Nezumita-mon Gate: A Portal to Kanazawa's Past
Explore Nezumita-mon Gate in Kanazawa Castle Park: a journey through history, connecting you to the narratives and legacies of Japan's Edo period.
Nezumita-mon Gate, situated on the western side of Kanazawa Castle, is a faithful reconstruction of a gate that once stood as a crucial access point to the castle grounds. The gate's history dates back to the early 17th century, but it was destroyed by fire in 1884. After 140 years, it was rebuilt in 2020, along with the Nezumitamon Bridge. The gate is notable for its unique namako walls, which feature raised black plaster joining rectangular tiles, a distinctive design unlike any other gate in the castle. The Nezumitamon Bridge, one of the largest wooden bridges on the castle grounds, spans the moat and connects the Gyokusen'inmaru area to the Kanaya Demaru area, where Oyama Jinja Shrine is located today. The reconstructed gate and bridge offer visitors a chance to experience the grandeur of Kanazawa Castle as it was centuries ago. Inside the gate, visitors can explore displays about the gate's history and construction. Visiting Nezumita-mon Gate provides a deeper understanding of Kanazawa Castle's strategic importance during the Edo period. The surrounding lush gardens create a picturesque setting, ideal for photography and appreciating traditional Japanese architecture.
Local tips
- Take time to appreciate the unique black plasterwork on the gate's walls, a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other castle gates.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Oyama Jinja Shrine, easily accessible via the Nezumitamon Bridge.
- Visit the upper floors of the gate to see displays about its history and construction.
A brief summary to Nezumita-mon Gate
- 3 Marunouchi, Kanazawa, Marunouchi, Ishikawa, 920-0937, JP
Getting There
-
Walking
From Kanazawa Station, head towards the East Exit and walk straight along the main road (Higashiyama) for about 20 minutes. You'll pass shops and cafes before reaching Kanazawa Castle Park. Enter the park and follow the path to Nezumita-mon Gate, located in the northwest corner.
-
Public Transport
From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus or the Noto Railway Bus towards Kanazawa Castle or Kenrokuen Garden. Get off at the 'Kanazawa Castle Park' bus stop. Walk towards the park entrance and follow the signs to Nezumita-mon Gate, on the northwest side of the park. A single bus ride is 210 yen. A one-day pass, allowing unlimited rides on the loop buses and other local buses, costs 800 yen and can be purchased at Kanazawa Station.
