Higashi Chaya District (Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Higashi Chaya District is one of the most representative streets that conveys the culture of Kanazawa Castle Town to the present day, and is a historic district where teahouses (tea houses and geisha houses) formed during the Edo period remain. Characterized by quaint streets with wooden buildings with lattice doors, cobblestone alleys, and rows of red lanterns, the area has been carefully preserved since the Showa era and has been designated an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. There are many shops selling traditional crafts (Kaga Yuzen, gold leaf, lacquerware, etc.), Japanese sweets shops, and teahouses where you can enjoy matcha green tea. The area is charming for its picturesque strolls during the day and its tranquil atmosphere lit by lanterns in the evening and at night.

Highlights

• A streetscape of traditional teahouse architecture: You can see the architectural beauty of the Edo to Meiji periods up close, including lattice windows, second-floor lattices, and sliding doors.
• Famous teahouses such as Shino and Kaikaro (some facilities are open for tours): You can learn about the lifestyle and atmosphere of the teahouses at the time.
• Kaga Traditional Crafts Shop: Enjoy demonstrations and shopping at specialty shops selling gold leaf, Kaga Yuzen, lacquerware, Japanese candles, and more.
• Sweets made with gold leaf and matcha experience: Soft serve ice cream and matcha sets topped with gold leaf are popular tourist menu items.
• Photo spots: There are plenty of subjects to photograph, including old lattice doors, the colors of the exterior, and views across backstreets and small bridges.
• Scenery along nearby alleys and rivers: If you head towards the Asano River and Kazuemachi Teahouse District, you can experience a different atmosphere.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest train station: JR Kanazawa Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen and conventional lines)
• Directions from the station: It's about a 20-25 minute walk (about 2km) from Kanazawa Station. It's about a 10 minute ride by sightseeing bus or local bus, or a few minutes' walk from the nearest bus stop. It's also about a 10 minute taxi ride.
• From the airport: Take the limousine bus from Komatsu Airport to Kanazawa Station. From Kanazawa Station, follow the instructions above.
• Visiting by car: There are paid parking lots in the area, but the roads in the city are narrow, so it is more convenient to use public transportation.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short time to get a feel for the atmosphere: 30 minutes to 1 hour (photography and walking around the town only)
• Relaxed tour and tea break: 1.5 to 2 hours (including teahouse entry and craft shop tour)
• Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (when combining with Kenrokuen Garden, the nearby Nagamachi Samurai Residences, Kazuemachi, etc.)

Nearby spots

• Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park: One of Japan's three most famous gardens. It's about a 15-20 minute walk away, or you can easily take the bus.
• Nagamachi Samurai Residence Site: An area where the streets and earthen walls of the samurai residences remain. Within walking distance of Higashi Chaya District.
• Kazuemachi Teahouse District: A small teahouse district along the Asano River with a similar atmosphere to Higashi Chaya District.
• Omicho Market: A market where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies. Accessible by car or on foot.
• Some attractions, such as Myoryuji Temple (also known as Ninja Temple), require advance reservations.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: It gets very crowded on weekends, national holidays, Golden Week, and during cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing seasons. If you visit early in the morning or early evening, you can enjoy a more relaxed view.
• Business hours: Most stores in tourist areas close between 9:00 and 17:00, and other establishments may close at night, with the exception of restaurants and accommodations. Be sure to check the opening hours of the facilities you wish to visit in advance.
• Photography etiquette: Photography is permitted in most areas, but please be sure to ask permission when taking photos of the interior of the teahouse, geisha, or local people, and be considerate not to cause any inconvenience.
• Consideration for Geisha: Geisha may be walking around, but it is bad manners to chase them or talk to them.
• Accessibility and footing: There are stone pavements and steps in some areas, making it difficult for wheelchairs and strollers to access the site. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Prepare cash: Some small shops and teahouses only accept cash. Credit cards and electronic payments may not be accepted, so it's a good idea to have some coins on hand.
• Weather precautions: In winter, there will be snow and frozen roads, so please take measures to protect yourself from the cold and prevent slipping. In summer, please take measures to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated.

Higashi Chaya District is a place where you can feel the flow of time, a style characteristic of Kanazawa. Take a leisurely stroll through the alleys and experience the crafts and food culture.