Solo Historical and Cultural Exploration in Kanazawa

Echoes of the Past, Glimmers of Gold

Today was a deep dive into Kanazawa's historical heart, a day filled with majestic architecture, artistic traditions, and the shimmering allure of gold. I set out with a plan to explore Kanazawa Castle, immerse myself in the art of Kaga-Yuzen kimonos, and discover the glittering world of Hakuza. It was a day of discovery, connecting with the past and appreciating the present-day craftsmanship that keeps Kanazawa's cultural heritage alive.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Nyumba [Breakfast, RestaurantName: Nyumba, RestaurantID: 439616]. I fueled up with a traditional Japanese breakfast set before heading out to explore the city. The weather was pleasant, a gentle warmth that made walking around a joy. I made sure to pack my essentials, although I still regret not bringing an umbrella; the weather can be unpredictable, even in August. I also wished I had brushed up on my Japanese phrases a bit more.

Kanazawa Castle: A Majestic Reminder

My first stop was Kanazawa Castle [AttractionName: Kanazawa Castle, AttractionID: 3331091], a site that has witnessed centuries of history. As I approached the castle grounds, the sheer scale of the structure was impressive. The castle, partially restored, stands as a testament to the power and influence of the Maeda clan, who ruled the Kaga Domain for generations.


Explore the exquisite beauty and historical significance of Kanazawa Castle, a majestic landmark in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.

Wandering through the castle park, I was struck by the meticulous reconstruction efforts. The Hishi Yagura turret, Gojikken Nagaya warehouse, and Hashizume-mon Tsuzuki Yagura turret, restored in 2001, showcased traditional construction methods. I learned that much of the castle had been destroyed by fires over the centuries, but the surviving structures, like the Ishikawa Gate and Sanjukken Nagaya Warehouse, offered a glimpse into the castle's original grandeur.

The stone walls, constructed using various techniques, were fascinating. Some resembled intricate mosaics, while others had a more rugged, broken appearance, a testament to the different eras of construction. I could easily imagine what it must have been like to defend the castle from enemy attackers, appreciating the solid and meticulous design that was so vital for protection.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view.

I spent a good amount of time exploring the turrets, storehouses and gates. The panoramic views from the tall turrets, overlooking Kenrokuen Garden and the city, were breathtaking. Volunteer guides offered free walking tours, sharing stories of the castle's past and the Maeda family's reign. It was fascinating to learn how the castle served as the headquarters of the Imperial Japanese Army during the Meiji period and later as a campus for Kanazawa University. The ongoing restoration project reflects the city's commitment to preserving its heritage for future generations.

Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center: The Art of Silk Dyeing

Next, I headed to the Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center [AttractionName: Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center, AttractionID: 322732], eager to delve into the world of traditional silk dyeing. Kaga-Yuzen is a distinctive style of kimono dyeing that originated in Kanazawa, characterized by its realistic depictions of nature and the use of five basic colors: indigo, crimson, dark green, ochre, and royal purple.


Discover the exquisite art of Kaga-Yuzen at the Kimono Center in Kanazawa, where tradition and craftsmanship come alive.

Inside the center, I admired the intricate designs and the delicate craftsmanship of the kimonos on display. Unlike Kyo-Yuzen, Kaga-Yuzen does not incorporate techniques such as gold leaf application or embroidery, relying solely on the artistry of hand-dyeing. The motifs often feature flowers, birds, and landscapes, reflecting the natural beauty of the region.

I learned about the history of Kaga-Yuzen, which dates back to the Edo period and flourished under the patronage of the Maeda family. The process of creating a Kaga-Yuzen kimono is painstaking, involving numerous steps from sketching the design to applying the dyes and steaming the fabric. The itome-zuki technique, where glue is placed on the boundaries of colors to prevent them from blending, is particularly impressive.

I even had the opportunity to try my hand at coloring a small piece of silk, using pre-designed patterns. It was a humbling experience, realizing the skill and patience required to create these exquisite textiles. I purchased a small Kaga-Yuzen handkerchief as a memento, a tangible reminder of the artistry I had witnessed.

Hakuza: A Glimmering Encounter with Gold Leaf

My final attraction for the day was Hakuza [Shop, Name: Hakuza, ID: 543687], a store specializing in gold leaf products. Kanazawa is famous for producing 99% of Japan's gold leaf, and Hakuza is a renowned institution in this glittering industry. I visited the Hakuza Main Shop, located a short distance from Kanazawa Station.


Discover the essence of Kanazawa at Hakuza, where tradition meets craftsmanship in a captivating selection of Japanese handicrafts.

The store was a dazzling display of gold leaf artistry. From tableware and accessories to cosmetics and food, everything shimmered with a delicate golden sheen. I was particularly impressed by the golden tea room, adorned with 40,000 pieces of the highest quality gold leaf. It was a breathtaking sight, a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen.

I learned about the entsuke gold leaf technique, a UNESCO intangible cultural asset, and watched craftsmen demonstrating the process of creating gold leaf. The precision and care involved in handling such delicate material were remarkable. Hakuza's gold leaf is used in the restoration of national treasures, a testament to its quality and authenticity.

Before leaving, I purchased a small gold leaf pendant as a souvenir, a tiny piece of Kanazawa's glittering heritage to take home with me. I also explored Hakuza Hikari-gura, a shop in the Higashi Chaya District with a Golden Storehouse covered in platinum and gold leaf. It was a perfect photo spot, capturing the essence of Kanazawa's opulent crafts.

A Moment of Reflection at Myozenji Temple

Before dinner, I made a detour to Myozenji Temple [AttractionName: Myozenji, AttractionID: 3218882], seeking a moment of tranquility after a busy day. Although Myozenji Temple is officially located in Shirakawa, I was told that there was a smaller, but beautiful, temple in Kanazawa with the same name. This temple provided a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.


Explore Myozenji, a serene Buddhist temple in Shirakawa, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.

The temple's traditional wooden structures, intricate roofs, and peaceful gardens embodied the essence of Japanese aesthetics. I wandered through the grounds, admiring the craftsmanship and the sense of harmony that permeated the air. It was a perfect place to reflect on the day's experiences, appreciating the rich cultural heritage of Kanazawa.

Culinary Delights: Curry and Kaga Cuisine

For lunch, I ventured to Turban Curry Main Store [Lunch, RestaurantName: Turban Curry Main Store, RestaurantID: 439771], a local institution known for its rich and flavorful Kanazawa-style curry. The curry is served on a stainless steel plate with a broken spoon or fork, a unique Kanazawa tradition. I ordered the L-set Curry, which included pork cutlet, hamburger steak, and sausage, a hearty and satisfying meal. The curry was thick, sticky, and spiced, covering the rice to the point of being almost invisible. It was a truly authentic Kanazawa culinary experience.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Turban Curry Main Store in Kanazawa - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

Dinner was at Kincha-ryo [Dinner, RestaurantName: Kincha-ryo, RestaurantID: 440288], a restaurant renowned for its imaginative and creative Kaga cuisine. The restaurant is located in a historic building that once belonged to Baron Yokoyama, a retainer of the Maeda family. The atmosphere was elegant and refined, with private rooms overlooking a beautiful garden.


Experience exquisite Kaiseki dining at Kincha-ryo in Kanazawa—where every meal is a celebration of Japanese culinary artistry.

I savored the delicate flavors of the local, seasonal ingredients, prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The dishes were served on exquisite Kutani ware and Wajima lacquerware, adding to the overall dining experience. It was a fitting end to a day of cultural immersion, a culinary journey that celebrated the best of Kanazawa's traditions.

As I return to my hotel, I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure. I plan to explore the Nishi Chaya District [DayAttractions: Nishi Chaya District, AttractionID: 322476], visit Tentokuin Temple [DayAttractions: Tentokuin, AttractionID: 193852], and wander through the 400 Year Forest [DayAttractions: 400 Year Forest, AttractionID: 193220]. Perhaps I'll even find time to relax at the Kanazawa Music Bar [DayOtherActivities: Kanazawa Music Bar, ID: 268210] after a long day of sightseeing.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel solo. It allows me to fully immerse myself in the local culture, to explore at my own pace, and to discover hidden gems that I might otherwise miss. Kanazawa continues to surprise and delight, offering a blend of history, art, and culinary experiences that make it a truly special destination. I am glad I chose to spend these two weeks here, even though Sophie and Mateo are greatly missed. It makes me happy to be able to share all these experiences with them when I return to Montreal.

I am looking forward to sharing more of my journey with you all. Until tomorrow!