Top 10 things to do in Kanazawa

  1. Kenrokuen Garden

    1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0937, Japan
    Considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan, Kenrokuen Garden offers stunning scenery and a peaceful retreat from the city. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese landscaping, water features, and seasonal flowers.

  2. 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

    1-2-1 Hirosaka, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-8509, Japan
    This modern museum showcases contemporary art from around the world. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, outdoor sculptures, and temporary installations from renowned artists.

  3. Nagamachi Samurai District

    1-3-32 Nagamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0865, Japan
    Take a step back in time and explore the preserved homes and gardens of samurai families from the Edo period. Visitors can learn about samurai culture and history while admiring the traditional architecture and design.

  4. Kanazawa Castle Park

    1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0937, Japan
    This historic castle dates back to the 16th century and offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, including the moat, gates, and watchtowers.

  5. Higashi Chaya District

    1 Chome Higashiyama, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0831, Japan
    This charming neighborhood is known for its traditional teahouses and geisha performances. Visitors can stroll the narrow streets and admire the wooden buildings, some of which date back to the Edo period.

  6. Omicho Market

    50 Kamiomicho, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0905, Japan
    Foodies will love this bustling market, which offers fresh seafood, produce, and local specialties. Visitors can sample sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese delicacies while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

  7. D.T. Suzuki Museum

    3-4-20 Honda-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0962, Japan
    This museum is dedicated to the life and work of D.T. Suzuki, a renowned philosopher and Zen scholar. Visitors can explore exhibits on Suzuki's teachings and philosophy, as well as his personal artifacts and writings.

  8. Myoryuji (Ninja Temple)

    1-2-12 Nomachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 921-8031, Japan
    This unique temple was designed to protect its inhabitants from attackers. Visitors can explore the hidden rooms, trap doors, and secret passages that were used by the temple's defenders.

  9. Gold Leaf Museum

    2-2-36 Higashiyama, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0831, Japan
    Kanazawa is known for its gold leaf production, and this museum offers a fascinating look at the history and techniques of this ancient craft. Visitors can watch demonstrations and try their hand at applying gold leaf.

  10. Shinise Kinenkan Museum

    1-3-32 Nagamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0865, Japan
    This museum showcases the traditional crafts and industries of Kanazawa, including lacquerware, gold leaf, and silk weaving. Visitors can see demonstrations and learn about the history and significance of these crafts.