Family Adventure in Historic Kanazawa

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of Today

Today marked the culmination of our family's adventure in Kanazawa, a journey that has woven together the threads of history, culture, and gastronomy. As we prepared to bid farewell to this enchanting city, we embarked on a day trip that promised to be both a poignant reflection on the past and a celebration of the present. It was a day filled with the charm of ancient villages and the exquisite flavors of Kanazawa's culinary scene, experiences I'm eager to share.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by anticipation and a hearty breakfast at Fuwari. The restaurant, known for its traditional Japanese breakfast, provided a comforting start to our day. Elena particularly enjoyed the Tamago Yaki, while Miguel couldn't get enough of the grilled fish. As for me, I savored every bite of the flavorful miso soup, a staple that always reminds me of my mother's cooking back in Laoag. With our appetites satisfied, we set off on our adventure to Shirakawa-go.


Explore the breathtaking Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional farmhouses in a stunning mountain setting.

The drive to Shirakawa-go was a scenic journey in itself. The landscape gradually transformed from the urban sprawl of Kanazawa to the verdant countryside, with rolling hills and lush forests. As we approached Shirakawa-go, the iconic gassho-style farmhouses began to dot the landscape, their steeply pitched thatched roofs a testament to the ingenuity of the local people in adapting to the region's heavy snowfall. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the generations who had called this place home.

Our first stop in Shirakawa-go was the Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en, an open-air museum showcasing a collection of relocated gassho-style farmhouses from the surrounding area. As we wandered through the village, we were transported back in time, gaining a glimpse into the lives of the people who had lived and worked in these homes centuries ago. The intricate details of the architecture, the traditional tools and implements on display, and the serene atmosphere of the village all contributed to a truly immersive experience.

Elena was particularly fascinated by the craftsmanship of the thatched roofs, marveling at the skill and precision required to construct such durable and weather-resistant structures. Miguel, always the curious one, peppered me with questions about the history of the village and the daily lives of its inhabitants. I did my best to answer, drawing on my own knowledge and the information provided in the museum's exhibits. It was a wonderful opportunity to share my love of history and culture with my family, and to learn alongside them as we explored this unique and special place.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that take us back to our roots, reminding us of the values and traditions that have shaped us.

After spending a few hours exploring Shirakawa-go, we made our way back to Kanazawa, our minds filled with images of the tranquil village and its remarkable architecture. As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving these historical treasures for future generations. It is through these tangible connections to the past that we can truly understand and appreciate our present.

Back in Kanazawa, our culinary adventure continued with lunch at Kanazawa Temakizushi Coil. This restaurant offered a unique dining experience, allowing us to create our own temaki sushi with a variety of fresh, local ingredients. It was a fun and interactive way to enjoy the flavors of Kanazawa, and we all relished the opportunity to experiment with different combinations of fillings and toppings. Miguel, in particular, enjoyed the DIY aspect of the meal, carefully assembling his own sushi rolls with a sense of pride and accomplishment.


Discover the art of sushi making at Kanazawa Temakizushi Coil - where fresh ingredients meet creativity in every hand roll.

Elena opted for a more traditional approach, selecting a combination of tuna, salmon, and avocado for her temaki. I, on the other hand, decided to be a bit more adventurous, trying a combination of local seafood and pickled vegetables. The result was a delightful explosion of flavors that perfectly captured the essence of Kanazawa's culinary scene. The tempura was also a surprising hit, with its light and crispy batter complementing the fresh ingredients perfectly.

Following our satisfying lunch, we ventured into Kanazawa Forus for some shopping. Elena was on the hunt for some traditional crafts to take back home as souvenirs, while Miguel was eager to check out the latest fashion trends. As for me, I was content to simply wander through the shops, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the energy of the city. We found some beautiful lacquerware and some stylish clothing for Miguel, making it a successful shopping trip for all.


Explore Kanazawa Forus – your ultimate shopping destination with diverse shops, delightful dining, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Kanazawa.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Kabuna for our final dinner in Kanazawa. This restaurant, known for its innovative take on traditional Japanese cuisine, promised to be a fitting end to our culinary journey. From the moment we stepped inside, we were captivated by the restaurant's elegant ambiance and the warm hospitality of the staff.


Discover authentic Japanese izakaya dining at Kabuna in Kanazawa—where tradition meets exquisite flavors.

The menu at Kabuna was a testament to the chef's creativity and skill, featuring a range of dishes that showcased the best of Kanazawa's local ingredients. We started with a selection of appetizers, including delicate sashimi, flavorful grilled vegetables, and savory miso soup. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.

For our main courses, Elena chose the grilled Nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), a local specialty known for its rich, buttery flavor. Miguel opted for the Wagyu beef steak, cooked to perfection and melt-in-your-mouth tender. As for me, I decided to try the Kaga vegetable tempura, a colorful assortment of seasonal vegetables lightly battered and fried to a crispy golden brown. The tempura was a revelation, showcasing the natural sweetness and freshness of the vegetables in a way that I had never experienced before.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on our time in Kanazawa, reminiscing about the sights we had seen, the experiences we had shared, and the flavors we had tasted. It had been a truly unforgettable journey, one that had deepened our appreciation for Japanese culture and strengthened the bonds of our family.

As we prepare to leave Kanazawa tomorrow, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced this remarkable city with my family. From the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden to the bustling energy of Omicho Market, from the historical charm of Shirakawa-go to the culinary delights of Kabuna, Kanazawa has left an indelible mark on our hearts. I know that we will carry the memories of this adventure with us for years to come, and I hope that one day we will have the chance to return and explore even more of this fascinating region of Japan. It's been a wonderful trip, and I'm already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

Kanazawa, with its unique blend of tradition and modernity, has proven to be a destination that caters to every interest. As a data analyst, I appreciate the city's meticulous preservation of its history, much like the careful analysis I apply to datasets. Elena, with her nurturing spirit as a registered nurse, found solace in the tranquil gardens and the genuine warmth of the people. And Miguel, with his youthful energy, was captivated by the city's vibrant culture and culinary scene. It was a trip that catered to each of us, creating memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

Tonight, as I sit here reflecting on our journey, I am reminded of a Filipino saying that my Lola (grandmother) used to tell me: Ang hindi lumingon sa pinanggalingan, hindi makakarating sa paroroonan. It means, He who does not look back at where he came from will not reach his destination. This trip to Kanazawa, with its rich history and cultural heritage, has been a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring our past as we move forward into the future. And as we prepare to return to our lives in Canada, I know that we will carry the lessons and experiences of this journey with us, shaping our perspectives and enriching our lives in countless ways. Salamat, Kanazawa. Arigato.