Things to do in Kanazawa

Activities, attractions and tours

A narrow street at dusk with traditional buildings and a vibrant sunset sky.
A modern skyscraper with reflective glass windows and a curved facade.
A traditional Japanese castle with multiple white and red tiled roofs, wooden gates, and a stone wall.
A traditional Japanese pagoda surrounded by lush greenery and a staircase leading up to it.
A serene garden with a wooden bridge over a pond, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

Things to do

Kanazawa: Family-Friendly Kimono& Yukata Experience at WARGO

Kanazawa: Family-Friendly Kimono& Yukata Experience at WARGO

€26
per adult
Kanazawa: Family-Friendly Kimono& Yukata Experience at WARGO
Departing from Takayama [Regular sightseeing bus] World Heritage Sites Shirakawago and Gokayama Ainokura

Departing from Takayama [Regular sightseeing bus] World Heritage Sites Shirakawago and Gokayama Ainokura

€53
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Departing from Takayama [Regular sightseeing bus] World Heritage Sites Shirakawago and Gokayama Ainokura
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Osaka

Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Osaka

€77
per adult
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Osaka
1-Day Takayama Tour: Explore Scenic Takayama and Shirakawago

1-Day Takayama Tour: Explore Scenic Takayama and Shirakawago

€133
per adult
1-Day Takayama Tour: Explore Scenic Takayama and Shirakawago
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Tokyo

Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Tokyo

€77
per adult
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Tokyo
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Kyoto

Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Kyoto

€77
per adult
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Kyoto
Kanazawa Castle and Samurai History Walking Tour

Kanazawa: Castle & Samurai History Walking Tour

€54
per adult
Kanazawa: Castle & Samurai History Walking Tour
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Kanazawa

Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Kanazawa

€68
per adult
Shirakawago and Kanazawa from Kanazawa
Kanazawa Machiya: Private Tea Ceremony with a Local Tea Master

Kanazawa Machiya: Private Tea Ceremony with a Local Tea Master

€54
per adult
Kanazawa Machiya: Private Tea Ceremony with a Local Tea Master
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What to do in Kanazawa

Stay near popular Kanazawa attractions

A bustling indoor market with various stalls selling goods, illuminated by hanging lights.

Omicho Market

8.4/10 (1,826 reviews)
Dating back to 1721, Omicho Market thrives as "Kanazawa's Kitchen" with over 170 stalls of fresh seafood and local produce. Sample a premium kaisendon bowl at one of the market's authentic eateries.
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Where to stay in Kanazawa

Find the best Kanazawa areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kanazawa
Learn more about Kanazawa
A narrow snow-covered alley flanked by traditional buildings with straw-roofed structures.

Korinbo

Korinbo might not have many top sights, but Nomura Samurai House and 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A narrow street at dusk with traditional buildings and a vibrant sunset sky.

Nagamachi Samurai District

If you're spending some time in Nagamachi Samurai District, Nomura Samurai House and Ashigaru Shiryokan Museum are top sights worth seeing.

A night view of a park with illuminated structures resembling trees and a gravel path.

Katamachi

When in Katamachi, you can plan a visit to Nomura Samurai House and Nishi Chaya District, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A traditional wooden street with lanterns and buildings.

Higashi Chaya District

You'll enjoy the museums and shopping in Higashi Chaya District. You might want to make time for a stop at Higashi Chaya District or Ochaya Shima.

A narrow street flanked by traditional wooden buildings with tiled roofs.

Downtown Kanazawa

While visiting Downtown Kanazawa, you might make a stop by sights like Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kanazawa worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Kanazawa is explore Kanazawa Castle. Tick this major attraction off your list, then experience more of the area's dining and culture.
How do I spend a day in Kanazawa?
Kanazawa Castle and Kanazawa Castle Park are two awesome places to start your adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Kanazawa while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kanazawa?
The top tourist attraction in Kanazawa is Kanazawa Castle, so be sure to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Kanazawa?
You can easily enjoy top sights like Kanazawa Castle, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum with a three-day escape to Kanazawa. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Kaga.
Is Kanazawa a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Kanazawa, such as Kanazawa Castle and 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.32 kilometres from the city centre of Kanazawa is Hirooka and Korinbo is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Kanazawa with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Check out our ideas for what to do in Kanazawa with kids.
What to do in Kanazawa for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Kanazawa, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to D.T. Suzuki Museum or Kanazawa Phonograph Museum.
Are there free things to do in Kanazawa?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Kanazawa is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Ashigaru Shiryokan Museum is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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