Five reasons to fall in love with Kanazawa, Japan

The capital of Ishikawa Prefecture on the west coast of Japan, Kanazawa is a former castle town revered for its well-preserved historical districts, traditional landscaped gardens and regional handicrafts.

Kanazawa means “marsh of gold”. It’s said to have earned its name when a farmer discovered gold dust flakes while digging for potatoes. Here, local artisans produce over 99% of Japan’s gold leaf which adorn lacquerware, furniture and temples across the nation, including Kyoto’s famous Kinkakuji.

Though not as frequented as some of Japan’s other tourist destinations, those seeking an authentic Japanese experience away from the crowds are sure to be pleased with a visit to Kanazawa. Here are five reasons to fall in love with this classic city.

1) Admire its architecture and well-preserved historical districts

Whether you’re travelling from Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya, it takes just over two and a half hours to reach Kanazawa on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line. As you disembark, you’ll be hit with the presence of Tsuzumi-mon, a spectacular gate with architecture inspired by the hand drum used in Kanazawa’s traditional art of Noh.

Kanazawa avoided destruction during the second world war making it one of the best-preserved Edo-period cities in Japan. Constructed in the 17th century, Kenrokuen is considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan for its beauty across all seasons, especially in winter.

At the base of former Kanazawa Castle is Nagamachi, a samurai district where samurai and their families used to reside. The historical atmosphere still lingers thanks to its cobblestone streets and a restored samurai residence showcasing the typical lifestyle and artifacts of an era when samurai thrived.

2) Witness culinary talent as apatronin Katamachi’s back alley

Thanks to its proximity to the sea and mountains, Kanazawa cuisine relies heavily on locally sourced high-quality ingredients. Katamachi is the culinary heart of Kanazawa and it’s here where gourmet flair shines as chefs vie for premium ingredients in everything from street food to kaiseki.

Opened in May 2022, OMO5 Kanazawa Katamachi by Hoshino Resorts offers complimentary guided tours through the quaint back alleys of Katamachi for guests to encounter Kanazawa’s unique food culture and its connection to traditional crafts. It’s an opportunity to try one of many delicacies including Kanazawa oden, which uses soy sauce in the broth.

3) Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most popular art museums which features exhibits from both Japanese and international artists. It’s a must-visit, especially if you want to capture the Fake Swimming Pool installation by Leandro Erlich for your Instagram grid! A free guided tour is offered to guests of OMO5 Kanazawa Katamachi where they can learn the concept behind the museum, discover hidden spots and hear unexpected stories about the works on display.

4) Learn how to make Edo period confections

There aren’t many hotels where you can experience making raw rakugan, a traditional Japanese confection characterised by its moist, rustic texture, gentle sweetness and unique patterns stamped on its surface.OMO5 Kanazawa Katamachi has collaborated with Rakugan Moroe-ya, a long-established confectionary shop in Kanazawa to give guests the opportunity to learn how to make this special sweet that has been savoured since the Edo period.Using original stencils, guests can try making their own raw rakugan and enjoy the finished product right away!

5) Buy a memento to remind you of your travels

Known for its traditional crafts and high-quality goods, including gold leaf, lacquerware, porcelain and textiles, a trip to Kanazawa wouldn’t be complete without purchasing a memento from one of its many skilled artisans. Don’t miss an opportunity to get something special, either for a loved one, or yourself, to remind you of your cherished experience in Japan.

About Hoshino Resorts

Hoshino Resorts was first established as a Japanese inn/ryokan in 1914 in Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture before it began the operation of other resorts in Japan. Today, it has evolved into a highly influential hotel management company and is run by 4th-generation family member Yoshiharu Hoshino. Providing a unique experience focused on the local charms of each destination and a high level of omotenashi, Japanese-style hospitality, the company has expanded rapidly out of Karuizawa since 2001 and now operates more than 55 accommodations both in and outside Japan with one of the following categories: luxury hotel brand “HOSHINOYA,” hot spring ryokan brand “KAI,” countryside resort hotel brand “RISONARE,” city tourism hotel brand “OMO,” free-spirited hotel brand “BEB,” or other unique lodgings.

About OMO

OMO is a city tourism hotel in a convenient city-centre location, perfect for exploring the deep, urban culture. We consider the city centred around the hotel to be part of our resort, offering a variety of options to see, eat and shop. With the cooperation of the local community, city lovers can get an insight into culture through our original tours and maps; sharing locals’ all-time favourites to hidden gems only with you.


* Maki Watabe m.watabe@thedoq.com