What is Kanazawa Castle?
Kanazawa Castle is a historic fortress located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, best known as the seat of the Maeda family, daimyō of the Kaga Domain.
In 1583, Maeda Toshiie established the castle here under orders from Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and it grew as a symbol of the prosperity of the Kaga Domain.
Today, parts of Kanazawa Castle have been reconstructed, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the Edo period. It is a popular sightseeing spot where restored castle buildings bring history to life.
Together with the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden, it’s a place where visitors from Japan and abroad can enjoy traditional Japanese beauty.
Highlights of Kanazawa Castle
1. Ishikawa Gate (Ishikawa-mon)
One of the castle’s three main gates, Ishikawa Gate is designated an Important Cultural Property and is a valuable surviving structure from the Edo period.
Its white walls and tiled roof create a striking contrast, making it a very photogenic spot.
2. Hishi Yagura and Gojikken Nagaya
The Hishi Yagura (diamond-shaped turret) and the Gojikken Nagaya (50-ken long barracks) were built for defense and surveillance and were reconstructed in 2001.
Their precise wooden construction techniques and designs to repel attackers are fascinating for history and architecture enthusiasts.
3. The beauty of the stone walls
Kanazawa Castle is also known for the beauty of its stone walls.
Especially impressive are the stone walls viewed from Gyokusen'inmaru Garden, where you can see walls built with different techniques from various periods.
Take time to observe the craftsmanship embedded in the stonework.
4. Gyokusen'inmaru Garden
Gyokusen'inmaru Garden, restored within Kanazawa Castle Park, recreates a daimyo garden from the Edo period.
You can enjoy scenes shaped by the seasons and a peaceful atmosphere.
Seasonal attractions
- Spring: Cherry blossoms reach full bloom and the area around Ishikawa Gate is dyed pink—an iconic viewing spot.
- Summer: Verdant trees offer a refreshing setting for a pleasant walk.
- Autumn: Autumn leaves color the stone walls and gardens, turning Kanazawa Castle into a picturesque scene.
- Winter: Snow-covered castle buildings and stone walls create a magical atmosphere.
Access information
Address
1-1 Marunouchi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
How to get there
- Train + Bus
- About 10 minutes by Hokutetsu bus from JR Kanazawa Station. Get off at the "Kenrokuen-shita" or "Hirosaka" bus stop, then about a 5-minute walk.
- By car
- About 20 minutes from the Kanazawa Higashi IC or Kanazawa Nishi IC on the Hokuriku Expressway.
Opening hours and fees
- Opening hours: 7:00–18:00 (March 1–October 15)
- 8:00–17:00 (October 16–end of February)
- Fees: The park is free to enter. Some facilities are paid (such as Hishi Yagura and Gojikken Nagaya).
Recommended ways to enjoy your visit
1. Join a guided tour
Guided tours of Kanazawa Castle explain its history and architecture in detail. English-speaking guides are also available and popular with international visitors.
2. Stone wall tour
Carefully examining the castle’s stone walls and comparing techniques from different periods is enjoyable.
You can see Japanese stonework techniques such as nozura-zumi (roughly fitted stone) and uchikomi-hagi (pinned and fitted masonry).
3. Enjoy the nighttime illumination
The castle is lit up at night, offering beautiful evening views.
The combination of illuminated cherry blossoms in spring is especially spectacular.
Useful information for travelers
What to bring and what to wear
- Comfortable shoes: The castle and park have many stone pavements and gravel paths, so sneakers are recommended.
- Camera: A must for photographing historic buildings and garden scenery.
- Warm clothing: Don’t forget warm layers if visiting in winter.
Notes
- Crowd tips: The cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves season are busy. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended.
- Food and drink rules: Eating in the park is limited to certain areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is Kanazawa Castle free to enter?
A. The park is free to enter, but some buildings (such as Hishi Yagura and Gojikken Nagaya) require an admission fee.
Q2. How much time should I allow?
A. A casual stroll takes about one hour. If you plan to visit the interior of each facility, allow 2–3 hours.
Q3. Are there facilities for visitors with disabilities?
A. Yes. Wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms are available.
Kanazawa Castle is a special sightseeing spot where historic architecture and nature come together.
Enjoy the seasonal charms and be sure to visit to experience its grand history!
