Kenrokuen Garden is recognized as one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, alongside Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama. Spanning an area of approximately 11.4 hectares, it is a beautiful example of a strolling-style landscape garden, designed to incorporate different styles of landscapes in one setting. A former outer garden of Kanazawa Castle, it showcases artificial ponds, hills, and buildings positioned thoughtfully to create scenes of natural beauty. Visitors will be enchanted by seasonal blooms such as cherry blossoms in spring, azaleas and irises in early summer, and vibrant autumn leaves. The iconic Kotoji-Toro, a two-legged stone lantern, and the oldest fountain in Japan powered by natural water pressure, are among its prominent features. The name 'Kenrokuen' means 'Garden that Combines Six Characteristics,' referring to the six attributes of a perfect landscape: spaciousness, tranquility, artifice, antiquity, water sources, and panoramic views.
Kanazawa Castle, a partially-restored fortress, stands adjacent to Kenrokuen Garden and has been an emblem of the Kaga Domain since the Edo Period. While fires and historical events have led to the loss of the original structures over the centuries, reconstruction efforts using traditional methods and materials have revived parts of the castle, such as the Hishi Yagura turret, the Gojikken Nagaya warehouse, and the Hashizume-mon Tsuzuki Yagura turret. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, enjoy the impressive stone walls and moats, and examine the Ishikawa-mon Gate, a historic relic that survived through time. The castle's architecture features unique, lead-tile roofing and distinctive, whitewashed earthen walls. Inside, there are exhibits explaining the construction techniques and the history of the castle, providing a deep insight into Kanazawa's samurai heritage.
The Higashi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's well-preserved geisha districts, provides a window into the past with its atmospheric traditional teahouses and charming cobbled streets. Visitors to Higashi Chaya can immerse themselves in the culture of geisha entertainment, which flourished during the Edo Period. Many of the historic chaya, or teahouses, in the area have been turned into shops, cafes, and museums, offering a variety of local crafts and regional specialties such as gold leaf products, which Kanazawa is famous for. The Shima Teahouse, a cultural heritage property, has been converted into a museum showcasing the opulent lifestyle and exquisite craftsmanship associated with geisha culture. Walking through this district offers a unique cultural experience and a chance to appreciate the architecture and traditions that have been carefully preserved over centuries.
The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa is a world-renowned institution that specializes in art from the 21st century, housed in an innovatively designed circular building that encourages a non-linear exploration of the artworks. Its collection includes various media such as paintings, sculptures, installations, video art, and more, by both Japanese and international artists. The architecture of the museum itself is a piece of contemporary art, featuring transparent walls that allow the public spaces within the museum to blend seamlessly with the city outside. Besides its permanent collection, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions and public programs. Notable installations include Leandro Erlich's
The Nagamachi district in Kanazawa offers a rare glimpse into the lives of samurai during the Edo Period. This well-preserved area was once inhabited by samurai warriors and their families, serving the ruling Maeda family. While strolling down the narrow lanes lined with mud walls and traditional gates, visitors can see restored samurai residences, such as the Nomura-ke, which has a beautiful small garden and gives insight into the lifestyle of the samurai class. The area also houses a number of small museums and craft shops, providing a cultural and historical context to the significance of the samurai in Japanese history. Exploring Nagamachi is like stepping back in time and offers a serene and introspective look into Japan's feudal past, coupled with an appreciation for the meticulous preservation of historical architecture.
Omicho Market, often referred to as Kanazawa's kitchen, has been the city's largest fresh food market since the Edo Period. With over 200 shops and stalls, the market is brimming with activity and offers everything from fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables to prepared foods and local delicacies. Kanazawa is located by the sea, making it famous for its delicious, fresh seafood such as crab, sushi, and sashimi. Exploring the market provides an opportunity to not only see but taste the local culture as well. It's a bustling place where visitors can grab a bite at one of the many eateries offering local dishes, or even purchase fresh ingredients for a picnic in one of Kanazawa's beautiful gardens. Omicho Market is an essential stop for foodies looking to experience the culinary delights of the region.
