Main sightseeing spots in Kanazawa
Kanazawa’s main sightseeing spots are all located around Kanazawa castle which was built in the center of the city in the 1580’s are mostly within 10-minute walking distances from one another. Most roads in the old urban area are designed to be winding and narrow intentionally to make it difficult for you to find where you are. This feature assures a very efficient tour if you are with a long-experienced local tour guide.
Kenrokuen garden
The highlight of any visit to Kanazawa is Kenrokuen garden, which was constructed as the outer garden of Kanazawa castle over two centuries beginning in 1676. As you might know, Japanese Landscape gardens are reproduction of natural scenery within a given space, where trees, stones, paths, streams, ponds, etc. are laid out as they appear in nature.
Omicho market
You will find various food stuff sold in the Omicho market that you usually don’t find in your country, such as wasabi, lotus roots and burdocks as vegetables and sea urchin, sea cucumbers, squids, kelp as marine products.
Time required for sightseeing and Cultural Experience in Kanazawa: Usually it takes one full day for the sightseeing. Another day will be required for enjoying hands-on cultural experiences and a home-visit. One day tour of combining sightseeing of must-see spots and some cultural experience is also available.
History
One of the frequently asked questions is what the difference is between Kyoto and Kanazawa in terms of historical background and culture. Founded in 794, Kyoto had been the capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years placing the imperial palace in the center of the city and developing a courtly culture, whereas the city of Kanazawa had been made as the foremost samurai warrior’s town since 1583 with a castle in the center of the city and a highly developed samurai culture for nearly 280 years. Both cities virtually ended their influential political roles at the time of Meiji restoration in 1868, and they have become modern flourishing cities making use of their own cultures that have been handed down over many generations. They also escaped the bombing of world war Ⅱand have preserved intact their attractive traditional quarters.
Tips for travelers
A total of approximately 2 hours of intermittent walking per day is required on mostly paved/gravel, flat surfaces. So, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Shoes must be removed before entering a Japanese home (the samurai villa); seating will be on tatami mats during tea ceremony. Japanese yen (cash) will be needed for personal purchases at the market if you chose.