Kanazawa

Kanazawa

Independent travel and view of the city of Kanazawa! History of Kanazawa Kanazawa is one of the most historica...

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Oh. Kanazawa

Independent travel and view of the city of Kanazawa!

History of Kanazawa

Kanazawa is one of the most historically and culturally significant cities in Japan. It is often referred to as “little Kyoto”, but Kanazawa has its own unique development path. The city was able to preserve a huge amount of traditional architecture, crafts and atmosphere of the samurai era due to the fact that it was almost intact during the Second World War.

Origin of the city

The name "Kanazawa" translates as "swamp of gold" or "gold swamp". According to one legend, a peasant washed potatoes in a stream and discovered golden sand, after which the area got its name.

The history of the city begins approximately in the XV century. At that time, there was a small settlement around the Buddhist temple of the Ikko-ikki sect, a religious movement that opposed the rule of the samurai. It was here that the fortified monastery “Kanazawa Gobo” was founded, which became the core of the future city.

Epoch of Ikko-ikki – “Buddhist Republic”

In the XV-XVI centuries, the Kaga region, where Kanazawa is located, became a unique phenomenon in Japanese history. The Buddhist sect of Ikko-ikki actually created an independent state here. The area was ruled by monks and their supporters, and samurai power was driven out.

This period is sometimes called the “peasant kingdom” or “Buddhist republic.” For feudal Japan, this was almost impossible. For decades, local monks and peasants successfully resisted large military clans.

However, at the end of the XVI century, the unifier of Japan Oda Nobunaga began to destroy independent religious centers. After fierce wars, the power of Ikko-ikki was broken.

Arrival of the Maeda clan

The real heyday of Kanazawa began after 1583, when the region came under the control of the powerful Maeda clan. Its first ruler was Maeda Toshiye, one of the largest feudal lords of the era of the unification of Japan.

Maeda made Kanazawa the capital of his possession Kaga Khan - one of the richest principalities in the country. The income of the principality was second only to the possessions of the Tokugawa Shoguns. Thanks to huge financial resources, the city began to develop rapidly.

Construction of Kanazawa Castle

The symbol of the city was Kanazawa Castle. The first fortifications appeared in the XVI century, but it was the Maeda clan that turned it into a huge fortress and administrative center of the region.

The castle was rebuilt several times after fires and wars. In Japanese castles, wood was the main building material, so large fires were common.

A feature of Kanazawa Castle was:

  • massive stone walls;

  • complex system of gates and ditches;

  • white plaster towers;

  • It's a sprawling city.

Today, part of the castle has been restored as a historical reconstruction, and some buildings have been preserved in their original form.

Kanazawa in the Edo era

During the Edo period (1603–1868), Kanazawa became one of the largest and richest cities in Japan. The population reached more than 100 thousand people, making it one of the largest cities in the country at that time.

The city was carefully divided into districts:

  • Samurai quarters;

  • artisan areas;

  • shopping streets;

  • Geisha quarters;

  • temples and monasteries.

Historical areas have been preserved to this day:

  • Nagamati is the samurai quarter.

  • Higashi-Taya - the ancient geisha district;

  • Kazemachi is a historic shopping street.

Cultural Center of Japan

The Maeda clan understood that their influence was inferior to the Tokugawa shoguns, so they relied not only on military power but also on culture.

In Kanazawa, the following actively developed:

  • tea ceremony;

  • Theatre No;

  • calligraphy;

  • production of gilded lacquer;

  • pottery

  • tissue staining;

  • blacksmithing

  • Making samurai swords.

It is here that many traditional arts of the Hokuriku region were formed.

Especially famous was the production of gold leaf. Today, Kanazawa produces most of Japan’s gold leaf. They are decorated with temples, sweets, cosmetics and art objects.

Kenroquan Garden

One of the greatest achievements of the Maeda clan was the Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most famous gardens in Japan.

It was created by several generations of Maeda rulers. The garden combines:

  • ponds;

  • bridges;

  • teahouses;

  • artificial hills;

  • waterfalls;

  • rare trees.

The name "Cenroquen" means "the garden of the six virtues", that is, the place where are united:

  1. spacious

  2. privacy,

  3. artificiality

  4. antiquity,

  5. water

  6. Panoramic views.

The Meiji Period and the Decline of the Samurai

After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the samurai clans were abolished. The Maeda clan lost political influence, and Japan began a rapid modernization.

Many of Kanazawa’s samurai districts fell into decline. However, the city avoided excessive industrialization, so that the old quarters were not destroyed by modern development.

Kanazawa gradually became the educational and cultural center of the region.

World War II

During World War II, Kanazawa was almost never bombed by American aircraft. This is one of the reasons why the city has preserved its historical appearance much better than most Japanese cities.

After the war, many historical areas were recognized as cultural heritage and taken under the protection of the state.

Modern Kanazawa

Today, Kanazawa is considered one of the main cultural centers of Japan.

The town is famous:

  • traditional architecture;

  • museums;

  • crafts;

  • contemporary art scene;

  • universities;

  • gastronomy.

Especially strong development of tourism began after the opening of the Hokuriku-Shinkansen high-speed train line, linking Kanazawa with Tokyo. The city has become much more accessible to tourists.

Today, Kanazawa combines:

  • the atmosphere of samurai Japan;

  • traditional neighborhoods;

  • contemporary art;

  • high technology;

  • the calm rhythm of life.

That is why many travelers consider it one of the most beautiful and authentic cities in the country.


Interesting places for entertainment in Kanazawa

Kanazawa is one of the most atmospheric and beautiful cities in Japan, where past and present exist simultaneously. This city is often called “little Kyoto”, but many travelers consider Kanazawa even more cozy, calm and authentic. There is no such congestion as in Kyoto or Tokyo, but there is a huge number of historical quarters, ancient traditions and cultural treasures.

Kanazawa is located on the coast of the Sea of Japan in the Hokuriku region and is surrounded by mountains, forests and the sea. Due to its location, the city combines rich culture, magnificent cuisine and picturesque nature.

The atmosphere of old Japan

The main thing that attracts tourists in Kanazawa is the surprisingly well-preserved atmosphere of the Edo era. Here you can literally walk through the streets of the samurai, see ancient wooden houses, tea quarters and narrow stone alleys that have hardly changed for several centuries.

The town has survived:

  • Samurai quarters;

  • geisha districts;

  • old tea houses;

  • ancient temples and sanctuaries;

  • traditional markets;

  • craft workshops.

Especially famous is the historical district of Higashi-Taya - an ancient quarter of geisha with wooden houses of the XVII-XVIII centuries. In the evening, lights are lit, shamisen music is played, and the streets acquire the atmosphere of old Japan.

No less interesting is the Nagamati district, the former samurai quarter. There are preserved mud walls, narrow canals and residences of warriors of the Edo period.

One of the most beautiful gardens in Japan

The main attraction of the city is the Kenrokuen Garden - one of the three most famous gardens in the country.

Canroquen combines:

  • ponds;

  • waterfalls;

  • teahouses;

  • bridges;

  • pine alleys;

  • seasonal flowers.

The garden is beautiful at any time of the year:

  • in the spring - cherry blossoms;

  • in the summer - thick greenery;

  • In autumn, red maples.

  • In winter, famous yukitsuri designs support tree branches from snow.

Many tourists consider winter Kanazawa one of the most beautiful in Japan.

Samurai Castle

Near the garden is Kanazawa Castle - the former residence of the powerful Maeda clan.

The castle is surrounded by massive stone walls, towers and parks. Here you can feel the atmosphere of feudal Japan and imagine the life of samurai a few centuries ago.

The area is especially beautiful in the evening when the lighting is turned on.

Paradise for lovers of Japanese cuisine

Kanazawa is considered one of the gastronomic centers of the country. Due to the proximity of the Sea of Japan, the freshest seafood comes here every day.

The city is famous:

  • crabs;

  • tuna

  • sea urchins;

  • oysters;

  • sushi and sashimi

  • traditional Kaga-ryori cuisine.

The main gastronomic place is the Omitho Market, the oldest market in the city, which has been operating for several centuries.

Omitho Market is the perfect place to taste fresh seafood, Japanese sweets and local delicacies.

Centre for Traditional Crafts

Kanazawa is known as one of the main craft centers of Japan. There are still manually created:

  • products made of gold leaf;

  • lacquered dishes;

  • pottery

  • dyed fabrics;

  • fan?

  • Samurai jewelry.

The city is especially famous for the production of gold leaf - most of Japan's gold foil is created here.

Tourists may:

  • attend master classes;

  • Try to decorate products with gold;

  • Create your own souvenirs;

  • To participate in the tea ceremony.

Contemporary art and museums

Despite its ancient atmosphere, Kanazawa is a modern cultural center.

One of the most famous attractions was the Museum of Modern Art of the XXI century - one of the most unusual museums in Japan.

His famous installation “Pool” creates the illusion of people under water and has become a symbol of the city.

Comfort and tranquility

Unlike noisy Tokyo or crowded Kyoto, Kanazawa attracts tourists with a more measured atmosphere.

Here:

  • Fewer crowds;

  • quiet streets;

  • comfortable transport;

  • safe environment;

  • friendly people.

The city is ideal for:

  • leisurely walks;

  • photo-tourism

  • cultural recreation;

  • gastronomic travel;

  • Getting acquainted with traditional Japan.


You will be welcomed in Kanazawa. private guides And they'll offer you a copy. individual excursions.

Accommodation options in Kanazawa

Kanazawa offers accommodation for any budget, from luxury traditional ryokan to inexpensive hostels and guest houses. The city is considered more peaceful and affordable than Tokyo or Kyoto.

Premium hotels and ryokans

Suitable for a comfortable stay and acquaintance with Japanese traditions.

  • Hyatt Centric Kanazawa is a modern 5★ hotel near the station, high level of service and comfortable rooms.

  • The Sanraku Hotel Kanazawa is a popular hotel near the historic center and Omitho Market.

  • Kanazawa Chaya Ryokan is a traditional Japanese ryokan with tatami, futon and national cuisine.

Average cost: $150-$500 per night.

Mid-range hotels

The most popular option among tourists.

  • Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa is a modern hotel with Japanese design and a public bath.

  • The square hotel KANAZAWA is a stylish and inexpensive option for independent travelers.

  • Hotel Kanazawa is a comfortable city hotel near the station.

Average cost: $60-180 per night.

Budget Ryokans and Guesthouses

It is a great way to experience Japanese culture without spending too much.

  • Ryokan Yamamuro is a cozy family ryokan in traditional style.

  • Sumiyoshiya is a popular ryokan near Omitho Market.

Average cost: $70-140 per night.

Hostels and economy options

Popular among students, solo tourists and backpackers.

  • K's House Kanazawa - Travelers Hostel is one of the city's most famous hostels.

  • Blue Hour Kanazawa is a modern hostel near the station.

  • Guest House Pongyi is a cozy guest house with a homely atmosphere.

Average cost: $20-$50 per night.


Attractions in Kanazawa

Kenroquan Garden

Kenrokuen is the main symbol of the city and one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan.

What attracts tourists:

  • Ponds and bridges;

  • teahouses;

  • cherry blossom season;

  • autumn red maples;

  • Winter snowy landscapes.

Transport accessibility

  • 10-15 minutes by bus from Kanazawa Station

  • stop at Kenrokuen Garden;

  • You can also walk in about 30 minutes.

Kanazawa Castle

Kanazawa Castle is located next to Kenrokuen Garden.

Main features:

  • massive stone walls;

  • historic gates;

  • Samurai architecture;

  • Large parklands.

How to get there

  • walk from Kenroquan Garden;

  • 10-15 minutes by bus from the station;

  • Comfortable tourist routes Loop Bus.

Higashi-Taya District

Higashi-Taya is an old quarter of geisha with wooden houses of the Edo era.

Popular thanks to:

  • traditional atmosphere;

  • teahouses;

  • Souvenir shops;

  • Photogenic streets.

Transportation

  • about 10 minutes by bus from the station;

  • Hashiba-cho stop;

  • Some of the streets are pedestrian.

Nagamati District

Nagamati is a historic samurai quarter.

It's preserved here.

  • old residences;

  • narrow alleyways;

  • clay walls;

  • museums of samurai culture.

How to get there

  • 5-10 minutes by bus from the station;

  • It is convenient to visit on foot with the castle.

Omitho Market

Omitho Market is the main gastronomic center of the city.

Here tourists try:

  • fresh seafood;

  • sushi

  • crabs;

  • Japanese sweets.

Transport accessibility

  • 15 minutes walk from Kanazawa Station

  • several bus routes;

  • It's located in the city center.

Museum of Modern Art of the XXI Century

The Museum of Contemporary Art of the XXI century is one of the most famous modern museums in Japan.

Known:

  • unusual architecture;

  • interactive exhibitions;

  • The famous installation "Pool".

How to get there

  • near Canroquan;

  • convenient to visit in the same route with the castle;

  • bus from the station about 15 minutes.

Transportation in town

Kanazawa is convenient for tourists due to its compact center.

Main modes of transport:

  • Tourist buses Loop Bus;

  • city buses;

  • taxi;

  • bicycle rental;

  • Hiking.

Loop Bus.

Tourist bus passes through all the main attractions:

  • station;

  • Canroquan;

  • castle;

  • Higashi-Taya;

  • museums;

  • Omitho market.

This is the most convenient transport for tourists.


Activities in Kanazawa

Spring (March-May)

Spring is considered one of the best seasons to travel.

Main features:

  • cherry blossoms

  • comfortable temperature;

  • festivals and fairs;

  • Walk through historic neighborhoods.

What's particularly popular

  • Kenrokuen garden during cherry blossoms;

  • evening lighting of parks;

  • Hanami picnics.

Main activities

  • cherry blossom festivals;

  • spring tea ceremonies;

  • traditional temple festivals.

Best time: late March - early April.

Summer (June - August)

Summer is the season of festivals, street food and Japanese holidays.

Features:

  • green gardens;

  • evening festivals;

  • fireworks;

  • traditional yukats.

Popular summer events

Hyakumangoku Matsuri is the main festival of the city.

It usually takes place in early June and is dedicated to the history of the Maeda clan and the samurai past of Kanazawa.

During the festival:

  • Samurai parades are held;

  • historical reconstructions;

  • dancing;

  • performances of drummers;

  • parade in traditional costumes.

The festival is considered the main cultural event of the city.

Summer fireworks

In the summer, Japanese hanabi fireworks festivals are held in Kanazawa and neighboring cities.

This:

  • street food;

  • music;

  • traditional costumes;

  • The evening atmosphere of Japanese matsuri.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons in Kanazawa.

Main features:

  • Momiji red maples;

  • cool weather;

  • gastronomic season;

  • calm atmosphere.

What's particularly popular

  • walking around Higashi-Taya;

  • Autumn views of Kenroquan Garden;

  • Crab and seafood season.

Autumn activities

  • festivals of traditional culture;

  • trade shows;

  • gastronomic fairs;

  • music concerts.

Winter (December to February)

Winter Kanazawa is considered one of the most atmospheric in Japan.

Features:

  • snow;

  • lighting of historical streets;

  • hot springs;

  • winter kitchen.

The main winter feature

In the Kenrokuen garden, yukitsuri structures are installed - rope supports to protect trees from snow. It is one of the symbols of winter Japan.

What attracts tourists in winter

  • snowy landscapes;

  • hot onsen;

  • winter seafood;

  • New Year's atmosphere.


Weather and the best season to travel to Kanazawa

Kanazawa is located on the coast of the Sea of Japan and has a humid climate with pronounced seasons. The city is known for a large amount of rainfall, green nature and snowy winter. The climate here is milder than in northern Hokkaido but more humid and snowy than in Tokyo.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is considered one of the best seasons to travel to Kanazawa.

Weather.

  • March: +8... +13°C

  • April: +15... +20°C

  • May: +20... +25° C.

Nights:

  • from +5°C in March

  • to +15°C in May.

Features of the season

  • cherry blossoms

  • comfortable temperature;

  • green gardens;

  • festivals and walks.

The city is particularly beautiful in spring:

  • Canroquen Garden;

  • in samurai quarters;

  • near Kanazawa Castle.

Water temperature

Sea of Japan:

  • March: around +10 oh C.

  • May: about +17°C.

The water is still cool for swimming.

Summer (June - August)

Summer in Kanazawa is warm and humid.

Air temperature

  • June: +24... +27° C.

  • July: +28... +31°C

  • August: +30... +33°C

Sometimes there is a strong humidity.

Features

  • green parks;

  • festivals;

  • fireworks;

  • seafood season.

June is often rainy due to the tsuyu season - Japanese rains.

Water temperature

  • June: +21°C

  • July: +24° C.

  • August: +27° C.

Summer is suitable for a holiday on the coast of the Ishikawa region.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is the second best season to travel.

Air temperature

  • September: +26°C

  • October: +18... +23°C

  • November: +12... +17° C.

Features of the season

  • Momiji red maples;

  • dry and comfortable weather;

  • gastronomic season;

  • Beautiful landscapes.

Autumn is particularly popular:

  • Higashi-Taya walks;

  • garden visits;

  • phototourism.

Water temperature

  • September: +25° C.

  • October: +21°C

  • November: +17° C.

The sea is still warm in September.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Kanazawa is cool and snowy.

Air temperature

  • December: +5... +10°C

  • January: +2... +7°C

  • February: +3... +8 °C

At night, the temperature can drop below 0 ° C.

Features of winter

  • snowfalls;

  • Atmospheric historical streets;

  • hot springs;

  • winter kitchen;

  • Snowy Canroquan.

Kanazawa is known for its beautiful winter landscapes.

Water temperature

  • December: +14° C.

  • January: +11° C.

  • February: +10° C.

There is no swimming season.


Language of communication, traditions and customs of Kanazawa

Language of communication

The official language is Japanese.

In Kanazawa they say:

  • Standard Japanese;

  • The local dialect of the Ishikawa region (rarely used in the tourist environment).

English

In tourist places, English is often understood:

  • station;

  • hotels;

  • museums;

  • large restaurants;

  • tourist centers.

But in small cafes, shops and old ryokans, English may be limited.

It is useful to know a few phrases:

  • Konnichiwa (Konnichiwa) - hello

  • Arigatou gozaimasu (Arigato gozaimas) - thank you

  • Sumimasen (Sumimasen) - sorry / sorry / you can ask

  • Onegaishimasu (Onegaishimasu) - please

  • Eigo wa hanasemasu ka? - Do you speak English?

Even a few words in Japanese command local respect.

Basic traditions and rules of conduct

Politeness and respect

Japan is a country of respect.

Important:

  • speak calmly;

  • Do not raise your voice;

  • Don't interrupt;

  • thank you;

  • be patient.

A bow is a traditional form of greeting, but a nod is enough for a tourist.

Shoes.

In many places, shoes are removed:

  • in the ryokans;

  • traditional homes;

  • some restaurants;

  • temples;

  • schools.

Slippers are often issued.

Important: Do not step on street shoes on tatami.

Conduct in transport

In public transport it is accepted:

  • speak quietly;

  • Do not talk loudly on the phone;

  • give way to the elderly;

  • Keep the line.

In Kanazawa buses, the entrance is often through the back door, the exit is through the front.

Lines and order.

The Japanese strictly follow the queues:

  • at stops;

  • in stores;

  • at train stations;

  • in elevators.

Don't go in line.

Etiquette at the table

Before a meal, they say: Itadakimasu – “pleasant appetite”.

Gochisousama deshita means “thank you for the food.”

Important:

  • Do not stick sticks vertically into rice (association with funeral);

  • Do not pass food with chopsticks to each other;

  • Don't play with sticks.

Noisy eating noodles is normal in Japan - it's a sign that the food is delicious.

Temples and shrines

When visiting Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples:

  • speak quietly;

  • Do not touch the relics;

  • observe the signs;

  • Sometimes before entering, wash hands at a special source.

Photography inside temples is sometimes forbidden.

Smoking and alcohol

Smoking in Japan is strictly regulated.

No smoking:

  • on most streets;

  • near stations;

  • in public places.

Smoking only in special areas.

A fine is possible for violation.

Alcohol has been legal since age 20.

Drinking on the street in Japan is possible, but in Kanazawa it is not very common, especially in historical areas.

Cleanliness and garbage

Japan is a very clean country.

Feature: There are few urns on the streets.

This is why garbage is often carried to your home or hotel.

We'll have to sort:

  • plastics;

  • paper;

  • glass;

  • general garbage.

Laws Important for Tourists

It should be remembered:

  • Drugs are strictly prohibited.

  • Even small amounts are a serious crime.

  • It is not possible to photograph private areas;

  • Drones are governed by separate rules.

  • You only need to cross the road at a green light.

  • Violation of public order shall be fined.

Japanese laws for tourists and locals are equally strict.

Tipping

Tipping is not accepted in Japan.

There is no need to leave money in restaurants, taxis and hotels - this can cause bewilderment.

High service is already embedded in the culture of service.

Treatment of tourists

The people of Kanazawa are known:

  • politeness;

  • calmness;

  • willingness to help;

  • respect for foreigners.

Even if a person does not speak English, they will often try to help.


The main dialogues for traveling to Kanazawa

Basic words and courtesy

Greetings

  • Konnichiwa - Hello / Good afternoon

  • Ohayou gozaimasu (good morning)

  • Konbanwa - Good evening

  • Sayounara - Goodbye

Politeness

  • - Arigatou gozaimasu - thank you very much

  • Arigatou - Thank you (informally)

  • Sumimasen - sorry / sorry / can contact

  • Gomen Nasai - Sorry (for the mistake)

  • 大)42) - Onegaishimasu - please (if requested)

Useful phrases for tourists

Questions

  • - Eigo o hanasemasu ka? - Do you speak English?

  • - Kore wa nan desu ka? - What is it?

  • - Toire wa doko desu ka? - Where's the toilet?

  • - Eki wa doko desu ka? - Where's the station?

Understanding

  • Wakarimasen - I don't understand

  • Yukkuri onegaishimasu – speak more slowly

Restaurant and café

  • Menyuu o kudasai - give the menu

  • Mizu kudasai - water please

  • Osusume wa nan desu ka? - What do you recommend?

  • Oishii desu - delicious

  • Kaikei onegaishimasu – bill please

An important ritual

  • Itadakimasu – “Pleasant Appetite” (before eating)

  • Gochisousama deshita – “Thank you for the food”

Transport and road

  • - Kippu wa doko de kaemasu ka? - Where to buy a ticket?

  • Kono densha wa ~ yuki desu ka? - This train goes to...?

  • Norikae - Transplantation

  • - Doko de Orimasu ka? - Where to go?

At the hotel.

  • Chekku in onegaishimasu – check-in, please

  • - Chekku auto nanji desu ka? - What time is it?

  • Nimotsu o azuketai desu - I want to leave my luggage

  • - Wi-Fi arimasu ka? - Is there Wi-Fi?


Food, medicines, souvenirs and gifts in memory of the city of Kanazawa

1. Food and gastronomic souvenirs

Seafood (the main symbol of the region)

Kanazawa is located near the Sea of Japan, so it has the best seafood in Japan.

What to try and bring:

  • snow crab (cani) in season;

  • sea urchins (uni);

  • fresh tuna;

  • Sushi and sashimi from the market;

  • dried seafood.

Here you can buy both ready-made dishes and vacuumed souvenirs.

Japanese sweets (wagashi)

Kanazawa is famous for traditional sweets, which are often served at the tea ceremony.

Popular options:

  • Golden sweets (covered with gold leaf);

  • wagashi with legume paste;

  • seasonal sweets (sakura, matcha, chestnut);

  • Moti.

Local products

  • Match (high quality green tea)

  • sake from the Ishikawa region;

  • locally produced sauces and miso;

  • rice snacks.

2. Medical and health-improving products

The Japanese pay great attention to body care and health.

Traditional medicine and care

  • patches with herbal extracts;

  • warming patches for the back and neck;

  • Balms from muscle fatigue;

  • Herbal teas (for digestion and relaxation).

Onsen cosmetics

Kanazawa and the Ishikawa region are known for their hot springs.

I can bring you:

  • salts for baths with minerals;

  • relaxation oils;

  • Face masks with thermal water;

  • Japanese shampoos and care products.

3. Traditional craft souvenirs

Gold leaf is the main symbol of the city

Kanazawa is the largest gold production center in Japan.

What can I buy?

  • makeup with gold;

  • edible gold for food and desserts;

  • decorative products;

  • masks, cups and plates with gold decor.

Lacquerware (russi)

  • bowls;

  • chopsticks;

  • trays;

  • decorative boxes.

Very expensive and durable souvenir.

Fabrics and kimono

  • belts;

  • hand-painted fabrics;

  • Mini-kimono.

  • accessories in the traditional style.

Paper products

  • fan (utiva);

  • lamps;

  • handmade postcards;

  • calligraphy.

4. Unique Souvenirs of Kanazawa

  • mini-copies of samurai helmets

  • geisha figures;

  • tea sets for the ceremony;

  • items from the Nagamati samurai district;

  • handicrafts made of wood.

5. What to bring from cultural places

From the historic districts of the city:

  • Souvenirs from Higashi-Taya quarter (tea houses);

  • handmade products from old workshops;

  • Items with symbols of Kanazawa Castle.


Rest safety, documents, insurance, telephones, Internet in Kanazawa

Rest safety in Kanazawa

Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world, and Kanazawa is no exception. The crime rate is very low, especially in tourist areas.

What is important to know for a tourist

  • You can walk peacefully in the evening;

  • Street thefts are rare;

  • Personal items are usually not touched.

  • The police work effectively;

  • The city is very clean and organized.

The main risks are not criminal, but domestic:

  • earthquakes (rarely but possible)

  • heavy rains and typhoons in summer and autumn;

  • snow and ice in winter.

Travel documents

For most tourists (including citizens of the Russian Federation and many CIS countries), there is a visa-free regime or a short-term visit on a visa.

Must have:

  • passport (validity at least for the entire period of the trip);

  • return ticket or ticket to a third country;

  • confirmation of accommodation (hotel/reservation);

  • financial resources (sometimes at the border).

It is further recommended that:

  • copy of the passport (paper or phone);

  • insurance;

  • The address of the first hotel in English/Japanese.

Health insurance

Insurance is not always strictly mandatory, but is highly recommended because medicine is expensive in Japan.

What should cover:

  • emergency medical care;

  • hospitalization;

  • treatment of injuries;

  • dental emergency care;

  • Repatriation (preferably).

Without insurance, even a simple visit to the doctor can be expensive.

Emergency services phones

In Japan, there is a unified system of emergency numbers:

  • Ambulance and firefighters: 119

  • Police: 110

In addition:

  • tourist police (English-language assistance is available in major cities);

  • Hotel staff always help to call services.

Mobile and Internet

There are several major operators in Japan:

The main mobile operators:

  • NTT Docomo - the best coverage in the country

  • SoftBank – popular with tourists

  • KDDI (au) - stable communication

How to connect a tourist:

  • SIM card for tourists (7-30 days);

  • eSIM (the most convenient option);

  • Wi-Fi router (Pocket Wi-Fi) – often rented at the airport.

There is free Wi-Fi almost everywhere in Kanazawa:

  • train stations;

  • café

  • museums;

  • hotels.

Term of stay of the tourist in Japan

It depends on the nationality, but for most tourists, the rule is:

Visa-free (or short-term entry):

  • usually up to 90 consecutive days.

Important:

  • You cannot work on a tourist visa;

  • It is not possible to “renew the deadline” simply by leaving and returning (this may raise questions at the border);

  • For a long stay, a separate visa is required.

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