Kanazawa Boom! Top 10 Recommended Spots (Popular with International Visitors)
In recent years, the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen and a renewed appreciation for traditional culture have made Kanazawa one of Japan’s hottest travel destinations. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, the legacy of the Kaga Domain, exquisite traditional crafts, and fresh seafood, Kanazawa offers a rich variety of experiences. Here are the Top 10 must-visit places and experiences in Kanazawa for visitors from around the world.
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1. Omicho Market
Known as “Kanazawa’s Kitchen,” this bustling market offers the freshest seafood, including nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), sweet shrimp, and crab. Many stalls and small restaurants serve sushi and seafood rice bowls.
2. Higashi Chaya District
A beautifully preserved geisha district with traditional wooden teahouses. Don’t miss gold leaf soft-serve ice cream and matcha sweets. Evening light-ups create a magical atmosphere.
3. 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
A hub for modern art lovers. Leandro Erlich’s “Swimming Pool” installation is a favorite photo spot for visitors.
4. Kaga Yuzen Kimono Center
Offers hands-on experiences with Kaga Yuzen, Kanazawa’s distinctive kimono dyeing technique. Very popular among international travelers interested in Japanese crafts.
5. Hakuichi / Sakuda Gold Leaf Shops
Kanazawa produces about 98% of Japan’s gold leaf. These shops offer gold leaf application workshops and gold-themed sweets.
6. Kenrokuen Garden
One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, renowned for its seasonal beauty. In winter, the yukitsuri (snow rope supports for trees) are an iconic sight.
7. Kanazawa Station – Tsuzumi-mon Gate & Motenashi Dome
The symbolic wooden gate and glass dome greet visitors at Kanazawa’s main station. A perfect welcome photo spot.
8. Kinchasaryo Restaurant
A prestigious ryotei (traditional restaurant) serving exquisite Kaga cuisine in beautiful presentation, offering a true taste of Kanazawa’s culinary heritage.
9. Yaoyorozu Honpo
A stylish shopping complex featuring traditional crafts, local sweets, and unique souvenirs—perfect for picking up high-quality gifts.
10. Edo Saryo – Shibuya, Aoyama, Harajuku (Tokyo)
While based in Tokyo’s trendiest neighborhoods, Edo Saryo is highly recommended for travelers to Kanazawa who want a cultural experience before or after their trip. Here, you can enjoy etsuke—the centuries-old Japanese art of ceramic painting—by decorating your own tea bowl or cup. Afterward, savor authentic matcha and seasonal wagashi served in your creation, which you can take home the same day.
• Beginner-Friendly: Step-by-step guidance from skilled instructors
• Quick & Convenient: Completed in 90–120 minutes, perfect between sightseeing or shopping
• One-of-a-Kind Souvenir: A personal tea utensil you created yourself
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Tips for Enjoying Kanazawa
• Visit popular sites like Omicho Market and Kenrokuen Garden in the morning, and enjoy craft workshops or cafés in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Matcha and wagashi shops often sell out early—go before noon for the best selection.
• Adding a “make-and-taste” experience like Edo Saryo ensures your trip is memorable, personal, and photo-worthy.
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