Solo Historical and Cultural Exploration in Kanazawa

A Day of Serenity and Gold in Kanazawa

Today was a day of quiet reflection and appreciation for the blend of nature and spirituality that Kanazawa offers. From the peaceful grounds of Ishiura Shrine to the meticulously crafted Gyokusenin Maru Garden and the panoramic vistas from Shiroyama, it was a journey that nourished both the mind and the soul.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Umi & Tsuchi. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, which included grilled fish, miso soup, and a variety of small, pickled vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I always find that starting the day with a local breakfast helps me connect with the culture on a deeper level. It reminds me of the simple, wholesome meals my abuela used to make back in Huancavelica, grounding me in tradition and heritage.

My first stop was the Ishiura Shrine. Said to be the oldest shrine in Kanazawa, dating back to the 700s, it was moved to its current location in 1880. The shrine is known for its charm and its adorable dog mascot, Kima-chan. As I approached, the vermillion torii gates stood out vibrantly against the lush greenery, creating a picturesque scene. It reminded me a bit of the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, though on a much smaller scale. The air was filled with a sense of tranquility, a welcome contrast to the bustling city life. I took my time wandering through the grounds, admiring the traditional architecture and the meticulously maintained gardens.
I learned that Ishiura Shrine is particularly popular among women, as it is believed to help people find their soulmates. While I'm happily married to Sophie, I couldn't help but smile at the thought of young people coming here with hopeful hearts. I purchased a small polka-dot charm, a symbol that all is well, as a memento of my visit. I also made sure to get a goshuin stamp, a beautifully designed stamp that serves as a memento of my visit. The priestesses were incredibly kind, adding to the shrine's welcoming atmosphere.

Discover the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Ishiura Shrine in Kanazawa, a must-visit destination for every traveler exploring Japan.
Leaving the shrine, I headed towards Gyokusenin Maru Garden, located on the grounds of Kanazawa Castle. I decided to have lunch at Nyumba before visiting the garden. It was a small, cozy restaurant that served delicious local cuisine. I had a bowl of Kanazawa curry, a rich, flavorful curry that was both satisfying and comforting. I savored every bite, knowing that this was a taste of Kanazawa I would not soon forget.
As I entered Gyokusenin Maru Garden, I was immediately struck by its serene beauty. The garden, whose name translates to 'Jewel Sound in the Round', is a traditional-style garden that was carefully restored to look much as it did at the end of the Edo period (1603–1867). The garden was originally constructed in 1634 by Toshitsune Maeda, the third lord of the Kaga Domain. It features a central pond with three small islands, a picturesque waterfall, and a circular walking path adorned with small bridges. The stepped design of the garden creates a sense of verticality, with the waterfall cascading down a four-step staircase.

The beauty of a garden lies not just in its design, but in the sense of peace and harmony it evokes.

I strolled along the pathways, taking in the meticulously manicured landscapes and the tranquil atmosphere. The garden was not crowded, allowing me to fully appreciate its beauty and serenity. I paused at the Gyokusen-an teahouse, where I enjoyed a cup of matcha green tea and traditional wagashi sweets. Sipping the tea while overlooking the garden was a truly immersive experience, connecting me to the traditions and aesthetics of Japan. The teahouse offered a covered, free seating area, providing an elevated vantage point to leisurely view the garden.
One of the unique features of Gyokusenin Maru Garden is the Shikishi Tanzaku-Zumi Stone Wall, a creatively patterned stone wall with a waterfall structure at the top. The waterfall cascades down from a V-shaped stone gutter made of black Tsubono stone, with vertical rectangular Tomuro stones arranged at different heights behind the running water. This exquisite combination of the castle's stone wall construction technique and the aesthetic elements of a garden is praised as an excellent work distinctive of Kanazawa Castle.

Discover the tranquility of Gyokusenin Maru Garden in Kanazawa, a stunning example of traditional Japanese landscape design.
After immersing myself in the tranquility of Gyokusenin Maru Garden, I decided to visit the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck. However, I learned that the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck is located in Shirakawa-go, a village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Since it was quite far, I decided to skip it. Instead, I chose to explore Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store, a shop known for its gold leaf products.
Located directly connected to Kanazawa Station, Hakuichi Hyakubangai Store offers a wide variety of Kanazawa crafts, cosmetics, blotting paper, confectionery, and edible gold leaf. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and unique cultural items, I was excited to see what the store had to offer. The store is located in Anto, a shopping mall within Kanazawa Station that features many great Kanazawa specialties.
As I stepped inside Hakuichi, I was immediately captivated by the shimmering displays of gold leaf products. From delicate crafts to luxurious cosmetics, the store showcased the artistry and elegance of gold leaf in various forms. I learned that Kanazawa is famous for its gold leaf production, and Hakuichi is one of the leading companies in this industry. I marveled at the intricate details of the gold leaf crafts, each piece reflecting the skill and dedication of the artisans. I couldn't resist purchasing a few souvenirs for Sophie and Mateo, as well as a small piece of edible gold leaf for myself. I thought it would be a fun and unique way to experience the local culture.

Explore Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store for unique souvenirs, home goods, and a taste of Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage.
Before heading back to the hotel, I enjoyed a delightful dinner at Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme. The restaurant offered a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine, with each dish presented as a work of art. The ambiance was serene and sophisticated, providing a perfect end to a day of cultural immersion.

Experience exquisite French cuisine in the serene ambiance of Kanazawa's Installation Table ENSO L'asymetrie du calme.
As I reflect on today's experiences, I am struck by the harmonious blend of nature, spirituality, and artistry that defines Kanazawa. The Ishiura Shrine offered a glimpse into the city's ancient traditions, while Gyokusenin Maru Garden provided a tranquil escape into meticulously crafted beauty. Although I missed the Shiroyama Tenshukaku Observation Deck, the Hakuichi Kanazawa Hyakubangai Store offered a unique opportunity to appreciate the city's renowned gold leaf craftsmanship. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Yamanaka Onsen and Natadera Temple, eager to continue my exploration of Kanazawa's cultural and scenic treasures. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at The Londonya Bar [if I have time, of course].