Step Back in Time: Exploring Kanazawa’s Historic Spots and Streets 2025
Kanazawa is a city with a history of prosperity as one of Japan's leading cultural centers during the Edo period (1603-1867). Even today, it is known as a city where traditional Japanese historical landmarks and cultural heritage remain vividly preserved.
Kanazawa was once built as a Castle Town by a powerful warrior clan called the Maeda clan. Because this castle town flourished, many districts with unique atmospheres and attractions still remain today.
In this article, we will introduce carefully selected spots where you can experience the history and traditions of Kanazawa. Please use this as a reference for your visit.
Three Historical Streets Representing the Traditional City of "Kanazawa"
Higashi Chaya District
Higashi Chaya District is the largest and most famous Chaya District in Kanazawa. Traditional wooden buildings called "Machiya" line the streets, conveying the elegant atmosphere that developed during the Edo Period (1603-1867) to the present day.
The characteristic of Higashi Chaya District is its vibrancy and well-equipped facilities. Shops selling gold leaf crafts, visually beautiful Japanese confectioneries, and stylish cafes stand side by side, making it enjoyable just to walk around. Some establishments still offer traditional dances and parlor games performed by Geigi (bearers of traditional performing arts who entertain guests with refined arts).
If you want to thoroughly enjoy souvenir shopping and strolling through the streets, visit Higashi Chaya District first.
- Address: 1-1-1 Hirosaka, Kanazawa City
- Business Hours: Varies by establishment
- Closed Days: Varies by establishment
- Phone Number: 076-251-6777
- Official Website: https://www4.city.kanazawa.lg.jp/soshikikarasagasu/bunkazaihogoka/gyomuannai/3/1/1/siteibunkazai/7/5808.html
Nishi Chaya District
Nishi Chaya District is an area with a calm and serene atmosphere. It is smaller in scale than Higashi Chaya District, but this allows visitors to spend a quiet and relaxed time.
When I visited, it was relatively uncrowded, allowing me to thoroughly appreciate the details of the buildings and the ambiance of the streets.
At the "Kanazawa City Nishi Chaya Shiryokan Museum," a renovated Kenban (office and practice space for Geigi), you can learn about the history and culture of this district.
This is a place I recommend for those seeking a peaceful trip, wanting to quietly stroll through traditional Japanese streetscapes while avoiding crowds.
- Address: Nomachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Business Hours: Varies by establishment
- Closed Days: Varies by establishment
- Phone Number: 076-220-2194
- Official Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/spot/detail_6027.html
Kazue Machi Chaya District
Kazue Machi Chaya District is a very atmospheric area located along the Asano River flowing through the city.
The most distinctive feature of this district is undoubtedly its beautiful riverside scenery. Traditional ochaya and Traditional Japanese Restaurants stand along narrow stone-paved paths facing the river, creating a unique atmosphere. Additionally, the narrow side streets are intricate, giving you the joy of exploring what feels like a maze.
Furthermore, from dusk to night, gas lamp-style lights illuminate the area, creating a fantastically romantic atmosphere in combination with the scenery reflected on the river's surface.
This is the perfect place for those who want to stroll while enjoying beautiful scenery or experience a romantic atmosphere.
- Address: Kazuemachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Business Hours: Varies by establishment
- Closed Days: Varies by establishment
- Phone Number: 076-220-2194
- Official Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/spot/detail_4949.html
5 Recommended Spots for People Interested in Japanese History and Tradition
When exploring Kanazawa Historic Spots, these five locations offer visitors an authentic glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Each destination showcases a different aspect of Japanese history, from traditional gardens to samurai residences.
Kenroku-en
Source:Kanazawa Tourism Official
Kenroku-en is a vast Japanese garden known as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. It stands alongside Kōraku-en in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture and Kairaku-en in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture as one of "The Three Great Gardens of Japan."
The garden's most distinctive feature is its diverse seasonal expressions. Spring brings fully bloomed cherry blossoms, summer showcases deep greens, autumn reveals fiery red foliage, and winter presents a unique beautiful landscape called "Yukizuri," a special technique used to protect tree branches from snow.
This is a must-visit spot for those who want to thoroughly enjoy the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens.
- Address: 1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 7:00-18:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 076-234-3800
- Official website: https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kenrokuen/
Nagamachi Samurai District
The Nagamachi Samurai District is an area where samurai actually lived. When visiting this Kanazawa historic spot, you can imagine the lives of samurai during the Edo period (1603-1867).
The district's distinctive feature is its traditional streetscape with earthen walls made of yellow soil and stone-paved pathways. Water channels flow alongside the roads, creating pleasant ambient sounds.
Some former samurai residences are open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the interiors and admire beautiful gardens.
This area is recommended for those interested in samurai life or those who wish to stroll through a quiet, historically atmospheric neighborhood.
- Address: 1-3-12-2 Nagamachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 076-232-5555
- Official website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/spot/detail_5962.html
Kanazawa Castle
Kanazawa Castle was once the stronghold of the Maeda clan, powerful lords who ruled this area.
Although the central castle buildings no longer remain, there are impressive stone walls and many reconstructed historical buildings to explore.
Particularly noteworthy are the imposing "Ishikawa-mon (Ishikawa Gate)" and "Gojikken Nagaya," a long building that served as an armory and for other purposes. These buildings have been faithfully reconstructed using traditional building techniques, allowing visitors to envision the castle's original appearance.
Today, the castle grounds have been developed into a spacious park, serving as a relaxation spot for citizens and tourists alike. This is an ideal location for those interested in Japanese castle architecture or wanting to experience the power and history of former feudal lords.
- Address: 1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00-16:30
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 076-234-3800
- Official website: https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/kanazawajou/
The Fourth High School Memorial Museum of Cultural Exchange, Ishikawa
Source:Iwasaki Denki
The Fourth High School Memorial Museum of Cultural Exchange is a museum utilizing an old school building constructed over 100 years ago. The main attraction is the beautiful Western-style red brick building constructed during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when Japan began its modernization.
The building itself has been designated as an Important Cultural Property, and its retro, dignified atmosphere is certainly worth seeing.
Inside the museum, exhibits display materials related to the students' lives and education of that era. This is a recommended Kanazawa historic spot for those interested in Japan's modern history or Meiji-era architecture.
- Address: 2-2-5 Hirosaka, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00-17:00
- Closed: Dec 29-Jan 3
- Phone: 076-262-5464
- Official website: https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/shiko-kinbun/
Tsuzumi-mon Gate
The Tsuzumi-mon Gate is an enormous and impressive gateway that towers directly in front of you as you exit the Kenrokuen Gate of Kanazawa Station. While not a historical structure, but rather a modern architectural piece completed in 2005, it has become a beloved new symbol of Kanazawa for many visitors.
This gate draws inspiration from the "Tsuzumi," a traditional drum instrument used in Japanese Noh theater. Its powerful design, constructed from assembled wooden elements, beautifully merges tradition with contemporary aesthetics, exemplifying the blend of old and new found throughout Kanazawa's historic spots.
Be sure to visit and experience its impressive presence when arriving in or departing from Kanazawa. It's also an excellent location for commemorative photos.
- Address: 1-1 Kinoshinbo-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 076-232-5555 (Kanazawa Tourism Association)
- Official Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/spot/detail_13394.html
Explore Kanazawa Historic Spots with Local Experts for a Deeper Cultural Experience!
To fully experience the history and culture of Kanazawa, the "Kanazawa Half-day Historical Walking Tour" is ideal. With a local guide, you'll spend approximately 5 hours exploring Kanazawa's major historic spots.
You'll stroll through Omicho Market with over 300 years of history, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kenroku-en, one of The Three Great Gardens of Japan, and take a break in the historic buildings of Higashi Chaya District while savoring matcha and Japanese sweets.
On this tour, you'll gain deep insights into Kanazawa's history through explanations from local guides. It's perfect for first-time visitors to Kanazawa or those wanting to experience a lot in limited time.
Since this tour involves walking approximately 4-4.5km, please wear comfortable shoes.
- Meeting point: FamilyMart+Drug Komeya Kanazawa Musashi Store
- Tour area: Major historic spots in Kanazawa
- Start time: From 10:00
5 Recommended Culinary Spots to Experience Kanazawa's Traditions and Food Culture
Yusura
Source:Official website
Yusura is a café nestled within the tranquil atmosphere of Nishi Chaya District, another of Kanazawa's notable historic spots. The interior, a renovated traditional townhouse, offers a comfortable space where you can feel the warmth of natural wood.
My recommendation here is the "Kaga Bocha Gelato." Kaga Bocha is a Kanazawa-specific tea made by roasting tea stems. This gelato features the deep aroma characteristic of roasted tea, the gentle sweetness of milk, and a refreshing aftertaste in perfect balance—a delicious treat that permeates your tired body after exploring Kanazawa's historic sites.
I recommend this spot for those who want to enjoy local flavors during their exploration of Nishi Chaya District, or for those seeking a quiet place to rest. You can spend a peaceful moment in a traditional, quintessentially Japanese space.
- Address: 2-24-4 Nomachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 10:00-18:00
- Closed: Wednesdays
- Phone: 076-220-7037
- Official Website: https://yusura.shopinfo.jp/
Kifune
Source:Hitosara
Kifune is a high-end Japanese restaurant requiring advance reservations that I recommend to those seeking a special dining experience in Japan. Here, you can enjoy "Kaiseki cuisine" (traditional Japanese course meals) that resemble works of art, abundantly using carefully selected seasonal ingredients.
Each dish is meticulously prepared with attention not only to taste but also to visual beauty, allowing you to appreciate the depth of Japanese food culture. The restaurant's atmosphere is sophisticated, providing a quiet and relaxed space to enjoy your meal at one of Kanazawa's most refined historic spots.
For those wanting to taste premium Japanese cuisine in Kanazawa or experience traditional Japanese hospitality, this will surely become an unforgettable culinary memory. This is a distinguished establishment worth visiting for gourmets seeking authentic flavors and service.
- Address: 1-9-69 Hikoso-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 11:30-15:00 / 17:30-22:30
- Closed: Wednesdays
- Phone: 076-220-6131
- Official Website: None
Ichirin
Source:Tabelog
Ichirin is a Japanese restaurant nestled in the atmospheric Kazue Machi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's historic spots that perfectly showcases traditional Japanese beauty. The restaurant is housed in a renovated traditional townhouse, offering a tasteful space where traditional Japanese aesthetics blend with modern sensibilities. Its location makes it an ideal place to visit while exploring the historic teahouse district.
Here you can enjoy Kaiseki cuisine that abundantly uses fresh, seasonal local ingredients. In particular, their dishes featuring Kanazawa's specialty "Kaga Vegetables" allow you to savor the rich flavors and natural sweetness of the vegetables themselves.
The "Hanakago Lunch" I had previously was beautifully arranged with colorful small dishes, resembling a jewelry box. Since you can enjoy a variety of flavors in small portions, it's highly recommended for those experiencing Kaga Cuisine for the first time. You can have a memorable dining experience that captures both Kanazawa's history and fine cuisine in one setting.
- Address: 2-6 Kazuemachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 17:00-22:30 (Tue)
11:30-13:30 / 17:00-22:30 (Wed, Thu, Fri)
11:30-14:30 / 17:00-22:30 (Sat, Sun, Holidays)
- Closed: Mondays
- Phone: 050-5589-7449
- Official Website: https://www.ichi-rin.com/
Sushi Asanogawa
Source:Tabelog
Sushi Asanogawa is an authentic sushi restaurant located near the Asano River, conveniently positioned to visit after touring Kanazawa's historic spots. Their nigiri sushi, made with freshly caught seafood from the Sea of Japan, is exquisite. Not only is the fish incredibly fresh, but the balance with the shari (sushi rice) is also perfect, melting in your mouth.
The interior is clean with a calm Japanese atmosphere. At the counter seats, you can watch the sushi chefs meticulously prepare each piece right before your eyes, adding a live performance aspect to your meal.
For those who want to taste the freshest seafood unique to Kanazawa prepared with master craftsmanship, this is an unparalleled choice. If you want to enjoy authentic Edomae sushi in Kanazawa, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
- Address: 2-13 Kazuemachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 11:30-14:00 / 17:30-22:00
- Closed: Wednesdays and Thursdays
- Phone: 076-222-1114
- Official Website: https://www.sushiasanogawa.jp/
Tempura Miyashita
Source:Official website
Tempura Miyashita is a tempura specialty restaurant located near the Higashi Chaya District, another of Kanazawa's historic spots worth exploring. The restaurant has only 8 counter seats, which allows for an intimate and luxurious dining experience.
Skilled chefs carefully fry each piece of carefully selected ingredients—seasonal vegetables and freshly procured seafood—right in front of you, enabling you to enjoy piping hot tempura in its most delicious state.
The batter is surprisingly light and crispy, enhancing the original flavor of the ingredients. The Kaga Vegetables tempura I ate had concentrated sweetness and aroma of the vegetables themselves, providing such an impact that it changed my concept of tempura altogether.
This is a must-visit restaurant for those who want to fully enjoy the umami of ingredients with a live cooking experience, and for those who want to experience the essence of Japanese tempura.
- Address: 1-2-12 Higashiyama, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Hours: 12:00-14:00 / 17:30-21:00
- Closed: Thursdays
- Phone: 076-253-4712
- Official Website: https://tempura-miyasita.com/
Let a local guide you to excellent restaurants to enjoy Kanazawa's food culture more deeply!
If you want to deeply experience Kanazawa's evenings, the "Kanazawa Night Foodie Tour" is recommended. On this small-group gourmet tour, you'll explore hidden gems in the Katamachi area that are difficult for tourists to find on their own, accompanied by guides who know the local area thoroughly.
During this tour, you'll enjoy dishes made with seasonal ingredients and selected local sake. Between meals, you'll stroll through the atmospheric samurai district, enjoying Kanazawa's quiet and beautiful traditional streetscape, another collection of Kanazawa's historic spots.
English-speaking local guides accompany the tour, providing explanations about the food and Kanazawa's culture, deepening your cross-cultural understanding. This is perfect for first-time visitors to Kanazawa or those who want to learn more about the city.
Please note that vegetarian menus may use fish stock.
- Meeting point: In front of the Korinbo Ramoda bldg
- Tour area: Katamachi area, Kanazawa City
- Start time: 18:00
