Discovering Kanazawa: A Cultural Journey in Japan

A Day of Artistic Immersion and Soothing Waters

Today was a beautiful blend of artistry and relaxation, perfectly capturing the essence of Kanazawa. Maximilian and I embarked on a journey through silk dyeing, historical landmarks, and the soothing embrace of a traditional onsen. It was a day that nourished both our minds and bodies, leaving us feeling refreshed and deeply connected to Japanese culture.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Kaga. I enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Maximilian opted for a more Western-style toast and coffee. Fuelled up, we set off for our first adventure: the Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center.


Experience the elegance of Kaga-Yuzen silk dyeing at the Kimono Center, a cultural gem in Kanazawa showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center: A Brush with Tradition

Stepping into the Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center was like entering a world of delicate beauty and meticulous craftsmanship. Kaga-Yuzen is a traditional silk dyeing technique unique to this region, characterized by its elegant floral and nature-inspired designs and the use of five key colors: indigo, crimson, ochre, dark green, and royal purple. It's quite different from Kyoto's bolder Kyo-Yuzen style. I was immediately captivated by the intricate patterns and the subtle, earthy tones that seemed to whisper stories of the Kanazawa landscape.

We explored the exhibits, learning about the history of Kaga-Yuzen, which dates back over 500 years, and the intricate process involved in creating these exquisite kimonos. From sketching the initial design to applying the dyes by hand, each step requires immense skill and patience. I was particularly fascinated by the itome-nori technique, where rice paste is used to prevent the dyes from bleeding into one another, creating those crisp, clean lines that define Kaga-Yuzen. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the precision and the sheer amount of labor that goes into each piece.

Of course, I couldn't resist the opportunity to try my hand at a mini-workshop! We chose to dye handkerchiefs, and it was such a fun and rewarding experience. The instructors were incredibly patient, guiding us through the process of applying the dyes and creating our own unique designs. I opted for a simple floral motif, inspired by the gardens we've seen throughout Kanazawa, while Maximilian surprised me with a surprisingly artistic abstract design. We'll cherish these handmade souvenirs as a reminder of our time in Kanazawa. It was a wonderful experience, and I was so happy to learn more about this traditional craft. It reminded me a bit of the vibrant artisan culture back in Arecibo, where so much emphasis is placed on preserving traditional crafts.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see. – Edgar Degas

Crossing the Saigawa-Ōhashi Bridge: A Century of History

Explore the breathtaking Saigawa-Ōhashi Bridge, a stunning architectural gem that seamlessly blends nature and modernity in Kanazawa, Japan.

Next on our itinerary was the Saigawa-Ōhashi Bridge. A short walk from the Kimono Center, this bridge has a fascinating history. Originally built as a wooden structure in 1594 by Toshiie Maeda, the lord of the Kaga domain, it was rebuilt several times due to floods. The current iron bridge, completed in 1924, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year! It's a beautiful structure, especially with the Saigawa River flowing beneath it. It even used to carry streetcars until 1967!

We took our time strolling across the bridge, admiring the views of the Saigawa River and the surrounding cityscape. The river itself is stunning, and I could see why it's considered one of the most beautiful in the Hokuriku region. The bridge offers a panoramic view, and I could even spot the Hakusan mountain range in the distance. Maximilian, being the history enthusiast, pointed out the explanatory board detailing the bridge's evolution over the centuries. We learned about the various iterations of the bridge, from the original wooden structure to the reinforced concrete version that was tragically washed away by a flood in 1922. It's amazing to think that this bridge has stood the test of time, witnessing countless changes in Kanazawa's history.

As we walked, we noticed locals fishing in the river, a common sight during the summer months. The gentle breeze and the sound of the flowing water created a sense of tranquility, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The bridge is also beautifully lit at night, casting a radiant glow on the river and the surrounding area. We made a mental note to return in the evening to experience its nighttime charm.

For lunch, we headed to Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE, a local favorite.
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE in Kanazawa - a culinary journey through Italy awaits you.
Maximilian was craving Italian food, and this place came highly recommended. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the aroma of wood-fired pizza filled the air. We shared a Margherita pizza and a pasta dish, both of which were delicious. It was a nice change of pace from the traditional Japanese cuisine we've been enjoying, and it reminded us of our favorite Italian trattoria back in Heidelberg.

Retail Therapy at KANAZAWA M'ZA

Explore KANAZAWA M'ZA, a premier department store in the heart of Kanazawa, offering fashion, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs.
After lunch, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at KANAZAWA M'ZA, a large department store known for its wide array of goods and local specialties. I was particularly interested in the Kuromon Koji section on the 1st floor, which features a variety of local foods and souvenir crafts. It was the perfect place to pick up some gifts for our friends and family back home. Maximilian, on the other hand, was drawn to the traditional goods on the 6th floor, where he found some beautiful Japanese tableware and lacquerware.

We spent a few hours exploring the various floors of the department store, browsing through the fashion boutiques, houseware sections, and food halls. I was impressed by the quality and craftsmanship of the local products, from the delicate Yuzen-dyed silks to the intricately decorated ceramics. Maximilian even found a sake shop with over 100 kinds of local sake, some of which he sampled and compared. It was a fun and immersive experience, and we left with our bags full of unique souvenirs and local treats.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to our final destination: Yamanaka Onsen.


Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of Yamanaka Onsen in Kaga, Ishikawa, where relaxation and tradition meet in Japan's premier hot spring destination.

Yamanaka Onsen: A Soothing Retreat

A scenic drive from Kanazawa, Yamanaka Onsen is a 1,300-year-old hot spring village nestled in the mountains of the Kaga area. The drive itself was a treat, with stunning views of the countryside and quaint little villages along the way. The anticipation of a relaxing soak in the onsen was building with every mile.

Yamanaka Onsen is renowned for its healing waters and its rich cultural heritage. The town is centered around Kiku no Yu, a public bathhouse where visitors can experience the mineral-rich hot springs. But first, we decided to explore the town a bit. We strolled along Yuge-kaido, the main street, lined with historic shops selling local crafts and lacquerware. I was fascinated by the Yamanaka lacquerware, known for its expert lathework and the way it highlights the natural beauty of the wood grain. We even stopped at a shop where visitors could try their hand at woodturning, but we decided to save that for another visit.

We also visited the Ayatori Bridge, a unique structure spanning the Kakusenkei Gorge. Designed by avant-garde filmmaker Teshigahara Hiroshi, the bridge's shape is reminiscent of a cat's cradle, hence the name. The gorge itself was beautiful, with lush greenery and the sound of the Daishoji River flowing below. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature and find a sense of peace and tranquility.

Finally, it was time for our onsen experience. We chose a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) with private onsen baths, allowing us to relax and unwind in complete privacy. The hot spring water was incredibly soothing, melting away the stress and tension of the day. As I soaked in the warm water, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Japanese garden, I felt a sense of deep relaxation and contentment. It was the perfect way to end our day of cultural exploration and artistic immersion.

Before heading back to Kanazawa, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at Daimyo Chaya.
Experience exquisite crab dishes and authentic kaiseki cuisine at Daimyo Chaya in Kanazawa – a true culinary delight!
The restaurant is renowned for its Kani crab dishes and its traditional Japanese ambiance. We opted for a Kaiseki meal, a multi-course Japanese dinner featuring seasonal ingredients and exquisite flavors. The crab sashimi, small hot pots, and grilled crab were all incredibly delicious, and the attentive service made the experience even more special. It was a fitting end to a day of cultural immersion and relaxation.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”

As we made our way back to our hotel, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the delicate artistry of Kaga-Yuzen to the soothing waters of Yamanaka Onsen, it was a day that truly captured the essence of Kanazawa. I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience this beautiful city with Maximilian, and I look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Kotoji Toro (Stone Lantern) and the White Road Shirakawago Observatory. I'm particularly excited about the observatory, as I've heard it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. We also plan to explore the Kakusenkei Gorges, known for their stunning natural beauty. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

Until then, sayōnara from Kanazawa!