Kanazawa, a city rich in history, art, and traditional craftsmanship, offers wonderful opportunities for visitors to experience authentic Japanese culture. This blog introduces five cultural programs that reflect the true essence of Kanazawa. Whether you have a passion for art, enjoy culinary experiences, or are simply curious about Japan’s heritage, these are some of the best cultural activities to enjoy during your stay in Japan.
In keeping with Kanazawa’s tradition of respecting artisans, please follow the guidelines for each program and be sure to make reservations in advance, as many of the experiences are private and personalized.
Now, let’s step into the profound world of craftsmanship and tradition in Kanazawa!
Master the Art of Gold Leaf Craft
Kanazawa produces 100% of Japan’s gold leaf, making it the perfect place to explore this intricate craft firsthand. At Hakuza, a renowned gold leaf manufacturer, you can learn about the traditional process of gold leaf production, which is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This unique experience offers insight into techniques perfected by artisans over centuries. Additionally, you’ll have the rare opportunity to handle gold leaf as thin as 0.0001 millimeters using traditional bamboo tools, a testament to its remarkable delicacy. This private hands-on activity is available for up to two participants per session.
Hakuza Main Store: 1.7 km (1 mile) from Kanazawa Station
Reservation: necessary
https://www.hakuza.co.jp/en/shop/
https://www.hakuza.co.jp/shop_news/shop_news-2080/
Dye Your Own Kaga Yuzen
Kaga Yuzen, Kanazawa’s traditional dyeing technique for kimono and other products, is celebrated for its intricate designs and elegant colors. Several studios offer visitors the chance to experience this art form by dyeing small silk or, in some cases, cotton items, providing a unique connection to Kanazawa’s rich artistic heritage.
At a dedicated Kaga Yuzen workshop called Youmei, the owner artist teaches you how to dye authentic silk using traditional techniques. The workshop offers a variety of designs created by the owner, including both classic and modern patterns. Once you complete the dyeing process, your piece will be steamed to set the colors, a step that takes a few days. Finished pieces are then delivered to your hotel in Japan, as silk cannot always be shipped overseas.
Yuzen Studio Youmei: 0.5 km (0.3 miles) from Kanazawa Station
Reservation: at lest 5 days prior
https://visitkanazawa.jp/en/activities/detail_1243.html
https://yuzen-youmei.com/taiken/list.html
Experience Kintsugi – The art of Repairing with Urushi
Kintsugi is the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics, woods and glasses with Urushi, Japanese natural lacquer and other materials, creating something even more beautiful than the original. This craft embodies the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection, searching that flaws and scars add to an object’s history and character.
A studio named Kintsugian offers a private, intimate workshop for up to four participants, led by a kintsugi artisan fluent in both English and Spanish. During the session, you’ll learn about the history and materials used in this traditional craft. While the full kintsugi process typically takes over a month, the class focuses on highlights of the process, allowing you to experience key steps hands-on.
Kintsugian: 0.8 km (0.5 miles) from Kanazawa Station
Reservation: necessary (via Website)
https://www.kintsugian.com/
Participate in a Traditional Tea Ceremony
Kanazawa is one of the cities where the tea ceremony is most widely practiced in Japan, seamlessly blending into daily life. The city’s tea culture dates back to the Edo period (17th to 19th century) when local feudal lords actively promoted tea ceremonies. This rich tradition has influenced many aspects of Kanazawa, including the creation of wagashi (Japanese sweets), the design of Japanese style tea rooms, and the production of traditional crafts for tea utensils.
In the Higashi Chaya District, Soyu offers an authentic tea ceremony experience in a traditional tea room. Here, participants can immerse themselves in the serene world of tea culture. Begin by enjoying a bowl of koicha (thick powdered green tea) prepared by the host, and then learn the steps to whisk and prepare your own bowl of usucha (light powdered green tea). This hands-on experience not only offers a taste of Japanese hospitality but also deepens your appreciation for the mindfulness and artistry of tea ceremonies.
Soyu: 2 km (1.2 miles) from Kanazawa Station
Reservation: available (Via Website)
https://soyu-chado.com/
Learn the Art of Sushi Making
Kanazawa is renowned for its fresh seafood, making it an ideal place to learn the art of crafting sushi. Just a five-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, you’ll find Akamechan, a cozy establishment owned by a sushi chef with over 50 years of experience. Loved by locals for his friendly demeanor, the chef offers cooking classes where participants can master the basics of handling fish, shaping nigiri, and preparing miso soup. The experience concludes with a delicious meal featuring sushi and sukiyaki at the restaurant. Even if there’s a language barrier, the chef’s warm personality ensures an enjoyable and heartwarming experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Japan.
Akamechan: 0.5 km (0.3 miles) from Kanazawa Station
Reservation: necessary (Via Website)
https://akamechan-en.com/1
Experience the heart of Japanese culture in Kanazawa
Kanazawa’s harmonious blend of traditional and modern culture makes it a truly captivating destination for travelers. From exploring historic districts to participating in immersive, hands-on workshops, there’s something to delight every visitor.
Through these cultural activities, we hope you will gain a deeper appreciation of Kanazawa’s rich heritage. To fully enjoy the city and incorporate these experiences, we recommend staying for at least two nights.
And this is just the beginning—Kanazawa offers many more opportunities to explore Japan’s traditional culture. We hope you’ll discover the perfect activity to suit your interests and make your visit truly unforgettable!
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