Exploring the Historical Wonders of Kanazawa: A Solo Journey

Finding Peace in Kanazawa's Spiritual Corners

Today was a day of quiet contemplation and exploration of Kanazawa’s more spiritual side. It's amazing how a change of pace, moving away from the bustling markets and grand castles, can offer a different perspective on a city. I was eager to delve into the serene spaces that Kanazawa had to offer.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. The quirky decor and excellent coffee were the perfect start. It reminded me a bit of a small café Marie and I stumbled upon in Brussels years ago, filled with vintage furniture and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. After fueling up, I set off to the D.T. Suzuki Museum.


Discover the tranquil D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa, a serene tribute to Zen Buddhism and its profound philosophies.

As an antique restorer, I often find myself drawn to places that exude a sense of history and quiet reflection, and this museum certainly fit the bill.

The D.T. Suzuki Museum is dedicated to the life and works of Daisetz Teitaro Suzuki, a prominent Buddhist philosopher. The museum itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, designed to encourage contemplation. The minimalist design, with its clean lines and tranquil water garden, created an atmosphere of profound peace. Walking through the exhibits, I was struck by Suzuki’s teachings on Zen Buddhism and how they emphasized simplicity and mindfulness. I found myself pondering these concepts, especially in the context of my own life. Restoring antiques requires a great deal of patience and attention to detail, qualities that resonate with the Zen philosophy of being present in the moment. I thought about the countless hours I've spent carefully piecing together fragments of the past, and how each restored piece carries with it a story of resilience and transformation.

The mind is like a fertile garden, and our thoughts are the seeds. We can grow flowers, or we can grow weeds.

Leaving the museum, I felt a sense of calm that I hadn't realized I was missing. My next stop was Oyama Shrine, a Shinto shrine known for its unique architecture.


Explore the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of Oyama Shrine, a must-visit Shinto shrine in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.

The shrine's gate, Shinmon, is particularly striking, blending Japanese, Chinese, and European architectural styles. As I approached the gate, I was immediately captivated by its intricate design. The stained glass windows and the Dutch-style lighthouse on top were unexpected and fascinating. It felt like a tangible representation of Kanazawa's history as a city that embraced both tradition and innovation. Inside the shrine, I took a moment to reflect and offer a small prayer for my family's well-being. It’s a habit I’ve picked up during my travels – a small gesture of gratitude for the life I have back in Antwerp.

For lunch, I decided to try The Godburger, a local spot known for its creative burger combinations.


Experience gourmet burgers with local flair at The Godburger in Kanazawa – where culinary creativity meets comfort food.

It was a fun and casual experience, a nice contrast to the more contemplative morning. The burger was delicious, and it gave me a chance to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere. I made a mental note to tell Thomas about this place; he’s always on the lookout for the best burger joints.

After lunch, I headed to Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Even though I had visited it on my first day, I wanted to return and experience it again, this time focusing on the Kotoji Toro, the iconic two-legged stone lantern.


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

The garden was even more enchanting than I remembered. The meticulous landscaping, the serene ponds, and the carefully placed stones created a landscape of unparalleled beauty. I spent a long time simply wandering, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. The Kotoji Toro was particularly captivating. Its unique design, with one leg longer than the other, is said to resemble the bridge of a koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. The lantern seemed to symbolize balance and harmony, reflecting the overall ethos of the garden.

As I strolled through Kenrokuen, I couldn't help but think about Marie and how much she would have loved this place. She has always had a deep appreciation for gardens, and I could imagine her happily sketching the intricate details of the landscape. I took several photos, knowing that they wouldn't fully capture the garden's essence but hoping to convey at least a glimpse of its beauty. It reminded me of our trip to the botanical gardens in Meise, just outside Brussels. We spent an entire afternoon there, lost in the beauty of the exotic plants and flowers.

In the late afternoon, I decided to visit Oriental Brewing for a local craft beer.


Explore Oriental Brewing: A Craft Beer Paradise in Kanazawa with Unique Brews, Delicious Pizzas, and a Cozy Atmosphere.

It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day. The bar had a cozy atmosphere, and the beer was excellent. I struck up a conversation with one of the locals, who shared some interesting insights about Kanazawa's history and culture. It’s these small interactions that often make a trip truly memorable. I learned that Kanazawa was spared from many of the bombings during World War II, which is why so much of its historical architecture has been preserved. This fact made me appreciate the city even more, knowing that I was walking through streets that had remained largely unchanged for centuries.

For dinner, I had a reservation at Dining Tsuzumi, a restaurant known for its traditional Kaiseki cuisine.


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

Kaiseki is a multi-course Japanese dinner that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation. The meal was a culinary journey, with each dish carefully crafted to showcase the flavors of the region. It was a fitting end to a day of exploring Kanazawa's spiritual and cultural heritage.

As I walked back to my hotel, the APA Hotel Kanazawa Nomachi, I felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day.


Discover comfort and convenience at APA Hotel Kanazawa Nomachi, your ideal base for exploring Kanazawa's rich culture and stunning attractions.

Kanazawa had revealed another layer of its charm, offering moments of peace and reflection that I will cherish. Tomorrow, I plan to delve into more of Kanazawa's cultural offerings, with visits to the Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center, the Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, and The Old Site of Mr. Kurando Terashima's House. I’m also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at the Hands Kanazawa Store. I’m looking forward to another day of discovery in this captivating city.

Back at the hotel, I took out my notebook and jotted down some observations from the day. It’s a habit I’ve developed over the years, a way of preserving the memories and insights gained during my travels. As I wrote, I thought about how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to explore new places and cultures. It’s a privilege that I don’t take for granted.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from Kanazawa. Until tomorrow!