Where to go in Kanazawa: 11 best places to visit & top attractions in Kanazawa

Kanazawa – an ancient city that stands out with its perfect combination of tradition and modernity, is an attractive destination for those who love to explore Japanese culture. From beautiful old streets to impressive historical buildings, Kanazawa offers a series of unique attractions. So, where to go in Kanazawa? Below are 11 best places to visit in Kanazawa and top attractions in Kanazawa that Living Nomads suggests you cannot miss when coming to this city.

Top attractions in Kanazawa: Kenrokuen Garden

Kenrokuen Garden is recognized as one of the “Three Most Beautiful Gardens in Japan”, built in the 17th century and is an outstanding masterpiece of Japanese landscape art. The name “Kenrokuen” means “garden with six characteristics”, symbolizing the six important elements that make up a perfect garden according to Japanese tradition. Here, you will admire the beautiful natural landscape with peaceful lakes, meticulous bonsai pine trees and impressive traditional architectural works.

• Address: 1, Kenroku Machi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa
• Opening hours: 7:00 – 18:00 (March 1 – October 15)
• Admission fee: Adults (over 18 years old): 320 yen and Children (6-17 years old): 100 yen

Kanazawa Station

Kanazawa Station is a must-see destination on your journey to explore Japan in Kanazawa. This is not only the gateway to the city but also a modern architectural work that harmoniously combines classical style, considered one of the most beautiful stations in Japan. In particular, Kanazawa Station is the terminus of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, making it easy to travel from neighboring cities.

• Address: 1-1, Kinoshin Machi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa

Where to go in Kanazawa: Kanazawa Castle

Kanazawa Castle, also known as Tsuki no Shiro (Moon Castle), was once the residence of the powerful Maeda clan and is an important historical symbol of the city. With its unique architecture and location on a high hill, the castle creates a beautiful landscape. Visitors can tour the castle grounds, explore the history of the Maeda clan, and admire the panoramic view of the city from above.

• Address: 1-1, Marunouchi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa
• Opening hours: 7:00 – 18:00 (daily)

Yamanaka Hot Springs

Higashi Chaya Old Town is a great place to explore the traditional Japanese geisha culture in Kanazawa. It is famous for its old houses and handicraft shops, bearing a strong historical mark. Visitors can leisurely stroll on the stone-paved streets, visit traditional tea houses, enjoy the atmosphere of old Japan and find unique souvenirs, reminiscent of a culturally colorful Kanazawa.

• Address: 1-13, Higashiyama, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa

Omicho Market

Omicho Market, established in 1721, is the busiest traditional market in Kanazawa, attracting a large number of both locals and tourists. Here, you can find all kinds of items, from fresh food, souvenirs to handicrafts. In particular, the market is also an ideal place to enjoy delicious street food and buy unique gifts for relatives and friends.

• Address: 50, Kami Omicho, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa
• Hours of operation: 9:00 – 17:30 (daily)

Higashi Chaya Street

Higashi Chaya Street is a lively space for visitors to explore Japan’s traditional geisha culture. It is characterized by old houses and handicraft shops, providing an experience rich in local identity. You can stroll on the stone-paved streets, visit traditional teahouses, and find unique souvenirs, taking you into the world of Kanazawa with its rich history.

• Address: 1-13, Higashiyama, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa

21st Century Art Museum

Located right next to the beautiful Kenrokuen garden, the 21st Century Art Museum is a space to display unique contemporary art works by both Japanese and international artists. The museum is divided into two main areas: Exhibition Area and Public Area, aiming to bring visitors diverse art experiences and explore the “new values” of modern art.

• Opening hours: Exhibition Area: 10:00 – 18:00, Public Area: 9:00 – 22:00.
• Address: 1-2-1, Hirosaka, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa.

D.T. Suzuki Museum

D.T. Suzuki was established in 2011 to honor the life and legacy of Suzuki Daisetz Teitaro, a renowned Buddhist philosopher, scholar, and writer. It has quickly become a go-to destination for those interested in Zen philosophy and Japanese culture. The museum is uniquely designed using recycled materials, with three wings connected by corridors, surrounded by three gardens, creating a peaceful and tranquil space.

• Address: 1-6-1 Korai-machi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa 920-0935, Japan
• Opening Hours: 9:00 – 17:00 (Closed Mondays)
• Admission: 310 Yen

Nagamachi Bukeyashiki Village

Nagamachi Bukeyashiki Village is an important historical and cultural site where high-ranking samurai families lived during the Edo period (1603-1868). The ancient samurai houses here have been preserved intact, allowing visitors to experience the life of the ancient samurai nobility through tours.

• Address: 1-3-12, Nagamachi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa

Myoryuji Temple (Ninja Temple)

Myoryuji Temple, also known as the “Ninja Temple”, is a very mysterious and unique destination hidden in a residential area. The temple is famous for its sophisticated structures, underground tunnels and many defensive designs, reflecting the creativity and construction techniques of ninjas. This is a place that contains many interesting things, promising to bring visitors an unforgettable experience.

• Address: 1-2-12, No Machi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa
• Hours of operation: 9:00 – 16:00 (daily)
• Admission fee: Adults: 1,000 yen, Children: 700 yen / Note: Cash only

Ishikawa Local Products Center

Ishikawa Local Products Center is a great place for souvenir shopping and food. Many people visit after visiting Kenroku-en Garden. On the first floor, visitors can find shops famous for Ishikawa’s signature gifts. The upper floors offer six fun experiences, including a traditional sweets workshop, a matcha-making class, and exhibitions of Japanese crafts and sweets.

• Address: 2-20, Kenroku-cho, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa

Here are 11 best places to visit in Kanazawa and top attractions in Kanazawa that you cannot miss when coming to this city. If you want to enjoy a complete trip and explore the beauty of Kanazawa easily, do not hesitate to pack your backpack and go right away.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Kanazawa you can refer to

• Kanazawa Sightseeing Morning Half Day Tour
• Kanazawa Day Tour from Nagoya
• Kanazawa Higashi Geisha House District, Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden Half Day Tour from Tokyo
• Geiko Show and Dinner Experience in Kanazawa
• Shared Bus Transfers between Tokyo and Kanazawa (One Way)
• VASARA Kimono and Yukata Rental in Kanazawa
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you looking for more Japan travel guide and top things to do in Japan: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.