Holiday in Kanazawa

What makes Kanazawa special as a destination?

Kanazawa on the Sea of Japan coast is one of the best-preserved historical cities in Japan: Since the city was spared from bombings during World War II, it retains a unique ensemble of samurai and geisha districts, teahouses, and gardens. The Maeda family ruled here for 300 years as the second richest feudal clan in Japan, leaving behind an extraordinary cultural heritage. The Kenroku-en Garden is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan and is a masterpiece of landscape design: ponds, streams, centuries-old pines, and carefully placed stones create a perfect picture in every season — whether under cherry blossoms in spring, in the lush green of summer, in the flaming autumn foliage, or under a blanket of snow supported by the famous Yukitsuri ropes. The Higashi-Chaya district is one of the last authentic geisha districts in Japan: Traditional wooden houses with lattice facades line the streets, and in some teahouses, you can still experience geisha performances or enjoy matcha and gold leaf ice cream — as Kanazawa produces 99 percent of Japan's gold leaf. The Nagamachi Samurai district, with its earthen walls and restored residences, transports visitors back to the Edo period. The Omicho Market, the city's kitchen for over 300 years, offers freshly caught seafood from the Sea of Japan, including the famous Kanazawa crab. Since the Hokuriku Shinkansen connected Kanazawa to Tokyo in 2015 (2.5 hours), the city has found its rightful place on the Japan travel route.