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Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall: A Glimpse into Merchant Life

Explore a preserved merchant house in Kanazawa, showcasing the rich culture and lifestyle of Edo-era merchants and their traditional crafts.

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Step back in time at the Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, a preserved merchant house showcasing the lifestyle and culture of Kanazawa's historical merchants. Originally a pharmacy dating back to 1579, the building offers a fascinating look into the daily life and commerce of the Edo period.

A brief summary to Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with the nearby Nagamachi Samurai District for a deeper dive into Kanazawa's history.
  • Consider purchasing a combination ticket for entry to both the Shinise Memorial Hall and the Maeda Tosanokamike Shiryokan Museum for a discounted price.
  • Check the museum's calendar for occasional closures due to exhibit maintenance or holidays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Nagamachi Samurai District, the Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall is a short walk south. Head south along the main street of the district, and you'll find the museum on your left. The walk is generally flat and takes only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from the East Exit and disembark at the Korinbo bus stop. The fare is ¥200. From Korinbo, it is approximately a 5-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Nagamachi stop, which is closer to the memorial hall.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Kanazawa Station to the Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately ¥1500-¥2000, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at the station's taxi stands.

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Discover more about Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall

The Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, also known as the Shinise Kinenkan, provides a captivating glimpse into the world of Kanazawa's historical merchants. The term 'Shinise' refers to a long-established shop, and this memorial hall, once the Nakaya Pharmacy, beautifully illustrates the merchant culture that thrived in the city. Founded in 1579, the Nakaya family built their pharmacy in Kanazawa's Minamimachi district during the early Edo period. The family gained respect and recognition, even being granted the honor of providing medical prescriptions to the court by Lord Maeda Tsunanori. In 1987, the Nakaya family donated the building to the city of Kanazawa, leading to its relocation and opening as a museum in 1988. Inside, visitors can explore the meticulously restored 'mise-no-ma' (storefront), offering a vivid recreation of a traditional pharmacy. The second floor showcases local handicrafts and items related to traditional Kanazawa businesses. You'll also find a tea room and a charming traditional garden, reflecting the refined lifestyle of the merchants. Don't miss the whimsical candy tree made entirely of sugar on the second floor. The museum provides explanations in both Japanese and English.

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