Photo of Kanazawa

About Kanazawa

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?

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Best Hotels in Kanazawa

  • Guest House Pongyi Kanazawa 3 rooms from AU$79

    Museums  -  Kanazawa Phonograph Museum, Izumi Kyoka Museum and Muro Saisei Kinenkan Museum are all just a short distance away
    Groups  -  Dormitory rooms make this a great choice for a sociable budget trip with friends
    Cycling  -  Hire one of the hotel's bicycles to explore the city centre on two wheels
    Value chic  -  A top location and decent accommodation at a great price
    Air conditioningParkingNo pets

    The classic Japanese-style Guest House Pongyi is located in downtown Kanazawa. Offering both dormitories and traditional Japanese accommodation - think tatami woven-straw flooring and futon bedding - this is a cosy, great value city stay in a superb spot! Shared kitchen facilities are a bonus. See More

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  • Hotel Amanek Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 200 rooms from AU$97

    Local exploring  -  A great base for discovering the many cultural areas the city has to offer, such as the nearby Nagamachi Bukeyashiki District
    Value chic  -  Simple but stylish rooms in both Western and Japanese styles at incredible prices
    Families  -  The spacious Family Rooms sleep up to five and have a separate sitting area
    Sights nearby  -  The hotel is located close to Oyama Shrine and 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A comfortable hotel in the centre of town. Minimalist rooms with neutral decor in both western and Japanese styles, plus there's a sleek indoor public bath. A buffet breakfast is served in the restaurant and there's a relaxing lounge for complimentary tea and snacks. Superb value too. See More

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  • Kaname Inn Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 37 rooms from AU$103

    City Style  -  Accommodation is minimalist in style with chic western style rooms, plus there's a hip music bar & terrace, and a cool city vibe
    Local exploring  -  Well situated for seeing the sight; a short walk through narrow streets and past museums will take you to the castle and garden
    Sights nearby  -  From geisha to samurai, traditional Japanese gardens to Zen Buddhist inspired architecture, this 'Little Kyoto' has it all
    Restaurant  -  Kanazawa Music Bar erves lunch and dinner entrees inspired by French and Italian cuisine
    Air conditioningRestaurantNo pets

    Stylish hotel in Tatemachi. Spacious and minimalist rooms, some with floor to ceiling windows maximising the wonderful city views. Hip Music Bar, home to a variety of live music events and a collection of vinyl records, with DJs playing most evenings. A cool city stay at a reasonable price. See More

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  • The Square Hotel Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 186 rooms from AU$104

    Local exploring  -  A superb central location — easy walking distance to the castle, temples and the Edo era district
    Groups  -  The Grand Twin rooms have two double beds and one sofa bed, so can accommodate up to five adults
    Value chic  -  Good value with stylish rooms and a free communal bath
    Sights nearby  -  Terashima Kurando Samurai Villa, Oyama Shrine and Kanazawa Castle are within walking distance
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A sleek hotel in the heart of Kanazawa. Bold rooms in rich tones contrast with the warm wood of the communal areas creating a cool, contemporary feel. Guests can enjoy the large bath with its open roof, plus there's a relaxed cafe for all-day dining. Perfect for a chic, reasonably-priced city stay. See More

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  • Kanazawa Hotel Tokyu Kanazawa 201 rooms from AU$165

    Local exploring  -  Whether it be local historical and cultural sights or restaurants and bars, all are within walking distance
    Views  -  Rooms on the higher floors boast amazing city views
    Sights nearby  -  The magnificent Kanazawa Castle is within walking distance of the hotel
    Local markets  -  The Korinbo Tokyu Square is a short walk from the hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A great value stay in the heart of the city. Rooms are spacious and all done in a contemporary style; some western, others more Japanese in feel. Book a higher floor for a more luxurious finish and stunning city views. Two restaurants and a bar complete the picture. Good for business or leisure. See More

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  • Hyatt Centric Kanazawa Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture) 253 rooms from AU$171

    City Style  -  A chic city base, with smart modern interiors and contemporary art throughout
    Local exploring  -  Great base for exploring all of the local shrines and museums
    Sights nearby  -  Kanazawa's bustling harbour district is a must-see, including the fascinating Ohno Karakuri Memorial Museum
    Restaurant  -  Offers globally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParking

    A smart modern hotel in the centre of Kanazawa. Western style rooms and suites, complete with chic furnishings offer sophisticated city living and huge windows for expansive views. FIVE Grill & Lounge provides globally inspired dishes and the 14th floor roof terrace bar is the place for sundowners. See More

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  • Hotel Intergate Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 166 rooms from AU$136

    Short break  -  Centrally located for a short trip to Kanazawa, a city rich in culture and history with many museums and temples
    City Style  -  Spacious, stylish guest rooms and vibrant communal areas create a cool, relaxed ambience
    Value chic  -  A good choice of tastefully decorated and reasonably-priced contemporary rooms
    Sights nearby  -  Terashima Kurando Samurai Villa and Shinise Memorial Hall are within walking distance
    Air conditioningDisabled accessNo pets

    A modern hotel close to Kanazawa castle. Rooms are stylish with pops of colour and feature walls. There's a lounge serving coffee and cocktails, a buffet for late night snacks and a gallery showcasing books and art. A grand communal bath with a fab mural completes the picture. A chic city stay. See More

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  • Kumu by The Share Hotels Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 47 rooms from AU$186

    Families  -  Large rooms that sleep four (plus two kids) as well as bunk bed rooms make the hotel ideal as a family base
    Value chic  -  With minimalist style and industrial chic vibes, Kumu offers great accommodation at very reasonable rates
    City Style  -  The smart hotel is within easy walking distance of the main sights of Kanazawa.
    Views  -  Views of Kanazawa Castle Park from the wooden deck rooftop.
    Air conditioningViews

    Good value and stylish industrial-look pad with clean lines and Western as well as Japanese-style bedrooms. Grey and blond wood palette with raised tatami floors set the tone, with bunk rooms for families. Concrete chic public areas include a tea room, a roof terrace for music and yoga, and a cafe. See More

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  • Neon Hotel Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 14 rooms from AU$154

    Learning  -  Head to the Higashi Chaya District to learn about the Japanese traditional teahouse and geisha culture
    Local exploring  -  The hotel is situated in the heart of the city close to many museums and cultural attractions
    Other Activities  -  Enjoy a walk to Kanazawa Castle and Garden, beautiful no matter the season
    Value chic  -  Simple but stylish and incredibly good value!
    Air conditioningNo pets

    A small hotel whose ethos is all about a good night's sleep; rooms feature all-natural bedding and hand picked furnishings, with neutral decor and soft lighting for a calm vibe. Throughout you'll find an eclectic range of art, in both modern and classic style. A no-fuss reasonably-priced city stay. See More

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  • Uan Kanazawa Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 47 rooms from AU$166

    Local exploring  -  The area is perfect for history buffs with its countless museums dedicated to art, history, and artefacts
    Total relaxation  -  Chill out in the library or lounge, enjoy hoji (roasted) tea or sample some sake
    Sights nearby  -  Conveniently situated for discovering the city, Terashima Kurando Samurai Villa and Kanazawa Castle are close by
    Great walks  -  Just a 15-minute stroll to the stunning Kenrokuen Garden
    Air conditioningDisabled accessViewsNo pets

    A modern stay close to Kanazawa Castle. Rooms are warm and minimalist with neutral tones and soft lighting; some with private terrace. There's a communal lounge for relaxing, offering complimentary hoji tea, coffee and soft drinks, plus soba noodles for supper. A calm vibe yet near the city buzz. See More

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  • Hotel Nikko Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 251 rooms from AU$183

    Local exploring  -  Perfect location in the heart of things, close to museums, a vibrant geisha district, markets and gardens
    City Style  -  Spacious, minimalist rooms, plush bathrooms, elegant restaurants and an atmospheric lounge
    Views  -  Guest rooms are located on the 17th floor and above so enjoy epic city views
    Sights nearby  -  Nearby Kanazawa Castle, a partially-reconstructed building, is set in a park where you can also find the Kenrokuen Garden
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A striking hotel in downtown Kanazawa — the tallest in the Hokuriku area. Spacious, western style rooms boast warm, neutral tones, some with amazing panoramic views. There are several restaurants serving European and Japanese cuisine plus an elegant lounge bar. A sleek choice for local exploring. See More

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  • Korinkyo Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 18 rooms from AU$192

    Total relaxation  -  Rooftop sauna and bath, isolation tank for deep meditation plus herbal aromas from the distillery attached to the hotel
    Local exploring  -  Perfect location for discovering Kanazawa's many cultural and historic attractions
    City Style  -  Super stylish suites with private saunas, deep soaking tubs and city views
    Restaurant  -  Karch, a Taiwanese cuisine restaurant, is located in the basement of the hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsNo pets

    Art gallery turned boutique hotel/perfume distillery. Gorgeous rooms with a slight industrial chic vibe feature chunky exposed beams, freestanding tubs and comfy sofas, plus there's a rooftop sauna and two cypress baths with wonderful city views. A seriously hip stay in the heart of the city. See More

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  • Kanazawa Zoushi Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 12 rooms from AU$204

    Families  -  The Deluxe Family Room offers a mix of Japanese & Western style with double and single beds plus a raised space with tatami mats
    Local exploring  -  A good location to explore the Oyama Shrine, the Kazuemachi Chaya District, Nomura Samurai House and Kenrokuen Garden
    Learning  -  Learn all about geishas at Shima Teahouse and Kaikaro Teahouse, both open to the public
    Sights nearby  -  Walking distance to Kanazawa Castle
    Air conditioningDisabled accessNo pets

    A modern design hotel in downtown Kanazawa where contemporary decor sits alongside traditional Kutani ware, Kaga washi paper and more. Stylish rooms feature warm wood, handmade furniture and bright Japanese artwork. Free coffee, tea and juice are available in the lounge. A sense of calm in the city. See More

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  • Hotel Sanraku Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 215 rooms from AU$220

    Local exploring  -  A 10-minute drive to the Nagamachi Samurai District with its remaining residences, earthen walls, narrow lanes and water canals
    City Style  -  Chic, minimalist rooms, elegant communal spaces and easy access to local attractions
    Restaurant  -  Distinctive dishes with fresh seasonal ingredients including teppanyaki, sushi and tempura counters
    Sights nearby  -  Nearby Kanazawa Park houses a partially-restored castle showcasing many different eras and styles
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A slick hotel in the centre of town. Elegant rooms are decorated in calming neutral tones with pretty artwork, some with courtyard views and private balconies. There's a restaurant serving traditional cuisine plus a relaxing lobby lounge bar showcasing live piano music. A chic city stay. See More

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  • Lian Kanazawa Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 8 rooms from AU$243

    Local exploring  -  Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art are all within walking distance
    Groups  -  A small hotel with 8 rooms so good for groups wanting to explore the area together
    Sights nearby  -  Nearby Higashi Betsuin Temple is a hidden gem with a grand main building and beautiful garden
    Local markets  -  Close to Omicho Market
    Air conditioningNo pets

    A small boutique hotel in the historic centre of town, well situated for exploring the local heritage. Spacious, minimalist rooms are decorated in neutral tones, each with a kitchen and elegant bathroom. The decor showcases items from local galleries so there's a stylish arty vibe. A chic stay. See More

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  • Motoyu Ishiya Ryokan Kanazawa (Kanazawa-shi) 20 rooms from AU$312

    Romantic Break  -  Lovely accommodation, a peaceful atmosphere and hot-spring baths make this the ideal spot for a romantic getaway
    Foodies  -  Motoyu Ishiya Ryokan serves up exquisite kaiseki cuisine-not to be missed out on
    Total relaxation  -  A tranquil rural spot complete with obligatory onsens
    Sights nearby  -  Be sure to visit the Yachiya Sake Brewery, Utatsu Shrine or Higashichaya Old Town
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    The 200-year old Motoyu Ishiya Ryokan features classic architecture and traditional accommodation (tatami woven-straw flooring and futon bedding). Boasting a splendid mountainous location, this charming spot also offers indoor and outdoor baths with glorious views. An utterly rejuvenating stay! See More

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  • Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Kanazawa (Kanazawa-shi) 85 rooms from AU$334

    City Style  -  Boasting a wonderful location, Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel is the perfect base from which to get to know the city
    Local exploring  -  With so many attractions on your doorstep you'd be amiss not to go sightseeing
    Sights nearby  -  Be sure to see the historic Kanazawa Castle, Nomura Family Samurai House and Ozaki Shrine
    Great walks  -  Take a lovely relaxing stroll through The Gyokusen-en Garden
    Air conditioningRestaurantParkingNo pets

    Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel enjoys a superbly central location, just a stone's throw from many of the city's sights. The property boasts Western-style accommodation whilst serving up traditional multi-course meals. Unwind in the hot-spring bath after a long day sightseeing! A splendid city stay. See More

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  • Hotel 101 Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 1 rooms from AU$488

    Foodies  -  Origo restaurant serves fabulous food which has its roots in traditional Italian cuisine but with a new, contemporary twist
    Romantic Break  -  Accommodation is limited to one booking per day so you would have the whole property to yourselves
    Families  -  Two separate bedrooms so great for families and exclusive use means you can relax
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll through beautiful Kenrokuen, one of Japan's best landscape gardens
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A renovated hotel close to downtown Kanazawa. Positioned above an Italian restaurant within a machiya (traditional townhouse), guests get the accommodation (two rooms) to themselves. Authentic details are blended seamlessly with modern comforts, plus there's a tranquil inner garden. A hidden oasis. See More

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  • Maki No Oto Kanazawa (Ishikawa) 4 rooms from AU$623

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located for discovering the many cultural highlights of the area and situated in the historic centre of town
    Groups  -  Just four rooms so could be perfect for groups or families
    Sights nearby  -  Terashima Kurando Samurai Villa is a 10-minute stroll away and Kanazawa Castle is close too
    Restaurant  -  There's a restaurant serving dishes that are both local and seasonal
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsNo pets

    A small hotel in the historic Higashi Chaya District. Four spacious, minimalist rooms (a choice of Japanese or Western) are decorated with warm tones and wood accents and furnishings, some with courtyard garden views. Plus there's a restaurant serving local seasonal dishes. An intimate hideaway. See More

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  • Chaya Ryokan Kanazawa 18 rooms from AU$845

    Local exploring  -  The historic Higashi Chaya-gai area is a 20-minute stroll away, and the hotel is well-located for on-foot explorations
    Foodies  -  Enjoy exquisite traditional Japanese cuisine in the atmospheric two-storey restaurant
    Sights nearby  -  Be sure to see the historic Kanazawa Castle and Nomura Family Samurai House
    Other Activities  -  Unwind in the hotel's public onsen bath after long days of sightseeing
    Air conditioningRestaurantParkingNo pets

    Located in downtown Kanazawa, the upscale Chaya Ryokan offers traditional Japanese accommodation-think tatami woven-straw flooring and futon bedding. Unwind in the sauna and enjoy splendid kaiseki cuisine at the restaurant. A chic stay in a great spot! See More

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