Kanazawa, a culturally rich city on Japan’s western coast, offers a blend of traditional charm, samurai history, and stunning gardens.
Kanazawa is a beautiful mix of history, art, and nature—with fewer crowds than Kyoto but just as much cultural richness—making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a more serene and authentic Japanese experience.
Stroll through Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens,” known for its seasonal beauty, tranquil ponds, teahouses, and meticulously landscaped paths.
Visit Kanazawa Castle, an impressive reconstruction of the original samurai-era fortress. Walk the grounds and explore the turrets, gates, and surrounding park for a glimpse into feudal Japan.
Step back in time in this historic geisha district with well-preserved wooden teahouses, gold leaf shops, and charming streets. You might even catch a traditional performance or tea ceremony.
Wander the cobblestone streets of the Nagamachi neighborhood, once home to samurai families. Visit restored residences like the Nomura Samurai House to see authentic interiors, armor, and gardens.
Sample fresh seafood and local delicacies at Omicho Market, often called “Kanazawa’s kitchen.” Try sushi made with seafood from the nearby Sea of Japan or pick up regional snacks and sweets.
Winter in Kanazawa is chilly and snowy, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C). Snowfall is common, and the city takes on a serene beauty, especially in Kenrokuen Garden, where pine trees are protected with traditional yukitsuri ropes to shield them from heavy snow. The historic Higashi Chaya geisha district and Kanazawa Castle are particularly enchanting under a dusting of snow. This is also the best time to enjoy the city’s fresh seafood, especially crab, which is in season and celebrated in local markets like Omicho Market.
Spring brings mild temperatures between 45°F and 70°F (7°C to 21°C) and is one of the most beautiful times to visit Kanazawa. Cherry blossoms bloom in late March to early April, transforming the city’s parks and canal-lined streets into a pastel dream. Kenrokuen Garden is one of Japan’s top cherry blossom spots and draws many visitors during peak bloom. Spring is also a time for festivals, including the Seihakusai Festival in nearby Nanao, which features towering festival floats and traditional performances.
Summer in Kanazawa is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 88°F (21°C to 31°C), and June often sees the start of the rainy season. July and August are hotter and sunnier, and this is when the city hosts lively festivals like the Hyakumangoku Festival, celebrating the arrival of Lord Maeda Toshiie to Kanazawa Castle. The event features parades, tea ceremonies, and samurai reenactments.
Autumn in Kanazawa is cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C), and the fall foliage is spectacular. By late October and November, Kenrokuen Garden, Oyama Shrine, and the grounds around Kanazawa Castle glow with brilliant reds and golds. This season is ideal for outdoor exploration and enjoying traditional crafts, like kaga yuzen dyeing and gold leaf workshops. Autumn is also harvest season, and local cuisine features seasonal vegetables, chestnuts, and sweet potatoes, all served beautifully in Kaiseki-style meals.