Kanazawa With Kids

Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, is a hidden gem in Japan, often overshadowed by the likes of Tokyo and Kyoto. If you’re visiting Japan with kids, consider including Kanazawa in your itinerary. This charming city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for families with kids. This comprehensive guide explores Kanazawa with kids will give you insights on activities, attractions, and logistics to ensure a memorable and enriching experience for both parents and children.

Why Visit Kanazawa With Kids?

• Kid-friendly activities: From exploring Kenroku-en Garden’s sprawling landscapes to learning about ninjas at the Ninja Museum, Kanazawa offers a variety of activities that cater to children’s interests.
• Rich cultural experiences: Immerse your family in Japan’s rich cultural heritage by visiting traditional tea houses, witnessing geisha performances, or attending local festivals.
• Safe and welcoming environment: Kanazawa boasts a low crime rate and is known for its friendly locals, making it a safe and comfortable place to explore with children.
• Beautiful natural surroundings: Escape the urban bustle and explore the nearby Kenroku-en Garden, stroll along the scenic shores of the Sea of Japan, or venture into the serene Japanese Alps.
• Delicious food options: From fresh seafood to local specialties like wagyu beef and Kaga rice, Kanazawa offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to both adults and children.

Things to Do in Kanazawa With Kids

• Kenroku-en Garden: Explore one of Japan’s Three Great Landscape Gardens, featuring ponds, bridges, and meticulously maintained bonsai trees. Let your kids run free in the spacious garden and discover hidden corners.
• 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: Spark your children’s creativity at this unique museum, showcasing interactive exhibits and modern art installations.
• Kanazawa Castle: Immerse yourselves in Japan’s feudal history by exploring the reconstructed Kanazawa Castle, featuring samurai armor displays and interactive exhibits.
• Ninja Museum: Unleash your inner ninja at the Ninja Museum, where you can learn about ninja skills, explore secret passages, and participate in interactive demonstrations.
• Omicho Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Japanese market. Let your kids marvel at the fresh seafood displays and sample local delicacies like sushi and tempura.

Best Places to Visit in Kanazawa With Kids

• Kenroku-en Garden: As mentioned above, this stunning garden offers a picturesque setting for families to explore and enjoy nature.
• Kanazawa Station: Marvel at the architectural marvel of Kanazawa Station, featuring a beautiful glass dome and a bustling atmosphere. Kids will enjoy exploring the various shops and restaurants within the station.
• Korinbo: Immerse yourselves in the traditional atmosphere of Korinbo, a district lined with geisha houses and tea houses. You might even be lucky enough to spot a geisha!
• Kenroku-en Garden Glasshouse: Escape the elements and explore the diverse plant life housed in the beautiful glasshouse located within Kenroku-en Garden.
• Kenroku-en Cruise: Take a relaxing cruise on the moat surrounding Kenroku-en Garden and enjoy scenic views of the garden from a different perspective.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Kanazawa

• Kenroku-en & Castle District: This central location offers easy access to major attractions like Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle, making it ideal for families who want to be in the heart of the action.
• Higashi Chaya District: Experience the charm of a traditional Japanese atmosphere by staying in the Higashi Chaya District, known for its geisha houses and tea houses.
• Katamachi District: Immerse yourselves in the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene by staying in the Katamachi District, home to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and various art galleries.
• Musashino & Korinbo: This area offers a good balance between proximity to attractions and a quieter atmosphere, making it suitable for families seeking a more relaxed stay.
• Kanazawa Station Area: Staying near Kanazawa Station provides convenient access to public transportation and offers a variety of shops and restaurants within walking distance.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Kanazawa

• Kanazawa Castle Hotel: This hotel offers spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities like cribs and high chairs, and a central location close to Kanazawa Castle.
• Hotel Nikko Kanazawa: This hotel features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids’ play area, making it a great choice for families with young children.
• Dormy Inn Kanazawa Korinbo: This hotel offers affordable rates, clean and comfortable rooms, and a public bath, perfect for experiencing a traditional Japanese bathing experience.

• Kaname Inn Kanazawa Korinbo: This hotel boasts spacious rooms, a convenient location near the Korinbo district, and laundry facilities, ideal for longer stays with children.
• MIMAR Kanazawa: This modern hotel offers unique capsule rooms or spacious studios, perfect for families seeking a unique and comfortable stay.

Best Time to Visit Kanazawa

• Spring (March-May): Enjoy pleasant weather, blooming flowers in Kenroku-en Garden, and fewer crowds compared to peak season.
• Fall (October-November): Witness the stunning fall foliage in Kenroku-en Garden and experience comfortable temperatures.
• Winter (December-February): Experience unique winter festivals and enjoy cozy evenings at a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan).

How Long to Stay in Kanazawa

• 3-4 days: This is a good amount of time to explore the city’s major attractions, experience the local culture, and have some relaxation time.
• 5-7 days: If you have more time, you can venture further into the surrounding areas, explore nearby towns like Shirakawa-go, or relax at a beach resort.

Kanazawa Family Itinerary

Day 1:

• Morning: Explore Kenroku-en Garden, marveling at its serene landscapes and historical landmarks.
• Afternoon: Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and spark your children’s creativity with interactive exhibits.
• Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Omicho Market, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties.

Day 2:

• Morning: Learn about Japan’s feudal history at Kanazawa Castle, exploring samurai armor displays and interactive exhibits.
• Afternoon: Immerse yourselves in the world of ninjas at the Ninja Museum, participating in interactive demonstrations and learning about ninja skills.
• Evening: Stroll through the Higashi Chaya District, experiencing the traditional atmosphere and enjoying a local performance (optional).

Day 3:

• Morning: Take a relaxing cruise on the moat surrounding Kenroku-en Garden and enjoy scenic views.
• Afternoon: Visit the Kenroku-en Garden Glasshouse and explore the diverse plant life housed within.
• Evening: Spend free time exploring Kanazawa Station, browsing shops, and enjoying a meal at a family-friendly restaurant.

Day 4 (Optional):

• Take a day trip to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-style farmhouses.
• Relax on the shores of the Sea of Japan, enjoying water activities or exploring the nearby beaches.
• Visit other attractions based on your family’s interests, such as the Tedori Fish Land or the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art.

Getting Around Kanazawa

• Public transportation: Kanazawa boasts a well-developed public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, and taxis. Purchase a Kanazawa One-Day Pass for unlimited rides on buses and trams within the city center.
• Walking: Many of Kanazawa’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the central districts. This can be a great way to explore the city and discover hidden gems along the way.
• Cycling: Renting bicycles is a fun and convenient way to explore the city at your own pace. Several rental shops are available, particularly near major attractions.

Kanazawa offers a unique and enriching experience for families with children, combining cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty. With its diverse attractions, family-friendly activities, and welcoming atmosphere, Kanazawa is sure to become a cherished memory for you and your little ones. So, pack your bags, unleash your sense of adventure, and embark on a memorable journey to discover the hidden gem of Japan: Kanazawa.