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Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most rewarding smaller cities — a beautifully preserved castle town with one of the country’s finest gardens, gold-leaf crafts, and superb seafood. Here’s how to visit.
Top sights
- Kenrokuen Garden — ranked among Japan’s three great gardens; stunning in every season.
- Kanazawa Castle — right next to the garden.
- Higashi Chaya District — atmospheric old teahouse streets, great for gold-leaf treats and crafts.
- Nagamachi — a preserved samurai quarter.
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art — playful modern art, including the famous “swimming pool.”
Food & crafts
- Omicho Market — fresh seafood; try a kaisendon (seafood rice bowl).
- Gold leaf (kinpaku) — Kanazawa makes most of Japan’s gold leaf; even gold-topped soft-serve.
- Kutani ware & Kaga crafts — beautiful ceramics and lacquer; see our Japanese ceramics guide.
Getting there
- The Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Tokyo to Kanazawa in about 2.5–3 hours (covered by the JR Pass).
- It pairs naturally with Takayama & Shirakawa-go by bus for an “old Japan” loop.
- Easy to add between Tokyo and Kyoto — see our 14-day itinerary.
How long to stay
One to two nights is ideal. The center is compact and walkable, with a loop bus linking the main sights; grab an IC card.
Tips
- Kanazawa can be rainy — pack a compact umbrella (locals lend them freely here).
- Go to Kenrokuen early to beat crowds and get soft morning light.
- Gorgeous in autumn and under snow in winter.