Things to do in Kanazawa
Kanazawa is Japan's best-kept secret, a beautifully preserved Edo-era city with world-class gardens, samurai districts, and a dazzling seafood market, all at prices well below Tokyo or Kyoto. Strong yen exchange rates and relatively low tourist density make it an exceptional value destination.
Why go to Kanazawa
Kenroku-en Garden
One of Japan's top three gardens, stunning in every season with teahouses, streams, and ancient lanterns.
Higashi Chaya Geisha District
Atmospheric preserved geisha quarter with amber-lit teahouses and gold-leaf craft shops lining cobblestone lanes.
Omicho Market
Kanazawa's bustling 300-year-old fresh market overflowing with impossibly fresh crab, sashimi, and local produce.
Kanazawa Castle Park
Sweeping reconstructed castle complex with dramatic ishikawa-mon gate, moats, and free-roaming grounds.
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
Playful, internationally acclaimed modern art museum with jaw-dropping installations including the famous swimming-pool illusion.
Make it real
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Good to know in Kanazawa
- Transit: The Kanazawa Loop Bus (Kenroku-en Loop) covers all major sights for about $2.50 per ride or $5 for a day pass, buy at the station tourist desk.
- Tipping: Tipping is not practiced anywhere in Japan and can cause awkwardness; excellent service is simply the standard, keep your coins.
- Tap water: Tap water in Kanazawa is clean, safe, and delicious, carry a refillable bottle and skip overpriced convenience store water.
- Free-entry days: The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art offers free access to its permanent collection zones on select days; Kenroku-en is free before 8am and in early spring plum-viewing season.
Trip essentials
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