Kanazawa

Kanazawa was one of those cruise stops that gently surprised me. Tucked along the Sea of Japan coast, this city doesn’t try too hard, it just is. And that’s part of its charm.

I joined a ship excursion that touched on several of the city’s highlights. We started off in Higashi Chaya, Kanazawa’s most famous geisha district. The preserved wooden buildings had that quietly elegant vibe I’ve come to associate with Japan. Even with tourists milling about, it still felt like a place where history lingers in the wood and stone.

Next was a visit to a shinobi (ninja) district. It was a little theatrical, but fun if you let your inner kid take over. Trap doors, hidden passageways, and sly design tricks hinted at the legends of stealth and strategy that shaped the ninja narrative. More entertainment than deep history, but still enjoyable in the moment.

The real gem of the day was Kenrokuen Garden, which fully lived up to its reputation as one of Japan’s top three traditional gardens. The timing couldn’t have been better, cherry blossom season in full swing. Petals drifted like springtime snow, koi glided beneath the surface of still ponds, and moss-covered stones lined pathways that begged for slow, mindful walking. I even spotted a camellia blooming near the water’s edge, adding a splash of color beneath the sakura canopy.

The garden was spotless, and it wasn’t just by chance. I saw workers gently sweeping the grounds, collecting fallen petals and leaves to keep everything pristine. It was a small detail, but one that stuck with me.

Just next door stood Kanazawa Castle, a pristine white structure with dark tiled roofs, framed perfectly by the pink blooms of cherry trees. The scene from the wooden bridge nearby felt like something out of a postcard. I’m not much for selfies, but I couldn’t resist getting a photo with that backdrop.

There wasn’t enough time to see it all, but I’ve got a mental list if I ever return. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is supposed to be a sharp contrast to the old-world elegance of the rest of town. Omicho Market would have been interesting for people who enjoy seafood and street snacks. And the Nagamachi samurai district, with its preserved residences and earthen walls, would’ve been a nice bonus. I’ve also heard the D.T. Suzuki Museum is a peaceful spot for quiet reflection.

Even in just a few hours, Kanazawa offered layers of culture, nature, and architecture that I wasn’t expecting. It wasn’t a whirlwind or a sensory overload. It was calm. It was balanced. It felt like Japan in miniature, just enough to make me want more.