## Overview (history, features, appeal)
Kanazawa Castle is a castle ruins and park located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture. As the residence of the Kaga Domain (Maeda clan), it was the political center throughout the Edo period. It was developed as a castle by Maeda Toshiie and others at the end of the Sengoku period, and has since undergone numerous fires and renovations. Today, the castle grounds are lined with restored and renovated stone walls, earthworks, turrets, gates, and other structures, allowing visitors to view the dignified atmosphere of the castle ruins as well as these historical structures up close.
Features and attractions:
- The remains of the imposing castle that was the residence of the Maeda clan, a powerful clan in Japan, remain.
- You can see restored castle architecture up close, including Ishikawamon Gate, Gojukken Nagaya, and Hishiyagura.
– You can visit the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden (one of Japan's three most famous gardens) at the same time, making it a location where you can enjoy history, gardens, and walking around the city all at once.
– The vast castle grounds are perfect for strolling, and the scenery changes with the seasons (cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, snow, etc.)
## Highlights
– Ishikawamon Gate
– A typical castle gate with its double-structured gate and stone walls remaining. It has been well restored and preserved, making it a popular photo spot.
– Hashizume Gate and Hashizume Gate Tower
– This is an important entrance that serves as the main gate. The combination of the gate and the adjacent turret clearly shows the defensive structure of the castle gate.
– Groups of tenement houses such as Gojikken Nagaya and Sanjikken Nagaya
– A group of tenement houses used as gunpowder storehouses and residential buildings. You can feel the dignity of the restored wooden architecture.
– A group of towers including Hishiyagura and Tamonyagura
- A turret that served as a defense and lookout for the castle. By looking at its exterior and the way the stone walls are constructed, you can understand the techniques used to build a castle.
– Stonework of stone walls, moats, and castle gates
- The magnificent stone walls and moat structure, backed by the wealth of the Kaga domain of one million koku, are worth seeing.
– Walking paths and park scenery within the castle grounds
– With a large lawn, trees, and seasonal flowers, you can enjoy the scenery of each season.
(It is within walking distance of Kenrokuen Garden, so we recommend visiting both places together.)
## Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
– Nearest station
- JR Kanazawa Station: The Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen area can be easily accessed by walking (approximately 15-25 minutes) or by bus.
- Bus
- There are many bus routes from the east exit of Kanazawa Station to the Kenrokuen and Kanazawa Castle areas (the nearest bus stops are "Kenrokuenshita/Kanazawa Castle" and others).
– Using sightseeing buses (such as the Kanazawa Castle Town Tour Bus) will allow you to travel around major tourist spots efficiently.
- Taxi
- Approximately 5-10 minutes by taxi from Kanazawa Station (depending on traffic conditions).
– car
– Paid parking is available in the surrounding area. It can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, so it is best to use public transportation.
– On foot
– The route from Kanazawa Station walking through the city center is ideal for sightseeing, as it passes by the Tsuzumimon Gate (Motenashi Dome) in front of the station and Omicho Market.
*Please check the latest information on local bus routes, timetables and parking information on the official website or transportation information before visiting.
## Estimated stay (estimated time required)
– Visiting the castle only: 1-1.5 hours
- If you want to take a closer look at the castle buildings and enjoy taking photos: 1.5 to 2 hours
– If you combine visiting Kenrokuen Garden and surrounding attractions (21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Nagamachi Samurai Residences, Omicho Market, etc.): Half a day to a full day
– A leisurely stroll and visiting nearby cafes and museums: 1 day
You can travel efficiently by planning your time according to your purpose.
## Nearby spots
– Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan's three most famous gardens. Located right next to Kanazawa Castle, it's perfect for a combined sightseeing trip.
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: Famous for its contemporary art exhibitions. Popular with families and young people.
– Nagamachi Samurai Residence Site: A charming street where remains of samurai residences from the Edo period remain.
– Omicho Market: A market selling seafood and local ingredients. Recommended for meals and souvenirs.
– Myoryuji Temple (also known as Ninja Temple/Myo-ryuji): A temple with a maze-like structure (visits usually require advance reservations or a guided tour).
- Korinbo/Katamachi area: A bustling downtown area with many shopping and dining options.
## Things to note (crowds, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
– Crowded
– The number of visitors increases during spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (autumn leaves), Golden Week, Obon, and the New Year holidays, and the surrounding roads and parking lots become congested. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is less crowded.
- Manners
– The castle grounds are open to the public as a park, but there are some areas where entry and photography are prohibited in order to preserve the cultural heritage. Please follow the signs.
- Always take your trash home or dispose of it in the designated area. Avoid drinking alcohol, making noise, or other behavior that may cause inconvenience to others.
– Feet and clothing
– There are many stone pavements, stairs, and uneven areas. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Some areas may be slippery in rainy weather.
– Barrier-free
– Due to the nature of the castle ruins, there are steps and unpaved areas, making it difficult to move around in wheelchairs or with strollers. Please check the access route and wheelchair access information in advance.
- Weather and season precautions
– In winter, there will be snow and ice, so please take measures to protect yourself from the cold and slip. In summer, the sun will be strong, so please be sure to bring a hat and stay hydrated.
– Opening and public information
– Please check the official information before visiting as the restored buildings may have different opening hours, paid exhibitions, or temporary closures for preservation and repair work.
Finally, Kanazawa Castle has many historical attractions, and by visiting it together with the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden, you can fully enjoy the charms of Kanazawa. Planning your stay to include the seasonal scenery and surrounding attractions will make for a fulfilling stay.
