Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
Sunday 20th October, cold change 15 to 17C, sunny breaks on a cloudy day.
We return to the Tsuzumi Gate at the east entrance to the Station. In daylight the Gate appear red but it is actually timber and very impressive. Behind the gates the station is modern and has a roof spreading out to the gate over the entry way. It's a popular meeting place.
We walk to the Omicho Ichiba Markets which are indoor markets. There are around 170 stalls selling lots of fish, fruit and vegetables. There are plenty selling ready to eat food and the place is crowded.
The sun is out and we head for Kanazawa Castle, or should I say the Castle grounds. All of the original castle is gone but a few buildings have been reconstructed. Fire and timber don't mix here!
From 2001 through to a couple of years ago some major buildings have been reconstructed.
We visit the reconstructed Turret and Storehouse which is made completely of timber and it's a masterpiece inside. The detail in the construction is explained, they slot the pieces together for strength.
Master craftsman have reconstructed the building using the same intricate technique used on the original. There area a few gatehouses which are also reconstructed. It's also a popular tourist destination for a Sunday.
In the next block to the Castle are the Kenrokuen Gardens. These are considered one of the three top gardens in Japan. When we arrive there is a queue of around 50 people but after reading the instructions for entry we are able to by-pass the queue with free entry for Seniors. It is a spectacular garden.
I now have many photos of the gardens but just a couple of the most photographed lantern in Kanazawa. All brochures of this city have a photo of the iconic lantern from the gardens. The queue to have your photo on the bridge with the lantern was too long, needless to say we didn't wait.
There are other picturesque views and many trees are supported with timber poles to protect them from damage when the snow falls. We see the gardens in detail and enjoy the atmosphere.
There is the Oyama Jinya Shrine nearby which we visit.
One of the most beautiful I have seen, the gardens and gate are the highlight for me. We see a bride and groom, as well as some children dressed for their birthday visit.
We are close to the Samurai area of Nagamachi and take a quick look at some of the streets that remind us of the narrow streets of the Geisha district in Kyoto, without the crowds.
We have been on our feet for hours so head to the main road for coffee. Then back to the same area and visit 2 houses which are now Museums showing how the Samurai and their servants lived.
The afternoon is nearly over and we walk back towards our hotel. When we arrive at the station we notice a Bonsai display in an exhibition space. Some have received awards (thank you google translate). There are many on display and some for sale, the price can vary from $150 to $1000's.
We have a quiet night and watch Japanese Baseball - very popular on TV, probably the equivalent to football at home.
2025-03-20