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Tsuzumi-mon Gate: A Symbol of Kanazawa

Kanazawa's iconic wooden gate at the station's east exit, inspired by Noh drums, welcomes visitors with tradition and beauty.

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The Tsuzumi-mon Gate, located at the east exit of Kanazawa Station, is a striking wooden structure inspired by the 'tsuzumi' drum used in traditional Noh theater. Completed in 2005, it has become a modern symbol of the city, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

A brief summary to Tsuzumi-mon Gate

Local tips

  • Visit at night to see the Tsuzumi-mon Gate illuminated with the Kaga Gosai colors, a beautiful and memorable sight.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the gate's design, which incorporates practical elements like water pipes to handle Kanazawa's wet weather.
  • Explore the Motenashi Dome connected to the gate, a modern glass structure that complements the traditional wooden design.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From within Kanazawa Station, follow signs to the East Exit (Kenrokuen Exit). Upon exiting the station, the Tsuzumi-mon Gate is immediately visible in the plaza. The walk is short and direct, taking only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Kanazawa Station is a central transportation hub with numerous bus routes. From anywhere in the city center, take a bus that stops at Kanazawa Station East Gate Bus Terminal. Upon arrival, the Tsuzumi-mon Gate is right outside the exit. Bus fares within Kanazawa typically cost around ¥200-400 per ride. Consider purchasing a Kanazawa City ONE DAY PASS for ¥800 for unlimited rides.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Kanazawa. A taxi from most central locations to Kanazawa Station and the Tsuzumi-mon Gate will cost approximately ¥1,000. Taxi stands are located at the station's East Exit.

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Discover more about Tsuzumi-mon Gate

The Tsuzumi-mon Gate stands as a proud emblem of Kanazawa, greeting visitors as they arrive at the city's main transportation hub. Located just outside the Kenrokuen Exit (East Gate) of Kanazawa Station, this impressive wooden gate draws inspiration from the tsuzumi, a hand drum integral to the region's Noh theatre tradition. The gate's design, finalized in March 2005, features two thick, imposing pillars that evoke the shape of the tsuzumi drum. These pillars, crafted from Japanese Douglas fir, support a gently curved latticework roof, creating a visually stunning structure that is both delicate and strong. The pillars also serve a practical function, housing water pipes that channel rainwater and snow away from the roof, a thoughtful design element that addresses Kanazawa's frequently wet climate. The Tsuzumi-mon Gate is more than just an aesthetic marvel; it represents Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to preserving traditional arts. Noh theatre has deep roots in Kanazawa, and the gate serves as a welcoming gesture, inviting visitors to explore the city's artistic treasures, including the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater and the Kanazawa Noh Museum. At night, the Tsuzumi-mon Gate is illuminated, creating a magical spectacle. The lights change colors every hour, showcasing five traditional Kaga Gosai colors: enji (crimson), indigo, grass, ochre, and ancient purple. This captivating display further enhances the gate's beauty and makes it a must-see attraction for evening strolls. The gate is directly connected to the Motenashi Dome, a large glass and aluminum dome that covers the station plaza. This combination of traditional and futuristic design elements has earned Kanazawa Station recognition as one of the world's most beautiful train stations.

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