TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kazuemachi Chaya District is one of the traditional teahouse districts remaining along the Asano River in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture. Remaining vestiges of the teahouse culture that has continued since the Edo period, the district is attractive for its wooden lattice doors, narrow stone-paved alleys, and the nighttime scenery of lanterns and paper lanterns lining the river. As a tourist destination, it has a relatively compact and calm atmosphere, and is characterized by its quieter atmosphere, compared to the bustling Higashi Chaya District.
Highlights
- Scenery along the Asano River: The old townscape and bridges reflected on the river's surface, and the light of the lanterns at night make for great photos.
- Alleys with wooden buildings and lattice doors: Just walking through the narrow alleys and rows of old houses will give you a feel of the Edo to Meiji period.
- The exteriors of teahouses and restaurants: They are charming even when viewed from the outside. The interiors are for business use only, but there are some days when they are open to the public and some facilities that can be visited (we recommend checking in advance).
- Night illumination: From dusk to night, lanterns and paper lanterns are lit, creating a more atmospheric view.
- Cafes and restaurants: There are cafes and restaurants serving local cuisine scattered around the area that have been renovated from old houses, so you can take a break during your stroll.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
You can access Kazuemachi Chaya District as follows:
- Train: The nearest major station is JR Kanazawa Station, and it is convenient to walk or take a bus or taxi from the station.
- Bus: Take a sightseeing bus (Kenrokuen sightseeing bus, etc.) or a local bus bound for Higashi Chaya District within Kanazawa City, then get off and walk. Bus stops vary depending on the route, so please check the destination signs.
- Walking: It's about a 20-30 minute walk from Kanazawa Station (an easy walking distance for sightseeing). If you're coming from the direction of Kenrokuen Garden or Kanazawa Castle Park, it usually takes around 15 minutes.
- Taxi: If there is no traffic jam, it will take about 10 minutes from Kanazawa Station.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30 minutes to 1 hour (around the river and main street)
- Including meals and cafe visits: 1.5 to 2 hours
- If you want to take your time taking photos and visiting the teahouse: 2-3 hours
Nearby spots
- Higashi Chaya District: A few minutes' walk from Kazuemachi. This is Kanazawa's representative teahouse district, and is home to many tourist attractions.
- Nagamachi Samurai Residence Site: A preserved samurai residence district where you can enjoy the historic townscape (within walking distance).
- Omicho Market: A market for fresh fish and ingredients. Convenient for eating while walking or having lunch.
- Kenrokuen and Kanazawa Castle Park: One of Japan's three most famous gardens. Accessible by car or on foot.
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: A popular spot known for its contemporary art exhibits, it's easy to incorporate into your walking route.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Teahouse privacy: Many teahouses and restaurants are open to customers and may not be open to the public. Please be considerate and do not enter without permission, take photographs in front of the establishment for long periods of time, or cause any disturbance.
- Do not obstruct rickshaws or pedestrians: The alleys are narrow, so please take photos or stop in a place that will not obstruct other traffic.
- Consideration for Geisha and Maiko: On rare occasions, you may see Geisha. Please be polite and do not approach or take photos without permission.
- Busy times: It gets crowded during tourist seasons (cherry blossom viewing in spring, autumn foliage viewing in autumn, and the evenings and nights on holidays and weekends). If you want to enjoy it quietly, we recommend going in the morning or before evening on a weekday.
- Seasonal Note: In winter, snow and ice can make the roads slippery. Please wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing. Be careful when it rains as the cobblestones can become slippery.
- Payment: Some small stores only accept cash. Some stores do not accept credit cards or electronic payments, so it's a good idea to have some coins on hand.
