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Kanazawa castle in Japan
Kanazawa castle in Japan

Discover Kanazawa, Japan

Samurai History. Gardens Tranquillity.

Head to Kanazawa and the Ishikawa Prefecture and you step back in time to the Edo Period (1603 to 1886), the height of samurai culture. Thankfully, Kanazawa was the second-largest city (after Kyoto) to make it through World War II intact. As a result, parts of the old castle town, including the Nagamachi samurai district and chaya entertainment districts, have survived in pretty good condition. Keep your camera ready to capture the rows of teahouses in the historic Geisha district. Kanazawa also boasts attractive temples, a wide variety of museums and a lively market dating back to 1721. About an hour away is Kaga Onsen, healing hot springs that are well worth a day trip.

Exciting Shore Excursions

Immerse yourself in authentic experiences with our Shore Excursions, expertly guided by locals.

Snapshots of Kanazawa

A visual preview of the amazing sites that await you.

Kanazawa, Japan at the historic Nishi Chaya District in the winter. See the Nishi Chaya district, where geisha perform.
Kaga Onsen, Japan at the Yamashiro Onsen hot springs resort district. Visit Yamahiro Onsen, healing hot springs.
Pink sakura trees (Cherry Blossom) at dusk at Kanazawa Castle Park in panoramic landscape view Marvel at the cherry blossoms at Kanazawa Castle.
Traditional and Historical Japanese village Shirakawago in autumn season Discover the historic village of Shirakawago.
Japanese gardener near the Toro lantern in Kenrokuen, a japanese garden in Kanazawa, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan Japanese gardener near the Toro lantern in Kenrokuen, a Japanese garden in Kanazawa, Ishikawa prefecture.

Travel Tips & Interesting Info

Uncover Hidden Gems & Fun Facts

Inside the area in Kanazawa Castle of Kanazawa City, Japan.

Famous For

During the Edo Period, Kanazawa served as the seat of the Maeda Clan, a powerful feudal clan. Hence, the city grew to rival Kyoto and Edo.

Ice cream cone covered with real gold leaf a famous street food in Japan

Exquisite Flavors

Be sure to try Kanazawa's gold leaf ice cream, beautiful Wagashi sweets and fresh, succulent seafood, especially the sweet amaebi prawn. Delight in Kaga vegetables, a local treasure.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Hokuriku Kanazawa

Fun Facts

Kanazawa is home to over 80 museums! Browse as many as you can from the Ninja Weapon Museum and Kanazawa Phonograph Museum to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Port Name & Location

Kanazawa Port - Japan
Ship will DOCK at this port.

Language

The official language is Japanese.

Time Zone

JST (Japan Standard Time) UTC/GMT +9 hours

Currency & Shopping

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Featured Kanazawa Itineraries

Learn More about Kanazawa

Read more on our official travel blog.

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