3 day itinerary for Kanazawa

Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Kanazawa's Historical Sites

Start your day by visiting Kanazawa Castle, a magnificent structure that dates back to the 16th century. Take your time exploring the castle grounds, admiring the beautiful gardens and learning about the history of the region.

Next, head over to Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most famous gardens. Stroll through the meticulously landscaped grounds, marvel at the seasonal flowers and trees, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Don't forget to stop by the tea house for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony experience.

For lunch, venture into the Higashi Chaya District, a preserved geisha district. Here, you can find charming teahouses and traditional shops. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants, and immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere.

In the afternoon, visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. This unique museum showcases a wide range of contemporary artworks and installations. Take your time exploring the exhibits and don't miss the famous swimming pool installation by Leandro Erlich.

End your day with a visit to the Nagamachi Samurai District. Wander through the narrow streets lined with traditional samurai residences and get a glimpse into the lives of the samurai warriors. You can also visit the Nomura Samurai House, a well-preserved samurai residence that offers a fascinating insight into the samurai culture.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Culinary Delights

Start your day by visiting the Omicho Market, a bustling market known for its fresh seafood and local produce. Explore the various stalls, sample some of the delicious street food, and pick up some souvenirs to take home.

Next, head to the Kanazawa Noh Museum to learn about the traditional Japanese performing art of Noh. Watch a live performance or participate in a workshop to gain a deeper understanding of this ancient art form.

For lunch, indulge in a bowl of Kanazawa's famous local dish, kaisen-don, at one of the local seafood restaurants. This rice bowl topped with fresh seafood is a true culinary delight.

In the afternoon, visit the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts. Here, you can learn about the traditional crafts that Kanazawa is famous for, such as gold leaf production, lacquerware, and ceramics. You can even try your hand at some of these crafts in the interactive workshops.

End your day with a visit to the Kanazawa Higashi Geisha District. Take a leisurely stroll through the atmospheric streets, and if you're lucky, you might spot a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to an appointment. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at one of the geisha houses for a truly authentic experience.

Day 3: Nature and Zen

Start your day by visiting the D.T. Suzuki Museum, dedicated to the life and teachings of the renowned Zen philosopher D.T. Suzuki. Explore the tranquil museum grounds and immerse yourself in the world of Zen Buddhism.

Next, head to the Myoryuji Temple, also known as the Ninja Temple. This unique temple is filled with hidden passages, trap doors, and secret rooms, designed to protect its inhabitants during times of danger. Take a guided tour to uncover the temple's secrets and learn about its fascinating history.

For lunch, try some traditional Kanazawa soba noodles at one of the local soba shops. These buckwheat noodles are a specialty of the region and are known for their delicate flavor and texture.

In the afternoon, take a trip to the nearby Noto Peninsula. Explore the picturesque coastal towns, visit the Wajima Morning Market, and enjoy the stunning views of the Sea of Japan. You can also visit the Senmaida Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the traditional rice farming practices.

End your day with a relaxing visit to the Yuwaku Onsen, a hot spring village nestled in the mountains. Soak in the healing waters, enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner, and spend the night in a traditional ryokan for the ultimate relaxation experience.

With this itinerary, you'll have a wonderful time exploring the historical sites, immersing yourself in the local culture, and enjoying the natural beauty of Kanazawa.