Things to do in Kanazawa
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kanazawa has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover Kanazawa's feudal heritage through castle grounds, timeless gardens, and samurai-era streets. These sites offer a window into the Maeda era.
Kanazawa Castle
Historic castle grounds with restored gates and lawns that frame the city.
Kenrokuen Garden
One of Japan's Three Great Gardens, famed for its beauty across seasons.
Myoryu-ji (Ninja Temple)
A feudal temple famed for concealed corridors and defensive design.
Museums
Kanazawa blends contemporary art with time-honored crafts in its museums.
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa
Iconic modern museum presenting innovative, interactive exhibitions.
Kanazawa Gold Leaf Museum
Showcases the city’s famed gold leaf craft and its history.
Nomura Family Samurai Residence
Well-preserved samurai house offering a glimpse of Edo-era life.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual sites range from Shinto shrines to Buddhist temples.
Oyama Shrine
A major Shinto shrine perched above the city with scenic views.
Zuiryu-ji Temple
Elegant Zen temple known for its traditional wooden architecture.
National & Theme Parks
Nature escapes close to Kanazawa include national and quasi-national parks.
Hakusan National Park
Alpine trails around Mount Haku with pristine forest scenery.
Noto Hanto Quasi-National Park
Coastal landscapes and traditional villages along the Noto Peninsula.
Neighborhoods
Walkable districts where tradition and commerce meet.
Higashi Chaya District
Historic teahouse quarter, perfect for evening strolls and tea houses.
Nagamachi Samurai District
Old streets lined with preserved samurai houses and canals.
Korinbo Shopping District
Modern shopping and dining hub at the heart of Kanazawa.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to experience Kanazawa without breaking the bank.
Stroll along the Asano River
Enjoy riverside paths and city views at any pace.
Explore Omicho Market
Window-shop the colorful stalls and watch everyday market life.
Relax in Kanazawa Castle Park
Walk the gardens and grounds around the castle walls.
Gastronomy
Savor local flavors that define Kanazawa cuisine.
Kanazawa curry
Thick, sweet-savory curry with a distinctive regional kick.
Jibuni
Slow-simmered duck and wheat-dough stew from the Kaga region.
Gold leaf ice cream
Vanilla ice cream crowned with edible gold leaf.
Zangi
Crispy Ishikawa-style fried chicken popular in the prefecture.
Nightlife
Evenings in Kanazawa offer bars, teahouses, and lively streets.
Katamachi Nightlife
Lively street with a variety of bars and pubs.
Higashi Chaya District after dark
Teahouse-lined lanes glow with lanterns and ambiance.
Izakaya lanes around Omicho Market
Casual spots for local bites and drinks after a day of sightseeing.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and traditional arts.
Kanazawa Noh Theater
Venue for classical Noh theatre with local programs.
Geisha performances in Higashi Chaya District
Traditional teahouse entertainment in a historic setting.
Sports
Outdoor adventures and active pursuits around Kanazawa.
Hiking Mount Utatsu
Scenic city hike offering rewarding views from the summit.
Cycling along the Asano River
Flat riverside routes ideal for casual biking.
Off the Track
Hands-on, locally crafted experiences and unique traditions.
Gold leaf workshop
Make your own gold leaf crafts using Kanazawa’s signature material.
Gold leaf studio visit and demonstration
Watch artisans apply gold leaf to various crafts.
Tea ceremony in a Higashi Chaya District teahouse
Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in a historic setting.