KANAZAWA

Kanazawa, located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional arts, and beautiful gardens. It was a prominent castle town during the Edo period, and today, it preserves its historical charm while embracing modernity.

Higashi Chaya District

17 minutes by car from Nomachi Villa - directions
Nearby Parking - directions

A chaya (lit. teahouse) is an exclusive type of restaurant where guests are entertained by geisha who perform song and dance. During the Edo Period, chaya were found in designated entertainment districts, usually just outside the city limits. Kanazawa has three, well preserved chaya districts, Higashi Chayagai (Eastern Chaya District), Nishi Chayagai (Western Chaya District) and Kazuemachi.

• Kinpakuya Sakuda - Gold Leaf Souvenirs & Workshop

  directions
  Open: 9:00am ~ 5:00pm
  Closed: No Closures

  Kinpakuya Sakuda is a well-established gold leaf shop known for its craftsmanship and expertise in producing kinpaku (gold leaf). Located in the heart of Kanazawa, it offers a wide array of gold leaf products, ranging from traditional crafts to modern items like cosmetics and home decor.

  • Gold Leaf Pasting Experience

    Start Times: 9:00 /10:30 / 13:00 / 15:00 ~
    Duration: 60 minutes
    Cost: Dependent on the item chosen for you experience
    Prior Reservation is required - Booking confirmed - Pay Cash on arrival

• Ramanya Rickshaw Tours - Kanazawa Sightseeing

  directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 4:30pm
  Closed: No Closures

  Romanya Rickshaw Tours offers a unique and immersive way to explore Kanazawa's rich cultural heritage. Operating from the historic Higashi Chaya District, their rickshaw rides are guided by knowledgeable and friendly "shafu" (rickshaw pullers) who share local insights and stories, enhancing the sightseeing experience.

  Departures: Every hour and half past during opening hours. (10:30pm)
  Duration: 45 minutes
  Cost: Adult JPY 8,000
  You can book ahead of time (recommended) - booking link

• Lunch ? Ask guide for a recommendation

• Hakuichi Higashiyama store – Eat gold leaf soft-serve ice cream

  directions
  Open: 9:00am ~ 6:00pm
  Closed: No Closures

  The Hakuichi Higashiyama store in Kanazawa is renowned for its extensive range of gold leaf products, reflecting Kanazawa’s history as Japan’s leading producer of high-quality gold leaf. Located in the Higashi Chaya District, the store offers visitors the chance to see intricate gold leaf craftsmanship applied to a variety of items, including cosmetics, jewelry, and traditional crafts.

• 🍴 Kazu Nakashima - Traditional Sweets

  directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
  Closed: Thursdays

  Kazu Nakashima is a renowned shop in Kanazawa, celebrated for its exquisite traditional sweets. One of their standout offerings is the fresh fruit encased in mochi, a delightful treat that showcases seasonal fruits wrapped in a soft, chewy rice cake. This combination not only highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit but also offers a unique texture that is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

• Geisha House Shima

  directions
  Open: 9:30am ~ 5:30pm
  Closed: No Closure

  Geisha House Shima is a well-preserved geisha house that offers a glimpse into the traditional geisha culture of Japan. Built in the late 19th century, Shima features stunning Edo-period architecture, characterized by its wooden structures, sliding doors, and tatami mat flooring. The house served as a social and entertainment hub where geisha would entertain guests with music, dance, and games.

  Cost: Adult ¥500

• Hakuza Hikari-gura - See Kanazawas Gold House

  directions
  Open: 9:30am ~ 5:30pm
  Closed: No Closures

  Hikazu Hikari-gura store features a range of HAKUHIN metal leaf products, crafted from a unique gold-platinum alloy, but it’s wares aren’t it’s only draw. The store’s exterior boasts a stunning outer wall covered in platinum leaf, while the inner walls of “The Golden Storehouse” are adorned with 24K pure gold leaf, creating a visually striking atmosphere.

• YAMATO Soy Sauce and Miso Higashiyama Store

  directions
  Open: 10:00am ~ 12:00pm / 1:00pm ~ 5:00pm
  Closed: Wednesdays

  The Yamato Soy Sauce & Miso Higashiyama Store is a charming specialty shop located in Kanazawa's historic Higashi Chaya District. Established in 1911, Yamato is renowned for its traditional, additive-free fermented products made from domestically sourced ingredients. Visitors can sample and purchase a variety of items, including soy sauce, miso, amazake, and the regional fish sauce known as "Ishiru." A highlight for many is the unique soy sauce soft-serve ice cream, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.

🍺 Kanazawa Chuo Mishokugai - Bar Alley 

directions

Open: Monday ~ Saturday 5:00pm ~ 11:00pm / Sunday 6:00pm ~ 9:00pm
Closed: No Closures

Kanazawa Chuo Mishokugai is a hidden gem nestled in the backstreets of the Katamachi district, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Japan's Showa era. This compact alleyway is lined with approximately 20 tiny bars and eateries, each exuding a retro charm with low ceilings and vintage decor. Most establishments accommodate only a handful of patrons, fostering an intimate and friendly atmosphere where locals and visitors alike can engage in casual conversations over local dishes and drinks.