Activities in Kanazawa, Japan 🇯🇵

Kanazawa is a beautiful city on Japan’s west coast that offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. Here are some must-see activities for your visit:

1. Kenrokuen Garden 🌺

Kenrokuen is one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan” and is considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. With various scenic spots like the Five Lakes, Dry Landscape, and Plum Garden, this stunning garden is a must-visit during all seasons.

2. Kanazawa Castle Park 🏯

Kanazawa Castle was originally built in 1580 and has been restored to its former glory. The park surrounding the castle offers beautiful views of the city, as well as access to the Nomura-ke residence, a traditional samurai house.

3. Higashi Chaya District 🍵

Experience the old-world charm of Kanazawa by strolling through Higashi Chaya District. This historic district is lined with traditional teahouses (Chaya) and shops selling local specialties like gold leaf products, Kutani-yaki pottery, and silk textiles.

4. Myōjin-ji Temple and Nagamachi Samurai District 🏴‍☠️

Myōjin-ji Temple is famous for its beautiful gates (Kasuga-mon) and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring. Nearby, explore the Nagamachi Samurai District, where you can find well-preserved samurai residences and a samurai museum.

5. Ishikawa Museum of Art 🎨

Housing an extensive collection of contemporary art, including works by Claude Monet and Vincent Van Gogh, the Ishikawa Museum of Art is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The building itself is also architecturally significant, with its sleek, modern design contrasting beautifully with the traditional surroundings.

6. Gold Leaf Craft Experiences 🧼

Kanazawa is known for its gold leaf production and craftsmanship. Visitors can participate in gold leaf pounding workshops to learn about this traditional art form and create their own gold leaf souvenirs.

7. Watarium 🐠

For marine life enthusiasts, Watarium is a must-visit aquarium that features various species of fish, jellyfish, and sea turtles from around the world. The architecture and exhibits are also worth noting for their modern design and interactive elements.

Enjoy your visit to Kanazawa! 💛🇯🇵