The Hidden Gem of Japan's Hokuriku Region ββ Kanazawa
Kanazawa is truly an underrated yet fascinating treasure of a city. π’π It's no surprise that it made it onto National Geographic's 2025 list of travel destinations in Japan, the only one from the country to be featured. πΊπDuring the Dragon Boat Festival, I took my first trip to the Hokuriku region. It felt great to briefly escape from daily life and enjoy a moment of mental tranquility. πΏ π’π Given the short time, I turned into a "P-person" (a partner traveler) and followed my well-prepared buddy to explore Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of History, Ishikawa Prefectural Art Museum, National Museum of Japanese History, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa Prefectural Guest House, and Nagamachi Samurai District. πΊπ We even visited the Higashi Chaya District, and all these places were within walking distance! πΆββοΈ My buddy explained that because Hokuriku is close to the Sea of Japan and shielded by mountains, it has rarely experienced wars. π’π As a result, many historical and cultural buildings have been preserved to this day, and the inheritance of arts and culture is also well-maintained. π γKanazawa Castleγ πΊπEstablished during the Sengoku period, Kanazawa Castle was built in 1583 by Maeda Toshiie as the seat of the Kaga Domain. The Kaga Domain was known as "Kaga Hyakumangoku" (Kaga of a million koku) due to its wealth and power. π’π The tour route starts from the west at the Nezumomon Gate, passes through the Gyokusen'in, enters the Kanazawa Castle area, and exits through the Kaga Gate, leading directly into Kenrokuen Garden. π° πΊπ #Japan πΈ #Kanazawa π
