Two-and-a-half hours by train from Tokyo, Kanazawa is a fascinating cultural hotspot on Japan's western coast. One of the best-preserved Edo-era cities in the country, it’s also the much-lauded ‘City of Handicrafts’. Art aficionados and history buffs will find Kanazawa a rich and rewarding destination, unspoilt by tourism and brimming with authentic charm. Accommodation options reflect this energy, with intimate ryokans and simple family-run guesthouses offering a taste of classic Japanese hospitality. Book a room at one of the best places to stay in Kanazawa and head out to explore!

Kanazawa’s compact centre makes it easy to discover on foot or by bicycle. Stroll through the Nagamachi Samurai District to admire streets lined with earthen-walled houses and to see the Nomura Samurai House. Evening ambles through one of the three teahouse — ‘chaya’ — districts, where geishas still play traditional instruments, also come highly recommended. Other highlights include guided tours of the magnificent Kanazawa Castle and adjoining Kenrokuen Garden, as well as the Myoriji Temple.

When it comes to museums, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, the D.T. Suzuki Museum and the Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts & Crafts are excellent. The Japanese National Crafts Museum was relocated to the city in 2020, in recognition of its importance in the world of handicrafts. This is a great point of connection for workshops and experiences across the city.

Foodies should make a beeline for Omicho Market, where the city’s freshest seafood can be found. The market’s restaurants are superb; as are the eateries at the best places to stay in Kanazawa.

The Best Places to Stay in Kanazawa

For a City Stay

• Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel is just a stone's throw from many of the city's sights. The hotel offers Western-style guest rooms, hot spring baths and delicious multi-course cuisine in an atmospheric restaurant. A smart city stay for business or leisure.
• Chaya Ryokan, in downtown Kanazawa, is an upscale city choice. Unwind in the sauna, kick back in classic guest rooms, or savour splendid kaiseki dishes in the chic restaurant. For romantics or well-heeled history buffs.

For a Mountain Escape

• Motoyu Ishiya Ryokan features classic architecture and traditional woven matting and futon bedding in inviting guest rooms. Set in a splendid mountainous location, this characterful 200-year-old ryokan offers indoor and outdoor baths with a view, as well as an exquisite regional restaurant. Romantic, restful and rejuvenating.

For Great Value

• Guest House Pongyi is a simple, Japanese-style guesthouse run by a wonderfully friendly team in downtown Kanazawa. Book a dormitory if travelling with friends and looking to meet fellow guests, or choose a private room with traditional tatami flooring and futon bedding. There's a shared kitchen and bicycles for hire. A cosy, great value city stay.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Tokyo, and catch a 2.5 hour high-speed train to Kanazawa. There are also rapid connections from Kyoto and Osaka. Alternatively, hop aboard a domestic flight to Komatsu Airport, 20 miles from Kanazawa.
• You may want the flexibility of driving if you're exploring beyond the city limits. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn, when temperatures range between 18 and 27°C. This is the best time for walking and cycling around the city. The early April cherry blossom is beautiful, but makes this a very popular time to visit!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Kaga.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Kanazawa