Kanazawa Through the Seasons: A Complete Guide to the Best Times to Visit
Kanazawa, facing the Sea of Japan, is a historic city where the atmosphere of the Edo period (1603-1868) still remains today. During that time, it was governed by the powerful Maeda family and boasted one of Japan's richest cultures and economies. As a result, many historical and traditional spots still exist today, attracting numerous tourists from both domestic and international destinations.
Kanazawa seasons offer completely different expressions throughout the year: cherry blossoms in spring, ocean and festivals in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow landscapes in winter. This time, we'll provide detailed information about how to enjoy each of the Kanazawa seasons, along with highlights, seasonal foods, and seasonal limited events.
Recommended Seasons to Visit Kanazawa
While Kanazawa has diverse attractions throughout the year, the particularly recommended seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom throughout the city, enveloping the entire town in soft pink colors. The scenery where historical buildings and gardens harmonize with cherry blossoms offers beauty unique to this season.
Autumn is when the fall foliage reaches its peak, with Kenroku-en and the castle town colored in red and yellow. The climate is also cool and comfortable, making it perfect for strolling. Furthermore, autumn delicacies including crab and Amaebi (sweet shrimp) are not to be missed.
Spring and autumn, where natural beauty and delicious food come together, are perfect seasons to fully experience the charm of Kanazawa seasons.
Characteristics and Highlights of Each Kanazawa Season
Spring in Kanazawa
Spring in Kanazawa transforms the entire city into a gorgeous atmosphere surrounded by cherry blossoms. Kenroku-en and Kanazawa Castle Park are popular cherry blossom viewing spots among locals, with many people visiting for hanami. The climate is also mild and comfortable, perfect for sightseeing.
Additionally, in spring you can enjoy local traditional vegetables called "Kaga vegetables" and seafood such as firefly squid and rockfish. Rockfish is also called "Harutsugeuo (Spring-announcing fish)" and represents the arrival of spring.
For those who want to experience Japanese spring scenery and gourmet food, spring in Kanazawa is the perfect time.
Summer in Kanazawa
Summer in Kanazawa is a season where you can strongly feel the energy of nature and traditional culture.
My particular recommendation is Chirihama Nagisa Driveway. When the sand contains water, it hardens, making it a rare spot in the world where you can drive regular cars on the beach. Driving while feeling the sea breeze up close is a refreshing experience unique to summer.
Also, around Kenroku-en at night, you can enjoy the fantastic light of fireflies. There are also plenty of events where you can experience local culture, such as summer festivals, fireworks displays, and the Lantern Floating Ceremony on Asanogawa River.
Why not create memorable experiences in the vibrant summer of Kanazawa seasons?
Autumn in Kanazawa
Autumn in Kanazawa sees every corner of the city colored in red and yellow, wrapped in beautiful autumn foliage. The contrast between historic architecture and gardens with autumn leaves at Kenroku-en, Nagamachi Samurai District, and other locations offers beauty that can only be seen in autumn. The climate is also cool and comfortable, making it the perfect season for strolling and sightseeing.
Autumn delicacies are also abundant. Among them, seafood such as Female snow crab and Amaebi (sweet shrimp) are particularly popular ingredients, so please try them.
The attractive point of autumn in Kanazawa seasons is being able to fully enjoy Japanese natural beauty and seafood in a calm atmosphere.
Winter in Kanazawa
Winter in Kanazawa sees the entire city covered in snow, creating quiet and beautiful landscapes. Particularly at Kenroku-en, traditional snow protection measures called "Yukizuri" are implemented in winter. This is a device to protect pine tree branches from the weight of snow, and it's a winter tradition unique to snowy Kanazawa.
Also, in winter, fresh seafood such as crab and yellowtail enjoyed at Omicho Market is exceptional. Winter fish are known to be particularly delicious as their flesh becomes firm and fatty.
In winter Kanazawa seasons, you can experience special moments through quiet snowy landscapes and exquisite seafood gourmet.
Places to Enjoy When Visiting Kanazawa in Spring
Tourist Spots Where You Can Feel Beautiful Nature
Kanazawa Castle Park
Kanazawa Castle Park is the site of the former castle of the Maeda family, who ruled this area during the Edo period, and is now maintained as a vast park beloved by citizens and tourists alike.
Throughout the park, there are turrets (called "yagura" in Japanese) and gates that recreate the Japanese architecture of that time, where you can enjoy the harmony between white walls, stone foundations, and nature. In spring, approximately 400 cherry trees bloom in full glory, making it a popular cherry blossom viewing spot bustling with many people.
When I visited, the harmony of the cherry blossoms in full bloom, white walls, and blue sky was so beautiful that I couldn't help but stop and gaze in admiration.
At night, illumination is also conducted, allowing you to see a fantastical cherry blossom landscape different from the daytime.
〈Facility Information〉
- Address: 1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Operating Hours: March 1 - October 15: 7:00-18:00 | October 16 - end of February: 8:00-17:00
- Closed: None
- Phone Number: 076-234-3800
- Official Website: https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kanazawajou/
Kenroku-en
Kenroku-en is a traditional garden representing Japan, known as one of Japan's Three Great Gardens. In addition to beautiful nature, it's packed with highlights such as the Kotoji Lantern, Flying Geese Bridge, and Japan's oldest fountain.
In spring, the cherry blossoms throughout the garden bloom all at once, allowing visitors to enjoy a beautiful contrast with the fresh greenery. Kenroku-en is also a cherry blossom viewing spot alongside Kanazawa Castle Park, attracting many visitors.
I particularly recommend the early morning hours. Admission is free, there are fewer people, and you'll feel as if you have the special scenery all to yourself. When I visited, I was able to enjoy quiet and peaceful time while listening to bird songs.
〈Facility Information〉
- Address: 1-4 Kenroku-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Operating Hours: March 1 - October 15: 7:00-18:00 | October 16 - end of February: 8:00-17:00
※Early morning free admission service is also available. Please check the official homepage for opening hours.
- Closed: None
- Phone Number: 076-234-3800
- Official Website: https://kenrokuen.or.jp/
Mount Utatsu
Mount Utatsu is a small mountain easily accessible from central Kanazawa. It's beloved by local people and bustles as a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in spring.
On clear days, you can see Kanazawa's cityscape and even The Sea of Japan in the distance from Bokokodai (observation deck), enjoying spectacular views unique to elevated locations.
Mount Utatsu is accessible by car or bus, but I also recommend leisurely walking up the gentle mountain trail. It takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the observation deck, making it perfect for light hiking.
The park has spacious lawns and benches, so why not bring food and drinks for a picnic under the cherry blossoms? The scenery after walking through nature feels exceptionally refreshing.
〈Facility Information〉
- Address: Utatsu-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: None
- Phone Number: 076-220-2356
- Official Website: https://www.kanazawa-kankoukyoukai.or.jp/spot/detail_50020.html
Food to Enjoy in Spring Kanazawa
Spring Seasonal Seafood (Japanese Halfbeak, Japanese Rockfish)
In spring Kanazawa, fresh seafood is particularly abundant. Among these, Japanese halfbeak with its characteristic translucent white flesh and Japanese rockfish, locally called "Hachime," are recommended fish that reach their prime eating season in spring.
Japanese halfbeak has the most fat during cherry blossom season, earning it recognition as "the fish that announces spring." Japanese rockfish is commonly prepared as salt-grilled dish or soy-simmered dish, and locally it's also standard to enjoy it as sashimi.
Omicho Market and izakayas throughout the city serve dishes using spring fresh fish, allowing you to enjoy the taste of freshly caught seafood on the spot. When you find them, please be sure to give them a try.
Bamboo Shoots and Other Kaga Vegetables
Dishes using local traditional vegetables called "Kaga Vegetables" are also unique to spring Kanazawa. "Kaga" derives from the name this region was called in ancient times.
Among these, bamboo shoots that reach their prime eating season from April to May are a staple spring ingredient. They're enjoyed in simmered dishes and mixed rice, and are also standard in home cooking. Although bamboo shoots require 2-3 hours of preparation, they're so appealing to local people that they consider them worth the effort.
There are also other unique vegetables rarely seen in other regions, such as the thick "Kaga Futo Cucumber" and the highly viscous "Kaga Lotus Root." They're sold not only at Omicho Market but also at local supermarkets, so please pay attention to them.
When You Visit Kanazawa in Spring, Enjoying Exquisite Desserts While Viewing Beautiful Cherry Blossoms is Highly Recommended
Source:Tabelog
Kanazawa has one of the highest consumption rates of traditional Japanese sweets nationwide and is also renowned as a city of confections. With many traditional confectionery shops that have been operating for over 100 years, you can enjoy historic flavors that showcase the sweetest essence of Kanazawa seasons.
Japan has a culture called "Hanami" where people enjoy picnicking under cherry blossoms with friends, family, and lovers. Spending leisurely time eating sweets during Hanami is the quintessential way locals enjoy themselves, perfectly capturing the spirit of Kanazawa seasons in spring.
An abundance of spring-themed sweets are available, including "Hanami Dango" made specifically for Hanami, Sakura mochi wrapped in cherry blossom leaves, and "Nerikiri (Japanese traditional sweet made from white bean paste and glutinous rice flour)" featuring cherry blossom motifs. These seasonal delicacies truly represent the delightful flavors of Kanazawa seasons.
Please try savoring uniquely Japanese sweets while experiencing Hanami and the magical charm of Kanazawa seasons.
Spots That Visitors to Kanazawa in Autumn Should Enjoy
Tourist Spots Where You Can Enjoy Beautiful Autumn Foliage
Kenroku-en
Kenroku-en is popular not only for spring cherry blossom viewing but also as a premier autumn foliage destination that showcases the spectacular beauty of Kanazawa seasons. From around mid-November, the trees throughout the garden turn brilliant shades of red and yellow, creating stunning autumn foliage scenery that exemplifies the transformative beauty of Kanazawa seasons.
The ponds, bridges, and teahouses within the garden harmonize perfectly with the autumn foliage, creating colorful scenery as vibrant as a painting and demonstrating why Kanazawa seasons are so celebrated. Especially at dusk, the autumn leaves reflect magnificently on the water surface, creating a fantastical sight that captures the ethereal beauty of Kanazawa seasons.
Illumination is also conducted at night, allowing you to enjoy Kenroku-en with a completely different atmosphere from daytime, showcasing yet another facet of Kanazawa seasons. When I visited, the scenery of autumn foliage reflected on the water surface was incredibly impressive, perfectly embodying the photogenic splendor of Kanazawa seasons, and I couldn't help but take countless photos.
Facility Information
- Address: 1-4 Kenroku-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Operating Hours: March 1 October 15: 7:00-18:00 | October 16 End of February: 8:00-17:00
Early morning free admission service is also available. Please check the official website for opening hours.
- Closed: None
- Phone: 076-234-3800
- Official Website: https://kenrokuen.or.jp/
Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden
Gyokusen-en is a compact Japanese garden characterized by moss-covered ponds and stone-paved pathways that beautifully showcase the serene aspects of Kanazawa seasons. Said to have been created approximately 400 years ago, it has about 120 years longer history than Kenroku-en, making it a timeless witness to the evolution of Kanazawa seasons through the centuries.
Despite being located right near the tourist-crowded Kenroku-en, Gyokusen-en maintains a quiet and peaceful atmosphere where time flows gently, offering visitors an intimate experience with Kanazawa seasons. Within the garden, there's also a teahouse where you can enjoy matcha and traditional sweets while contemplating the autumn foliage—a perfect place for those who want to spend leisurely time immersed in the tranquil beauty of Kanazawa seasons.
I also spent a heartwarming moment at Gyokusen-en, gazing at the trees dyed in red and yellow, fully appreciating the contemplative nature of Kanazawa seasons. Why not spend some luxurious time feeling both history and nature in the quiet serenity of autumn and the meditative essence of Kanazawa seasons?
Facility Information
- Address: 8-3 Kosho-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 9:00-17:00 (December: 10:00-16:00)
- Closed: Wednesdays (or the following weekday if it's a holiday) May be temporarily closed
December 25 End of February: Closed for winter season
- Phone: 076-221-0181
- Official Website: https://gyokusen-en.net/
Nagamachi Samurai District
Nagamachi Samurai District is an area where the streetscape where samurai once lived remains preserved, characterized by earthen walls and narrow stone-paved alleys that transport visitors back through the historical layers of Kanazawa seasons.
In autumn, the trees along the streets change colors, creating scenery where autumn foliage matches beautifully with traditional buildings, perfectly demonstrating how Kanazawa seasons enhance the area's historical charm. Additionally, there are free-admission historical residences and small museums where you can feel the lifestyle of people from bygone eras, adding cultural depth to your experience of Kanazawa seasons.
Particularly recommended is the garden at the Nomura family's historic samurai house, which is open to the public and exemplifies the refined aesthetics of Kanazawa seasons. It was once ranked 3rd in the Japanese garden rankings by the American horticultural magazine "The Journal of Japanese Gardening," where you can enjoy the uniquely Japanese tranquil atmosphere that defines the sophisticated spirit of Kanazawa seasons.
Please enjoy a leisurely autumn stroll while taking in the traditional scenery and the timeless appeal of Kanazawa seasons.
Basic Information
- Address: Nagamachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Closed: None
- Phone: 076-232-5555
- Official Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/spot/detail_5962.html
Daijō-ji
Source:Google Maps
Daijō-ji is one of the historic temples in Ishikawa Prefecture, founded in 1262, making it a venerable witness to countless cycles of Kanazawa seasons throughout the centuries. The contrast between the moss spreading throughout the temple grounds and the autumn foliage creates a tranquil atmosphere reminiscent of Japanese paintings, providing healing from daily fatigue while showcasing the restorative power of Kanazawa seasons.
Especially when the autumn leaves begin to fall, the fallen leaves color the ground, allowing you to enjoy scenic beauty with a different charm from peak season—a unique perspective on the ever-changing nature of Kanazawa seasons.
There's a large park nearby, making it perfect for strolling through nature and fully experiencing the outdoor beauty of Kanazawa seasons. Since it's located on elevated ground, on clear days you can enjoy panoramic views of Kanazawa's cityscape, offering a bird's-eye perspective of how Kanazawa seasons transform the entire urban landscape.
This is a recommended autumn foliage spot that's still relatively unknown to tourists, perfect for those who want to spend quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city center while deeply connecting with the peaceful essence of Kanazawa seasons.
Facility Information
- Address: Ru-10 Nagasaka-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Closed: None
- Phone: 076-241-2680
- Official Website: https://daijoji.info/
Strolling Traditional Streets with Local Guidance is Also Recommended
For tourists who want to deeply understand Kanazawa city across its beautiful seasons, a half-day walking tour with a local guide comes highly recommended.
This comprehensive tour showcases the essence of Kanazawa seasons as you visit major tourist attractions including Omicho Market, Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, and Higashi Chaya district, while also enjoying authentic local cuisine lunch and traditional wagashi sweets with matcha tea time experiences.
By walking while listening to fascinating stories about history and architecture from knowledgeable guides, your appreciation of Kanazawa seasons and cultural heritage will deepen considerably. The ability to efficiently visit representative spots in a short time makes this an ideal way to experience the diverse charm of Kanazawa seasons.
• Meeting point: FamilyMart+Drug Komeya Kanazawa Musashi Store
• Tour area: Ishikawa
• Start time: 10:00
Seasonal Delicacies to Enjoy During Kanazawa's Autumn
The culinary experiences of Kanazawa seasons are truly exceptional, particularly during autumn when local specialties reach their peak flavor.
Female Snow Crab
Female snow crab, known as "Kobako-gani" in Japan, represents one of the most treasured delicacies of Kanazawa seasons, available only during the short period from early November to the end of December.
Inside the small shell, you'll discover small eggs called "Sotoko" and creamy-tasting ovaries called "Uchiko" packed abundantly. The renowned specialty dish "Kani-men" using female snow crab is expertly steamed with crab ingredients and eggs stuffed into the shell—a luxurious culinary masterpiece that allows you to fully savor the umami flavors without waste.
At Kanazawa's traditional oden shops (traditional Japanese hot pot dish restaurants), "Kani-men" appears on winter menus as a celebration of Kanazawa seasons. This popular dish often sells out quickly, so when you encounter it during your visit, don't miss the opportunity to taste this seasonal treasure.
Sweet Shrimp
Sweet shrimp perfectly embodies the transitional beauty of Kanazawa seasons, characterized by its naturally sweet and gentle flavor that reaches perfection during the cold months from autumn to winter.
At the bustling Omicho market, fresh sweet shrimp are displayed abundantly at storefronts, with raw preparations as sashimi or sushi being the traditional way to appreciate this gift of Kanazawa seasons. The signature melting texture and natural shrimp sweetness that spreads throughout your palate make this a beloved delicacy.
Local sushi restaurants and izakaya also showcase this ingredient through various cooking methods including miso soup, salt grilling, and karaage (fried preparations).
My personal recommendation is the karaage preparation where the shrimp is fried whole until perfectly fragrant—you can enjoy it entirely, including shell and head, experiencing a completely different dimension of flavor compared to sashimi.
Autumn Illumination Events: A Must-See Highlight of Kanazawa Seasons!
When you visit during the spectacular autumn period of Kanazawa seasons, the enchanting nighttime illumination events at famous autumn foliage locations such as Kenroku-en and Kanazawa Castle Park are absolutely essential experiences. These magical evenings showcase the transformative beauty of Kanazawa seasons as the atmosphere completely shifts from daytime, with vibrant autumn foliage and historic buildings dramatically illuminated, creating an ethereal nighttime landscape.
The breathtaking sight of autumn colors reflected on tranquil pond surfaces, combined with "Yukizuri" (traditional snow protection gracefully applied to pine trees) visible alongside the foliage, creates a uniquely stunning highlight that exemplifies the transitional beauty of Kanazawa seasons.
These illumination displays can typically be enjoyed from sunset until approximately 8:30 PM, with the added benefit of free admission—making them perfect for concluding your day of exploring Kanazawa seasons. Since evening temperatures can drop significantly during this time of year, we recommend picking up warm beverages from nearby cafes or shops to enjoy while leisurely taking in these spectacular seasonal displays.
<Illumination Venues and Schedule>
Venues: Kenroku-en, Kanazawa Castle park, Gyokusen-en
Schedule: 10/18(Sat), 25(Sat), 11/1(Sat), 2(Sun), 8(Sat), 15(Sat), 22(Sat), 23(Sun), 29(Sat)
Spots to Enjoy When Visiting Kanazawa in Summer
Recommended Tourist Spots to Fully Experience Summer in Kanazawa
Chirihama Beach
Chirihama Beach is famous as Japan's only beach where you can drive cars directly on the sand. The fine sand particles become as hard as asphalt when compacted, so there's no worry about cars sinking.
The exhilarating experience of driving along the approximately 8-kilometer shoreline is a special experience that can only be enjoyed at Chirihama Beach during summer. The sunset view over the horizon is particularly beautiful during twilight hours, making it highly recommended.
Located about an hour's drive from Kanazawa city center, it's the perfect distance for a day trip. Why not experience the beauty of the Sea of Japan while driving along the seaside? Among all Kanazawa seasons, summer offers this unique coastal driving experience.
Facility Information
- Address: Chirihama-machi, Hakui City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: None
※Please check road restriction status before visiting, as roads may be restricted due to weather conditions.
- Phone: 0767-22-1118
- Official Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/spot/detail_5818.html
Firefly Viewing at Kenroku-en and Kanazawa Castle Park
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
In early summer, limited-time firefly viewing events are held at Kenroku-en and Kanazawa Castle Park.
The gardens, normally inaccessible at night, are specially opened to the public, allowing visitors to observe the gentle light emitted by fireflies up close in the dark, quiet grounds. The garden lighting is kept dim, which further enhances the natural beauty of the fireflies' glow.
Despite being located in central Kanazawa, Kenroku-en is blessed with abundant greenery and clean water, making it a rare spot where you can see fireflies in the city center. This seasonal spectacle truly represents one of the most magical aspects of Kanazawa seasons. Please enjoy this special scenery available only during this time.
Facility Information
- Address: 1 Kenroku-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Event Dates: June 27-28, July 4-5, 2025
- Event Hours: 19:30-21:30
- Phone: 076-225-1542
- Official Website: https://www.kanazawa-kankoukyoukai.or.jp/event/detail_30152.html
The Fourth High School Memorial Museum of Cultural Exchange, Ishikawa
Source:Iwasaki Denki
The Fourth High School Memorial Museum is a cultural facility that utilizes a wooden school building actually used as a middle school for approximately 60 years from 1893.
The museum displays numerous materials that show the lifestyle and educational conditions of students from that era, realistically conveying the passion and atmosphere of the students as if you've traveled back to the Meiji period.
The classic interior and architecture are also highlights, offering excellent photo opportunities. The museum has a shop where you can rent retro kimono and period costumes, so changing into these outfits while exploring will allow you to feel history more deeply.
Facility Information
- Address: 2-2-5 Hirosaka, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Operating Hours: 9:00-17:00
- Closed: December 29 January 3
- Phone: 076-262-5464
- Official Website: https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/shiko-kinbun/information/
Foods to Enjoy During Summer in Kanazawa
Summer Seafood
While Kanazawa is famous for winter crab and yellowtail, you can also enjoy seafood with different charms during summer. Summer fish tend to have less fat and offer refreshing flavors, making them easy to eat during the hot season.
My particular recommendation is Madai (Japanese Red Sea Bream), which reaches its peak eating season in early summer. While it's delicious as sashimi, I highly recommend trying the uniquely Japanese preparation method called "Kobujime (Kelp-cured fish)."
By sandwiching the fish between kelp and letting it rest, the kelp's "Umami" (depth of flavor) transfers to the fish, creating a deep, rich taste. This technique is available at Omicho Market and restaurants throughout the city, so please try it when visiting Kanazawa during summer. It's truly representative of the culinary delights of Kanazawa seasons.
Cold Sweets (Shaved Ice, Soft Cream, etc.)
When visiting Kanazawa in summer, be sure to try sweets made with traditional Japanese ingredients such as Matcha, Kinako (roasted soybean flour), and Anko (sweet red bean paste). Particularly, shaved ice and soft cream flavored with Kaga Bocha (traditional roasted steam tea from Kanazawa) offer flavors unique to Kanazawa.
Also famous as Kanazawa's summer-limited traditional sweet is "Himuro Manju." Sold at Japanese confectionery shops throughout the city around July 1st each year, it's beloved by locals as a seasonal tradition.
"Himuro Manju" was created in reference to the Edo period custom of storing winter snow in "Himuro," traditional ice storage facilities, and presenting it to the Shogun in summer.
During your summer stroll, why not take a refreshing break with these visually cool sweets? They perfectly capture the essence of Kanazawa seasons and provide a delightful respite from the summer heat.
Experience Traditional Japanese Summer Festivals and Fireworks When You Visit Kanazawa in Summer!
Summer Kanazawa offers several festivals and events that have been beloved by local people for many years, making it one of the most vibrant Kanazawa seasons for visitors to experience authentic Japanese culture.
The Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival, held in early June, is packed with historical highlights including large-scale parades featuring people dressed in Edo period costumes and traditional ladder climbing performances.
Additionally, the Hokkoku Fireworks Festival is held in central Kanazawa at the end of July, where approximately 12,000 fireworks illuminate the night sky.
The festival venues feature food stalls offering street food such as shaved ice, takoyaki, and candied apples, as well as traditional festival games like target shooting games and goldfish scooping. This is a precious experience unique to summer that allows you to taste traditional Japanese festivals.
Information
■Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival
- Dates: June 6 (Friday), 7 (Saturday), 8 (Sunday), 2025
- Location: Area from Kanazawa Station to Kanazawa Castle
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://100mangoku.net/
■Hokkoku Fireworks Festival
- Date: July 26 (Saturday), 2025
- Location: Around Saigawa Green Space in Omameda Honmachi (Prefectural - Mameda Simple Ground)
- Address: Omameda Honmachi, Kanazawa City
- Admission (for paid viewing seats): From 3,000 yen~ Varies depending on seat type
Website: https://hk-event.jp/hanabi/kanazawa/
Spots to Enjoy When Visiting Kanazawa in Winter
Recommended Tourist Spots That Become Even More Beautiful in Winter
Winter represents one of the most magical Kanazawa seasons, transforming the city into a wonderland of snow and traditional beauty.
Kenroku-en (Yukizuri)
In winter Kenroku-en, the traditional technique called "Yukizuri" is applied to protect trees from the weight of snow, creating a special landscape that cannot be seen in other seasons. The pine trees suspended with ropes look as if they are wearing Japanese conical hats, creating a fantastical scene.
When snow accumulates, the contrast between the stone bridges, tea houses, and pure white snow becomes striking, allowing you to feel the winter tranquility even more deeply. Kenroku-en also holds illumination events in winter. The yukizuri trees are lit up, allowing you to see the garden in a completely different atmosphere from daytime.
Higashi Chaya District
The Higashi Chaya district is a historic street that preserves the atmosphere of the Edo period, featuring a charming area lined with traditional tea houses and wooden buildings. In winter, snow accumulates on the tiled roofs, creating a beautiful contrast between the white snowy landscape and the dark brown wooden architecture. This fusion of historic scenery and snow-covered views offers an experience unique to winter in Kanazawa.
I especially recommend visiting on weekday mornings when there are fewer tourists. Walking slowly through the quiet alleyways gives you a sense of old-world charm, as if you've stepped back in time. The Higashi Chaya district also has many stylish cafes, so watching the historic snow-covered streetscape from indoors makes for a truly peaceful moment.
Foods to Enjoy in Winter Kanazawa
Crab
When you visit Kanazawa in winter, please try the local specialty crab that's perfectly in season. Particularly popular is the Snow crab, also called "Zuwai crab," which starts appearing all at once in markets and restaurants when fishing is permitted from early November. Local people eagerly await this time of year, making it a cherished tradition of Kanazawa seasons.
Male Zuwai crab has legs packed tightly with meat, and when enjoyed as steamed crab or shabu-shabu (Japanese style hot pot), you can savor the crab's natural sweetness and umami.
The fishing season for Zuwai crab is about 5 months from early November to late March. Those visiting Kanazawa during this period should definitely try the freshly caught crab.
Yellowtail
In Kanazawa's winter, fatty Yellowtail also reaches its peak season. Yellowtail caught in the Hokuriku region from November to February is called "Kanburi" (Winter yellowtail) and is known for being especially delicious.
While eating it as Sashimi or Sushi is standard, my recommended dish is "Buridaikon (Yellowtail and Daikon Radish Stew)." This dish uses Yellowtail head, bones, and fillets, simmered for a long time with daikon radish in soy sauce-based broth, and is commonly made in Japanese households.
Buridaikon eaten in cold winter Kanazawa is a warm dish that brings comfort to the heart.
If you visit Kanazawa in winter, enjoy Kanazawa's exquisite winter foods at Omicho Market!
Source:Official website
Omicho Market is a spot beloved by both locals and tourists as "The Kitchen of Kanazawa."
When Zuwai crab fishing is permitted in November, the market's specialty Miso-based crab soup is served in large pots. The hot crab soup drunk in the cold season warms you to the core and is exquisite.
Inside the market, you can enjoy fresh Sashimi and Sushi of Yellowtail and sweet shrimp that reach their peak during the beautiful Kanazawa seasons of winter. Comparing the taste differences at each shop is also recommended.
In addition, there are also single dishes like grilled fish, croquettes, and oden, and the point that you can easily enjoy local gourmet food is also attractive.
While warming your chilled body, please experience the unique deliciousness that defines Kanazawa seasons in winter.
<Information>
- Address: 50 Kami-Ohmicho, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Business Hours: Around 9:00-17:00 (varies by store)
- Closed: January 1st-4th
Many stores are relatively closed on Wednesdays, so please check store information when visiting
- Phone Number: 076-231-1462
- Official Website: https://ohmicho-ichiba.com/
- Access: 15-minute walk from Kanazawa Station
About 5 minutes by Hokutetsu bus numbers 6-9 from Kanazawa Station East Exit, get off at "Musashigatsuji" immediately
When you come to Kanazawa, the city of gastronomy, enjoy food hopping at restaurants truly loved by locals!
If you want to deeply enjoy nighttime Kanazawa and experience the diverse flavors that make Kanazawa seasons so special, a food hopping tour with local guides is recommended.
On the tour, you can enjoy Kanazawa's unique flavors little by little, including local sake, Kappo cuisine (Japanese cuisine that carefully prepares seasonal ingredients with attention to appearance), Oden (traditional Japanese hot pot dish) enjoyed at retro izakaya, and sake and wagashi pairings.
Hidden gem-like shops that are difficult for tourists to enter alone can be safely enjoyed with local guide assistance. Not only meals, but you can also hear stories about Kanazawa's culture, cuisine, and sake, so you can discover Kanazawa's deep attractions that showcase the rich culinary heritage spanning all Kanazawa seasons.
- Meeting point: In front of the Korinbo Ramoda bldg. (香林坊)
- Tour Area: Ishikawa
- Start Time: 18:00
