How to Spend One Perfect Day in Kanazawa (Travel Guide)

Kanazawa is a hidden gem known for its historic samurai districts, stunning gardens, vibrant markets, and modern art scene. If you only have one day in Kanazawa, this itinerary will guide you through the city's top attractions while ensuring you experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Morning: Market Breakfast & Kanazawa's Iconic Landmarks

Omicho Ichiba – Kanazawa's Kitchen (8:00 AM – 9:30 AM) 🦀🍣

Start your day at Omicho Ichiba, Kanazawa's lively seafood market, known for its fresh seafood, especially the local snow crab and sashimi donburi (rice bowls). Stroll through the market, sampling local specialties, and enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the many seafood stalls.

🚆 How to Get There:

• From Kanazawa Station, walk 15 minutes or take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop) to Musashigatsuji/Omicho Market Stop.

📌 Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, and try a kaiseendon (sashimi rice bowl) at a local eatery!

Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Garden (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) 🏯🌿

Next, explore Kanazawa Castle, a magnificent fortress dating back to the 16th century. Stroll through its expansive castle grounds, admire the Ishikawa-mon Gate, and take in views of the city from the castle walls.

Right next to the castle is Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens. Known for its seasonal beauty, picturesque ponds, stone bridges, and the iconic Kotoji Lantern, this is a must-visit spot for nature lovers.

🚆 How to Get There:

• From Omicho Market, walk 15 minutes or take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop) to Kenrokuen Garden/ Kanazawa Castle Stop.

📌 Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for vibrant foliage, and winter for the snow-covered landscape.

Afternoon: Samurai History & Cultural Experiences

Nagamachi Samurai District (1:30 PM – 2:30 PM) ⚔️🏡

Step back in time in Nagamachi, a historic samurai district lined with mud-walled residences, stone-paved alleys, and old tea houses. Visit a preserved samurai home to learn about the warrior lifestyle and explore the atmospheric streets.

🚆 How to Get There:

• From Kenrokuen Garden, walk 15 minutes or take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop) to Korinbo Stop, then walk 5 minutes.

📌 Must-Visit: Nomura Samurai House, a beautifully restored home featuring samurai armor, a peaceful garden, and historical artifacts.

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 🎨

A modern contrast to Kanazawa's historic sites, this cutting-edge art museum features thought-provoking installations and interactive exhibits, including the famous "Swimming Pool" by Leandro Erlich.

🚆 How to Get There:

• From Nagamachi, walk 15 minutes or take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop) to Hirosaka 21st Century Museum Stop.

📌 Pro Tip: Admission to the museum's public areas is free, but the main exhibits require a ticket.

Higashi Chaya-gai – Geisha District (4:30 PM – 5:30 PM) 🍵🏮

Kanazawa's most famous tea district, known for its wooden teahouses, gold leaf souvenirs, and traditional sweets. If you're lucky, you might spot a geisha heading to an evening performance.

🚆 How to Get There:

• From 21st Century Museum, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop) to Hashibacho Stop, then walk 5 minutes.

📌 Don't Miss: Try gold leaf ice cream, a Kanazawa specialty!

Myoryuji – The Ninja Temple (5:30 PM – 6:30 PM) 🥷

This deceptive temple is filled with hidden passageways, trapdoors, and secret escape routes—designed to protect against enemy attacks. Advance reservations are required for a guided tour.

🚆 How to Get There:

• From Higashi Chaya-gai, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Left Loop) to Hirokoji Stop, then walk 5 minutes.

📌 Book Ahead: Tours are only in Japanese, but an English booklet is provided.

Evening: Shopping & Dinner in Korinbo

Korinbo Shopping District & Nishishi Chaya (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM) 🛍️🍜

Wrap up your day in Korinbo, Kanazawa's bustling shopping and entertainment district. Whether you're looking for traditional crafts, fashion boutiques, or local souvenirs, this area has it all.

Nearby, Nishishi Chaya offers a quieter, hidden chaya district perfect for an evening stroll and traditional dining.

🚆 How to Get There:

• From Myoryuji, walk 10 minutes to Korinbo.

📌 Where to Eat: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at a traditional restaurant or try Kanazawa-style sushi.

Final Thoughts

Kanazawa's blend of history, culture, and modern art makes it an unforgettable destination. Whether you're wandering through a samurai district, enjoying fresh seafood, or exploring hidden chaya streets, there's something special at every corner.

Where to Stay in Kanazawa? 🏨

I stayed at Hotel Forza Kanazawa, a comfortable and modern hotel located near Omicho Market and Kanazawa Station. It's a great base for exploring the city!

📍 Hotel Forza Kanazawa
🚆 Access: 10-minute walk from Kanazawa Station