Yusura Kanazawa Guide 2025: Experience 200-Year-Old Teahouse Culture with Local Dishes in Historic Nishi Chaya District
Kanazawa is a city of history and culture located on the Sea of Japan side of Ishikawa Prefecture. During the Edo period (1603-1868), various cultures such as tea ceremony, crafts, and performing arts flourished, and the city grew to become a cultural center alongside Kyoto and Nara.
Even today, many traditional wooden buildings and stone-paved streets remain throughout the town, allowing visitors to feel the passage of time simply by walking through them.
Furthermore, Kanazawa is also famous as a culinary destination. From Kaga vegetables to seafood, everything is deeply loved by local people. In this article, I will introduce Yusura, a cafe in Kanazawa that left a particularly strong impression on me and that I highly recommend.
Table of Contents
-Three Charms of Yusura, Continuously Loved by Tourists in Nishi Chaya District
-3 Unique Menu Recommendations at Yusura for Those Who Want to Enjoy Kanazawa Dishes
-Two Things to Enjoy in Nishi Chaya District Along with Yusura
-If You're Interested in Kanazawa's Traditional Streetscapes, Visit the Surrounding Historical Areas as Well!
Kanazawa Has Many Geisha Houses and Cafes in Its Traditional Chaya Districts
Kanazawa has Chaya Districts (traditional entertainment districts where Geisha perform) that convey the atmosphere of old Japan to the present day. In these areas, many buildings called "Chaya" (traditional entertainment houses where Geisha perform), where Geishas entertain guests, line the streets.
Incidentally, Geishas in Kanazawa are characteristically called "Geigi." The Chaya Districts developed as social venues where people could enjoy sake while watching the dances and shamisen performances of the Geigi.
Today, while some traditional Chaya are preserved, an increasing number of buildings are open to the public or have been converted into cafes and restaurants.
Yusura Is Perfect for Taking a Break While Enjoying the Atmosphere of Historical Streets!
Source:Tabelog
For those who want to take a break while experiencing the unique atmosphere of the Chaya District when strolling through Nishi Chaya District, Yusura is highly recommended. The exterior, which makes use of the historic tea house architecture, naturally blends into the streetscape, and the interior is a space where traditional Japanese charm merges with the comfort of a modern cafe.
Yusura offers dishes and sweets unique to Kanazawa, as well as signature menu items available for takeout. Therefore, it can be used not only for meals but also for light refreshments. From here, I will introduce in detail the charms of Yusura that I experienced firsthand.
Overview and Access to Yusura
Address: 2-24-4 Nomachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Business Hours: Cafe Time 10:00-17:00, Bar Time (reservation only) 18:00-23:00
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone Number: 076-220-7037
Official Website: https://yusura.cafe/
Three Charms of Yusura, Continuously Loved by Tourists in Nishi Chaya District
Beautiful Exterior That Harmonizes with the Traditional Streetscape of Nishi Chaya District
Source:Tabelog
Nishi Chaya District is characterized by a streetscape that retains an atmosphere like that found in Japanese period dramas featuring Samurai. Two-story tea house buildings with wooden lattice doors line the street side by side, and along the approximately 100-meter pathway, the vestiges of the Edo period remain strong.
The exterior of Yusura, located within this district, is also impressive with its calm wooden tones and traditional wooden lattice doors, naturally blending into the neighborhood atmosphere. When I first saw it, I thought, "It's modern, yet the design doesn't disrupt this landscape—how wonderful."
While Yusura fits into the historic street, it has an approachable friendliness that welcomes everyone.
Extensive Menu Lineup Where You Can Enjoy a Wide Variety of Dishes
Source:Tabelog
Yusura offers local Kanazawa specialties such as Kanazawa Curry and Hanton Rice. Furthermore, there are many dishes that make use of Kaga vegetables and local ingredients, allowing you to fully enjoy a meal during your sightseeing.
Since Nishi Chaya District has limited shops open for lunch, if you're planning to have lunch at Yusura, it's recommended to visit a bit earlier. Additionally, Yusura has an abundant dessert menu. I often stop by during my walks to enjoy sweets.
Yusura is perfect for both lunch and a cafe break.
Traditional Tatami Seating Available for Families to Relax and Enjoy
Source:Tabelog
In addition to table seating, Yusura has traditional tatami seating where you can spend time comfortably. Since you can relax with your shoes off, it's safe for families with small children or elderly people to use, making it perfect for family trip meals.
From the windows of the traditional tatami seating, you can view the well-maintained Tsuboniwa. Tsuboniwa refers to small gardens found in traditional Japanese architecture, designed to bring natural light and breeze into buildings. This harmony between nature and architecture represents one aspect of Japanese beauty.
Dining while viewing this small garden should provide a calm, authentically Japanese experience.
3 Unique Menu Recommendations at Yusura for Those Who Want to Enjoy Kanazawa Dishes
Kanazawa Curry
Source:Tabelog
Kanazawa Curry is a local specialty characterized by thick, glossy roux served with tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet) and shredded cabbage.
Yusura's Kanazawa Curry features roux concentrated with the umami of beef, and the deep richness and savory aroma of the roux are exquisite, whetting your appetite with each bite.
Furthermore, the tonkatsu is freshly fried with a great texture and is juicy.
I was surprised by the substantial appearance, but the aftertaste was surprisingly light and I was able to enjoy it deliciously until the end.
Price: 1,200 yen (tax included) *As of October 2025 survey
Hanton Rice
Source:Tabelog
Hanton Rice is a Western-style dish born in Kanazawa and is a standard favorite among locals.
It is a hearty dish with fluffy cooked eggs and fried white fish placed on top of ketchup-flavored butter rice, then generously topped with ketchup and tartar sauce.
At Yusura, it is elegantly presented with three small fried white fish pieces, making it visually beautiful.
The flavor is somewhat strong, but the accompanying pickled Kaga vegetables provide an excellent accent.
Price: 1,200 yen (tax included) *As of October 2025 survey
Kaga Boucha Gelato
Source:Tabelog
What I highly recommend you try at Yusura is the gelato made with the local specialty, Kaga Boucha.
Kaga Boucha is a fragrant tea made by roasting the stem parts of tea leaves, characterized by its mellow and gentle aroma.
Yusura's Kaga Boucha gelato has a rich flavor where you can truly feel that roasted aroma.
It is topped with gold leaf, typical of Kanazawa, making it visually gorgeous, and my excitement grew even before I put my spoon in.
The sweetness is modest, and it pairs wonderfully with coffee.
Price: 600 yen (tax included) *As of October 2025 survey
It's Also Recommended to Enjoy the Famous "Katsu Sandwich" as Takeout!
Source:Tabelog
One of the popular menu items at Yusura is the famous "Katsu Sandwich," which can also be taken out.
Katsu Sandwich is a classic Japanese sandwich with tonkatsu sandwiched between slices of bread.
The tonkatsu is crispy and savory on the outside, while the inside is juicy with the full flavor of the meat. The bread is fluffy, creating an enjoyable contrast in textures between the outside and inside, and it's very filling.
I also purchased it as a souvenir, and even when cooled, the coating remained moist and delicious—a satisfying dish.
Of course, eating it fresh on the spot is great, but I also recommend taking it back to your accommodation or a park to savor it leisurely.
Price: 1,000 yen (tax included) *As of October 2025 survey
When You Come to Kanazawa, Enjoy Exquisite Cuisine at Shops Loved by Locals!
If you want to make your trip to Kanazawa even more special, I recommend a gourmet tour visiting renowned establishments that locals genuinely recommend.
On the tour, you'll visit three hidden gem restaurants in the Katamachi area with a guide and enjoy Kanazawa's specialty dishes that can only be tasted here, such as sashimi, oden, and fried foods.
To conclude the tour, you'll also experience Kiki-sake (sake tasting), sampling 3 to 5 types of Japanese sake.
During the evening stroll through the Old Samurai District, you can learn about the meanings embedded in the city's details that are usually overlooked, such as the way the cobblestones are laid and the shapes of the bay windows.
All food and drinks are included in the cost, so please feel free to join empty-handed. This is a tour I definitely want those who wish to fully enjoy Kanazawa's nightlife to experience.
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Meeting point: In front of the Korinbo Ramoda bldg.
Tour area: Katamachi area
Start time: 18:00
Two Things to Enjoy in Nishi Chaya District Along with Yusura
Geigi, the Inheritors of Japanese Culture, and Traditional "Tea Houses"
In Nishi Chaya District, traditional Ochaya where Geigi belong still remain today.
While "Ochaya" is also translated as "Tea House," Ochaya in the Hanamachi (entertainment district) is not a place to drink tea. It refers to a social venue where geisha entertain guests with dance and shamisen.
These Ochaya typically operate on an "ichi-gen-san okotowari" (no first-time customers) policy, and you cannot enter without an introduction. In other words, the world inside is a special world that only a limited number of people can experience.
Kanazawa is where such culture continues to live, and Nishi Chaya District is the area where you can feel this atmosphere most intimately. After visiting Yusura, exploring these traditional establishments will give you a deeper appreciation of the district's cultural heritage.
During the designated period on Saturdays, you can experience Geigi culture in the tatami room of an Ochaya!
Source:Official website
While Ochaya typically cannot be entered without an introduction, in Kanazawa's Chaya Districts, special events are held on Saturdays during specific periods that even regular tourists can participate in.
At these events, you can watch Geigi's dance and live shamisen performances up close in an actual traditional tatami room.
After the dance, there will be light conversation with the Geigi and demonstrations of ozashiki games (traditional interactive games with Geisha).
This is a precious opportunity to experience Kanazawa's Hanamachi culture that is normally inaccessible. Combining this experience with a visit to Yusura makes for an enriching cultural day in Nishi Chaya District.
By the way, in Japan, stepping onto tatami rooms barefoot is generally considered a breach of etiquette. Therefore, prepare clean socks.<Information>
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Event period: April 26, 2025 to March 28, 2026 (designated Saturdays)
Event time: 13:00 - 14:00
Fee: General 5,000 yen, University students and younger 2,500 yen (includes tea and sweets)
Related link: https://www.kanazawa-kankoukyoukai.or.jp/article/detail_26.html
Traditional Streetscape That Becomes More Atmospheric at Night
Nishi Chaya District is a town bustling with tourists during the day, but at night, the true nature of the Ochaya District emerges.
Lights glow from inside the wooden lattice doors, and the entire street is enveloped in a quietly gorgeous atmosphere.
While strolling through the town after an evening at Yusura, you might catch a glimpse of Geigi heading to Ochaya. Even in that brief moment, you should be able to feel that this town is still a living Hanamachi.
Unfortunately, during this time, regular tourists cannot enter the establishments.
However, just walking down the street conveys the tension and anticipation of the night, and you can feel a completely different expression from the daytime. The area around Yusura takes on a particularly enchanting quality as the evening lights illuminate the historic buildings.
If You're Interested in Kanazawa's Traditional Streetscapes, Visit the Surrounding Historical Areas as Well!
Higashi Chaya District
Higashi Chaya District is the largest in scale in Kanazawa and popular with tourists.
Along the wide streets, beautifully preserved chaya architecture is lined up, and many buildings are open to the public.
There are facilities where you can tour the interior of old Ochaya, and shops where you can experience Kaga Yuzen (traditional hand-painted silk dyeing) and gold leaf craftsmanship, making it an area where you can enjoy learning about Kanazawa's traditional culture.
With plenty of cafes and souvenir shops, it's recommended for first-time visitors to Kanazawa or those who want to casually experience traditional culture. The district complements your visit to Yusura in Nishi Chaya District, offering a broader perspective on Kanazawa's geisha culture.
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Address: 1-chome Higashiyama, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Official homepage: https://chayagai.goldleaf-sakuda.jp/
Kazue Machi Chaya District
Kazue Machi Chaya District is a quiet area with few tourist-oriented facilities where the life of the Hanamachi continues to this day.
Chaya architecture lines the Asano River, and narrow cobblestone alleys remain as they were in the past.
If you're going for a stroll, I recommend the nighttime.
The lights reflected on the river surface create atmosphere, and you can sometimes faintly hear Geigi's performances and the lively voices of people exchanging cups from the Ochaya.
You can experience the original atmosphere of a Hanamachi that cannot be tasted in commercialized areas. Just by walking quietly, you can physically feel that Kanazawa's traditions are still alive today.
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Address: 2-5 Kazuemachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Official homepage: https://kanazawageigi.jp/chaya/kazue.html
Nagamachi Old Samurai District
Nagamachi Old Samurai District is an area where residences where Samurai from the Edo period lived remain.
The narrow roads with earthen walls and waterways are preserved as they were at that time, allowing you to feel Kanazawa's history as a castle town.
While Chaya Districts like the one where Yusura is located symbolize "Geigi culture," Nagamachi is characterized by allowing you to experience "Samurai culture."
Parts of the samurai residences are open to the public, where you can see the lifestyle and furnishings of Samurai from that era.
While walking through the quiet streets, it's an area where you can understand the background of how Kanazawa developed as a cultural city. It's especially recommended for those interested in history or architecture.
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Address: 1-3-12-2 Nagamachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Official homepage: https://www.kanazawa-kankoukyoukai.or.jp/spot/detail_10195.html
If You Come to "Kanazawa," a Town Where Japanese Tradition and History Breathe, Enjoy Strolling Through the City Too
This tour starts from Omicho Market, which supports the lives of local people. Experience Kanazawa's food culture while tasting Kaga vegetables and fresh seafood.
After that, you'll stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Kanazawa Castle Park, Higashi Chaya District, and more, learning about how this city developed throughout its history.
By walking through the beauty of the gardens and the streetscapes where traditional architecture still remains, you can understand why Kanazawa is known as a special cultural city. This comprehensive tour perfectly complements a visit to Yusura, giving you a complete picture of Kanazawa's rich cultural tapestry.
This is a recommended tour for those seeking a journey to deeply experience history and culture.
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Meeting point: FamilyMart+Drug Komeya Kanazawa Musashi Store
Tour area: Omicho Market, Kenrokuen Garden, Higashi Chaya District
Start time: 10:00