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Get InspiredAsiaJapanIshikawaKanazawa

Kanazawa

Ishikawa, Japan
City·Traditional, Cultural, Historic
Kanazawa
Photo by Tunafish from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Sunao Noguchi from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Robby McCullough from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Roméo A. from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Vladimir Haltakov from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Tunafish from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Sunao Noguchi from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Robby McCullough from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Roméo A. from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Vladimir Haltakov from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Marek Piwnicki from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Artem Shuba from Unsplash
Kanazawa
Photo by Ilse Driessen from Unsplash

Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, is a city that beautifully balances the old and the new. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, it offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich history. The city is home to the famous Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated gardens, and a vibrant art scene featuring museums and galleries. Visitors can explore the samurai and geisha districts, experience traditional tea ceremonies, and admire the local craftsmanship, particularly the intricate gold leaf art. With its cultural depth and historical significance, Kanazawa is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, is a city that beautifully balances the old and the new. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, it offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich history. The city is home to the famous Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated gardens, and a vibrant art scene featuring museums and galleries. Visitors can explore the samurai and geisha districts, experience traditional tea ceremonies, and admire the local craftsmanship, particularly the intricate gold leaf art. With its cultural depth and historical significance, Kanazawa is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Highlights

  • Rich cultural heritage with samurai and geisha districts.

  • Stunning Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's top three gardens.

  • Well-preserved Edo-period architecture.

  • Vibrant art scene with museums and galleries.

  • Famous for gold leaf craftsmanship.

Before you go: Kanazawa essentials

  • Close access to Mount Fuji, ideal for hiking and photography.

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with walking trails and picnic spots.

  • Rich cultural heritage with several museums and historical sites.

Getting Around

Kanazawa is best explored on foot or by using the efficient local bus system.

Local Cuisine

Try the local delicacies such as Kanazawa curry and fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan.

Best For

Cultural enthusiasts and history buffs.

Currency

JPY ¥

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

Japanese, English

Cultural Etiquette

Respect the traditional customs, especially when visiting historical sites and participating in tea ceremonies.

Weather

Pack an umbrella as Kanazawa is known for its frequent rain.

Best time to visit Kanazawa

March-MaySeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Kanazawa offers beautiful cherry blossoms and mild weather, perfect for exploring gardens.

Summer

Summers are warm and can be rainy, but it's a great time for festivals and outdoor events.

Best Season

Fall

Fall brings stunning autumn foliage, making it an ideal season for visiting the gardens.

Winter

Winters are cold with occasional snow, creating picturesque landscapes, especially in the gardens.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
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Where to stay in Kanazawa

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Atarashi-ya

4.4(133)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Relaxing, Traditional, Serene
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Takitei

4.6(694)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Traditional, Serene, Authentic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Kaname Inn Tatemachi

4.6(433)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Modern, Hip, Welcoming
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Amanek Kanazawa

4.3(1 K)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Modern, Polished, Relaxing
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel

4.3(1,9 K)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Refined, Professional, Convenient
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Place
Place
Place
Place

KUMU Kanazawa by THE SHARE HOTELS

4.4(474)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Sleek, Modern, Chic
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Sumiyoshiya

4.8(179)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Tranquil, Authentic, Cultural
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Place
Place
Place
Place

The Sanraku Hotel Kanazawa

4.6(835)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Polished, Comfortable, Traditional Leaning

Food & drink in Kanazawa

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Place
Place
Place
Place

Daishogun Kanazawaten

4.9(929)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Intimate, Polished, High End
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Place

Carlo Centro

4.6(425)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Authentic, Cozy, Welcoming
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Place
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isotope アイソトープ

4.6(273)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Cozy, Quaint, Antique Inspired
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Atsushi

4.7(238)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Traditional, Authentic, Cozy
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Place
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CUBBYHOLE

4.8(342)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Cozy, Welcoming, Intimate
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Place
Place
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Kitchen Hana

4.8(485)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Relaxed, Authentic, Casual
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Place
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Kissa & Co. Cafè

4.3(180)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Modern, Quiet, Minimalist
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Place
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HUNI

4.9(252)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Artistic, Sophisticated, Cultural

Things to do in Kanazawa

Kanazawa Private Tour with a Local – Highlights & Hidden Gems
From $65

Kanazawa Private Tour with a Local – Highlights & Hidden Gems

4.9(196)
Duration: 2h
Kanazawa
[One-day bus tour departing from Kanazawa Station] Shirakawa-go and Gokayama - Two World Heritage Villages Enjoyable Bus Tour
From $94

[One-day bus tour departing from Kanazawa Station] Shirakawa-go and Gokayama - Two World Heritage Villages Enjoyable Bus Tour

4.8(296)
Duration: 7h 45min
Kanazawa
One Way Bus from Kanazawa to Takayama with a stop at Shirakawago
From $70

One Way Bus from Kanazawa to Takayama with a stop at Shirakawago

4.4(14)
Duration: 4h
Kanazawa
World Heritage Shirakawa-go Perfect Guided Tour from Kanazawa
From $79

World Heritage Shirakawa-go Perfect Guided Tour from Kanazawa

4.9(597)
Duration: 5h
Kanazawa
Amaharashi Coast & Shokawa Cruise from Kanazawa
From $196

Amaharashi Coast & Shokawa Cruise from Kanazawa

4.8(11)
Duration: 8h 30min
Kanazawa
Kanazawa: Castle & Samurai History Walking Tour
From $51

Kanazawa: Castle & Samurai History Walking Tour

5.0(170)
Duration: 2h 30min
Kanazawa
Private Tour Kanazawa, Shirakawago, Hida Furukawa,Takayama
From $466

Private Tour Kanazawa, Shirakawago, Hida Furukawa,Takayama

4.9(117)
Duration: 9h
Kanazawa
Kanazawa: Sushi & Japanese Cooking at a 56-Year Cooking School
From $100

Kanazawa: Sushi & Japanese Cooking at a 56-Year Cooking School

5.0(92)
Duration: 2h 30min
Kanazawa
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Attractions in Kanazawa

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D.T. Suzuki Museum

4.5(2,1 K)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Peaceful, Reflective, Educational
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Kenroku-en

4.4(36 K)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Tranquil, Scenic, Historical
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Shiinoki Green Space

4.1(577)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Bright, Open, Relaxed
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Kanazawa Shinise Kinenkan

4.4(307)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Quiet, Historic, Informative
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Nagamachi Samurai District

4.2(4,7 K)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Historic, Cultural, Authentic
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Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence

4.3(4,4 K)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Historic, Cultural, Tranquil
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Gyokusen-inmaru Garden

4.4(1,3 K)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Tranquil, Scenic, Historic
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Ishikawa Gate

4.3(976)
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Historic, Scenic, Educational

Natural & historic sites near Kanazawa

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Minami Alps National Park

Protected Area · Remote, Rugged, Pristine
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Hakusan National Park

Protected Area · Rugged, Spiritual, Vast, Untamed