Day 6: Route to Kanazawa, Kenrokuen and Higashi Chaya
We left Kyoto for Kanazawa, with our large luggage sent separately, spectacular landscapes along the way, one of Japan’s most famous gardens and an afternoon of markets, traditional houses and a massage at the hotel.
From Kyoto to Kanazawa
On this day we headed to Kanazawa by coach with our guide. Along the way we saw spectacular landscapes, the kind that make the journey feel like part of the trip too.
The agency had already warned us about an important detail: the large suitcases were sent separately by truck to the next hotel in Kanazawa. That meant we had to prepare a small backpack with the essentials for one night in Kanazawa and another night in Gero.
It was one of the calmest days of the itinerary: a more relaxed and nature-focused route, with time to enjoy Kanazawa without rushing, an included massage to slow down, and an easy fast-food dinner in the hotel room with no stress, no schedules, just resting after the day.
Sending the suitcases and preparing a backpack
Before leaving for Kanazawa, the large suitcases were sent separately by truck to the next hotel. It is very convenient, but it does mean you need to stay organised.
For this part of the route we carried a small backpack with the essentials for one night in Kanazawa and another in Gero: comfortable clothes, toiletries, chargers, documents and the basics so we did not depend on the large suitcase.
Kenrokuen Garden
Once in Kanazawa, we visited Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of the most famous gardens in Japan. It is an enormous, beautifully maintained landscape garden with ponds, bridges, carefully shaped trees, and peaceful corners designed to be enjoyed slowly.
Its name is associated with six ideal qualities of a garden: spaciousness, tranquillity, antiquity, artistry, water, and beautiful views. The garden also contains what is considered Japan’s oldest fountain, powered by the difference in water pressure from the pond. It is one of those places where the importance of balance in Japanese aesthetics becomes very clear.
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Omicho Market
After that we visited Omicho Market, one of the best-known markets in Kanazawa. It is especially famous for its fish and seafood stalls, although you can also find fruit, vegetables, sweets and small places to eat.
We took the chance to eat at one of the market stalls, a practical and authentic way to try something quick during the route.
Higashi Chaya, the geisha district
Later, we walked through Higashi Chaya, one of Kanazawa’s most beautiful traditional districts, known for its old teahouses and its connection with geisha culture.
Its streets preserve their wooden façades and a very special atmosphere. During the walk, we visited a traditional house connected with this historic district and stopped by Wagashi Murakami.
Ice cream at Musubu, by Wagashi Murakami
On the way out we made a quick stop to recharge with a cone ice cream at Musubu, by Wagashi Murakami. After so much walking, it was exactly what we needed.
Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel and in-room massage
We arrived at the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, our accommodation in the city. That day we had an in-room massage booked, one of those wonderful decisions after several intense days on the route.
It was the perfect moment to rest before dinner.
Dinner from McDonald’s and Samurai Mac
To end the day, we went for dinner at the McDonald’s near the hotel to try a few items exclusive to Japan.
I ordered the Samurai Mac, a burger exclusive to Japan. It may sound rather untraditional after such a cultural day, but trying local versions from familiar chains is also part of the fun.
Next stop: Gero
This itinerary is part of the main Japan guide. You can return to the full route to continue with the rest of the trip.
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