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Kanazawa Castle Ruins: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Japan

Explore Kanazawa Castle's restored turrets, gates & gardens. Immerse yourself in the history of the Maeda clan & feudal Japan.

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Explore the partially restored Kanazawa Castle, a landmark in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. Once home to the powerful Maeda clan, the castle grounds offer a serene escape with reconstructed gates, turrets, and traditional Japanese gardens. Adjacent to Kenrokuen Garden, it's a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Kanazawa Castle Ruins

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, for an unforgettable experience.
  • Check for seasonal events or festivals taking place in the castle grounds for a unique cultural experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the castle grounds are extensive and require a fair amount of walking.
  • Take advantage of the free guided walking tours offered by volunteer guides for a deeper understanding of the castle's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kenrokuen Garden, exit through the main entrance and cross the road. The Ishikawa-mon Gate, the main entrance to Kanazawa Castle Park, is just a few meters away. The walk is short and straightforward.

  • Public Transport

    From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (either the Right or Left Loop) and get off at the Kenrokuen-shita bus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Ishikawa-mon Gate entrance of Kanazawa Castle Park, adjacent to Kenrokuen Garden. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs ¥210. A one-day bus pass is available for ¥800, offering unlimited rides on the Loop Bus and other local buses.

  • Taxi

    From Kanazawa Station, a taxi to Kanazawa Castle takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Tell the driver to go to 'Kanazawa Castle' or 'Kanazawa Castle Park'. The taxi fare will likely be under ¥1000. Taxi stands are located at the East Exit of Kanazawa Station.

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Discover more about Kanazawa Castle Ruins

Kanazawa Castle, located in Ishikawa Prefecture, offers a captivating journey into Japan's feudal past. Originally constructed in the late 16th century, the castle served as the stronghold for the Maeda clan, one of the wealthiest and most influential feudal lords during the Edo period. Though much of the original structure has been lost to fires over the centuries, the remaining ruins and faithful reconstructions provide a glimpse into the grandeur of Japanese castle architecture. Kanazawa Castle Park is a large park in the center of Kanazawa City, and is just across the road from Kanazawa's other big attraction, Kenrokuen Garden. The castle has played a central role in Kanazawa's history and though once neglected, it has been extensively rebuilt and renovated in recent years. The park itself is free to enter and parts of the castle can also be freely explored. For a small fee you can also enter some of the reconstructed buildings and learn how the castle was constructed as well enjoy the view from the castle windows. It is an essential stop on any tour of the city. Visitors can explore the impressive stone walls, moats, and reconstructed gates, including the Ishikawa-mon Gate, one of the few original structures remaining. The meticulously maintained gardens provide a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls and photography, especially during the cherry blossom season. Reconstructed turrets offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, highlighting the castle's strategic importance. Inside some of the reconstructed buildings, such as the Hishi Yagura Turret, Gojukken Nagaya Warehouse and Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Turret, intricate displays and models showcase the castle's architecture and history. The castle grounds also host various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, providing deeper insights into traditional Japanese arts and crafts. Volunteer guides offer free walking tours, sharing fascinating stories about the castle's construction, its role in Japanese history, and the lives of the samurai who once resided there. A visit to Kanazawa Castle is not just a journey into the past but an experience that highlights the enduring legacy of Japan's feudal era.

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