Kintetsu continually updates its tour offerings, leveraging our experience to give you the best ways to travel and experience Japan.
One new excursion allows you to take an amazing scenic journey to Kanazawa, a city for the senses on the Sea of Japan.
30 years in the making, a new bullet train route to Kanazawa just opened on the famous Shinkansen line. Now visitors can travel from Tokyo to the city in less than 2 1/2 hours (previously it took 4 hours). Capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa thrives between the mountains and the sea, making it one of the most scenic destinations in Japan. The area is known for its rich history and being home to Kenrokuen, one of three of the most famous gardens in the country. Once considered hard to access, a journey to Kanazawa has been made easy by completing the 228 kilometer train line extension through the mountains.
The bullet train transporting you to Kanazawa embodies traditional beauty along with the latest in high-tech transport technology. The ride is an experience in itself. Designed by renowned industrial designer Kiyoyuki Okuyama, the train features “one motion line,” design with a sky blue exterior (representing the blue sky experienced on the route), augmented with shades of copper, (paying homage to traditional Japanese crafts). A trip on the Hokuriku Shinkansen allows one to experience the newest shake-cancelling travel with speeds up to 260 kph.
During the trip, no matter the time of year, be prepared to see incredible natural beauty. Views include 10,000 foot mountain ranges on one side of the train and the shimmering Sea of Japan on the other. The ever-changing color and light along the route makes each trip one of a kind.
Come into Kanazawa and be inspired by a town where, on every corner, traditional meets modern. In Kanazawa, time slows down. Because of numerous canals and rivers, this city sounds like no other. A place where one hears and feels the flowing water. Because of its remote location, Kanazawa’s architectural heritage has been preserved. When it rains, the black tiled rooftops glisten and sing. Kenrokuen Garden, built adjacent to a castle, features 25 acres of stunning trees, ponds and waterfalls. In Winter, the trees here are protected from heavy winter snows by yukitsuri – ropes suspended in conical arrays to protect the branches. Kanazawa is also home to the oldest living theater. On the hillsides, dozens of temples ring their bells as a call to worship.
Kanazawa is a town in tune with nature. Brightly colored crafts seem to glow in the glistening sun. In the city’s many fine restaurants, seasonal ingredients are highlighted. The colors of the food, even the desserts, change with the seasons. Craftsmanship here becomes high art. Paper parasols and kimonos come to life with carefully applied watercolors. Turn towards the river and see artists washing the yuzen silk. Or head to higher ground to take in the breathtaking views of both sea and city.
There are castles, geisha houses, the Oyama-jinja shrine and spectacular museums to explore. Each year, on the first Saturday in June, the Hyakumangoki Festival and Parade kicks off, lasting three full days. The celebration marks Lord Maeda Toshiie’s entry into Kanazawa Castle in 1583, essentially founding this unique city.
If you’re hungry, don’t miss out visiting Kanazawa’s famous Omicho Market, just a short bus ride from the city center. While the Markets sells all types of food, it is known by many as a seafood lover’s paradise. There are over 200 shops and stalls, most featuring rice bowls topped with fresh Kanazawa seafood. What’s truly amazing is that Omicho Market has been serving customers since the Edo period!
There is so much to do in Kanazawa, an inspiring city made effortlessly accessible thanks to the new bullet train.
[HOTELS IN KANAZAWA]
Kanazawa Miyako Hotel
Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel
Kanazawa Chaya