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Kanazawa: a compact castle town perfect for a weekend trip

I visited Kanazawa for a weekend trip in early December. It was the best time to see autumn colors. Including the famous Japanese garden Kenrokuen. 

Kenrokuen in autumn

What I like about Kanazawa is that the city is compact and public transport is very convenient. Because of that, you can see most of the attractions within two days. I wasn't the exception. I could see most of the major attractions. 

Beginning with 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art,

The signature piece of 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is "The Swimming Pool"
The signature piece of 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is "The Swimming Pool." Reservation is required to get inside the pool. 

Higashichaya District, which is a historic entertainment district with teahouses where geisha performed in the past, (now mostly turned into shops and restaurant/cafes)

Fukumitsuya sake shop in Higashichaya District
If you are Japanese sake enthusiast, Fukumitsuya sake shop is a must stop. 

Nagamachi Samurai District, where samurai used to reside and now preserves traditional samurai residences very well, 

Nagamachi Samurai District

Kanzawa Castle,

Kanazawa Castle


Omicho Market, etc.

A shop in Omicho market was selling fresh seafood

In terms of foods, Kanazawa's specialty is fresh seafood and sake. 

Seasonal sashimi platter


Kanazawa oden is another local favorite! The ingredients are a bit different from Tokyo’s version, and the highlight is "Kani-Men", which literally means "Crab Face." It's a special winter treat.

Kanazawa oden with Kani Men

Kanazawa Station is another fun destination with countless souvenir shops and restaurants. I bought a beautiful bento box which included several local cuisines, and a cup of sake to enjoy in the Shinkansen back home.

Kagatobi, Kanazawa's local sake brand

A beautiful bento box with Kanazawa local food


I had an amazing weekend trip. 


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Location: 日本、〒920-0858 石川県金沢市木ノ新保町1番1号 金沢駅

Comments

  1. HarryJackJune 29, 2025 at 9:30 PM

    Kanazawa is an untouched destination for me. After reading your article about this place, My craze level increased to plan my tour to this destination. For now, I am ready to enjoy jfk to niagara falls tour.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Carol @ My Polaroid WhisperJuly 11, 2025 at 4:29 AM

    ❤️❤️❤️

    ReplyDelete

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