Discover historical & cultural signatures of Kanazawa
Of great cultural achievements, Kanazawa is perhaps the best-preserved major Edo-period city in the country, rivalling Tokyo and Kyoto. Only 2.5 hours by train from Tokyo, you will leave the hustle and bustle of city life to a place of traditional Japanese beauty. There are many things to do in the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture, including the unchallenged main attraction, Kenrokuen, one of the "three great gardens of Japan" filled with a variety of trees, ponds and flowers. Another noticeable site is the slowly restored Kanazawa Castle with a fascinating look, showing the history of the second most powerful clan, Maeda, during the Edo Period. Besides, visitors can experience high-class entertainment in Higashi Chayagai, Kanazawa's most famous geisha district with well maintained geisha houses, teahouses and family houses. Don’t forget to explore Kanazawa’s gold leaf handicrafts and get a chance to buy some accessories or clothing as souvenirs.