Kanazawa & Ishikawa Travel Guide: Top Things to Do, Kenrokuen, Kaga Onsen & Local Cuisine

2025/10/22

Ishikawa, Japan, located on Honshu's northern coast, offers a unique mix of historic Kanazawa streets, breathtaking ocean views, mountain landscapes, and traditional Japanese arts. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning, this Ishikawa travel guide will help you explore Kanazawa sightseeing, Kaga Onsen hot springs, and the region's delicious local cuisine.

Using a private taxi or chartered vehicle can make your trip more comfortable and flexible, especially for first-time visitors.

Top Attractions in Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a city where history meets modern art, offering something for everyone. From world-famous gardens to contemporary museums and historic streets, there are plenty of Kanazawa sightseeing options to explore.

Kenrokuen Garden

No visit to Kanazawa is complete without seeing Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens. Built over two centuries by the ruling Maeda family, the garden changes with the seasons, offering spectacular views in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Address: 1 Kenroku-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Hours: 7:00–18:00 (Mar–Oct), 8:00–17:00 (Oct–Feb)
Admission: 300 yen

Tip: Arrive early for a peaceful stroll and the best photo opportunities.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

The 21st Century Museum showcases modern art from around the world in a unique circular building, just steps from Kenrokuen. Its design encourages visitors to experience the space from multiple angles, making it a must-see Kanazawa attraction.

Hours: Exhibitions 10:00–18:00 (Fri–Sat until 20:00), Public spaces 9:00–22:00
Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a holiday)
Admission: Typically 1200 yen

Higashi Chaya District

For a taste of traditional Japan, wander through Higashi Chaya District, a historic tea house area where you can explore wooden streets, local crafts, and small cafés.

Experience Kaga Onsen

Kosoyu: A restored public bath from the Meiji period

Located just south of Kanazawa, Kaga Onsen offers the perfect blend of relaxation and culture. With hot springs that have been cherished for over 1,300 years, it's a highlight for travelers looking to experience authentic Japanese onsen culture.

Enjoy public baths for a traditional experience
Many ryokans offer private baths with seasonal decor
Learn about onsen etiquette to fully enjoy your visit

Discover Kanazawa & Noto Your Way: Private Tours & Personalized Sightseeing Experiences

Kanazawa Private Tour (8 hours)

Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, Oumicho Market, Higashi Chaya Machi, Nagamachi Samurai District

Taste Kanazawa’s Local Cuisine

Kanazawa’s food scene is as rich as its history. From unique local specialties to refined Kaga Ryori, the city offers flavors that reflect its seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques.

Hanton rice

Try Hanton Rice, a Kanazawa specialty featuring butter rice, ketchup, tartar sauce, soft-boiled eggs, and fried fish. Some restaurants also add seasonal vegetables or seafood.

Kanazawa Oden

A winter favorite, Kanazawa Oden is a hot pot dish with local fish paste products. Limited seasonal ingredients like stuffed Kobako-gani crab shells make it a must-try.

Kaga Ryori

For a more refined experience, enjoy Kaga Ryori, using seasonal local ingredients served in beautifully crafted tableware. Signature dishes like Jibu-ni (duck or poultry in a slightly sweet broth) are not to be missed.

Getting Around Ishikawa

Exploring Ishikawa is easiest with a private taxi or chauffeur services. This option is especially convenient for first-time visitors, families, or groups who want to maximize sightseeing time.

CBL service offers full-size vans for up to 9 passengers.
Customize your route to include Kenrokuen, Higashi Chaya, Kaga Onsen, and local restaurants.
Travel from Kanazawa to Kaga Onsen takes about 50 minutes by highway. With a private taxi, you can simply relax while being driven comfortably to your destination, enjoying scenic views of Kanazawa’s streets along the way.
Avoid the stress of public transport and enjoy flexible sightseeing at your own pace.

Kanazawa & Ishikawa Quote Now

Suggested Itinerary

Plan your trip to make the most of Ishikawa’s attractions, including travel times and comfort.

1-Day Kanazawa Trip:

Morning

Visit Kenrokuen Garden and the 21st Century Museum in central Kanazawa.

Afternoon

Night in Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa

Explore Higashi Chaya District and enjoy lunch featuring Hanton Rice.

Evening

Travel to Kaga Onsen hot springs (about 50 minutes by highway from Kanazawa). With a private taxi, you can relax during the drive and enjoy scenic views of Kanazawa’s streets and surrounding countryside before arriving comfortably at the onsen.

2-Day Ishikawa Trip:

Day 1

Morning & Afternoon: Explore Kanazawa city – Kenrokuen Garden, 21st Century Museum, and Higashi Chaya District.
Evening: Enjoy local cuisine at a traditional restaurant.

Day 2

Morning: Drive to Kaga Onsen hot springs (50-minute drive from Kanazawa via highway). Relax at a ryokan or enjoy communal and private baths.
Afternoon: Optional stroll around the onsen towns or visit local shops before returning to Kanazawa or your next destination.

Tip: Using a private taxi or chartered vehicle allows you to make the most of your time, avoid public transport stress, and enjoy comfort while seeing the sights along the way.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Make your trip smoother with these tips:

Many attractions in Kanazawa and Kaga Onsen have English signage
Visit during spring (cherry blossoms) or autumn (fall foliage) for the best scenery
Using a private taxi or charter service provides flexibility and comfort
Bring cash for small local eateries and public baths

Kanazawa & Ishikawa Sightseeing: Top Things to Do and How to Get Around

Ishikawa & Kanazawa combine history, art, hot springs, and cuisine for a truly memorable trip. Using a private taxi or chartered vehicle allows you to explore at your own pace while enjoying Kanazawa sightseeing stress-free.
Get a Quote Now with CBL for a custom Ishikawa travel experience tailored to your interests!

Kanazawa & Ishikawa Quote Now