Kanazawa Events 2025: Discover Festivals, Traditional Event & Cultural Highlights
Kanazawa is a city where traditional streetscapes that evoke Japanese culture coexist with modern streetscapes. In 2015, the Hokuriku Shinkansen connecting the region where Kanazawa is located to Tokyo began operations, making access from Tokyo more convenient.
Kanazawa's climate is characterized by hot and humid summers and snowy winters. Additionally, precipitation is relatively high throughout the year.
In Kanazawa, various events are held including traditional events, gourmet events, and nature-related events. This article introduces notable Kanazawa Event 2025 attractions, their highlights, basic information, timing, and access to venues.
Kanazawa's 2025 Event Schedule
| Summer (June–August) |
Fall (September–November) |
Winter (December) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Events |
Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival Eve Festival: Kaga Yuzen Lantern Floating Kaga Hyakumangoku Bon and New Year Eianji Temple Aizen Fire Festival Ono Hiyoshi Shrine Annual Festival "Sanno Festival" Ono Minato Shrine Summer Grand Festival Kawakita Festival "Hokkoku Grand Fireworks Kawakita Event" |
Ecchu Yatsuo Owarakaze-no-Bon Kanazawa Odori Yuwaku Bonbori Festival Kanazawa Kimono Komachi |
New Year's Eve and New Year's Shrine Visits |
| Natural Attractions |
Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Garden Four Seasons Story Early Summer Chapter Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Garden Four Seasons Story (Firefly Viewing) Hakuchoro Firefly Viewing Evening Jimyo-in Temple Lotus Pond Lotus Viewing Event |
Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Garden Four Seasons Story ~Autumn Chapter~ (Light-up) |
Kenrokuen Garden Snow Suspension Work Kenrokuen Garden Free Admission During New Year Holidays |
| Special Experiences |
Ice House Opening Yuzen Fabric Washing Experience One Million People's Candle Night in Kanazawa Citizens' Art Village Hokkoku Fireworks Yuwaku Bonbori Festival Lighting Ceremony Kanazawa Asano River Garden Party Shiraito Riverbed Dining Kanazawa Geiko Summer Practice Scene Special Experience Saigawa Bridge Centennial Celebration Kanazawa Night Museum Kanazawa Town Expo Katayamazu Onsen Hot Spring Festival Kanazawa Dream Highway |
Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Garden Grand Tea Ceremony Kanazawa Marathon 2025 Kanazawa Night Museum Hyakumangoku Downtown Autumn Foliage Tour Kaga Lion Dance Performance |
Katamachi Christmas Tree & Snow Suspension Illumination Gold Leaf Snow Suspension Light-up Kanazawa Christmas Market |
| Gourmet Events | Kanazawa Oktoberfest Craft Beer Kanazawa Sake Marche 2025 Omicho Market Crab Festival |
Summer Events in Kanazawa 2025
Kanazawa's summer has high average temperatures of about 27°C, so wearing short sleeves is common. While the temperature itself is almost the same as Tokyo, it feels more humid and oppressive due to high humidity. Since there are many days when the maximum temperature exceeds 30°C, heat stroke prevention measures such as sunscreen and hydration are essential.
From here, we introduce various events that tourists can enjoy in summer Kanazawa, including traditional festivals held in the city, events at popular tourist destinations, and summer seasonal traditions. Please check the detailed event articles for each month for access and other details.
Notable Kanazawa Event 2025 in June
In June, Kanazawa hosts numerous events that enliven the region, centered around traditional events. The "Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival" in particular is a major event representing Kanazawa that attracts many tourists.
Kanazawa's summer nights are relatively comfortable in temperature, with many events to enjoy from evening onwards, such as night illuminations and festivals.
Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival
The Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival is Kanazawa's largest festival, held annually in June to commemorate Maeda Toshiie, the leader of the group that once ruled the Kanazawa area, entering Kanazawa Castle.
The highlight of the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival is the large-scale parade called "Hyakumangoku Procession." Led by a famous actor dressed as Lord Maeda Toshiie, various processions including people in gorgeous traditional costumes and traditional performing arts performers walk from Kanazawa Station to Kanazawa Castle. When I visited, I experienced the mysterious sensation of traveling back in time to ancient Japan.
This Kanazawa Event 2025 is recommended for those interested in Japanese history and traditional culture, or those who want to experience Japanese traditional culture up close.
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- Dates: June 6-8, 2025
- Access: Immediately from Kanazawa Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://100mangoku.net/
Eve Festival: Kaga Yuzen Toro Nagashi
Kaga Yuzen Toro Nagashi is an event where lanterns are floated down the Asanogawa River on the night before the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival. About 1,200 lanterns decorated with Kanazawa's traditional craft "Kaga Yuzen" are released into the Asanogawa River. The sight of lanterns gently floating down the river at night is fantastical.
Kaga Yuzen Toro Nagashi began in 1975 to express gratitude for the connection between Kaga Yuzen and the river, showing respect for Kaga Yuzen predecessors and wishing for the future prosperity of traditional crafts. Since it's held very close to Kanazawa's popular tourist area "Higashi Chaya District," it's easily accessible.
This Kanazawa Event 2025 is perfect for those who want a quiet, heart-calming experience or those who want to attend photogenic events that allow them to feel Japanese culture.
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- Date: June 6, 2025
- Access: From Kanazawa Station, get off at "Hashiba-cho" bus stop, about 5 minutes walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://100mangoku.net/
Kanazawa Castle & Kenroku-en Garden Four Seasons Story ~Early Summer Chapter~
Kenroku-en Garden Kanazawa Castle Shiki Monogatari～Shoka no Dan～ is a limited-time Kanazawa Event 2025 where the representative tourist destinations Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle are specially illuminated at night. Unlike the daytime with its beautiful contrast against the sky, you can enjoy a fantastical landscape at night.
At Kanazawa Castle, several gates and turrets and other historical structures are illuminated, creating a mystical atmosphere. Please take your time walking around and experience the Japanese atmosphere.
At Kenroku-en Garden, traditional Japanese boats float on the pond, and flutes are played on the boats. The quietly standing trees and the sound of the flute that soothes the heart are my favorite points.
This is a perfect event for those looking for nighttime entertainment or those who love fantastical atmospheres.
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- Date: June 7, 2025
- Access: About 10 minutes from Kanazawa Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/event/detail_21201.html
Eianji Temple Aizen Fire Festival
The Eianji Temple Aizen Fire Festival is a traditional fire festival held annually in early June at Eianji Temple in Kanazawa. This is a ritual ceremony for purification and warding off evil through fire.
The Aizen Fire Festival is a precious Kanazawa Event 2025 that is held only at Eianji Temple, being the only one of its kind in the Hokuriku region. There are various highlights including religious services where special firewood inscribed with visitors' wishes is burned in a furnace, and fire-walking where people walk over ashes to pray for good fortune.
When I visited, I was overwhelmed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. Since the Aizen Fire Festival is a sacred ritual, please observe quietly when you visit.
This event is recommended for those interested in traditional Japanese Buddhist ceremonies.
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- Date: Early June annually
- Access: About 10 minutes walk from "Eian-cho" bus stop on Hokuriku Railway bus line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://eianji.p-kit.com/page454993.html
If you're touring Kanazawa in summer, why not enjoy a Historical Walk with a local guide? This tour is a half-day excursion around Kanazawa's historic sites and famous places together with knowledgeable local guides.
This exceptional Kanazawa Event 2025 tour efficiently covers Kanazawa's famous spots including "Omicho Market" with over 300 years of history, "Kenroku-en Garden" which is one of Japan's three most famous gardens, and "Higashi Chaya District" where traditional buildings line the streets. Furthermore, the attractive feature is that you'll be guided to hidden gems that only locals know, such as secret shops and Japan's oldest fountain.
For those who want to fully enjoy Kanazawa in limited time, please consider participating.
- Meeting point: FamilyMart+Drug Komeya Kanazawa Musashi Store
- Tour area: Around Kanazawa Station
- Start time: 10:00
Notable Kanazawa Events for July 2025
In July, Kanazawa hosts summer events where visitors can experience Japanese culture. From traditional shrine festivals to fireworks displays, you can experience Japan's summer traditions. There are also events where you can enjoy nature, such as historical firefly viewing and kawadoko (riverside dining terraces). Please find events that interest you and enjoy Kanazawa's summer to the fullest.
Hokkoku Fireworks
Hokkoku Fireworks is a fireworks festival held in central Kanazawa where approximately 12,000 fireworks are launched. This Kanazawa Event 2025 is a summer tradition that attracts not only locals but also tourists.
What I recommend about Hokkoku Fireworks is the variety of programs, including starmine displays where multiple fireworks are launched consecutively and elaborate special effect fireworks. In 2025, a collaboration project with the popular anime "Love Live!" is also planned.
Additionally, the finale will feature special fireworks dedicated to wishing for the recovery of areas affected by the earthquake that occurred in 2024.
This event is recommended for those who want to experience Japan's summer tradition of fireworks festivals or those who want to enjoy summer events together with local people.
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- Date: July 26, 2025
- Access: Shuttle bus service from JR Kanazawa Station Kanazawa Port Exit (West Exit) and Kensei-bu Green Space Park
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://hk-event.jp/hanabi/
Ono Hiyoshi Shrine Festival "Sanno Matsuri"
Ono Hiyoshi Shrine Matsuri Festival is a traditional summer festival held at Ono Hiyoshi Shrine in Kanazawa on the fourth weekend of July every year.
The highlights of this Kanazawa Event 2025 include demon-repelling dances and processions of people pulling large floats decorated with seven ornamental pieces. These are designated as historically valuable items of Kanazawa and are truly spectacular to watch.
When I visited, I was able to observe the dances and large floats up close and feel the energy of the participants.
This event is perfect for those interested in traditional festivals where you can experience Japanese culture or unique events specific to Kanazawa. Since it's free to watch, feel free to visit casually.
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- Date: July 26-27, 2025
- Access: About 5 minutes walk from Ono bus stop via Hokuriku Bus from Kohrinbo
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://www.ohnohiyoshi.com/
Kanazawa Castle & Kenroku-en Garden Four Seasons Story (Firefly Viewing)
Kenroku-en Garden Kanazawa Castle Shiki Monogatari (Firefly Viewing) is an event held at the nature-rich Kenroku-en Garden, despite being located in an urban area, where visitors can enjoy observing fireflies. For a limited period, Kenroku-en Garden is open free of charge during nighttime hours, allowing you to observe at your own pace leisurely.
The highlight is seeing Genji fireflies and Heike fireflies gently glowing in the darkness. The sight of numerous fireflies flying around while emitting light as if illuminating the darkness is fantastical.
Although it's conducted in Japanese, you can also listen to explanations by staff and learn about Japan's nature and ecosystem. This Kanazawa Event 2025 is recommended for those who want to experience firefly viewing, which is a Japanese summer tradition, or those who want to escape urban noise and connect with nature.
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- Date: June 27-28, 2025, July 4-5, 2025
- Access: 3 minutes walk from Kenroku-en-shita/Kanazawa Castle bus stop
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kenrokuen/
Kanazawa Asanogawa Enyukai Shiraito Kawadoko
Kawadoko refers to terrace seating that riverside restaurants set up to spend the hot summer coolly. At this Kanazawa Event 2025, you can enjoy performances by traditional entertainers called Kanazawa Geisha while viewing the Asanogawa River and scenery on the opposite bank, along with savoring local haute cuisine called "Kaga cuisine."
When I visited, I was able to feel the Japanese atmosphere while enjoying performances and food. This event is recommended for those interested in Japanese traditional culture and performing arts, or those who want to create special summer memories.
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- Date: July 25 - August 9, 2025
- Access: About 2 minutes walk from "Asanogawa Ohashi" bus stop on Kanazawa Flat Bus Zaimoku Route
- Admission: 19,800 yen
- Website: https://kanazawa-asanogawaenyukai.com/
If you want to enjoy summer nights in Kanazawa, why not go food hopping with a local guide who knows Kanazawa inside and out? The Kanazawa Night Gourmet Tour is a food tour where you can visit hidden gems known only to locals and enjoy various food cultures of Kanazawa.
During the gourmet tour, you'll visit three carefully selected restaurants and bars chosen by your guide, where you can taste Kanazawa's distinctive cuisine including fresh seafood, fried foods, and heartwarming local dishes. Additionally, the sake tasting experience, where you can sample 3-5 types of Japanese sake while learning about sake culture, offers an attractive experience that's hard to come by elsewhere.
All costs are included in the tour price, so you don't need to worry about your budget during the tour. If you're interested in Japanese sake or want to try delicious Kanazawa gourmet foods known only to locals, please take advantage of this opportunity.
- Meeting point: In front of the Korinbo Ramoda bldg. (香林坊)
- Tour area: Central Kanazawa
- Start time: 18:00
Notable Kanazawa Event 2025 in August
In August 2025, various events centered around fireworks that color the summer sky will be held in Kanazawa. The characteristic feature is that outdoor events to enjoy the summer heat are also held together, allowing locals and tourists to enjoy them together.
Additionally, festivals with long histories at shrines will be held, where you can experience Japanese culture and traditions as part of the Kanazawa Event 2025 lineup.
Ono Minato Shrine Summer Festival
The Ono Minato Shrine Summer Festival is Kanazawa's largest-scale festival with over 300 years of tradition. This sacred event is held to welcome the gods and is beloved as the representative summer festival of the Kanaiwa area, making it a highlight of any Kanazawa Event 2025 calendar.
The highlight is the procession of people carrying gorgeous mikoshi (portable shrines used to transport gods). They parade through the streets while combining performances with floats called hikiyama and Japanese drums. When I visited, it was filled with excitement, and I enjoyed it as if I were participating in the festival together with the local people.
Additionally, at the Ono Minato Shrine Summer Festival, you can see traditional Japanese performing arts called Kagatobi Ladder-Top Acrobatics and Shishimai up close.
This event is recommended for those interested in Japanese traditional culture or who want to enjoy interaction with local people.
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- Date: August 2-4, 2024 (2024 information)
- Access: About 15 minutes from Kanazawa Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://oonominato.or.jp/about/tradition/natumaturi/
Kawakita Festival "Hokkoku Dai-Hanabi Kawakita Competition"
Source:Official website
The Kawakita Festival (Fireworks) is one of the largest fireworks displays in the Hokuriku region, held in Kawakita town. About 20,000 fireworks are launched over 45 minutes along the Tedorigawa River bank, making it a spectacular addition to the Kanazawa Event 2025 summer season.
The attractive point of the Kawakita Festival (Fireworks) is the starmine displays where multiple fireworks are launched consecutively during the opening and finale. The finale features 2,000 fireworks launched consecutively, making it particularly spectacular.
Food stalls selling light meals typical of Japanese festivals are also lined up at the venue, so please enjoy them together. This is perfect for those who want to enjoy large-scale fireworks or experience the atmosphere of Japanese summer festivals.
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- Date: August 2, 2025
- Access: About 15 minutes by taxi from JR Mikawa Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://hk-event.jp/hanabi/
Katayamazu Onsen Yuno Matsuri
Source:Official website
Katayamazu Onsen Yuno Matsuri is a festival held to commemorate the opening of Katayamazu Onsen in 1882. Food stalls line up in the center of the hot spring town, creating a lively event where locals and tourists can enjoy together, representing an authentic Kanazawa Event 2025 experience.
The highlight is the "Genpei Shobu Mikoshi," where teams compete divided into the ancient samurai houses of Genji and Heike. You can see powerful performances rarely seen at ordinary festivals, such as the "Sakadachi Mikoshi" where carriers flip the portable shrine upside down, and competitions where teams compete for speed while carrying mikoshi.
The festival also features events that both tourists and locals can enjoy together, such as traditional dance and song stages. At night, fireworks are launched to mark the festival's finale. This festival is recommended for those who want to experience the lively festival atmosphere or enjoy interaction with local people.
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- Date: August 23-24, 2025
- Access: From Kaga Onsen Station, take Hokuriku Kaga Bus Onsen Katayamazu Line, about 7 minutes from "Katayamazu 5-ku Bus Stop"
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://www.katayamazu-spa.or.jp/
Kanazawa Yume Kaido
Kanazawa Yume Kaido is a spectacular event where various performances take place in the heart of Kanazawa city, making it one of the most anticipated attractions for Kanazawa Event 2025. On the main street that becomes exclusively pedestrian, you can experience performances that showcase Japanese culture, including YOSAKOI Soran dancing and marching bands. As a summer tradition representing Kanazawa, this event attracts many people every year and stands as a highlight of Kanazawa Event 2025.
The dynamic performances by the artists are the main attraction of Kanazawa Yume Kaido. Since you can feel the energy up close, when I visited, I enjoyed it with the feeling of participating in the festival myself. This immersive experience makes it a must-see event for anyone exploring Kanazawa Event 2025.
What makes Kanazawa Yume Kaido particularly appealing is that you can not only enjoy the performances but also taste various gourmet foods. This event is highly recommended for those looking for an easily accessible event to participate in during their sightseeing, perfectly embodying the spirit of Kanazawa Event 2025.
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- Schedule: August 9-10, 2025
- Access: About 20 minutes walk from JR "Kanazawa Station"
- Entrance fee: Free
- Website: None
For those interested in historical townscapes and Japanese traditions, why not participate in a tour around the ancient capital Asakusa? This tour is guided by locals who know the area inside and out, allowing you to efficiently visit Asakusa's tourist spots while learning about Japanese culture, offering a perfect complement to your Kanazawa Event 2025 experience.
During the tour, after visiting Senso-ji, you'll stop at a restaurant serving "Monjayaki," a Tokyo local dish made with flour and vegetables. The attractive point of this tour is that the guide will carefully teach you how to make it, so you can enjoy cooking like a local. Additionally, since the tour fee includes food and drink costs, you can enjoy without worrying about your budget.
The guide provides detailed explanations about the spots and cuisine, allowing you to learn more deeply about Asakusa. If you want to deeply understand Asakusa's charm, please try using a guided tour.
- Meeting point: In front of Kaminarimon Police Box, Senso-ji
- Tour area: Around Asakusa
- Start time: 11:00
2025 Kanazawa Autumn Events (September to November)
Kanazawa's autumn season offers an exceptional lineup that perfectly complements the broader Kanazawa Event 2025 calendar. While September still retains some summer heat, mornings and evenings feel cool. From October to November, there are many comfortable days with good weather, making it the perfect season for outdoor sightseeing and enjoying Kanazawa Event 2025 offerings. In late November, temperatures drop significantly, approaching the winter season.
Kanazawa's autumn features various events including traditional performing arts, gourmet events, and autumn foliage illuminations, all contributing to the rich tapestry of Kanazawa Event 2025. Please check the detailed access information and other details in each month's event articles.
Notable Kanazawa Events in September 2025
September is a comfortable season when the harsh summer heat subsides a bit, allowing you to feel the beautiful transition of Japan's four seasons, making it an ideal time to experience Kanazawa Event 2025.
In September, Kanazawa hosts various genres of events, from beer events celebrating German culture to events showcasing traditional dances and art events held at night, all forming an integral part of the diverse Kanazawa Event 2025 program. Since there are many events where you can experience Kanazawa's culture, please be sure to check them out.
Kanazawa Oktoberfest
Kanazawa Oktoberfest is an event where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the beer festival held in Munich, Germany, right here in Kanazawa, representing one of the international highlights of Kanazawa Event 2025.
This event has continued since 2014, allowing you to enjoy authentic German beer and traditional German cuisine while listening to live performances of German folk music. At the venue, participants can sing and dance together, experiencing a lively atmosphere that adds international flair to Kanazawa Event 2025.
The attractive point of Kanazawa Oktoberfest is the rich variety of beers directly imported from Germany. You can compare different beers while also tasting authentic German cuisine such as sausages. When I visited, I held a mug and toasted with strangers, creating an exciting atmosphere.
This event is recommended for beer lovers, those interested in German culture, and those who want to enjoy an international atmosphere as part of their Kanazawa Event 2025 experience.
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- Schedule: August 29 September 8, 2024 (2024 information)
- Access: About 1 minute walk from "Kohrinbo" bus stop (Jokamachi Kanazawa Sightseeing Bus, Hokuriku Railway Route Bus, West Japan JR Bus)
- Entrance fee: Free
- Website: None
Ecchu Yatsuo Owarakaze-no-Bon
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
Ecchu Yatsuo Owarakaze-no-Bon is a traditional dance event with 300 years of history held in Yatsuomachi, Toyama City, offering visitors to Kanazawa Event 2025 a glimpse into centuries-old Japanese traditions. Held annually from September 1st to 3rd, dancers wearing hats called "amigasa" dance to the sounds of shamisen and kokyu instruments while walking through the town.
The elegant dancing performed under moonlight and the warm glow of lanterns is the highlight of this festival that I recommend. Watching performers in traditional Japanese yukata expressing themselves through delicate hand movements and footwork is truly overwhelming and provides perfect cultural enrichment for those exploring Kanazawa Event 2025.
For those who want to see Japanese traditional performing arts and culture up close, please visit Ecchu Yatsuo Owarakaze-no-Bon as an excellent addition to your Kanazawa Event 2025 itinerary.
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- Schedule: September 1-3, 2025
- Access: Take a bus from JR Ecchu-Yatsuo Station and get off at "Owara Museum Mae," immediately accessible
- Entrance fee: 700 yen
- Website: https://owara-gyoujiunei.com/
Kanazawa Night Museum
Kanazawa Night Museum is a Kanazawa Event 2025 that offers visitors the chance to experience Japanese art culture during summer to autumn nights in Kanazawa city.
The distinctive feature of this event is that over 30 art programs including music, theater, film, and dance are held in special venues where events are not usually held, such as museums, restaurants, temples, and even abandoned school buildings. The attractive point of Kanazawa Night Museum is that you can enjoy art in extraordinary spaces, such as performances in abandoned schools and traditional townhouses.
This event is recommended for those interested in art and culture, or those who want to experience something unique in Kanazawa at night. Kanazawa Night Museum is an event you can easily drop by after sightseeing, so please be sure to check it out.
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- Schedule: August to October 2025
- Access: Varies by location
- Admission Fee: Varies by event (Free to 2,500 yen)
- Website: https://www.nightkanazawa.com/
Kanazawa Odori
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
The Kanazawa Odori is a Kanazawa Event 2025 where geiko (traditional female entertainers) from Kanazawa city gather together to perform. Geiko are women who have learned traditional Japanese dance and music, and perform arts while wearing kimono. At The Kanazawa Odori, you can enjoy traditional performing arts that have been passed down for over 400 years.
The highlight is performances that combine the shamisen, a three-stringed Japanese instrument, with taiko drum performances. The performances feature only instrumental music without singing, and when I visited, I was moved by the beauty of the musical tones.
Additionally, during the event period, tea ceremony seats are set up where you can experience Japanese tea ceremony, offering the special experience of having tea carefully prepared by geiko. If you're interested in traditional Japanese performing arts, please be sure to check this out.
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- Schedule: September 20-23, 2025
- Access: 1-minute walk from Kanazawa Station Kenrokuen Exit
- Admission Fee: Platinum: 9,000 yen, S seats: 8,000 yen, A seats: 7,000 yen (2024 information)
- Website: https://kanazawaodori.jp/
Notable Kanazawa Events in October 2025
October in Kanazawa hosts many traditional events and photogenic light-up events. In late October, the leaves of trees begin to turn red, orange, and yellow, allowing you to enjoy Japan's autumn foliage scenery.
October is a comfortable season to spend outdoors, so it's recommended for those who want to experience both traditional culture and rich nature.
Kenroku-en Garden Kanazawa Castle Shiki Monogatari ~Aki no Dan~ (Kanazawa Castle・Kenroku-en Garden Light-up)
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
Kenroku-en Garden Kanazawa Castle Shiki Monogatari ~Aki no Dan~ is a Kanazawa Event 2025 featuring a limited-time autumn night illumination event held at Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle.
The distinctive feature is that Kenroku-en Garden, which normally charges admission fees, is opened free of charge during nighttime hours only, allowing visitors to simultaneously enjoy the contrast between yukitsuri (rope and wire supports for tree branches) and autumn foliage. Particularly, the sight of illuminated yukitsuri pine trees reflecting in Kasuga Pond is fantastical and breathtakingly beautiful.
During the event period, special concerts are also held at Kenroku-en Garden, allowing you to immerse yourself in music in the quiet and serene atmosphere of a Japanese garden. This is recommended for those who want to fully appreciate the beauty of Japanese gardens or enjoy fantastical night views.
Please note that October nights can be a bit chilly, so dress warmly when going out.
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- Schedule: October 18, 25, November 1, 2, 8, 15, 22, 23, 29, 2025
- Access: About 3-minute walk from "Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle" bus stop
- Admission Fee: Free
- Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/event/21201
Yuwaku Bonbori Festival
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
Bonbori Festival at Yuwaku Onsen is a Kanazawa Event 2025 held at Yuwaku Inari Shrine, featuring a unique festival that recreates the festival appearing in the anime "Hanasaku Iroha."
At Bonbori Festival at Yuwaku Onsen, lanterns are lit in the shrine grounds and on the stairs, with a staging where people illuminate the path with bonbori lights so that the gods can return to Izumo in Shimane Prefecture, a place where gods gather, without getting lost. Hundreds of lanterns have attached "Nozomi-fuda" (wish cards) with people's wishes written on them, embodying the hope that instead of guiding the gods, many wishes will be delivered to the gods.
Yuwaku Bonbori Festival is a rare event that combines the modern anime worldview with actual shrine traditions. This is recommended for those interested in anime culture or those who want to enjoy fantastical scenery.
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- Schedule: October 18, 2025
- Access: About 3-minute walk from Hokuriku Railway bus "Yuwaku Onsen" bus stop
- Admission Fee: 2,000 yen (2024 information)
- Website: https://yuwaku.gr.jp/
Kanazawa Kimono Komachi
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
Kanazawa Kimono Komachi is a Kanazawa Event 2025 where participants can explore the streets of Kanazawa while wearing traditional Japanese kimono. This cultural experience event is free for anyone to participate in, regardless of age or gender, as long as they can wear a kimono.
The experience of leisurely walking through Kanazawa's autumn streets while taking photos is quite rare, making it perfect for those who want to spend special time. My recommended highlight is being able to experience Japanese culture alongside locals, such as enjoying tea at tea houses while strolling in kimono.
Kanazawa has kimono rental shops, so you can rent one and participate in the event. This event is recommended for those who want to experience Japanese traditional culture firsthand or those interested in kimono.
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- Date: October 14, 2024 (2024 information)
- Access: Take a bus from JR Kanazawa Station, get off at "Korinbo," 3-minute walk
- Admission: Free
SAKE MARCHE 2025
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
SAKE MARCHE 2025 is a Kanazawa Event 2025 where Japanese sake from 26 breweries in Ishikawa gather together. You can enjoy comparing various brands of Japanese sake while also savoring dishes served by Ishikawa's famous restaurants, allowing you to experience Ishikawa's food culture.
The attractive point I recommend about SAKE MARCHE is particularly being able to compare and taste unique local sake varieties. You can explore and find sake that matches your preferences while observing how different sake varieties differ from each other, making this event especially recommended for Japanese sake enthusiasts.
Admission is free, and the system involves purchasing special tickets within the venue to place orders. This event is recommended for those interested in Japanese sake or those who want to enjoy Ishikawa's gourmet cuisine.
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- Date: October 5, 2024 (2024 information)
- Access: About 2-minute walk from "21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa・Kenrokuen" bus stop
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://sakemarche.jp/
Notable Kanazawa Events in November 2025
In November 2025, Kanazawa will begin illumination events that brightly light up the city, creating a gorgeous atmosphere throughout the streets.
November is also when many ingredients reach their "peak season" - the most delicious time of year. Seafood, especially crab, becomes particularly delicious, which is why this period is also called "autumn of appetite." This is a season when you can experience Kanazawa's unique culture through events featuring snow-hanging work and traditional dances.
Korinbo Tree Fantasy
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
Korinbo Tree Fantasy is a Kanazawa Event 2025 illumination event held on Korinbo, Kanazawa's main street. Approximately 29 zelkova trees stretching from Korinbo intersection toward Korinbo Lamoda are decorated with about 110,000 lights, enveloping the area in a fantastical atmosphere.
The highlight of Korinbo Tree Fantasy is the illumination of snow-hanging on two zelkova trees in Atrio Plaza, which is a winter tradition in Kanazawa. The collaboration between modern illuminations and traditional snow-hanging creates a precious sight that can only be seen in Kanazawa.
When I visited, I saw many people enjoying it after sightseeing or shopping. Since it's easy to drop by casually, I encourage those interested in illuminations to definitely visit.
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- Date: November 1, 2024 February 16, 2025 (2024 information)
- Access: Directly from "Korinbo" bus stop via Kanazawa Castle Town Loop Bus, Hokuriku Railway route bus, or West Japan JR Bus
- Admission: Free
- Website: None
Omicho Market Crab Festival
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
Omicho Market Crab Festival is a Kanazawa Event 2025 held at Omicho Market, beloved as Kanazawa's kitchen, timed with the lifting of the snow crab fishing ban in Ishikawa.
You can enjoy various crab dishes centered around fresh Kano crab and Female Snow Crab, making this an irresistible event for crab lovers.
My favorite highlight is being able to eat the hot crab soup made in large pots and "Kani-men" (crab face), a Kanazawa local dish where Female Snow Crab meat is arranged in the shell. It warms your stomach enough to blow away the winter cold.
This event is recommended for those who want to enjoy fresh seafood or experience Kanazawa's food culture.
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- Date: November 9, 2024 (2024 information)
- Access: Immediate walk from "Musashigatsujii・Omicho Market" bus stop
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://ohmicho-ichiba.com/
Kenroku-en Garden Snow Hanging Work
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
The Kenroku-en Garden snow hanging work is a traditional operation performed at Kenroku-en Garden, a famous attraction in Kanazawa, to protect trees from heavy snow that falls during winter. Snow hanging (yukitsuri) is beloved as a winter tradition in Kanazawa, with approximately 800 locations throughout the garden receiving snow hanging installations using ropes and poles.
The snow hanging work is carried out annually from November 1st through mid-December, so visitors during this period can observe the work up close. The skilled craftsmanship of artisans setting up central poles and radiating ropes to branches, along with the garden's transformation as work progresses, are highlights worth watching.
The completed snow hanging installations can be viewed until mid-March. This is a recommended event for those interested in traditional Japanese techniques or wanting to see sights unique to Kanazawa.
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- Schedule: Annually from November 1st through mid-December
- Access: About 3 minutes on foot from "Kenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa Castle" bus stop
- Admission: Adults (18 and over) 320 yen, Children (6-17 years old) 100 yen
- Website: https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kenrokuen/
Kaga-shishi Joint Performance
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
The Kaga-shishi joint performance is a unique event where groups performing various schools of Shishimai (traditional performing art involving dancing while wearing lion masks) from throughout the prefecture collaborate with "Kaga-shishi," which is treasured in Kanazawa as historically valuable.
My recommended highlight is being able to watch powerful dances up close. The Kaga-shishi joint performance incorporates martial arts techniques using weapons such as wooden staffs, swords, spears, sickles, and chains, characterized by magnificent and dynamic movements. Additionally, since movements and techniques vary greatly between different schools, you can enjoy comparing the differences.
This is perfect for those interested in traditional Japanese performing arts that can be viewed up close or those looking for easily accessible events.
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- Schedule: November 9, 2024 (2024 information)
- Access: Walking distance from JR Kanazawa Station Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit)
- Admission: Free
- Website: None
Kanazawa Event 2025: Year-End and Winter Events (December)
December in Kanazawa becomes a season of authentic winter cold, with increasing days of snow and rain. As snow may accumulate, non-slip shoes and warm clothing such as thick coats or down jackets are essential. We also recommend bringing a folding umbrella to prepare for sudden weather changes.
From here, we'll introduce Kanazawa events that can be enjoyed in December as part of the exciting Kanazawa Event 2025 lineup. Please check each monthly event article for details such as access information.
Notable Kanazawa Events for December 2025
December offers mainly illumination events and traditional year-end and New Year ceremonies. You can enjoy special winter events unique to the season, such as luxurious light-ups using gold leaf and the largest Christmas market in the Hokuriku region, experiencing a spectacular atmosphere perfect for year-end celebrations.
If you're spending New Year's in Kanazawa, we also recommend enjoying Japanese-style New Year celebrations at shrines as part of the Kanazawa Event 2025 experience.
Kinpaku (Gold Leaf) Yukitsuri Light-up
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
The Kanazawa Yukitsuri Light-up is an illumination event held around Omicho Market. Three yukitsuri installations measuring 12 meters, 8 meters, and 6 meters are adorned with monuments called "Kinpaku Kirara" featuring gold leaf, a traditional Kanazawa craft, and illuminated with LED lights.
The highlight of the Kanazawa Yukitsuri Light-up is the beautiful sparkling sight of gold leaf swaying in the wind. On the Kanazawa M'za side, 2,000 pieces of gold leaf are used, while the Kanazawa Hokomachi side uses 500 pieces, creating a fantastical atmosphere as they flutter in the wind while emitting light.
This event is recommended for those wanting to see illuminations unique to Kanazawa or those wishing to enjoy night scenery as part of the comprehensive Kanazawa Event 2025 offerings.
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- Schedule: October 18, 2024 February 17, 2025 (2024 information)
- Access: 10 minutes on foot from JR Kanazawa Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: None
Kanazawa Christmas Market
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
The Kanazawa Christmas Market is the largest Christmas market in the Hokuriku region, held underground at Kanazawa Station. About 100 booths featuring gourmet food, miscellaneous goods, and workshops gather for two days, making it a popular event bustling with locals and tourists alike. When I visited, I was able to spend a peaceful time drinking warm mulled wine.
In addition to shops and gourmet food, stage events and games are also planned, offering various ways to enjoy yourself. At the Santa booth, you can even have the experience of meeting Santa.
The Kanazawa Christmas Market is held near Tsuzumi-mon Gate, a symbol of Kanazawa Station, making it an attractive point that it's easy to visit casually in combination with sightseeing. If you want to experience the Christmas spirit, please definitely visit.
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- Date: December 7-8, 2024 (2024 information)
- Access: Walking distance from Kanazawa Station Kenroku-en Exit (East Exit)
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://kanazawa-xmas.jimdosite.com/ (2024 information)
New Year's Eve and Hatsumode at Shrines
If you visit Kanazawa during the year-end and New Year period, New Year's Eve and Hatsumode at shrines are recommended. Hatsumode is an event where people visit shrines in the New Year to celebrate the safety of the past year.
If you're welcoming the New Year in Kanazawa, it's recommended to visit Oyama-jinja, Kanazawa Shrine, Ishiura Shrine, Ozaki Shrine, and others around Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle. Many locals also visit, so you can experience Japanese New Year culture together with them.
Also, if you go to Utasu Shrine in Higashi Chaya District, you can enjoy strolling through the tea house district after Hatsumode. Please try choosing a shrine for Hatsumode according to your sightseeing route.
If you want to experience traditional Japanese culture or welcome the New Year in a special way, please definitely visit a shrine.
Free Admission to Kenroku-en Garden During New Year Period
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
If you're spending the year-end and New Year in Kanazawa, visiting Kenroku-en Garden is also recommended.
Kenroku-en Garden, which is usually paid admission, is opened free of charge only during the period from December 31st to January 3rd, where you can enjoy winter-specific scenery such as snow landscapes, yukitsuri (snow protection for trees), and nighttime illumination. The contrast between the snow landscape and yukitsuri is so beautiful it can be called a symbol of winter Kenroku-en Garden, and the nighttime illumination offers a mystical atmosphere different from daytime.
Also, since the garden is open during the night from December 31st to January 1st, it's possible to welcome the New Year moment at Kenroku-en Garden. This is a recommended event for those who want to fully enjoy the beautiful snow scenery unique to Kanazawa or experience a special New Year.
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Date: December 31st January 3rd every year
Access: About 3 minutes walk from "Kenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa-jo" bus stop
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.siro-niwa.com/_wp/event/
Summary
This time, we have detailed the events you can enjoy in the Kanazawa Event 2025 lineup, from traditional ceremonies to gourmet events and nature-related events.
Kanazawa has various attractions, including events where you can experience traditional culture up close and seasonal limited scenery that can only be seen in Kanazawa. Many events allow you to actually experience rather than just observe, so you can physically feel the culture.
By reading this article, you can understand all the events held in Kanazawa month by month, which will be useful for planning your trip. Please find events that interest you and enjoy your stay in Kanazawa during the exciting Kanazawa Event 2025 season.