Nestled in a very natural environment close to the Sea of Japan, Ishikawa prefecture is home to Kanazawa City, a city that will introduce you to another side of Japan while letting your five senses be tantalized.
Cobblestone streets lined with old style Geisha Tea Houses and Samurai Households, one of the three most beautiful Japanese Gardens in Japan, along with some of the freshest Sushi, Seafood and local produce at the markets, quickly let you in on some of Kanazawa’s finest qualities.
It is a home to artistic craft products that rival those of Kyoto for their beauty and refinement, and is also known for some of Japan’s most famous Zen temples.
Kanazawa also is the perfect destination for people who are interested in Japanese Traditional arts and crafts such as Japanese Lacquer, unique architecture, Kutani ceramics, Gold Flakes, Kanazawa Style of dyed cloth, and even the making of Noh theatre masks.
Staying in central Kanazawa City in a Hotel or Ryokan is perfect, but it is also a great opportunity to explore the local regions beyond the City. Just some 45 minutes in the Shinkansen/Bullet Train is a hidden gem in the likes of Kaga Hot Springs areas. Split up into 4 different areas, there are Hot Springs villages that offer a true Japanese experience that very few Overseas Visitors have the chance to enjoy. The traditional yet cozy ambiance, the Hot Spring Villages capture the true essence of a relaxing and healing experience in a less crowded idyllic Japanese rural escape. On the way to a Hot Springs location, you may like to visit Natadera Temple, a temple that was established over 1300 years ago and in 2017 was awarded a Star in the Michelin Green Guide.
Highlights: Kenrokuen Garden • Higashichayagai district • Kanazawa Castle • Oumicho Ichi Markets • DT Suzu Museum • Myouryuji Temple(Ninja Temple) • Nagamachi Bukeyashiki (Nomura Samurai Household) • Kanazawa 21st Century Museum • Kanazawa Noh Musuem • Natadera Temple • Kaga Onsen Hot Springs areas of Ishikawa Prefecture.
Recommended length of stay: 2-3 nights