A Solo Journey into the Heart of Shirakawa-go

Kanazawa's Charms: A Fond Farewell to Japan

As my journey through Japan nears its end, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences I've had. Today, my final day, was spent exploring the captivating city of Kanazawa, a place where tradition and artistry intertwine seamlessly. It was a day filled with serene gardens, hands-on crafts, and, of course, delicious food.

My day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Shiraogi. Fuelled up, I was ready to explore the cultural heart of Kanazawa. I savored every moment, knowing this was my last full day in this enchanting country.


Discover authentic teishoku dining at Shiraogi in Shirakawa - where every meal tells a story steeped in tradition.

A Morning Stroll Through Gyokusenin Maru Garden

The first stop on my Kanazawa itinerary was the Gyokusenin Maru Garden. This garden, located adjacent to Kanazawa Castle, offered a tranquil escape from the bustling city. As I wandered along the circular walking path, I was struck by the serene beauty of the meticulously maintained landscape. The central pond reflected the surrounding greenery, creating a sense of harmony and peace. It was the perfect place to clear my head and appreciate the artistry of Japanese garden design. I learned that the garden is named after the wife of the second lord of the Kaga domain, Gyokusenin, and that it had been carefully restored to resemble its Edo-period appearance.


Explore the serene Gyokusenin Maru Garden in Kanazawa, a historical oasis of Japanese landscape artistry and tranquility.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

Gilding My Memories: A Gold Leafing Experience

Next on the agenda was a visit to Kanazawa Katani, a workshop offering a hands-on experience with Kanazawa's famed gold leaf. Kanazawa is known for producing the vast majority of Japan's gold leaf, a craft dating back centuries. I was eager to try my hand at this delicate art. At Kanazawa Katani, I chose a small plate to decorate. The friendly staff, who spoke excellent English, guided me through the process. First, I selected a few traditional Japanese designs. Then, with painstaking care, I applied glue to the plate and gently placed the gossamer-thin gold leaf on top. It was a surprisingly challenging task; the slightest breath threatened to send the fragile leaf fluttering away. With the help of the patient instructors, I managed to create a unique souvenir to remind me of my time in Japan.


Explore Kanazawa Katani for authentic Japanese souvenirs, from exquisite textiles to local delicacies, all reflecting the rich culture of Ishikawa.

A Culinary Journey Through Kanazawa

Lunch was at Hiiragi, a restaurant recommended for its local cuisine. Though there seem to be multiple restaurants with this name, I was looking forward to trying the local flavors. I opted for a set meal featuring regional specialties, including fresh seafood and locally grown vegetables. The meal was a delightful exploration of Kanazawa's culinary scene. I savored each dish, appreciating the subtle nuances of flavor and the artistry of the presentation.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hiiragi in Shirakawa - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning natural beauty.

After lunch, I indulged in a sweet treat at Shirakawago Purin no Ie (Pudding House). Although technically I was no longer in Shirakawa-go, I had heard so much about this pudding shop that I had to seek out their Kanazawa location. The pudding, served in a cute glass jar, was indeed delicious – creamy, smooth, and not overly sweet. It was the perfect way to end my culinary adventures in Japan. I opted for the original flavor, and it truly melted in my mouth.


Experience the sweetness of Shirakawa-go at Purin no Ie, renowned for its delicious puddings and delightful desserts in a charming café setting.

Reflections on a Solo Journey

As I sit here this evening, reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences I've had. Traveling solo allowed me to immerse myself fully in the culture and connect with the people and places I visited on a deeper level. I've learned so much about Japan, its history, and its traditions. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene beauty of Shirakawa-go and the artistic charm of Kanazawa, each place has left an indelible mark on my soul.

This trip was a reminder of the importance of stepping outside one's comfort zone and embracing the unknown. It was a chance to challenge myself, to learn, and to grow. And while I missed Olivia and wished she could have been here to share these experiences with me, I know that I will return to Japan someday, and we can explore it together.

Tomorrow, I begin my journey home, carrying with me a treasure trove of memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the world. But before I go, I plan to get one last taste of that amazing pudding!

Events in Kanazawa

It seems I timed my visit well! Kanazawa in May is a vibrant time to visit. I learned that the Ōno-Minato Shrine Spring Festival takes place annually on May 15th. This festival features sacred Noh performances with over 400 years of history. Additionally, the Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden often have light-up events in May, adding to the city's magical atmosphere. There's also MEX Kanazawa 2025, a machinery and electronics exhibition. For those interested in traditional arts, the Kanazawa Geigi often have special performances. It seems there's always something happening in this dynamic city!

As I prepare to leave, I am already dreaming of my next adventure. Until then, arigato Japan, for the unforgettable memories.

I'm also taking note of some events that will be happening later in the month, such as the Kanazawa Coffee Festival and the Kanazawa Handmade Marche, for future reference. Perhaps Olivia and I can plan a trip around one of these festivals next time!

I also discovered that there is a Welcome Party at Hotel Nikko, which includes local sake and cuisine, and a Gala Dinner with Kanazawa Odori performances by Geigi. Unfortunately, these events are limited to conference participants, but it sounds like a wonderful cultural experience!

I’m eager to return home and share my experiences with Olivia. Perhaps I’ll even try my hand at making some Japanese dishes, inspired by my culinary adventures here. And who knows, maybe I’ll even convince her to try gold leafing!