Our final day in Kanazawa began with a hearty breakfast at Grill Otsuka. I had heard so much about their Hanton Rice, a local specialty, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant had a cozy, old-school vibe, filled with locals and tourists alike. I opted for the Hanton Rice, while Klaus went for the hamburger steak. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, decided to try a bit of both! The Hanton Rice was indeed delicious – a creamy omelet over ketchup rice, topped with fried seafood and a tangy tartar sauce. It was a delightful mix of flavors and textures, and I could see why it was so popular. Klaus enjoyed his hamburger steak, noting the tender and flavorful meat. It was a perfect start to our day, fueling us for our final explorations.


Discover Grill Otsuka in Kanazawa: Where Japanese tradition meets Western culinary excellence in every delicious bite.

With our bellies full, we ventured into the Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa's geisha district. The autumn air was crisp, carrying a hint of woodsmoke, and the preserved wooden buildings exuded an atmosphere of timeless elegance. As we strolled along the narrow streets, I couldn't help but imagine the geishas who once graced these very paths, their silk kimonos rustling as they hurried to their appointments. We visited Geisha House Shima, a beautifully preserved tea house that offered a glimpse into the lives of these fascinating women.

The house itself was a marvel, with its meticulously crafted tatami mats, lacquered wooden surfaces, and elegant furnishings. I learned that geisha houses typically didn't have kitchens; instead, they relied on food delivery services. The rooms were designed for entertaining, with small gardens and waiting areas for guests. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the musical instruments on display, imagining the melodies that once filled these rooms. I tried to picture the geishas entertaining guests with music, dance, and poetry in the red-walled rooms. It was like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into a world of artistry and refinement.


Discover the charm and history of Kanazawa at Geisha House Shima, a beautifully preserved heritage site showcasing Japan's geisha culture.

The beauty of Kanazawa lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in its ability to transport you to another era.

Leaving the geisha district, we headed to Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The garden was even more stunning than I had imagined, a sprawling landscape of ponds, streams, hills, and meticulously manicured trees. The autumn colors were in full swing, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows painting the scenery. We wandered along the winding paths, taking in the breathtaking views and enjoying the tranquility of nature. The crisp air was invigorating, and the gentle sounds of flowing water created a sense of serenity.

Our main destination within Kenrokuen was the Kotoji Toro (Stone Lantern), an iconic symbol of Kanazawa. This unique lantern, with its two legs resembling the bridges of a koto instrument, stood gracefully by the pond, its reflection shimmering in the water. Despite the crowds, there was something magical about this spot. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of this picturesque scene. Sofia was particularly taken with the lantern's unusual shape, asking Klaus about its history and significance. I read that the lantern was built in 1760 and has become a symbol of the garden itself, attracting visitors from around the world. It truly was a sight to behold.


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

After our garden stroll, we decided to do some souvenir shopping at the Ishikawa Local Products Center. I wanted to find something special to remind us of our time in Kanazawa, and this seemed like the perfect place. The center was filled with local crafts and delicacies, from gold leaf products to traditional sweets and handmade tsukuda-ni. I was particularly drawn to the gold leaf items, as Kanazawa is known for its gold leaf craftsmanship. I ended up buying a small gold leaf decorated box for myself and some gold leaf candies for the family. Sofia chose a beautiful hand-painted fan, while Klaus picked out a bottle of local sake.


Explore Ishikawa Local Products Center for authentic souvenirs and local delicacies that embody Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage.

Before dinner, we managed to squeeze in a bit more shopping, picking up some *wagashi* (traditional Japanese sweets) to take back to Bonn with us. I have always enjoyed making these sweets myself, but I thought it would be nice to bring some authentic versions home. It's a small piece of Kanazawa that we can share with our friends and family.

For our final dinner, we chose Kanazawa Note Dining Bar, hoping to savor some last bites of Kanazawa cuisine. The restaurant had a modern, stylish atmosphere, a nice change from the traditional settings we had experienced earlier in the day. We ordered a selection of local dishes, including fresh seafood, Kaga vegetables, and Jibuni, a traditional duck stew. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a perfect way to end our culinary journey in Kanazawa.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Japan at Kanazawa Note Dining Bar - where modern izakaya meets tradition in a lively setting.

As I sit here in our hotel room, packing our bags for our train ride to Tokyo tomorrow, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Kanazawa has exceeded all my expectations, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the geisha district to the gardens to the local markets, every corner of this city has captivated us. I'm so glad that I was able to share this experience with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for a lifetime. While this leg of our journey is coming to an end, I am excited to continue our adventure in Tokyo, and I know that there will be many more wonderful experiences to come.

Tomorrow, we will be heading back to Tokyo to prepare for our flight back to Bonn. I will miss the serene atmosphere of Kanazawa, but I am also looking forward to being back in our cozy home. I'm already planning our next family adventure, perhaps a trip back to Morocco to visit my family in Azrou. Until then, I will continue to share our travel experiences on my blog, hoping to inspire others to explore the world and embrace cultural diversity.

And to anyone planning a trip to Japan, I wholeheartedly recommend adding Kanazawa to your itinerary. You won't be disappointed.

It’s been a wonderful trip. I know the family has enjoyed it as much as I have, and that makes me so happy.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller”. – Ibn Battuta