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Higashi Chaya District: A Glimpse into Kanazawa's Geisha Past

Step back in time in Kanazawa's Higashi Chaya District, a preserved geisha district with teahouses, crafts, and Edo-era charm.

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Step back in time in Kanazawa's Higashi Chaya District, a beautifully preserved geisha district from the Edo period. Wander through streets lined with traditional wooden teahouses, now home to cafes, craft shops, and museums, and experience the elegance of old Japan.

A brief summary to Higashi Chaya District

  • 1 Chome Higashiyama, Kanazawa, 1 Chome Higashiyama, Ishikawa, 920-0831, JP
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Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and experience a more intimate atmosphere.
  • Explore the side streets and alleyways for unique craft shops and galleries.
  • Try a gold leaf-covered ice cream, a Kanazawa specialty.
  • Consider renting a kimono for a stroll through the district to enhance the historical experience.
  • Check the Kanazawa City Tourism Association's schedule for occasional geisha performance shows.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop) and get off at Hashibacho bus stop. The district is a 5-minute walk from there. The Kanazawa Loop Bus costs 210 yen per ride, or 800 yen for a one-day pass which includes other city buses. Alternatively, take a JR bus to Korinbo Route from the station to the Higashi Chaya District for 210 yen.

  • Walking

    From Kenrokuen Garden or Kanazawa Castle, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to the Higashi Chaya District. Follow the main roads eastward, crossing the Asano River to reach the district.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from Kanazawa Station. The taxi fare from Kanazawa Station to Higashi Chaya District is estimated to be under 1000 yen. The base fare for a small taxi is 690 yen, with an additional 80 yen for every 277 meters.

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Discover more about Higashi Chaya District

The Higashi Chaya District, or Higashi Chaya-gai, in Kanazawa, Japan, is a captivating journey into the past. Established in 1820, it flourished as one of the city's three main geisha districts, offering entertainment to wealthy merchants and nobility. Today, its well-preserved wooden buildings and cobblestone streets evoke the atmosphere of the Edo period. The district's architecture is characterized by its two-story wooden teahouses (chaya), featuring distinctive latticed windows on the first floor and traditional Japanese-style guest rooms above. These buildings, once exclusive entertainment venues, now house a variety of businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and craft shops. Some chaya still operate today, offering a glimpse into the refined world of geisha entertainment. Visitors can explore former teahouses like Shima, now a museum showcasing geisha culture, or visit Kaikaro, a working teahouse open to the public during the day. The district is also known for its gold leaf products, a Kanazawa specialty, with shops like Hakuza displaying stunning gold leaf creations. Strolling along the Asano River near Higashi Chaya offers picturesque views of the teahouses and the surrounding area. Experiencing traditional crafts like gold leaf application or enjoying Japanese sweets in historic buildings adds to the cultural immersion. While Higashi Chaya can be crowded during the day, visiting in the early morning or evening offers a more intimate experience. The district's blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship makes it a must-see destination for those seeking to experience the charm of old Japan.

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