Kanazawa

In desperate need of a weekend trip, we decided to head to the city of Kanazawa. The trip consisted of a 45 minute drive to Toyama and then a one hour train ride. Despite the relative nearness of the city, we decided to stay the night there since this area has a lot going for it.


View Larger Map

Fish Market

The Kanazawa fish market was a labyrinth of fresh edibles. Since Kanazawa is uniquely situated between the mountains and the sea, there was everything from mushrooms and root vegetables to squid to (of course) fish. We spent a good while just taking in the sights and stopped for a quick oyster snack when we got hungry.









Castle

I had never seen an Eastern-style castle, so I was very keen to visit this site. The grounds were beautiful and for a small fee you can go inside and get a sweeping view of the town.








Traditional Gardens

Across the street from the castle is the site of one of the best traditional gardens in Japan, Kenrouku-en. Founded in 1676 and completed in the 19th century, these gardens feel like stepping back in time (and out of the hustle of the city). Lanterns and statues dot the landscape and every once and awhile you happen upon a waterfall or koi pond. In the centre of the garden is a tea room where you can sit and have tea served to you in the traditional style. Do not try and sneak in to see the room without paying for tea (and if you do, definitely do not forget to take off your shoes at the door).







Little Kyoto

This is a district in the city which is filled with cute kimono and gift shops as well as geisha houses. We toured inside one of the geisha houses and it was spectacular. Everything was so ornate.











Gold Leafing

Never before have I seen a place so crazy for gold leafing. Kanazawa produces over 99% of Japan's gold leaf and you can find it on EVERYTHING here. When we stopped for some green tea ice cream we couldn't help but add on some of the city's signature product. Also spotted with added gold leaf was instant coffee, sushi, candy, pound cake, stones, hand cream, and the walls of a random room in the middle of the city.









Pottery and Laquerware

Kanazawa is a very artistic city and it is especially known for its pottery and laquerware. It has a two distinct types of pottery: one which is plainer and primitively shaped and the other which has characteristically bright colours.







Its nice to know that such an interesting place is only a short distance away. I really hope to come back here after the first snowfall since I have heard that the gardens are quite beautiful in the winter.