Kanazawa

Ever since my parents visited Kanazawa, often dubbed “Little Kyoto,” they couldn’t stop talking about it. Naturally, our curiosity was piqued, and soon, we found ourselves packing for a trip that would far exceed our expectations. While some might draw parallels between Kyoto and Kanazawa, thanks to their ancient buildings and deep cultural roots, we quickly realized that Kanazawa has its own unique allure that captivated us completely.

Situated in the Ishikawa prefecture along the narrow coast facing the Sea of Japan, Kanazawa serves as the cultural heartbeat of the region. This city, thriving during the Edo period as a hub for scholars and artists, continues to enchant art lovers and culture buffs. We wandered through many museums and workshops, each dedicated to traditional crafts like gold leaf artistry and samurai history, which are just a snapshot of the city’s rich heritage.

One of the highlights of our trip was the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. The architecture alone was a feast for the eyes, but it was the interactive exhibits that truly enriched our experience. Wading through ‘The Swimming Pool’ installation, where you feel submerged without getting wet, was surreal. Not far from there, we soaked in the tranquility of the D.T. Suzuki Museum, its design a perfect echo of Zen philosophy, emphasizing simplicity and connection with nature.

Our journey continued through historical sites including the Oyama Shrine, Kanazawa Castle Park, and the breathtaking Kenroku-en Garden—all comfortably accessible on foot. Strolling through these landmarks, we were transported back in time, surrounded by the beauty and serenity that Kanazawa preserves so well.

No trip to Kanazawa would be complete without delving into its famed culinary scene. The city boasts an array of seafood that is as fresh as it gets. We indulged in exquisite dishes from succulent crabs to sweet shrimp and robust yellowtail. A standout moment was our dinner at Sushi Kibatani, a one-star Michelin restaurant where the sushi was spectacular. And yes, we did treat ourselves to the famous Gold Leaf ice cream cone at Hakuichi—it was as decadent as it sounds!

Before leaving, we made plans for our next visit; this time, we aimed to explore Wajima, located at the northern tip of Ishikawa. Known for its lacquerware tradition, Wajima-Nuri, we’re excited to delve deeper into the region’s artisanal crafts.

Reflecting on our trip, Kanazawa not only met but surpassed our expectations with its blend of rich cultural tapestry, artistic heritage, and culinary excellence. It’s a city that holds discoveries around every corner, promising more treasures for those who return. And return we certainly will!