Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan

1. Kenrokuen Garden

One of Japan's famous six gardens with scenic views of lakes, bridges, and teahouses.

Unusual Layout: Combines elements from various traditional garden styles
Seasonal Beauty: Beautiful in all seasons, especially the cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall.
Accessibility: Easy to reach by public transportation

One of the few remaining original castles in Japan with beautifully preserved castle towers.

Authentic Restoration: One of the few original castles still standing with minimal renovation.
Nighttime Views: Beautifully illuminated during nighttime, offering a unique perspective.
Historical Significance: Houses the Honmaru Goten, a beautiful Samurai residence.

A historic district filled with well-preserved samurai and merchant houses.

Living History: Residential area where families still live in traditional houses.
Architectural Beauty: Beautifully preserved architecture with white walls, black roofs and vermilion-lacquered gates.
Cultural Experience: Visitors can learn about the samurai culture through local guides or exhibitions.

A secret temple said to have been built for Ninjas with hidden rooms and passages.

Hidden Architecture: Includes many hidden doors, passages, and rooms.
Ninja History: Learn about the history of Ninjas and their tactics in a unique setting.
Exclusive Tour: Tours are restricted, making it a truly offbeat destination.

A beautiful Buddhist temple with a unique 'sea of clouds' view.

Sea of Clouds View: The temple is surrounded by steep slopes, creating a sea of clouds effect.
Zen Garden: Features a beautiful Zen garden with moss-covered stones and maple trees.
Pilgrimage Trail: Part of the famous Hokhei Pilgrimage trail, attracting many devotees.

A picturesque district filled with traditional houses and a beautiful canal.

Traditional Architecture: Beautifully preserved architecture featuring white walls, black roofs, and vermilion-lacquered gates.
Canal Cruise: Take a canal cruise to explore the district from a different perspective.
Golden-Leafed Maples: Known for its golden-leafed maple trees in autumn.

A unique museum designed by architect Kenzo Tange with a beautiful garden.

Modern Architecture: Features an iconic modernist building design.
Art Exhibitions: Hosts both temporary and permanent art exhibitions.
Beautiful Garden: Features a beautiful garden with a large pond, creating a serene atmosphere.

A unique shrine dedicated to the three main mountain gods of Japan.

Mountain Worship: Dedicated to the three main mountain gods, Futsunushi no Okami, Hakusan-gongen, and Taro-no-Okami.
Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests.
Historical Significance: Believed to be one of the oldest shrines in Kanazawa, with a history dating back over 1000 years.

A district filled with traditional tea houses and shops selling local sweets.

Traditional Culture: Preserves the traditional culture of Kanazawa.
Tea Ceremony Experience: Visitors can experience a traditional tea ceremony in a historic tea house.
Local Sweets: Try local sweets like gold leaf desserts and senbei rice crackers.

A traditional theater where you can watch Kagura, a unique form of Japanese entertainment.

Traditional Performance: Features the ancient art of Kagura, performed by local performers.
Mythological Stories: Performances tell mythological stories about Shinto gods and mythical creatures.
Unique Experience: A rare opportunity to witness this unique form of entertainment in a traditional setting.

A village known for its beautiful Kutani porcelain, with workshops and museums.

Ceramic Tradition: Known for its long tradition of ceramics production.
Artisan Workshops: Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique pieces.
Museums: Includes museums dedicated to the history and techniques of Kutani porcelain.

A museum dedicated to the history of Japan's railway system.

Railway History: Dedicated to the history and development of Japan's railway system.
Steam Locomotives: Features a collection of steam locomotives and rolling stock.
Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits for visitors to learn about the railway system.

A rice terrace with over 400 individual plots on a steep hillside.

Scenic Beauty: Offers a beautiful and unique view of the rice terraces.
Local Culture: Visitors can learn about the local farming culture and traditions.
Seasonal Views: Beautiful in all seasons, especially during rice planting and harvesting times.

A lively district with modern shops, restaurants, and a historic arcade.

Modern Culture: Features modern shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Historic Arcade: Includes a historic arcade with traditional architecture.
Local Cuisine: Try local dishes like Kaga-jiru, a hearty chicken and vegetable soup.

A hot spring located near the Kutani Pottery Village, offering relaxation and rejuvenation.

Natural Healing: The hot spring water is said to have healing properties.
Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Traditional Bathing Experience: Experience a traditional Japanese bathing ritual in a relaxing atmosphere.