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Kanazawa Dolls Museum: A World of Japanese Dolls

Discover a captivating collection of traditional Japanese dolls in a historic tea house setting in Kanazawa's charming Nishi Chaya district.

4.5

The Kanazawa Dolls Museum, nestled in the historic Nishi Chaya district, showcases a wide array of traditional Japanese dolls, offering a glimpse into their cultural significance and the craftsmanship behind them. Housed in a beautifully preserved tea house, the museum provides an intimate setting to appreciate these charming artifacts.

A brief summary to Dolls Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for any special exhibitions or events that may be taking place during your visit.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and cultural significance of the dolls on display.
  • Allow ample time to explore the Nishi Chaya district, with its well-preserved tea houses and traditional architecture.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus to the Nishi Chaya District. From Kanazawa Station East Gate, take either the Right Loop or Left Loop Bus from bus stop #7. The fare is a flat rate of ¥210 for adults and ¥100 for children. A one-day pass is available for ¥800, offering unlimited rides on the Loop Bus and other local buses. Get off at the Nishi Chaya District bus stop and walk a short distance to the museum.

  • Taxi

    From Kanazawa Station, a taxi ride to the Dolls Museum in the Nishi Chaya district takes approximately 10 minutes. The estimated fare is between ¥1,200 and ¥1,500. Taxis are readily available at the taxi stand located at the East Exit of Kanazawa Station.

  • Walking

    From the Hirokoji bus stop, it is a 5-minute walk to the Dolls Museum. From Kanazawa Station East Exit to the Prefectural Museum of Art is about 3.3 km (15-20 minutes).

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Discover more about Dolls Museum

Step into the enchanting world of Japanese dolls at the Kanazawa Dolls Museum, located in the heart of the Nishi Chaya district. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and artistry of traditional Japanese dolls. Housed in a renovated traditional tea house, the museum offers a unique cultural experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the delicate beauty and cultural significance of these cherished objects. The museum's collection features a diverse range of dolls, including *Gosho* dolls (palace dolls), *Isho* dolls, and *Ichimatsu* dolls, which were traditionally loved as toys for girls. You'll also find *Hina* dolls and *Gogatsu* dolls, displayed to celebrate children's healthy growth. The exhibits extend beyond dolls, featuring ceramic figurines like Arita ware and Satsuma ware, which gained popularity in Europe during the late Edo and Meiji periods. Other unique items include Takeda dolls, regional clay dolls, and even Matryoshka dolls inspired by Japanese styles. Visitors can explore the exhibits across a few floors, organized by type and region, within tatami mat rooms. English-speaking visitors can take advantage of the guided tours available, which offer deeper insights into the history, craft, and unique features of the dolls. You can also admire the museum's elegant interior and enjoy a cup of coffee while chatting with the staff about Kanazawa. For a hands-on experience, try painting your own *kokeshi* doll. The Nishi Chaya district itself is worth exploring, with its preserved tea houses and traditional architecture. The museum also has a gift shop where you can find dolls and doll-related souvenirs.

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