
Major Highways & Driving Tips in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
1. Kanazawa Loop Line (Kanazawa-kaihokūro),
A circular road providing access to major attractions such as Kenrokuen Garden and Higashi Chaya District.
- Scenic Drive: Offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding nature.
- Time Efficient: Allows visitors to easily explore multiple destinations within a short period.
- Traffic Ease: Uses smaller roads, reducing the chance of encountering heavy city traffic.
2. Route 8 (Hokuriku Expressway)
Expressway connecting Kanazawa to Tokyo and Nagano, offering a convenient route for travelers.
- Speed: Faster travel time compared to traditional roads.
- Scenery: Provides views of the Japanese Alps and rural landscapes.
- Toll Road: Requires payment at toll booths located throughout the route.
3. Kanazawa Bypass (Kanazawa-enkyūdō)
A bypass around Kanazawa City, offering an alternative route for those avoiding city traffic.
- Avoiding Congested Areas: Diverts traffic from the busy urban center of Kanazawa.
- Scenic Drive: Provides views of rural landscapes and small towns along the route.
- Toll Road: Requires payment at toll booths located throughout the route.
4. Route 6 (Hokuhoku Expressway)
Expressway connecting Kanazawa to Fukui and Kyoto, offering a convenient route for travelers.
- Speed: Faster travel time compared to traditional roads.
- Scenery: Provides views of the Japanese Sea and rural landscapes.
- Toll Road: Requires payment at toll booths located throughout the route.
5. Kanazawa Interchange (Kanazawa-eki)
Major interchange connecting Route 8 and Kanazawa Loop Line.
- Accessibility: Easy access to Kanazawa City, the Hokuriku Expressway, and other destinations.
- Convenience Store: Features a convenience store for travelers' needs.
- Rest Areas: Offers rest areas for drivers to take breaks.
6. Higashi Kanazawa Interchange (Kanazawa-higashi-eki)
Interchange connecting Route 8 and Higashi Chaya District.
- Accessibility: Easy access to Higashi Chaya District, a popular tourist destination.
- Convenience Store: Features a convenience store for travelers' needs.
- Rest Areas: Offers rest areas for drivers to take breaks.
7. Kanazawa-nishi Interchange (Kanazawa-nishi-eki)
Interchange connecting Route 6 and Kanazawa Station.
- Accessibility: Easy access to Kanazawa Station, the city's main transportation hub.
- Convenience Store: Features a convenience store for travelers' needs.
- Rest Areas: Offers rest areas for drivers to take breaks.
8. Kenrokuen Garden
Beautiful garden featuring ponds, tea houses, and traditional Japanese landscaping.
- Scenic Destination: Offers stunning visuals throughout the four seasons.
- Historical Significance: One of Japan's famous gardens, dating back to the Edo period.
- Practical Information: Provides amenities such as restrooms and souvenir shops.
9. Higashi Chaya District (Naga-machi)
Traditional district featuring tea houses, shops, and historic buildings.
- Cultural Experience: Allows visitors to experience traditional Japanese architecture and customs.
- Shopping Opportunities: Features local crafts, sweets, and souvenirs for purchase.
- Food & Drink: Offers traditional Japanese tea houses serving local delicacies.
10. Kanazawa Castle (Kanazawa-jō)
Fortress built in the early 1500s showcasing traditional Japanese castle architecture.
- Historical Significance: One of the few original castles remaining in Japan.
- Architectural Interest: Features a combination of traditional Japanese and Western styles.
- Practical Information: Offers guided tours, restrooms, and souvenir shops.
11. Myōjin-yūenchi (Kenrokuen Garden)
Amusement park located within Kenrokuen Garden featuring various attractions.
- Fun & Entertainment: Offers a variety of rides, games, and shows for all ages.
- Scenic Location: Surrounded by the beauty of Kenrokuen Garden.
- Food & Drink: Features a variety of food vendors serving local favorites.
12. Kanazawa City Aquarium (Nata-no-sentō)
Modern aquarium showcasing a variety of marine life, including local species.
- Educational Value: Provides insights into the ocean and its inhabitants.
- Entertainment: Features interactive exhibits and shows for visitors.
- Rest Areas: Offers seating areas and cafes for relaxation.
13. Utatsu-yama Park
Park featuring a historic pagoda, hiking trails, and scenic views.
- Scenic Destination: Offers panoramic views of Kanazawa City.
- Historical Significance: Home to a historic pagoda dating back to the Edo period.
- Recreation Opportunities: Provides hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
14. Kanazawa Station
Major transportation hub connecting Kanazawa to other cities by train and bus.
- Accessibility: Easy access to various modes of transportation.
- Convenience Store: Features a convenience store for travelers' needs.
- Rest Areas: Offers rest areas for drivers to take breaks.
15. Kanazawa Bus Terminal (Eki-bussento)
Bus terminal offering connections to various destinations within Ishikawa and beyond.
- Accessibility: Easy access to various bus routes.
- Convenience Store: Features a convenience store for travelers' needs.
- Rest Areas: Offers rest areas for drivers to take breaks.