Because of its historic tea house districts and elegant gardens, Kanazawa is sometimes described as Japan’s “Little Kyoto.” But you’ll find a different, more relaxed atmosphere in this mid-sized city in Ishikawa Prefecture, which suggests Kanazawa is no model village but a city with its own story. Things to do in Kanazawa mostly involve parks, gardens, and chaya districts lined with tea houses, but they also revolve around the city’s modern museums, landmarks associated with samurai and ninjas, and its fondness for fresh seafood.
With its many gardens and parks, Kanazawa is at its best during the spring and autumn seasons. Visit in late March and April to see cherry blossoms in Kenrokuen Garden, areas around Kanazawa Castle, and on the riverfront. The same areas are bursting with red and orange fall foliage in late October and November. These times also let you skip the rainy weather of June and July, and the heat of August and September.
Unlike Tokyo or Kyoto, there's no metro system in Kanazawa. Walking and cycling are the easiest ways to explore Kanazawa; you’ll find many bicycle rental services around the city center and outside the train station. Kanazawa does have a bus network, though, the Kanazawa Loop Bus. It's straightforward to use, with a flat fare, and stops at many city attractions.
Gold leaf ice cream—yes, ice cream coated in gold leaf—is a fun Kanazawa delicacy that visitors almost always want to try once they learn about it. You’ll find various places that sell it around the Higashi Chaya District. The Omicho Market is the other essential place to eat in Kanazawa, with many seafood, sushi, and noodle eateries where you can dine side-by-side with locals.
