Kazuemachi Chaya District: A Glimpse into Kanazawa's Geisha Culture
Discover the serene beauty of Kazuemachi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's best-preserved geisha districts, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture.
Kazuemachi Chaya District, nestled along the Asano River in Kanazawa, is a beautifully preserved geisha district dating back to the Meiji period (1868-1912). With its traditional wooden architecture, narrow alleys, and the gentle sounds of shamisen drifting from the teahouses, Kazuemachi offers a serene and authentic glimpse into Japan's enchanting geisha culture.
A brief summary to Kazuemachi Chaya District
- 2-5 Kazuemachi, Kanazawa, Kazuemachi, Ishikawa, 920-0908, JP
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the district's most enchanting atmosphere.
- Listen for the sounds of shamisen and drums emanating from the teahouses, especially in the evening.
- Explore the 'Akari-zaka' and 'Kuragari-zaka' slopes for unique views and photo opportunities.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Higashi Chaya District to compare their unique characteristics.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Higashi Chaya District, Kazuemachi is a pleasant walk across the Asano River. Cross the Asanogawa Ohashi Bridge and continue along the riverbank to reach the heart of Kazuemachi. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes and offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding area. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus to the 'Hashiba-cho' bus stop. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to Kazuemachi. The Kanazawa Loop Bus costs ¥210 per ride for adults and ¥100 for children. A one-day pass for unlimited rides on the Loop Bus and other city buses is available for ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for children.
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Taxi
From Kanazawa Station, a taxi to Kazuemachi Chaya District takes approximately 10 minutes. Taxi fares in Kanazawa typically start around ¥500-700, and the trip to Kazuemachi should cost approximately ¥1000 or less. Taxi ranks are located outside Kanazawa Station.
Discover more about Kazuemachi Chaya District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Omicho Ichiba Sushi
0.6 km
Savor fresh, local sushi in Kanazawa's historic Omicho Market, a culinary hub since the Edo period.
Jimonotei
0.6 km
Savor the freshest local seafood at Jimonotei, located in the heart of Kanazawa's historic Omicho Market. A culinary experience you won't forget!
Omicho Parking Lot
0.7 km
Discover Kanazawa's charm with ease at Omicho Parking Lot, your convenient gateway to the city’s top attractions and experiences.
Kaisendon Ichiba
0.7 km
Savor the freshest seafood in Kanazawa at Kaisendon Ichiba, home to generously topped kaisendon bowls near Omicho Market.
Ichinokura
0.7 km
Savor fresh, local seafood and traditional Kaga cuisine at this popular izakaya in the heart of Kanazawa's vibrant Omicho Market.
Mori Mori Sushi Omicho
0.7 km
Enjoy fresh, local seafood at Mori Mori Sushi Omicho, located in the heart of Kanazawa's vibrant Omicho Market.
Omicho Croquette
0.7 km
Savor handmade seafood croquettes and more at Omicho Market, Kanazawa's vibrant kitchen, for a delicious taste of local flavors.
Nokabanzai Ichibaya Omicho Sohonten
0.7 km
Experience fresh seafood donburi and local flavors at Nokabanzai Ichibaya, located in Kanazawa's historic Omicho Market.
Omicho Shokudo
0.7 km
Experience authentic Kanazawa flavors at Omicho Shokudo, a beloved local eatery nestled in the heart of the historic Omicho Market.
Kahoku-mon Gate
0.7 km
Explore the meticulously restored Kahoku-mon Gate, the main entrance to Kanazawa Castle, and step back in time to feudal Japan.
Kuromon Koji
0.8 km
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Ishikawa Local Products Center
0.8 km
Discover Ishikawa's cultural heart: local crafts, flavors, and hands-on experiences await near Kanazawa's famed Kenrokuen Garden.
Northwest Turret Remains
0.9 km
Explore the Northwest Turret Remains at Kanazawa Castle Park, a window into the history and strategic design of the Maeda clan's stronghold.
Gankou-Bashi (Flying Geese Bridge)
1.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kanazawa's Gankou-Bashi, the Flying Geese Bridge, nestled in the heart of Kenrokuen Garden.
Kaiseki Pagoda
1.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kuragarizaka
0.0 km
Explore the enchanting Kuragarizaka in Kanazawa, Japan, where traditional architecture and serene landscapes create an unforgettable experience.
Kuboshi Inarisha
0.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich spiritual heritage of Kuboshi Inarisha, a tranquil Shinto shrine in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan.
Asanogawa Bridge
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of Asanogawa Bridge in Kanazawa—an iconic landmark blending historical significance with breathtaking views.
Kuboichiotsutsurugigu
0.1 km
Explore the tranquility of Kuboichiotsutsurugigu, a serene Shinto shrine in Kanazawa offering a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage.
Kuboichiototsurugigu
0.1 km
Discover tranquility and tradition at Kuboichiototsurugigu, a serene Shinto shrine in Kanazawa, where history and spirituality intertwine.
Izumi Kyoka Kinenkan Museum
0.1 km
Explore the life and works of Izumi Kyoka at the Izumi Kyoka Kinenkan Museum in Kanazawa, a hidden gem for literature lovers.
Kanazawa Katani
0.2 km
Discover exquisite gold leaf crafts and local souvenirs at Kanazawa Katani, reflecting Ishikawa's rich culture.
Kanazawa Literary Hall
0.2 km
Explore Japan's literary heritage at the Kanazawa Literary Hall, a cultural gem offering exhibitions, events, and a cozy reading space.
Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum
0.2 km
Explore Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum, a captivating showcase of gold leaf artistry and a hands-on experience in the heart of Japan's cultural heritage.
Ohi Museum
0.3 km
Explore the exquisite Ohi Museum in Kanazawa, where tradition meets contemporary artistry in the realm of Japanese ceramics.
Geisha House Shima
0.3 km
Explore the elegance of Geisha House Shima in Kanazawa, a preserved historical landmark showcasing the artistry and tradition of geisha culture.
Higashi Chaya District
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting charm of Higashi Chaya District, a historical gem in Kanazawa, where traditional tea houses and rich culture await.
The Old Site of Mr. Kurando Terashima's House
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of Japanese history at The Old Site of Mr. Kurando Terashima's House, a serene landmark in Kanazawa that showcases traditional architecture.
Utasu Shrine
0.4 km
Discover the tranquility and spiritual heritage of Utasu Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine in Kanazawa surrounded by nature and tradition.
Edge of Korai-machi Ryokuchi Park in the Foothills of Mt. Utatsu
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at the Edge of Korai-machi Ryokuchi Park, a beautiful escape in Kanazawa's foothills with scenic trails and lush gardens.
Essential places to dine
能登牛ひつまぶし店 もんぜん
0.1 km
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Bistro Kanazawa Todorokitei
0.1 km
Discover Bistro Kanazawa Todorokitei: A unique Japanized western restaurant blending local flavors with Western culinary traditions.
Kifune
0.2 km
Experience exquisite Kaiseki dining at Kifune in Kanazawa – where tradition meets flavor in every beautifully crafted dish.
Jiyuken
0.2 km
Experience the delightful fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine at Jiyuken in Kanazawa – where local flavors meet international flair.
Kanazawa Yokoyama
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese dining at Kanazawa Yokoyama - where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Higashiyama.
武作/BUSAKU
0.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at 武作/BUSAKU in Kanazawa - a culinary gem showcasing seasonal delights in a serene setting.
Higashiyama Wakon
0.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Higashiyama Wakon in Kanazawa - where tradition meets taste in every exquisite dish.
Oshizushitaikenchubokanazawa Sushi
0.3 km
Discover exquisite sushi and seafood at Oshizushitaikenchubokanazawa Sushi in Kanazawa's historic Higashiyama district.
Hibi Sakanazuki Toboku
0.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hibi Sakanazuki Toboku in Kanazawa – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Higashiyama Robert Dumas
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Higashiyama Robert Dumas in Kanazawa, where culinary artistry meets local flavors.
Higashiyama Mizuho
0.4 km
Savor authentic Japanese flavors at Higashiyama Mizuho, where tradition meets culinary excellence in Kanazawa.
IBIS Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience the delightful fusion of Japanese ingredients with Western culinary traditions at IBIS Restaurant in Kanazawa.
Fuwari
0.5 km
Discover authentic izakaya dining at Fuwari in Kanazawa – where tradition meets modern flavor.
Kataori
0.5 km
Experience authentic kaiseki dining at Kataori in Kanazawa—where every dish tells a story of tradition and seasonal ingredients.
Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen
0.5 km
Experience innovative cuisine and local flavors at Plat Home - Kanazawa Kitchen, where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kinpakuyasakuda Chayagai Store
0.2 km
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Sakuda Machiya-Shop
0.2 km
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Hakuichi Higashiyama
0.2 km
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鶴亀
0.3 km
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Nouka Banzai The Shop Higashiyama
0.3 km
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Kanazawa Bikazari Asano
0.3 km
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Kinpakuya Sakuda Head Shop & Workshop
0.3 km
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Kurumiya
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Kurumiya, a delightful general store in Kanazawa, specializing in beautiful tenugui and warm local hospitality.
NORTA (ノルタ) + Piñata (ピニャータ)
0.4 km
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Matere KanazawaHigashichayagai
0.4 km
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Maiami - Handmade Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
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Hakuza
0.6 km
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Kanazawa Hakomachi
0.6 km
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金澤ぷりん近江町市場
0.6 km
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百萬商店 近江町市場店
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant beer culture of Kanazawa at 百萬商店 近江町市場店, where a world of local and international brews awaits.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar一葉
0.0 km
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輝
0.1 km
Discover the best of Kanazawa's nightlife at 輝 Bar, where local flavors meet modern mixology in a cozy atmosphere.
Oriental Brewing
0.1 km
Explore Oriental Brewing: A Craft Beer Paradise in Kanazawa with Unique Brews, Delicious Pizzas, and a Cozy Atmosphere.
Noboruya
0.1 km
Discover Noboruya, Kanazawa's top destination for authentic sushi and Japanese culinary excellence in an inviting atmosphere.
Bar Ame
0.2 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and artisanal cocktails at Bar Ame in Kanazawa's historic Higashiyama district.
八の福(バー / お茶屋)
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Kanazawa's culture at 八の福, where traditional Japanese tea and modern bar vibes meet in perfect harmony.
Chaya&Bar Gauche
0.3 km
Experience the best of Kanazawa's nightlife at Chaya&Bar Gauche, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere in the historic Higashiyama district.
粋蓮
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drinks at 粋蓮, a must-visit bar in Kanazawa for an unforgettable night out.
雀草庵
0.3 km
Discover the unique charm of 雀草庵, a delightful bar in Kanazawa offering an exquisite selection of drinks and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Teriha
0.4 km
Discover Teriha, a charming wine bar in Kanazawa's Higashiyama district, offering a delightful selection of wines and a cozy atmosphere for all.
BUDOKAN 金澤本店
0.4 km
Budokan in Kanazawa offers a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse drink selection, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
スギズバー
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Kanazawa at スギズバー, where modern vibes meet traditional hospitality in a cozy bar setting.
袋町 Owls Hoot
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and unique drink offerings at Owls Hoot, a hidden gem in Kanazawa's bar scene.
BAR BOUTON
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting ambiance of BAR BOUTON, where classic jazz meets exquisite cocktails in the heart of Kanazawa's nightlife.
Jazz Spot Bokunen
0.8 km
Experience the magic of live jazz at Jazz Spot Bokunen, a charming bar in Kanazawa offering exquisite drinks and a cozy atmosphere.