Family Adventure in Historic Kanazawa

A Day of Reflection and Performance

Today was a day dedicated to exploring the more contemplative and artistic sides of Kanazawa. It’s amazing how this city manages to blend historical charm with spaces that encourage introspection. Elena and Miguel joined me for parts of the day, making the experience even more special. It reminded me of our community events back in Stratford, where we celebrate both our Filipino heritage and the beauty of our adopted home.

Our morning started with a delightful breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. This charming spot, run by a Seattle native and his Japanese wife, had a cozy, Western-style ambiance that reminded me of the cafes back in Toronto. I ordered a strong espresso, while Elena enjoyed a matcha latte, and Miguel opted for a hearty sandwich. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of cultural exploration. I even picked up a few Japanese phrases from the friendly owner, hoping to put my phrasebook that I accidentally left at home to shame.


Experience the charm of Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café in Kanazawa – where delicious brunch meets vintage vibes.

After breakfast, we headed to the D.T. Suzuki Museum. Now, I’ll admit, museums aren’t always my first choice, but this one was different. It's a small, understated building designed by architect Yoshio Taniguchi, perfectly embodying the Zen ideals of D.T. Suzuki, who introduced Buddhism to the West. The museum itself isn't grand, but its refined minimalism and simplicity create a serene atmosphere. As someone who appreciates a good balance between activity and reflection, I found this museum to be a true gem.


Explore the serene D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa, where Zen Buddhism meets modern architecture in a tranquil setting for reflection and learning.

The D.T. Suzuki Museum is not just a place to learn about Buddhism; it's a space to contemplate life and find peace within oneself.

The museum is designed to encourage contemplation. The first exhibition room featured photographs and videos documenting Suzuki's life, along with his notable works and reflections from those he impacted. The second room displayed some of Suzuki's possessions and a small library of his writings in various languages. I spent a good amount of time in the Contemplative Space, gazing out at the Water Mirror Garden. The gentle ripples on the water, the surrounding greenery, and the quiet atmosphere created a sense of calm that was truly refreshing. Miguel, surprisingly, was also captivated by the tranquility, while Elena appreciated the architectural design and the way it harmonized with nature.

After our visit to the museum, we had lunch at Dining Tsuzumi. Located in Hotel Kanazawa, Dining Tsuzumi offers both Japanese and European cuisine. I decided to try a traditional Japanese set meal, while Elena opted for a European dish. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was pleasant. It was a great opportunity to relax and recharge before our afternoon activity.


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

In the afternoon, I ventured out on my own to the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater. Elena decided to do some shopping, and Miguel wanted to catch up on his basketball highlights. I’ve always been fascinated by traditional Japanese performing arts, and Noh theatre, with its ancient roots, seemed like the perfect way to delve deeper into Japanese culture. Luckily, there was a performance scheduled for the afternoon, offering a glimpse into this unique art form.


Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Noh theater at Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater, a cultural treasure in Kanazawa, Japan.

The Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater is a beautiful building, designed to showcase the elegance of Noh. As I sat in the audience, I was struck by the artistry of the performance. The actors, adorned in elaborate costumes and masks, moved with a deliberate grace, telling stories through dance, music, and chanting. Although I didn’t understand every word, the emotions conveyed were universal. The experience was mesmerizing, and I left with a newfound appreciation for this ancient art form.

For dinner, we decided to try Teppanyaki makibi san-an. I had heard great things about their teppanyaki, and I was eager to try it out. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, with a teppanyaki grill as the centerpiece. The chef was incredibly skilled, preparing our meal with precision and flair. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables, all cooked to perfection right before our eyes. It reminded me of the lively family gatherings we have back home, where food is always the star of the show.


Experience authentic teppanyaki dining at Teppanyaki Makibi San-an in Kanazawa—where culinary artistry meets vibrant flavors.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out JIGGER BAR St.Louis. This bar, located in the heart of Kanazawa's nightlife district, is known for its extensive drink selection and skilled bartenders. I enjoyed a quiet drink, reflecting on the day's experiences. The bar had a relaxed atmosphere, and the bartender was friendly and knowledgeable. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kanazawa at Jigger Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Nishi Chaya District and visit the Kanazawa Nishi-chaya Museum. I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing the traditional teahouse atmosphere and learning more about the history of this area. We might also do some shopping at Kanazawa Hyakubangai.

Today was a reminder of the importance of balance. The quiet contemplation at the D.T. Suzuki Museum, the artistic expression of Noh theatre, the shared meals with family – each contributed to a sense of fulfillment. As we continue our journey through Kanazawa, I’m excited to see what other hidden gems we will discover. It's experiences like these that make traveling with family so rewarding, creating memories that we'll cherish for years to come. Just like the community bonds we've built in Stratford, these shared moments in Kanazawa are weaving a rich tapestry of our family's story.

I am also reminded of a quote by D.T. Suzuki himself:

In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few.

This quote resonates with me, especially as I try to embrace new experiences and perspectives on this trip. It's a reminder to stay open-minded and curious, just like a beginner, and to appreciate the endless possibilities that life has to offer.