Exploring Kanazawa & Surrounds.
#Kanazawa.
With its charming Edo-period districts, historic castle, and picturesque gardens, the city of Kanazawa is the perfect place to spend a few days.
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Highlights: Tsuzumi-mon Gate, Higashi Chaya District (pictured), Kazuemachi Chaya District, Kanazawa Castle Park, Kenroku-en (garden), Ōmichō Market, Oyama Shrine, Naga-machi District, Nomura-ke Samurai Residence, Saigawa Shrine, and Nishi Chaya District.
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Bonus Tip: The Tsuzumi-mon Gate looks best in the evening when lit up.
#Day Trips from Kanazawa.
The following make for both easy and interesting day trips from Kanazawa City.
1. Takaoka & Himi.
The cities of Takaoka and Himi, easily accessible by train from Kanazawa, boast a wealth of sightseeing opportunities. Because they are located next to one another, early risers can see both in a single day.
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Journey duration: From Kanazawa take the Shinkansen to Shin-Takaoka (about 15 minutes) then local train onto Takaoka (around 5 minutes). From Takaoka, it is around another 30 minutes to Himi by local train.
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Highlights - Takaoka Station: Alight at Takaoka Station for Zuiryu-ji, Takaoka Great Buddha, Doraemon Walking Road, Yamachosuji Historical Preservation District, Otogi no Mori Park (recommended for families with young children), Takaoka Old Castle Park.
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Highlights - Fushiki Station: Alight at Fushiki Station for Fushiki Shrine, Shoko-ji, Fushiki Kitame-bune Museum, and Keta Jinja.
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Highlights - Himi Station: Alight at Himi Station for Himi Seaside Botanical Gardens, Isetama Shrine, Asahiyama Park, Asahiyama Jonichi Temple, and Manga Road (pictured).
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Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for travel on JR lines between Kanazawa and the above-mentioned places.