Kanazawa

Kanazawa (金沢) is an historic city in Ishikawa prefecture, Japan. Earthquake / Tsunami Update:

Kanazawa Halal Travel Guide

Kanazawa is one of the long overlooked jewels of Japanese tourism — although not by the Japanese, who visit in droves. Its relatively remote location, off the beaten (shinkansen) track, has perhaps unfairly contributed to it attracting so few foreign tourists. However for those travellers who want to see perhaps the best-preserved major Edo-period city in the nation (along with Takayama), it is hard to beat. Kyoto's offerings of temples and shrines are all very well, but Japanese history and culture is not just about them. The samurai and the merchants and the geisha, and the lords have all left their mark on Kanazawa in a compact, easily navigable central area. Kanazawa is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Crafts and Folk Art. With the opening of the new Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo in March 2015 and the number of foreign tourists has increased significantly. As the influx of foreign tourists has been recent, English language ability tends to be much more limited than in the likes of Kyoto and Nara, but visitors can take comfort in the fact that local residents will nevertheless go to great lengths to help you out.

Don't leave here without seeing the Gold leaf craftsmen at work. Many of them are over 90 years old and still putting in a full day's work!

Kanazawa cuisine is famous throughout Japan, particularly its seafood since it lies in the sweet spot of the hot south and cold north currents. The quality of food is so high, that crucially you'll eat good food whatever the price.

How is the Climate in Kanazawa

Kanazawa can get a lot of rain — it's "the Seattle of Japan". A local proverb says "even if you forget your lunchbox, don't forget your umbrella". Although the weather can be beautiful in spring and autumn, it is never a good idea to bank on it being fine in Kanazawa, and winters in particular are cold. Kanazawa is in the Hokuriku|Snow Country and the area along the Japan Sea coast of Honshu where cold Siberian winds dump large amounts of sin orographic precipitation, and while it does not get as much as more inland areas, half a metre or more is not uncommon. A common and lovely sight during the winter months is the ropes (called "yukizuri" in Japanese) hanging down from poles and attached to tree branches to help them support the heavy snow. Most of the primary streets have lines of sprinklers down the street to wash the snow away, but the smaller roads often do not.

Orientation

Kanazawa is not a very large city and the main attractions for visitors tend to be concentrated around five neighbourhoods.

• Kanazawa station and Omicho market. The area stretching between the main JR Kanazawa station and the Omicho market has many modern hotels and stores, but also a plethora of smaller local traditional eateries and craft shops (which tend to be concentrated around Omicho market).
• Higashi-Chayagai. Located north of the Asano river and the area encompasses the famous geisha neighborhood of the same name as well as nice views over the river. The name "Higashi-Chayagai" means "the Eastern tea houses neighborhood". There are several nice drinking and eating places, traditional inns and teahouses as well as shops selling local crafts.
• Tera machi. Located south of the Sai river and the area (whose name means "temple neighborhood") houses many Buddhist temples (including the most famous and the Ninja temple) as well as the other main geisha neighborhood and the Nishi-Chayagai. The name "Nishi-Chayagai" means "the Western tea houses neighborhood".
• Castle, Kenroku-en Garden and museums.Admittedly a large area, it stretches from the Castle grounds to the North-West to the museum neighborhood to the South-East, and has the Kenroku-en Garden in its middle. Most of the city's museums are within this area, including the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the various prefectural museums, and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.
• Kohrinbo and Katamachi. This area is perhaps the liveliest in the evening, as it comprises many shops and many drinking and eating places. The Western part of the area houses the Nagamachi Samurai District, with its old houses and lovely local craft shops.

Travel to Kanazawa

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Kanazawa

The nearest airport serving Kanazawa is in the city of Komatsu (IATA Flight Code: KMQ). JAL offers flights into Komatsu Airport from Tokyo Haneda Airport, and from Okinawa. ANA flies into Komatsu from Tokyo Haneda and Narita Airports, as well as Sapporo Chitose, Sendai and Fukuoka. Internationally, Komatsu serves Taipei daily, Seoul (four times a week), and Shanghai (three times a week).

From Komatsu airport, buses run directly to Kanazawa (50 minutes, ¥2100). Or you could take a bus to Komatsu Station and a JR train from there, which is somewhat cheaper and, depending on your luck with connections, not much longer. Taxis are frequent though not cheap, and there are several rental vehicle places in the area.

By Rail

Kanazawa's train station, a futuristic marvel that integrates a traditional wooden temple gate with glass and steel, has been served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen since 2015, when a 228km extension from Nagano entered operation allowing for one-seat bullet train rides to Tokyo. The fastest services, called Kagayaki (かがやき), generally operate during the morning and evening hours to/from Tokyo with the fastest services taking 2½ hours. The more frequent Hakutaka (はくたか) makes all stops north of Nagano yielding slightly longer travel durations. Visitors using the Japan Railway Pass may like to know that the pass is valid on all Hokuriku Shinkansen services, including the Kagayaki services.

The regular fare from Tokyo to Kanazawa is ¥24,120 for a reserved seat. Standard and Green Car seats are fully covered by the respective versions of the Japan Railway Pass, but if you want to use the premium GranClass seats - which feature airline-like business class seats and personal attendant service - you will have to pay the limited express and GranClass extra charges (an additional ¥29,630 from Tokyo to Kanazawa), as any version of the Japan Railway Pass only covers the base fare.

JR West Hokuriku Main Line services from Fukui terminate in Kanazawa. Through-running limited express services from Osaka and Kyoto are called Thunderbird (サンダーバード). Trains run from Osaka to Kanazawa in around 2 1/2 hours on the fastest service at a cost of ¥7,650 (no charge with the Japan Railway Pass).

Kanazawa is also covered by the JR Hokuriku Arch Pass which includes unlimited travel between Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka via Toyama and Kanazawa for seven consecutive days using the above routes (¥25000; ¥2000 discount if purchased outside of Japan). Unlimited seat reservations in standard cars can be made, but you'll have to pay extra for Green Car and GranClass seat reservations.

Another service covered by the national Railway Pass and the Shirasagi (しらさぎ), runs from Nagoya (3 hours, ¥7730) and Maibara (2 hours, ¥7700).

East of Kanazawa station, JR mainline trains have been transferred to private companies, and the Japan Railway Pass will not be valid unless you travel from Kanazawa to Tsubata station to connect to the JR Nanao Line. A bullet train shuttle, called the Tsurugi (つるぎ), operates frequently from Kanazawa to Toyama complementing the other bullet train services. The short ride takes just 23 minutes and costs ¥2,810 for an unreserved seat. Reserved/Unreserved Standard class, and reserved Green Car seats, are available. This train is also covered by the Japan Railway Pass.

By car

Kanazawa is served by the Hokuriku Expressway, which runs through the western edge of the city. It has three interchanges: Kanazawa East and Kanazawa West feed into National Route 8, and Kanazawa Morimoto feeds into the Mountainside Loop Road (山側環状線 Yamagawa kanjō-sen). The cost for a normal vehicle from Kyoto-East via Maibara is ¥7500, and the distance is 245km (to Kanazawa West). From Osaka, ¥6850 and 296 km; Niigata ¥6350 and 293km. From the capital city, expect ¥21,800 and 585km.

The national Route 8 is also an excellent option for those on a budget or who wish to take a leisurely trip, stopping off to see various sights along the way. It is four-lane for much of the way, and so passing those slow old farmers in their white mini-trucks is actually feasible. There are other routes into the city, such as via the base of Hakusan, or over the hills from Toyama prefecture.

Travel on a Bus in Kanazawa

Several bus companies make runs from Tokyo to Kanazawa. JR Bus runs two daytime buses and two night buses run from Shinjuku and Ikebukuro (more runs added on Weekends and Holidays). One bus also runs at night from Tokyo Station. The cost for all of these buses is the same (¥7,840 each way) and the trip takes about 8.5 hours.

Discount bus operators Willer Express and Star Express operate buses from Shinjuku to Kanazawa; fares start at ¥7,000 each way. Overnight services are available.

JR Bus runs four daytime trips to/from Osaka, taking 4.75 hours, and an overnight service, taking 7 hr. The cost is ¥6,300 one-way.

From Kyoto to Kanazawa, several bus companies (for example Keihan, JR, Hokutetsu) run about 5 times a day. The trip takes 4 hours and the one-way fare is ¥6,060.

How to get around in Kanazawa

Kanazawa attempts to attract more foreign tourists to the city. There is a Kanazawa Tourism Board Lobby in the station, with English-speaking staff always present, where you can get free maps of the city and help with any questions you may have.

Travel on a Bus in Kanazawa

Kanazawa has a decent bus system to help you get where you need to go. There are three types of buses: city buses, a tourist bus, and community buses (Furatto-Bus) The tourist bus makes a loop around the main sights in 15 minutes and costs ¥200 per trip or ¥700 daily. There are four community bus routes which make 15-minutes loops around different neighborhoods of the city and cost ¥200.　Buses are wheelchair accessible.

Travel by bicycle in Kanazawa

Bicycles can be hired from JR Kanazawa station and due to the winding streets and plethora of traffic lights and one way systems are often the quickest way to travel around town.

Walk in Kanazawa

As the central city is fairly compact, one of the best ways to get around (at least when the weather is cooperative) is simply walking, exploring the narrow side streets. From east (Higashiyama) to west (Teramachi) would take about an hour at a leisurely pace, though to see everything between them properly would take days.

By car

Driving in Kanazawa is not for the inexperienced. The old city in particular is a labyrinth of narrow twisting streets once you leave the primary streets, and you need to be good at judging just how wide your vehicle is at times. Parking in the old city is also at a premium. However the newer areas on the outskirts are car-friendly, and parking is ample. For those using Kanazawa as a base to explore the Hokuriku and Hida regions, renting a vehicle would be a good idea as public transport between some of the more far-flung areas is far and few between.

A valid Japanese or Geneva Convention International Driver's License must be carried at all times, and that driving while drunk results in at best some extremely stiff fines: up to ¥700,000 and instant loss of license. Driving without a valid license will set you back ¥200,000. The "drunk driving" blood-alcohol limit is 0.25 mg, but there is a separate "driving under the influence" charge which has no set minimum.

What to see in Kanazawa

Many of the links below are only available in (Japanese). However almost all major tourist sites in Japan have English pamphlets, and Kanazawa is no exception. Free maps can be picked up at the Kanazawa Tourism Board Lobby at Kanazawa station. In the street directly opposite the main exit of the station, on the right hand side, is the Rifare Building, where the Ishikawa Foundation for the international Exchange is located (4F), as well as the Ishikawa International Lounge (2F). There is a small library in the building with free use of computers.

• Kenroku-en Garden - 兼六園 - 36.564, 136.662 ☎ +81 76-234-3800 +81 76-234-5292 Opening Hours: Daily 07:00-18:00 ¥710, and ¥200 for children age 6-17 yr Kenroku-en The most famous sight in Kanazawa and the Garden of Six Attributes is considered one of Japan's Top 3 gardens. Once the outer pleasure gardens of the Maeda Lords, it gradually expanded to take over the entire block. While not completed in its final form until the waning years of the Edo Shogunate, it still represents one of the peaks of Japanese strolling garden design. The way in which water is piped from many kilometers upstream to fill its streams and ponds before going on to fill the castle moats is one of the great engineering feats of the Edo period. In part of the grounds, and with a steep separate ¥700 entrance fee, is the Seisonkaku Villa, built by a Maeda lord for his mother. Only part of it remains today, but is a rare example of existing daimyo palace architecture. The upper floor, with its bright blues and reds, is in distinct contrast to the muted earth tones of Kyoto style. During cherry blossom season, entry to the park is free and it's open and lit up until 21:00. There will be many guides yelling from their electronically amplified megaphones: "These gardens are particularly famed for their tranquility, appreciate the peace and stillness"!

• Kanazawa Castle - 金沢城 | 36.5658, 136.6596 - At the center of Kanazawa is the former site of Kanazawa Castle. It has been vacated by the national university, which took over the site once used by the Ninth Division of the Imperial Army and the castle is public space now for the first time in its 400-plus years of history. The imposing Ishikawa Gate (石川門), so named as it faced the Ishikawa neighborhood, was once a side entrance to the castle grounds, but after several fires and man-made destruction, it is one of the few original buildings left on the site and the other being the Sanjikken Nagaya (三十間長屋) storehouse near the top. However the long Gojikken Nagaya (五十間長屋) that once guarded the castle palace has been rebuilt according to traditional methods, and is open to the public for ¥700.

• Nagamachi Samurai District - Nagamachi Buke Yashiki or 長町武家屋敷 - 36.5636549, 136.6506522QQQ53513 Towards the coast from Oyama Shrine, this is an area of a few streets where considerable effort has been expended in order to recreate the feel of the samurai housing areas. The fact that almost none of the actual samurai houses remain does little to daunt the enthusiasm of the tourists. While historically dubious, it is a pleasant area to stroll, and the one of the best of the remaining samurai neighborhoods in Japan. In Nagamachi and the Nomura House is open to the public (¥700), and boasts a small but exquisite garden. A short walk from there the city has relocated and restored two ashigaru (足軽: the lowest rank of samurai) houses that are open for free, and provide a lovely place to rest and enjoy the peace of a traditional Japanese house. Towards the Asano River to the north and there are a couple more samurai houses, not preserved or set aside as museum pieces, but actually lived in (and not open to the public).

• Kazuemachi - 主計町 | 36.5721, 136.6636QQQQ8794 A small but very nice area of geisha houses along the riverbank across from Higashiyama.

• Higashi-Chayagai - ひがし茶屋街 | 36.5723, 136.6665 | wikidata Across the Asano River, Kanazawa's most famous geisha neighborhood. Many of the tall narrow houses are still used as high-class entertainment, but the Shima House (¥600) is open for all to see, and is well worth the entry fee for a chance to experience its refined and elegant atmosphere. Quite a few of the buildings have been converted into speciality shops and teahouses (of the non-geisha variety), so poke around freely and don't miss out on a cup of tea and a Japanese sweet (¥700-1000). Behind this area is a temple neighborhood, and the roads between the primary street and the mountain are a twisting labyrinth of narrow lanes perfect for adventuring on foot.

• Nishi-Chayagai - にし茶屋街 | 36.5568024, 136.6472036 A short distance from Myoryuji Temple (Ninjadera-Ninja Temple), to the south of the Sai River - The "west" to Higashi's "east", this is another neighborhood of restored geisha houses. This is considerably smaller (and quieter) than Higashi, with effectively just a single street, and aside from the (free) information center it's not feasible to formally visit any of the houses. One can however enter the several shops that dot the street and appreciate the inside of these beautiful houses.

• Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall(Old Merchant House) - 金沢市老舗記念館 | 36.562653, 136.650347 ☎ +81 76-220-2524 - The Old Merchant House was Kanazawa's leading Chinese medicine shop in Minami-machi during the 18th century. The shop was established in 1759 and provided medicine for the feudal leaders. The merchant's family was given high status by the elders of the town. The shop was instrumental in maintaining the elegance of the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and haiku during the time period in which it was open. The shop has a bridal exhibit on the second floor with examples of bridal gifts and a large flower arrangement made entirely out of sugar.

Temples and shrines

The river to the south and the Sai River, has on its far bank the main temple neighborhood of Teramachi (寺町). One of the more impressive ones in Japan, both sides of the road are lined with imposing walls and looming black-tiled roofs. Its eastern counterpart is the Higashiyama Temple District. In contrast to Teramachi's straight road and the eastern temples are dotted around the hillside in a maze of narrow streets. The Kodatsuno ridge also has a small temple area, dominated by Tentokuin.

• Ninja Temple - 妙立寺 Myōryu-ji - 36.5553764, 136.6490033 - Myōryū-ji The tour guides insist there is no connection between the 'Ninja Temple' and actual ninja assassins. But with 23 rooms and 29 staircases, an impressive array of trapdoors and hidden rooms, and a sepukku (ritual suicide) chamber, it is easy to see why people would make that assumption. Visitors cannot enter the temple except through the tours, so call ahead to book a tour. The tour is conducted in Japanese, but they give travellers a folder with English translations. Local lore has it that there was an underground tunnel from the castle to the temple, to allow the Maeda lords an escape route in case of attack. However, no documentary proof of this has been found, and, like the ninjas, it merely adds to the myths of the place. Unfortunately and the staff have a well-deserved reputation (amongst Japanese and foreigners) for being rude and unhelpful. ¥2,000 for adults and ¥700 for primary school pupils, and you're supposed to make a reservation in advance, although they can usually squeeze you in if there's space and you don't mind waiting for your tour to begin. The hour-long tour is well worth the price.

• Oyama Shrine - 尾山神社 | 36.566073, 136.655425 on the other side of the castle - Oyama Shrine (Ishikawa) Built in the early Meiji period to honor the founding father of the Kaga Domain, Maeda Toshiie. It is notable for a unique gate with stained-glass windows that is a fusion of Japanese and Western architecture. The back gate to the shrine is also one of the few remaining parts of the original castle: a gate from the palace compound that escaped destruction when it was moved to the shrine. "Oyama" was the original name for the hill on which Kanazawa Castle was built.

• Tentoku-in - 天徳院 | 36.551441, 136.676962QQQQ2593 The largest temple in Kanazawa during the Edo period, it stood at the eastern end of the city. It was built to house the spirit of Tama-hime (珠姫: the Princess Tama) and the wife of Maeda Toshitsune (the third Maeda lord). She was born in 1599 as the granddaughter of Tokugawa Ieyasu and the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and the daughter of the second Shogun, Hidetada. It was a political marriage: the Tokugawa were worried about a feasible attack from the powerful Maeda, historically supporters of the Toyotomi clan. Toshitsune sent his mother to Edo as a hostage, and in return received the Shogun's daughter in marriage. She was three years old at the time (though the actual marriage was carried out when she was 14), and her arrival in Kanazawa is commemorated each year in the Kaga Hyakumangoku Parade. She died at age 24.

• Daijōji Temple - Daijōji Temple is an old and active Zen Buddhist Temple set away from traffic on a hillside. The temple in its current location dates from 1697. Old trees shade dense moss. There is a large bell hanging under the gate along the path which visitors may ring. Strikingly loud at first and the sound fades to accentuate the tranquillity. There are free early-early-morning pray-with-the-Zen-monks sessions for those so inclined, be prepared to join in with sweeping and cleaning afterwards. The whole place is extremely "wabi-sabi", spiritually mellow.

• Shinmeiguu Shrine - 神明宮 | 36.558031, 136.64892 a few meters up from the Saigawa ōhashi bridge on the right hand side of the road - This shrine is famous for the 900 year old plus Zelkova tree (keyaki) in its grounds. The shrine used to be on the banks of the Sai River, before land was reclaimed, and the tree was used as an anchor point for boats. Iron bars driven into the trunk so that boat hooks could be attached are still visible half-way up the tree. Sadly the rest of the grounds are used for parking and you will be kept at a safe distance from the tree by 3 fences: one bamboo, one steel and of course one made of concrete!

Museums

• 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art - 金沢21世紀美術館 - 1-2-1 Hirosaka, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa, Japan 920-8509 36.5609129, 136.6581185 ☎ +81 76-220-2800 Opening Hours: Exhibition Zone 10:00 - 18:00| Public Zone 09:00 - 22:00 21st_Century_Museum_of_Contemporary_Art%2C_Kanazawa =21st_Century_Museum_of_Contemporary_Art,_Kanazawa011 - Located across from Kenroku-en, this modern marvel offers a fascinating juxtaposition to the traditional splendour of Kanazawa. Even if you don't enter the permanent or temporary exhibitions and the building itself is worth a look and there are usually some free exhibits inside. Some but not all of the permanent collection can be seen for free. These include pieces by Jan Fabvre (an impressive statute on the roof of the building) and the famous "swimming pool" by Leandro Erlich in the main courtyard inside the building as well as playful pieces in the garden surrounding the museum. Don't miss the cafe!

• Honda Forest - Near Kenrokuen is this pleasant green park-like area which houses the very interesting Prefectural Museum (housed in three long narrow pre-war army storehouses of brick) and the Art Gallery, and a few other smaller museums, as well as the Prefectural Noh Hall and the National Defence Shrine (護国神社 Gokoku Jinja), a smaller regional version of the main Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo. Just outside the shrine, which is built in the pure Japanese traditional style, is a tall pillar commemorating the dead of the "Great East Asia War" (Dai Tou-A Sensou: 大東亜戦争) that was the subject of considerable controversy when erected for its listing of groups that did not wish to be listed on a right-wing commemoration. It takes its name from the powerful Honda family, whose mansion once occupied this area in the Edo period.

• Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditonal Arts and Crafts - 石川県立伝統産業工芸館 - 1-1 Kenroku-machi 36.561089, 136.663966 ☎ +81 76 262-2020 Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30). Closed April - Nov: 3rd Thursday of the month; December - Mar: Thursday, Year-end and New Year. ¥250, ¥200 for seniors, and ¥200 for children under 17. Group rates are available. Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and CraftsQQQ85980 A craft museum that displays 36 types of traditional arts and crafts cultivated by the people who lived in Ishikawa province. The exhibits are grouped by type and well-displayed.

• Ishikawa Prefectural Museum - 石川県立歴史博物館 - 36.560181, 136.661169 ☎ +81 76-262-3236 +81 76-262-1836 - Ishikawa Prefectural History Museum Entry ¥250 (more when special exhibitions are held). 09:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30). Housed in three long brick buildings, restored armouries from the time when the area was used by the Imperial Japanese Army, it features a chronological display of local history in a modern and well-laid-out setting. There is also an area for hands-on history, where you can try on various outfits, including samurai armour. As with most tourist sites in Kanazawa, an English-language pamphlet is available.

• Kanazawa Museum of Modern Literature - 36.5625, 136.655802 - 09:30-17:00 (last entry at 16:30). Housed in the Meiji-era brick building of the former Fourth Upper School (preparatory schools for the Imperial Universities) and the fore-runner of Kanazawa University, it houses displays relating to famous local (generally) authors from the Meiji to pre-war period. Probably only of interest to students of Japanese literature rather than casual tourists, as many of the displays are original copies of books or manuscripts, written in (Japanese). ¥600.

• Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art - 石川県立美術館 - 2-1 Dewa-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0963 Japan 36.56, 136.661389 ☎ +81 76-231-7580 +81 76-224-9550 Opening Hours: 9:30 am ― 6:00 pm (Admission only up to 5:30 pm) 360¥ Ishikawa_Prefectural_Museum_of_Art =Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art in winter - Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art

This is a pleasant museum showcasing works by local artists hailing from the Isihikawa prefecture. There are six galleries showing parts of the collection, which is rotated through the year. Many of the pieces come from the collection of the Maeda lords. The building provides nice views on the surrounding woods.

• D.T. Suzuki Museum - 鈴木大拙館 - 3-4-20 Honda-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0964 Japan 36.557639, 136.660972 The museum is not extremely simple to find. It is at the back of the Honda Forest. Make sure to review the access instructions on the museum's website when planning your visit. ☎ +81 76-221-8011 Opening Hours: 09:30-17:00 300¥ ja:鈴木大拙館 - D.T.Suzuki_Museum_08 A This small museum commemorates the life and works of Suzuki Daisetz Teitaro, a prominent Buddhist philosopher whose books were instrumental in spreading interest in Zen Buddhism in the West. The museum is organized around three areas: a first room exhibiting the writings and calligraphy of D.T. Suzuki, as well as pictures and explanations about his work and life; a second room where his books can be consulted and more can be learned about his writings. The third area is perhaps the most attractive part of the museum, as it is a contemplative space where visitors are invited to meditate and reflect while admiring the beautiful architecture and the surrounding woods. Even those not attracted to Buddhism or oriental philosophies may find the place worth a visit to enjoy the building's architecture.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Kanazawa

• Asanogawa Riverside Garden Party 2nd Saturday and Sunday of April along the Asano River banks. A delightful place for a stroll among the blossoming cherry trees. This event always draws a large crowd who come to watch traditional displays on an elevated stage built over the river. There are enchanting, graceful performances of singing and dancing by local geisha and maiko from Higashi Chaya-Machi neighborhood. Keep an eye out for the water jugglery "Mizu-gei" performance. 7 minutes by Hokutetsu bus for Nishiki-Machi from JR Kanazawa Stations West Exit. Get off at Hashiba-Cho bus stop and follow the crowd.
• Hyakuman-goku Festival 金沢百万石まつり　The first weekend in June. This is the big daddy of Ishikawa festivals. The festival celebrates the entry of Lord Maeda Toshiie, founder of the Kaga Domain, into Kanazawa Castle in 1583 and the following 3 centuries of prosperity due to the massive levels of Rice production in the area. The annual Rice yield was one million bushels (JP: hyakuman-goku; 百万石) or roughly 150,000 tonnes. The festival stretches out over three days and includes a parade on Saturday, a citywide folk dancing competition Saturday night, public tea ceremony at Kenroku-en and a children’s lantern parade Friday night. The parade route has been changed and now begins in front of JR Kanazawa Station where the opening ceremony is performed; arrive early with a blanket to claim your space on the sidewalk. The highlight of the parade is the costumed pageant recreating the entry of Maeda Toshiie, featuring costumed warriors and ladies from the late Warring States period and early Edo Period. The role of Toshiie is usually given to a famous Japanese star.
• Fireworks displays Every summer, local residents are drawn to the river side to watch impressive fireworks displays (free of charge). Special buses ferry people from the station to the river bank and back. On a nice evening, this is certainly worth the effort. It is also a good opportunity to meet and speak with local residents. Dates vary; ask for information at the Kanazawa Kanazawa Tourism Board Lobby in the station.

Study in Kanazawa

• Kanazawa University (金沢大学). Kanazawa University is composed of 8 faculties. About 8,000 university students study there. There is also a large post-graduate program. The main campus is Kakuma.
• Kanazawa Gakuin University (金沢学院大学). Kanazawa Gakuin University is composed of 3 faculties.
• Hokuriku University (北陸大学) . Hokuriku University is composed of two faculties: Pharmacy and Future Studies (law, management, and language) with about 3,000 students.
• Kinjo University (金城大学). Kinjo University has faculty of welfare.

How to work legally in Kanazawa

As a large and fairly youthful city and there are plenty of opportunities to teach English. Do research and be prepared. It would be unwise to turn up and expect to find legal work easily, however and the better your Japanese ability the better the chances. NOVA, ECC and Berlitz have closed operations in Kanazawa. The Ishikawa Foundation for the international Exchange and the Ishikawa International Lounge, both located in the Rifare building close to the station, provide free legal, visa, and financial advice to Foreign Muslims (set times only).

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Kanazawa

Kanazawa is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and any of the over 30 local arts and crafts make lovely souvenirs. Japanese-style confectionery also makes a good souvenir.

The city is famed for gold leaf production (金箔 kinpaku) and an interesting and reasonable priced gift is a small box of Gold leaf fragments, which can be used to decorate cakes and food or for adding sparkle to cups of sake. Within the station are a plethora of shops selling tourist items. Another area specialty is lacquerware (漆器 shikki) with products available to suit all budgets. Wajima (in Noto Peninsula|Noto) and Yamanaka are two main areas of production.

• Hakuza (箔座), Higashiyama 1-13-18 (on Higashi-Chaya main street), +81 76 251-8930. A well-known purveyor of all things covered or decorated with Gold leaf, this shop is worth a visit just to see the stunning platinum and Gold leafed warehouse inside. 09:30-18:00 daily.

Kenroku-en is ringed by shops catering to the tourist trade. Just as one would expect and the products at such shops are not typically authentic local goods, but they do have the Kanazawa keychains, postcards, and other knickknack collectibles.

Kanazawa is known as a trendy city, and fashion reflects this. The Tatemachi shopping street is full of stores, many of which house good deals if you look hard enough.

• Belsel Building - Tatemachi 24 - For those interested in Japanese "otaku" culture and the Belsel building is the place to go in Kanazawa. This building houses several stores dedicated to selling products such as anime/manga, figures, and doujin works. In addition and the first floor is full of fashion stores specializing in goth, punk, lolita, and others.

• Kohrinbo 109 - Kohrinbo 2-1-1 Across from Daiwa dept. store - Houses several floors dedicated to showcasing and selling all of the newest trends. There is a floor exclusively for men, and a movie theater on the top floor which shows a number of independent and foreign films.

Halal Food & Restaurants

Exploring Halal Culinary Delights in Kanazawa

Discovering suitable dining options that cater to specific dietary preferences can be a delightful journey, especially when it comes to Halal cuisine in Kanazawa. Here are some notable Halal restaurants in the area that promise a satisfying experience for those in search of flavorful and compliant meals.

Ishikawa Halal Mart

Location: Ro-23 Jichumachi

Operational Hours: Opens at 11 AM

Services: Dine-in, Takeaway (No delivery)

Note: As a dedicated Halal establishment, Ishikawa Halal Mart provides a welcoming space for patrons seeking Halal-certified meals. While reviews are yet to surface, the promise of Halal offerings makes it a noteworthy spot for those navigating culinary preferences.

Irin's Dream

Location: 2 Chome-5番12号 Heiwamachi

Services: Dine-in, Kerbside Pickup, Delivery

Irin's Dream earns praise for its Halal options, with a rating of 4.0 based on an initial review. Whether you prefer dining in or enjoying your meal in the comfort of your home, this establishment ensures a variety of options for a delightful experience.

Johnny's Biryani

Rating: 4.5 (551 reviews)

Cuisine: Indian

Location: 1 Chome-4-59 Nagamachi

Operational Hours: Opens at 11:30 AM on Wednesdays

Aashirwad, with its impressive 4.5 rating based on numerous reviews, is a go-to spot for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. While it observes a temporary closure on certain days, the promise of Halal options ensures a delightful culinary experience once it reopens.

For those on the lookout for Halal options in Kanazawa, the city unveils hidden gems like Ishikawa Halal Mart and Irin's Dream. In the pursuit of Halal culinary delights, these establishments offer a diverse range of options, each contributing to the rich tapestry of flavors available in the city.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Kanazawa

Kanazawa - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Kanazawa, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Kanazawa. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Kanazawa and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Kanazawa. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Kanazawa. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inKanazawa: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Kanazawa.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Kanazawa: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Kanazawa, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Kanazawa.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Kanazawa, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Kanazawa, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Kanazawa and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Kanazawa, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Kanazawa, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Kanazawa without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Kanazawa is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Kanazawa.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Kanazawa is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Kanazawa, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Kanazawa Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Kanazawa

eHalal Group Kanazawa is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Kanazawa. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Kanazawa.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Kanazawa ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Kanazawa. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Kanazawa, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Kanazawa are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

The largest concentration of hotels is around the station area including all the usual suspects: ANA, APA, Nikko etc. Toyoko Hotel and Route Inn hotel are two of the newest.

• APA Hotel Kanazawa-Chuo
• APA Hotel Kanazawa-Ekimae
• Hotel Dormy Inn Kanazawa
• Hotel Kenrokusou Kanazawa
• Kanazawa Miyako Hotel

Telecommunications in Kanazawa

There are free Internet terminals in the underground plaza just below the station, although they're usually patronized non-stop by the local homeless community getting their online mahjong fix.

• Information Office, Kanazawa Tourist Association, Kanazawa Station, Hirookamachi. ☎ +81 76 231-6311.
• Kanazawa International Exchange Foundation, 2-2-43, Nagamachi, Kanazawa. ☎ +81 76 220-2522

Stay Safe

As with most if not all cities in Japan, Kanazawa is a very safe place to visit. The central crossing in Kanazawa`s Katamachi area (known locally as the Scramble) can get a bit rowdy on the weekends. The worse that is likely to happen is a snide comment or two. The usual common sense rules apply and single Muslima travellers would be wise to keep their wits about them at night-time.

Cope in Kanazawa

English is not as widely spoken as in other bigger cities and some Halal restaurants will only have a Japanese menu. A big smile and a bit of patience will work wonders in these cases. In many cases and the waitperson can probably speak some English if you give them a chance to get over their nervousness.

Travel Next

• Tsurugi small town, 45 min ride away, is a central point in Ishikawa-ken (region/prefecture) for shinto-related activities. Remarkable during end of the year.
• Komatsu — the site of Nata-dera Temple, a favourite among Japanese tourists and a hidden gem for those looking to see beautiful gardens without the big crowd.
• Noto Peninsula. A rugged and spectacular peninsula jutting out into the Japan Sea.
• Toyama
• Mount Haku (Hakusan) — One of Japan's three most sacred mountains and the others being Mount Fuji and Tateyama.
• Shishiku Heights Tsurugi Town. Offers freestyle snowboarding during the winter, with a half pipe and selection of jumps and rails. When there is no snow you can rent protective gear and go grassboarding! Another adventurous option is para-gliding.

Take the Hokutetsu bus bound for Arimatsu from JR Kanazawa Station`s East Exit. Get off roughly 20 minutes later at Nomachi bus stop and walk downhill 1 minutes to Hokuriku Railway Nomachi Station. Take a train to Kaga-Ichinomiya Station (35 minutes). From here you can take a fairly long walk or catch a taxi to Park Shishiku which is at the base of Shishiku Heights. There is a boarding area for the gondola that will take you up to the mountain top. It is feasible to hike down from top during the warmer months. Great views can be had stretching across the Kaga Plain all the way to the Sea of Japan.

• Tedori Kyokoku (Tedori Gorge). In Hakusan National Park, an ideal place to relax during the humid summer months. Boasting impressive cliffs rising up to 30m and a roaring waterfall. In the summer and the gorge offers the chance to go rafting and canoeing along the fast flowing Tedori river.

Roughly 1 hour by Hokutetsu bus for Shiramine from JR Kanazawa Station. Get off at Komonbashi or Furobashi bus stop and walk for several minutes. It is clearly signposted in English and easily accessible by vehicle from Kanazawa.

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