Kanazawa

Kanazawa was once among the richest and most powerful castle towns in Japan, and its name,  ‘marsh of gold,’ hints at its tremendous wealth and numerous cultural achievements. Fortunately  for us, it was the second largest city after Kyoto to have escaped destruction by air raids during  World War II. Today, with its beautifully preserved samurai and teahouse districts, historic temples, and  the easy availability of local arts and crafts, the city brims with traditional charm––so much so that  it is sometimes referred to as ‘Little Kyoto.’

Kanazawa is a fairly compact city, with many of its attractions within walking distance of each  other. There is much to see and do here. If you have time for just one attraction, make it Kenroku-en Garden. Regarded as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan, you could easily spend  an hour or two here wandering through its vast, gorgeously landscaped 12 hectare sprawl. There’s even a traditional crafts centre within the garden grounds where you can pick up some excellent local  souvenirs.

History buffs can follow a garden visit with a walk to nearby Kanazawa Castle. Alternatively, if you  enjoy art, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum are within  walking distance. If you’d rather just eat your way through the city, Omicho Market and its many  fresh food stalls is a good place to start.

Don’t miss out on the historic districts in Kanazawa: the Nagamachi district, Higashi Chaya, and  Nishi Chaya districts respectively. The first of these three is the former residential district of the  samurai class, while the latter two are the former pleasure quarters where geisha entertained their clients. Besides the beautifully preserved buildings, a real highlight in the samurai district is the  Nomura Family Samurai House with its lush garden and exquisite interior decoration.