2 Days in Kanazawa Itinerary: Best Things to Do & Eat
Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most underrated gems—a city where samurai traditions meet modern elegance. With just two days, you can experience its peaceful gardens, charming old districts, and vibrant food scene at a relaxed pace.
In this Kanazawa itinerary, I’ll show you exactly how to make the most of your visit—whether it’s your first time in Japan or a stop on a longer trip through the country. From sipping coffee on a rainy afternoon to strolling through geisha streets and ending with a cozy dinner, this itinerary captures the city’s calm yet captivating vibe.
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Kanazawa is often called a “little Kyoto” for its preserved Edo-era charm, but it feels quieter and more authentic. You can wander through samurai houses, explore art museums, and eat some of the freshest seafood in Japan—all without the usual tourist crowds.
Whether you’re coming from Takayama, Kyoto, or Tokyo, this 2-day Kanazawa itinerary will help you plan your trip smoothly and experience the best of this cultural treasure.
If you’re planning a bigger Japan adventure, you might also enjoy following my full journey—from Tokyo’s neon nights to the peaceful Japanese Alps. 👉 Check out the complete Japan itinerary for all the stops, tips, and hidden finds!
Planning your trip
How to Get to Kanazawa
- By Train: From Tokyo, ride the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station (about 2.5–3 hours).
- From Takayama: Take the Nohi Bus (approx. 2 hrs 15 mins) or local JR trains via Toyama (around 3–3.5 hrs). Reserve bus seats online in advance during peak seasons.
- From Kyoto/Osaka: Limited Express Thunderbird trains reach Kanazawa in roughly 2–2.5 hours.
Where to Stay in Kanazawa
- Near Kanazawa Station: Convenient for day trips and late arrivals—try Hotel Nikko Kanazawa or budget-friendly Dormy Inn.
- Higashi Chaya Area: For traditional charm, look for a machiya (townhouse) stay such as Kinja Ryokan.
- Kenroku-en Vicinity: Great if you love early-morning garden strolls—consider boutique hotels like Kinjohro or stylish guesthouses nearby.
Getting Around Kanazawa
- Loop Buses: The Kanazawa Loop Bus (Left & Right lines) and Kenrokuen Shuttle connect all major sights. A 1-day pass (about ¥800) is the easiest and most economical choice.
- On Foot & Bicycle: Many attractions cluster within a 2–3 km radius, so walking or renting a bike is pleasant in good weather.
- IC Cards: Suica or ICOCA cards work on local buses if you don’t get a pass.
Local Food to Try in Kanazawa
Kanazawa is known for ultra-fresh seafood and creative sweets.
- Seafood Kaisendon: Try Omicho Market’s Kaisendon Donburi stalls for breakfast or lunch.
- Kanazawa Curry: Rich and thick with a dark roux—Champion Curry is a classic spot.
- Jibuni Hot Pot: Duck or chicken simmered in a soy-based broth; Kotobukiya is a local favorite.
- Gold-Leaf Soft Serve: Head to Hakuichi in Higashi Chaya for ice cream wrapped in real edible gold leaf.
- Cafés: Beyond Kakurezato, visit Curio Espresso & Vintage Design (for perfect latte art) or Cafe Tamon for decadent pancakes.
Our Kanazawa Journey
After a day in Takayama we set off for Kanazawa, ready for 2 days of wandering, matcha breaks, and a little history…even if the weather had other plans.
Here’s how our two-day Kanazawa adventure unfolded and how you can follow (or tweak) it for your own trip.
Getting There
Our original plan was the express bus from Takayama, but every seat was sold out.
Plan B? Local trains. The ride took longer, yet watching the Japanese Alps roll past our window turned the detour into a slow-travel bonus.
Day 1: Arrival & Evening Eats
Afternoon – Kakurezato Coffee
It was drizzling when we arrived, so instead of rushing to the sights, we ducked into this minimalist café. The smell of freshly roasted beans and the sound of soft rain outside instantly slowed us down.
This cozy stop set the tone for our 2-day Kanazawa itinerary—relaxed, thoughtful, and filled with little local moments.
Evening – Dinner at Itaru Honten
Later, we wandered to Itaru Honten, a beloved izakaya known for its sashimi, seasonal small plates, and sake.
Day 2: Full-Day Kanazawa Exploration
Morning
Omicho Market
Start your day at Kanazawa’s 300-year-old “Kitchen.” Sample jewel-like Japanese grapes or grab a seafood rice bowl (kaisendon) for breakfast. The market opens around 8 a.m., so you’ll catch it at its most lively yet not too crowded.
Ishiura Shrine
A short walk from Kenrokuen’s gate, this is the city’s oldest shrine—dedicated to safe travel and matchmaking. It’s a lovely quick stop for a quiet blessing before sightseeing.
Kenroku-en Garden
One of Japan’s celebrated “Three Great Gardens,” Kenrokuen blends spaciousness, seclusion, and scenic beauty. Arrive early for tranquil paths lined with centuries-old pines, stone lanterns, and koi ponds.
Kanazawa Castle Park & Mamezarachaya Café
Right next door, stroll through the vast castle grounds once ruled by the powerful Maeda clan. Pause for matcha and a sweet at Mamezarachaya Café—their terrace offers peaceful castle views.
Gyokusenin-maru Garden
A petite landscaped garden tucked behind the castle. Check opening times—it occasionally closes for maintenance but is worth a peek if open.
Afternoon
Nishi Chaya District
One of Kanazawa’s three historic geisha quarters, smaller and more intimate than Higashi. A tiny museum here highlights geisha music, instruments, and costumes.
Nagamachi Samurai District
Wander cobblestone lanes lined with earthen walls and narrow canals. Stop at Sakakobo TAROU Onigawa Store for matcha and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Optional house visits:
- Nomura-ke Residence – renowned inner garden and Edo-era artifacts.
- Takada Family House – a quieter samurai home with elegant interiors.
Higashi Chaya District
End the afternoon in the most photogenic of the three geisha areas. Pop into gold-leaf shops (Kanazawa produces 99% of Japan’s gold leaf!) and admire the preserved wooden teahouses glowing in the late light.
Evening
Pokémon Center Kanazawa
A fun stop for collectors or families—this is the only Pokémon Center in the Hokuriku region and carries exclusive merchandise you won’t find elsewhere.
Dinner – Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu (Cross Gate Kanazawa)
Wrap up your Kanazawa itinerary with crispy-juicy gyukatsu (breaded beef cutlet)—the perfect comfort meal after miles of walking.
More Kanazawa Sights Worth Adding to Your List
If you have extra time (or simply want more ideas), these five spots are absolute standouts:
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
Striking modern architecture and interactive exhibits like Leandro Erlich’s famous Swimming Pool installation.
Myōryū-ji (Ninja Temple)
A Buddhist temple filled with secret rooms, hidden staircases, and clever defense tricks—fascinating for history lovers.
Seisonkaku Villa
A beautifully preserved samurai villa built in 1863 with seasonal gardens and elegant artifacts from the Maeda clan.
Kanazawa Phonograph Museum
A charming, small museum that showcases antique phonographs and early sound technology, with live demonstrations.
D.T. Suzuki Museum
A serene complex dedicated to the Zen philosopher Daisetz Suzuki; its water garden is designed for quiet reflection.
Final Thoughts
Kanazawa may not be as famous as Kyoto or Tokyo, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a city that moves at its own pace—where you can sip matcha under maple trees, wander quiet samurai lanes, and feel like you’ve stepped back in time without the crowds.
This 2-day Kanazawa itinerary was designed for travelers who love slow, meaningful exploration. Whether you’re coming for the art, the food, or the charm of Edo-era streets, Kanazawa rewards those who take their time. Every corner feels like a postcard—rain-drenched teahouses, gold-leaf crafts shimmering in shop windows, and locals greeting you with quiet warmth.
If you’re planning a bigger trip across Japan, don’t skip Kanazawa—it’s the kind of place that surprises you, then stays with you long after you’ve left. For more inspiration and travel tips, check out my complete Japan itinerary, where I share every stop, hidden find, and cozy café along the way.
Plan your route, but leave room for detours: in Kanazawa, those unplanned moments often become the best stories.
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AUTHOR
Written by Princess — Helping first-time travelers explore the world stress-free.
