Kanazawa & Surroundings

Rich with history, Ishikawa Prefecture’s Kanazawa has a story to tell around every corner. From historic geisha districts and Edo Period architecture to traditional handicrafts and a world-class fish market; it’s one of the best places to experience Japan’s diverse and unique culture.

Only a two hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo, Kanazawa and Noto Peninsula come highly recommended as something a little different for your next Japan itinerary. Come with me as I share my top 12 locations and experiences, as well as some tips, tricks and local highlights to help you along your way.

1. Explore Edo Period Architecture in the Historic Higashi Chaya District

Translating to ‘Eastern Teahouse District’, Higashi Chaya is one of three small geisha districts in Kanazawa. Machiya‑lined streets and Edo Period teahouses make up this beautifully preserved area that was first established in 1820 as an entertainment district for rich merchants and nobility. The daytime sees kimono‑clad tourists stroll the streets with shopping bags full of gold leaf and the evenings bring a soft warm glow from each building, providing an other‑worldy atmosphere as you navigate your way through the small side streets and alleyways.

Read more: 10 Places to Visit in Japan for Art & Architecture.

2. Feast Your Eyes on Kanazawa’s Iconic Gold Leaf Creations

Kanazawa is famous for many crafts, with gold leaf being the most treasured. Over 99% of Japan’s gold leaf production happens in Kanazawa, mostly by local artisans. Their handiwork can be seen all over Japan at temples, and on furniture and lacquerware. The gold sheets are so thin, they will disappear when you rub them with your fingers. Nothing goes to waste, and off-cuts are used in the food industry for gold leaf decoration on posh meals and ice creams – which can of course be sampled throughout the city.

3. Immerse Yourself in the Colours of Kenrokuen Garden

Known as 'The Garden of Six Sublimities', Kenrokuen used to form part of the original Kanazawa Castle, and is also one of Japan’s top three gardens. Across the garden there are six different areas, each created to feature trees and plants specific to the four seasons. I was lucky to be there for autumn and experience an explosion of colour and some crisp morning reflections across the ponds.

4. Step Back in Time at the Nagamachi Samurai District

Moving on from Kenrokuen, Nagamachi (長町) Samurai District is a 10‑minute walk across the city and is home to narrow alleys and cobbled streets that used to be home to samurai residents and their families. The best preserved example of the area’s historic culture is the Nomura Clan Samurai Residence, where guests can explore the full home, its artifacts and a private tea room.

Ready to explore Japan like a local? Discover 280 unique locations in our curated travel guidebook, Views from Japan.

5. Discover Seafood Delicacies at Omicho Market

Nicknamed ‘Kanazawa’s Kitchen’, Omicho Market has been Kanazawa’s largest fresh food market ever since the Edo Period. A short walk from all of the main attractions, this is where you can sample some of Ishikawa’s famed sashimi and sushi delicacies, as well as over 200 stalls and restaurants selling seafood, rice bowls and kitchenware. The market gets busy around lunchtime and be sure to arrive early to beat the midday rush.

6. Experience True Omotenashi at a Geiko Teahouse

Geiko (芸子) are the epitome of Japanese hospitality; they dedicate their lives to mastering traditional Japanese arts and train for over 10 years, striving to become the perfect entertainers in an art form that is often misunderstood. Kanazawa is home to only five remaining private geiko (or ‘geisha’) teahouses and limited numbers of guests can enjoy an evening being entertained by these supremely skilled artisans. Teahouses have strict ‘ichigensan okotowari’ policies meaning ‘no entry without introduction’, so be sure to plan ahead to not miss this experience.

7. Learn the Art of the Samurai Sword

Kanazawa has strong roots in Japan’s samurai era, with a dedicated historic samurai district, as well as museums and restaurants dedicated to the ancient art. Those who want to take the samurai experience to the next level can enjoy a private samurai demonstration and class, to learn the sword-making process from start to finish and even place an order for their own custom built sword.

Discover our bespoke journey: Meet Master Artisans of Japan’s Cultural North: Kanazawa & Surroundings.

8. Weave Your Own Basket with a Bamboo Craftsman

Located around a one hour drive into the mountains surrounding Kanazawa City is the home of bamboo artisan, Chifuyu Enomoto, one of only 100 remaining contemporary bamboo artists in Japan. Enomoto-san has been practicing the art of bamboo weaving for over 50 years, and painstakingly produces a range of bespoke products including bowls, containers and tea trays.

Read more: 7 Places to Visit in Japan for Traditional Crafts.

9. Marvel at the Fine Details of Locally Produced Lacquerware

Known locally as ‘Kanazawa Shikki’, the art of lacquerware has taken many different forms over the years, from decorative tea containers to ceremonial pieces found in Buddhist temples. I spent an afternoon with Nishimura Sensei, a local artisan specialising in ‘maki-e’, meaning lacquerware decorated with gold or silver onto incredibly fine designs and artworks. No detail is left untouched, and to see these pieces up-close was a truly special experience.  

Discover all our craft stories here.

10. Brave the Rugged Landscapes of the Noto Peninsula

Home to rough seas, rugged coastlines and oceanside temples, Ishikawa’s Noto Peninsula is the ideal add‑on to your trip to Kanazawa. The peninsula itself extends around 100km out of the top of the prefecture, and is best explored by car. Also along the outer coast are plenty of ryokans and onsen towns including Wajima and Wakura Onsen.

Tips & Tricks for a Visit to Kanazawa

1. Take your time – Despite being a relatively small city, Kanazawa is a treasure trove of discovery, so be sure to allocate plenty of time to explore.
2. Book in advance – Be sure to check available bookings for the crafts and culture experiences to avoid disappointment.
3. Save space for souvenirs – With plenty of shopping available in Kanazawa, you will want to take some gifts home with you.
4. Pack a raincoat – Kanazawa’s proximity to the ocean can provide an ever-changing adventure with the weather.
5. Be prepared to wake up early – The early mornings can be some of the most serene times to explore Kanazawa, when the locals are rising and before the tourists have made their way into town.

Best Time to Visit

Kanazawa really can be enjoyed all year round. During winter, snowfall contrasts beautifully with traditional machiya-lined streets. Spring sees a flood of cherry blossom across the city’s parks and gardens. Outdoor performances and traditional festivals can be enjoyed through the summer months. And finally autumn has unrivalled foliage, adding a whole new dimension to any visit to Ishikawa’s capital.

Getting Around

The best way to arrive in Kanazawa is by Shinkansen, taking only 2.5 hours from Tokyo Station. When leaving the station be sure to leave via the south exit to see Kengo Kuma’s amazing wooden tori gate structure. From the station, the town is a short bus or taxi ride away and once in the city centre everything is easy walking distance.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Here’s a complete list of hotels to book in Kanazawa.

Experience

Create Kutani Ware Matcha Bowls at Kanazawa’s “To-an” Workshop

Step into the private home workshop of internationally renowned ceramics artist Masayoshi Yoshioka for an intimate introduction to Kutani ware. Under Yoshioka’s expert guidance, you’ll craft matcha bowls on a pottery wheel - a space rarely opened to the public. As your creation dries, enjoy tea and Kanazawa’s famed confections while learning about the 400-year legacy of this treasured craft.

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Produced in partnership with Japan National Travel Organisation and Wondertrunk

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In the heart of Japan’s mountainous Gifu Prefecture lies Shirakawa-go. Famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a serene escape from Japan’s bustling cities.

Nestled in a valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Shirakawa-go presents an idyllic view of rural Japan, one that’s increasingly rare to find in modern times. But is Shirakawa-go worth a visit in 2025? Let’s explore the charms of this quiet village and whether it deserves a spot on your itinerary.

What Is Shirakawa-Go Famous For?

Shirakawa-go is best known for its picturesque thatched-roof houses, built in the gassho-zukuri style, which are designed to withstand the heavy snowfalls of the region. The village’s unique architecture, some of which date back over 250 years, offers a glimpse into Japan’s rural heritage.

In winter, snow coats the thatched roofs of the rural farmhouses creating an untouched scene as the village sits beneath a thick blanket of white. By spring, the flooded rice paddies mirror the sky, while the surrounding mountains shift from a dusting of snow to soft green. Autumn brings a burst of colour, with fiery red and gold leaves surrounding the village.

Discover Japan like never before with our curated travel guidebook.

Reasons to Visit Shirakawa-Go in 2025

During the winter months, the village becomes even more enchanting with the addition of the Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up, an annual event held on selected evenings in January and February where the gassho-zukuri houses are illuminated.

For the more adventurous among us, the surrounding mountains also offer excellent hiking opportunities, particularly in the warmer months. If you’re after a spectacular view over the village without too much walking, a short 30-minute or less walk to the Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck is all you’ll need.

Shirakawa-go is also an ideal destination for those looking to experience traditional Japanese hospitality. Costing between ¥8,000 - ¥20,000 per person, staying in a farmhouse offers a rare opportunity to experience the village life firsthand and connect with local families. These Minshuku (Japanese-style farmhouses) only allow guests to stay a single night, so if you’re in the area for longer, you’ll have to stay at different houses.

Start planning your customised itinerary today with our curated Journeys.

Reasons Not to Visit…

While Shirakawa-go is a stunning destination, it may not be for everyone. The village’s remote location means that reaching it can be time-consuming, particularly in the winter when snow can disrupt travel. You should be prepared for limited dining and accommodation options, as the village is small and less developed compared to bigger surrounding cities like Kanazawa and Takayama.

Shirakawa-go also lacks the variety of activities that the larger tourist destinations offer–though that’s likely not why you’re visiting. If you appreciate peace and solitude and have an interest in History and traditional Japanese craftsmanship, you won’t be disappointed.

One final reason that Shirakawa-go might not be worth visiting is a combination of the above, plus the restriction of limited time. It’s remote location means you should only visit if you want to see the village. It has some great hikes in the area as well, but some of the larger towns are definitely better set up for tourists. Luckily, there are two such towns within public transport distance. Kanazawa and Takayama, both between 1-2 hours away, offer more attractions, activities, and places to stay than Shirakawa-go.

Discover more places to visit in the Japanese Alps.

Where to Stay

For a truly authentic experience, staying in one of Shirakawa-go’s gassho-zukuri is the best choice. Somewhere like Koemon, a gassho-style house built in around 1800 is a great option. Dinner is served around a sunken hearth and both the interior and exterior are built with traditional Japanese architectural techniques. Home-cooked meals and cosy rooms are what to expect.

For the discerning travellers amongst us, stay at Shiroyamakan. Set on the banks of the Shō River, this Japanese Inn is set just 1km from the Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. Two Kiso hinoki baths, crafted by the wood artisan Shuji Nakawa are available for private use after a day spent hiking the surrounding trails.

Discover Gassho-Zukuri In Shirakawa-Go.

Read more: What to Look for When Booking Your Accommodation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Shirakawa-go is in Winter – the snow adds a sense of calm to the area even when it’s busy. However, the other seasons all have something to offer as well: Spring sees flooded rice fields reflecting cherry blossoms and clear skies, and Autumn brings with it the vibrant Koyo foliage of that time of year. Summer, while hot, may bring fewer visitors than other months

Pro tip: Visiting early in the morning, during the week, and during the shoulder seasons will ensure the quietest experience in the area.

How to Get There

Reaching Shirakawa-go from major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto takes time but is relatively straightforward – trains pass through Omiya station and continue onto Toyama, before a bus journey to the village. From Takayama, you can take the Nohi Bus, which takes around 50 minutes to reach the village. Alternatively, buses run from Kanazawa, a larger city nearby, taking about 1.5 hours.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing via these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only promote hotels and experiences that we personally trust. Thank you.

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Kanazawa, a craft-centric city on Japan’s west coast, is one of my favourite destinations. Renowned for its rich history and traditional crafts, it seamlessly blends ancient culture with modern design. Among its many artisanal treasures, Kanazawa is particularly famous for samurai swords and the intricate art of katana-making.

The city’s historic districts, well-preserved architecture, and beautiful gardens offer a glimpse into a time when samurai roamed the streets. With its unique charm and cultural significance, Kanazawa invites visitors to explore its legacy and discover the artistry behind one of Japan’s most revered crafts.

Shokunin of Kanazawa

The term shokunin (職人) embodies the spirit of Japan's most treasured craftspeople, from sword-makers to sushi chefs and ceramic artists. Literally translating to 'artisan' or 'craftsperson,' the essence of shokunin runs much deeper. Shokunin dedicate their life to mastering their craft, embracing a relentless pursuit of perfection. This elite standard of self-discipline comes with a personal responsibility to preserve their traditions for future generations. In Kanazawa, the shokunin culture thrives, reflecting the city's commitment to craftsmanship and artistry, making it a vital part of its identity.

The History of Samurai in Kanazawa

The history of samurai in Kanazawa is rich and layered, rooted in the city’s significance during the feudal era. Samurai served as the military nobility of medieval and early modern Japan, embodying a code of honour and discipline. In Kanazawa, the legacy of samurai lives on, particularly through its historic districts and the traditional crafts that remain integral to the city’s cultural fabric. Visitors can even explore former samurai residences, where artefacts and architecture tell stories of a bygone era.

Matsuda Tsuneharu: A Master Swordsmith

In Kanazawa, visitors can explore the artistry of Matsuda Tsuneharu, a master swordsmith whose dedication to his craft is truly inspiring. His quaint studio, nestled by vast rice fields, provides a unique backdrop for understanding the intricacies of katana-making. Did you know that Japanese warriors preferred using swords for a long time, even after the introduction of guns, largely because they believed swords possessed spiritual powers?

Matsuda Tsuneharu specialises in recreating a style of sword from the Muromachi Period (1336-1573). He accumulates domestic iron products from the Edo Period (1600-1868), including braces and nails from old houses, agricultural tools, and cooking pots. These items, often discarded, are transformed through the heat of a pine charcoal fire into a lump of steel, which Matsuda considers ideal for crafting an authentic sword.

It is fascinating to see how these abandoned domestic products transform into exquisite swords, incomparable to those created by contemporary swordsmiths. Matsuda believes that each sword possesses a soul, carrying the spirit of the iron from which it was forged. His commitment to sustainability and traditional methods reflects the shokunin ethos, which emphasises mastery and respect for materials.

Matsuda invites visitors to his studio, welcoming questions and curiosity. “I am sure that visitors from different cultures have a lot of questions,” he says. “Everyone is welcome to my studio to see the depth, difficulty, and rawness of this beautiful craft.” This openness fosters appreciation for traditional arts and encourages a deeper understanding of the artistry involved in sword-making.

In Kanazawa, where samurai history and craftsmanship converge, learning about a master swordsmith like Matsuda Tsuneharu is an unforgettable experience that connects you to the essence of Japan.

Where Else to Experience Samurai in Kanazawa?

Kanazawa is rich in samurai history, and several locations allow visitors to immerse themselves in this unique cultural heritage. The Nagamachi Samurai District is a must-visit, where you can stroll along cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden houses that once belonged to samurai families. Here, the Nomura Samurai House offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the samurai, featuring beautiful gardens and authentic artefacts. Additionally, the Kanazawa Castle and its surrounding park provide a historical context to the samurai’s significance in the region, making it a perfect spot to reflect on their enduring legacy.

10 Tips and Tricks for Visiting Kanazawa

1. Stay overnight in the Nagamachi district — Experience the charm of the samurai era by staying in a traditional ryokan in the Nagamachi district, allowing you to enjoy the quiet beauty of the area after day-trippers leave.
2. Explore the Kenrokuen Garden — Visit this renowned garden during the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds. Its seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to colourful foliage in autumn, is best enjoyed in peace.
3. Participate in a gold leaf workshop — Kanazawa is famous for its gold leaf production. Take part in a workshop at a local studio to create your own gold leaf artwork and learn about this traditional craft.
4. Savour fresh seafood at Omicho Market — This bustling market offers a wide variety of local delicacies. Try the fresh sashimi and local specialities like "Jibuni," a duck stew unique to Kanazawa.
5. Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art — This museum features innovative exhibitions and is known for its unique architecture. Check out the outdoor installations and engaging art pieces that reflect contemporary Japanese culture.
6. Utilise the Kanazawa Loop Bus — This convenient bus service connects major attractions, including Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and the Nagamachi Samurai District, making it easy to navigate the city.
7. Discover the historic Kanazawa Castle Park — Explore the park surrounding the castle, which offers lovely walking paths and beautiful views, especially during cherry blossom season.
8. Experience the Kenrokuen Lantern Festival — If visiting in February, don’t miss this enchanting event where hundreds of lanterns illuminate the garden, creating a magical atmosphere.
9. Enjoy traditional Kaga cuisine — Book a meal at a local restaurant specializing in Kaga cuisine, which showcases seasonal ingredients and beautifully presented dishes.
10. Capture the beauty of the Samurai District at night — Take an evening walk through the Nagamachi Samurai District when the streets are quieter, allowing you to appreciate the historic architecture illuminated by soft lantern light.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Kanazawa are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom across the city, particularly in Kenrokuen Garden. This is a great time to enjoy picnics under the blossoming trees and experience local events celebrating the arrival of spring. Autumn offers a stunning display of foliage, with the city’s parks and gardens turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visiting during winter allows you to experience traditional winter festivals, such as the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snowfall affecting travel plans.

How to Get There

Kanazawa is accessible by various means of transportation, making it easy to include in your Japan itinerary. The most convenient way to reach Kanazawa is by taking the Shinkansen (bullet train). From Tokyo, you can board the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which takes about 2.5 hours to reach Kanazawa Station. The ride offers beautiful views of the countryside, especially as you approach the city. If you're travelling from Kyoto, the journey takes approximately 2 hours via a combination of the limited express train and the Hokuriku Shinkansen. From Osaka, it takes around 3 hours with similar connections.

For those flying into Japan, the nearest airport is Komatsu Airport, located about 30 minutes from Kanazawa by bus. Domestic flights connect Komatsu with major cities, and the airport offers international flights as well.

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Not far from the Sea of Japan coast lies Toyama, a region scattered with heritage villages, mountains and gorges and home to some of Japan’s most talented craftspeople.

Rakudo-An draws on all this in its design and amenities, set in Tonami Plain, one of the most beautiful and remote areas of Japan. Featuring just three rooms in a beautifully restored farmhouse dating back more than 100 years, the hotel is ideal for a quiet, traditional escape that supports local farmers and artisans.

The Offer

The Azumadachi farmhouse has been lovingly redesigned using traditional Japanese materials such as clay, wood, silk and washi paper, meaning Rakudo-An appears striking yet has soft, traditional interiors which celebrate the surrounding area. There are just three rooms: Paper, Silk and Soil, which immerse visitors in the world of handmade furniture, art and crafts, whether alone or by booking all of the rooms as a group. Each room utilises minimalist design to focus on the local countryside by using the material of its moniker, such as the ‘Soil’ in which sweeping views across nearby paddy fields are complimented by earthenware walls. The hotel’s Italian restaurant, Il Cima, also overlooks tranquil rice fields and has a constantly changing menu featuring freshly caught seafood from Toyama Bay.

The Location

The lesser-visited Toyama Prefecture in Japan’s northwest sits between dramatic coastline and the towering Japan Alps, although much of the region is covered in lush, green rice paddies. Historically home to farmers, who are struggling to continue their trade here, the Tonami Plain is home to many similar azumadachi farmhouses, picturesque villages, lakes and stretching views. Toyama is also where you can find some of Japan’s best craftsmen, from traditional potters and wood-carvers, to metal workers and silk weavers. You can explore these by visiting the various craft shops and museums around Toyama and try your hand at making them. Some of the best include carpentry at Bed & Craft, and Shimatani Syouryu Koubou, where third-generation craftsmen make Buddhist gongs and copperware.

Who is it For?

Rakudo-An’s three well-thought-out rooms are ideal for small groups or independent travellers who want to discover a deep side to Japan via architecture, art and design. The unique design elements here encourage guests to learn more about local artisans and culture, while the range of experiences on offer means that staying inside the hotel is just a small part of your stay. The location may not fall into the usual tourist route, but for a peaceful escape without the crowds, it’s unbeatable and offers something year-round, whether you visit as the leaves turn green in spring or see snow-covered fields in winter.

Sustainability

Rakudo-An was created with sustainability in mind as part of a regeneration programme to help the surrounding area, where a once rich industry of rice farming is slowly dying out. The hotel supports local farmers, artists and craftspeople by using 2% of its profits on village conservation efforts. The onsite restaurant uses locally caught fish and a menu which changes daily, and all waste is used as compost on the chef’s farm. The small boutique sells crafts and produce from Toyama artisans and you might spot that the glassware is all recycled, made from upcycled bottles by a local artist. All of the experiences available at the hotel shine a direct light on the incredible people, landscapes and culture of Toyama: guests can experience taiko drumming, shrimp fishing and visits to metal, silk or woodwork studios to discover more about the region, and everywhere you look there’s something that celebrates the talents of people who live and work here.

Important Information

*Note that the hotel is closed every Tuesday, with the exception of national holidays.

How to get there

Car: Rakudo-An is just 30 minutes by car from Toyama Airport, which is the nearest domestic airport, or 50 minutes from Komatsu Airport.
Train: The closest station is Takagi Station, which is around 6 hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen or 4 hours from Osaka, changing trains is required but details can be found on the hotel website.
Check-in / Check-out: The earliest check-in is 3 pm, check-out at 11 am
Rooms: 3
Onsen: N/A
Pets: N/A

645 Nomurajima, Tonami City,
Toyama Prefecture, Japan 939-1334

Find out more via www.rakudoan.jp/en

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing via these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only promote hotels and experiences that we personally trust. Thank you.

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Set upon a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and unspoiled natural surroundings, Toyama Prefecture is a treasure trove of centuries-old Japanese handicrafts, with strong connections to Japan’s mingei folk craft movement.

Much like the kimono artisans in Kyoto, Toyama’s ‘Shokunin’ (artisans) dedicate their lives to mastering these traditional Japanese crafts with an unwavering commitment to preserving their cherished traditions for future generations. From washi paper to wood carving, and metal casting to lacquerware, here’s everything you need to know about the Mingei Mindset.

Destination Highlights

Tonami Plain, Toyama – Immerse yourself in Toyama’s folk craft heritage, where centuries-old traditions of weaving, pottery, and lacquerware are still practiced against the scenic backdrop of the vast Tonami Plain.

Shimatani Shoryu Workshop, Toyama – Engage with master artisans at this renowned workshop, where traditional metalwork techniques like takaoka dōki (copperware) have been passed down through generations.

Rakudo-An, Toyama – Experience a stay in a design hotel that doubles as an art gallery, showcasing the finest works of local master craftspeople, offering an immersive insight into Toyama's artisanal legacy.

On the west side of the central Japanese prefecture – conveniently accessible along the Hokuriku Shinkansen train line – is Takaoka, Toyama’s second largest city. Strolling down the narrow back streets of this rural town you can hear the serene sounds of Buddhist orin gongs (singing bowls) as the craftsmen go about their work.

Recognised by the Japanese Government as a Traditional Japanese Craftwork, Takaoka’s Imono, or cast metal items, have become synonymous with the craft destination. Through private invitation, guests are welcomed into the workshop of Kumekazu Shimatani, a third-generation craftsman specializing in creating Buddhist orin gongs. Here you can try your hand at creating some of your own suzugami tin tableware, or simply watch and listen in awe of Shimatani’s craftwork and his relentless pursuit towards perfection. Buddhist temples up and down the Japanese archipelago are known to exhibit Shimatani’s work, making him a notable figure among these ancient religious rituals.

A one hour drive south of Takaoka leads to the neighboring region of Inami, home to a population of 8,000, including over 200 woodcraft artisans. Local initiative Bed & Craft seeks to preserve the area’s aging buildings, creating six unique villas across the town, showcasing the work of six local artisans. One of whom, Yoshisada Ishihara, a humble woodworker and devoted father, produces Buddhist statues through precise and intricate detail. During a visit to Ishihara’s studio, guests can try their hand at carving their own small wooden plate – a rare opportunity to be guided by a true master.

Shimatani Shoryu Workshop

Located down a small side street in Takaoka city, the Shimatani Shoryu Workshop is where guests can see firsthand the crafts and handiwork of third-generation artisan Kumekazu Shimatani. Sooth your mind with the sound of the Buddhist orin gongs (singing bowls), and also try your hand at creating your own piece of hammered suzugami tin tableware to take home with you.

Stay: Rakudo-An

Sat upon one of the largest dispersed settlements in Japan, Rakudo-An is located in the Tonami Plain in western Toyama Prefecture. Having opened its doors in October 2022, the intimate art hotel offers guests a personalised service where they can discover regional crafts and design, as well as be immersed in the atmosphere of the surrounding natural landscape. Groups are limited to three per stay, and several experiences are offered including Etchu Isami Taiko Drumming and Bon-Temae Tea ceremony.

How to Get There

Located conveniently along the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line, Takaoka is easily accessible for Japan Rail Pass holders from Tokyo and other major cities. The Kagayaki and Hakutaka trains on the Hokuriku Line can take you from Tokyo to Takaoka in just under three hours. From Kyoto, by JR Limited Express via Kanazawa, taking around 3 hours one way. With Toyama Prefecture’s proximity to neighboring areas, the trip can easily be combined with a visit to nearby World Heritage sites Shirakawa-go and Gokayama.

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The purity of Zen traditions in Japan are nowhere more prominent than the central prefecture of Fukui, located on the wintery waters of the Sea of Japan in Honshu’s Chubu Region.

Ancient temples are nestled within the landscape, flanked by abundant nature and snow-blanketed mountains, and a local sake brewery embraces the concept of ‘shizen’ to create a holistic product inspired by the land.

Destination Highlights

Eiheiji Temple, Fukui – Engage in a quiet meditation session at Eiheiji Temple, a center for Zen Buddhism, where resident monks guide you through practices like sutra reading and incense burning amid cedar-covered mountains.

Hakujukan Ryokan, Fukui – Stay at Hakujukan Ryokan, located near Eiheiji Temple, with access to Zen experiences led by a Zen Concierge. The ryokan offers Buddhist vegetarian cuisine and a connection to the spiritual essence of the region.

Eshikoto Sake Brewery, Fukui – Visit Eshikoto Brewery, where sake is made using water from the Kuzuryu River, embodying the philosophy of ‘shizen.’ Explore their varieties of sake, guided by a sommelier in a minimalist space reflecting the simplicity of Zen.

Pay a visit to Eiheiji Temple, Japan’s leading temple of Zen Buddhism, and follow the sound of local monks from the active monastery as they tip-toe up the cedar-covered slopes to share a morning meditation. During our visit, we were guided by a young monk through the practice, surrounded by Buddhist artifacts in this serene location. The temple itself, staggered over 70 buildings, sees heavy snow in the winter, and the warmer months bring dense flora to the grounds, in particular during October and November for vibrant autumn colors.

Aspects of Zen have been handed down from generations as part of everyday life in Fukui, and local sake brewer Eshikoto has been deeply inspired by Eiheiji’s practices, as well as the concept of ‘shizen’ (nature), by filtering water from the neighboring Kuzuryu River. An expert sommelier will guide you through the brand’s three signature sake varieties: Eshikoto Awa (sparkling sake), Tokoshie (aged sake) and Umeshu (plum wine) in a modern minimalist architectural space, and allow this new feeling of zen to rediscover your inner balance. At night, continue to immerse yourself in the essence of Fukui, at a ryokan where you can feel the spirit of Zen.

Highlight

Eiheiji Temple Zen Experience

In one of Eiheiji Temple’s grand halls, among the beauty of mountainous cedar-covered grounds, experience a private meditation guided by a resident monk. As the monk walks you through the practice, including sutra reading, and burning incense, you will be immersed into the foundations of Zen meditation in order to reconnect your mind, body and soul.

Stay

Hakujukan Ryokan

Located a stones throw from the Eiheiji Temple, guests of Hakujukan have unrivaled access to the spiritual sites, as well as ‘Zen Concierges’ providing guidance for Zen experiences at both the temple and within the hotel. Guests are invited to take part in an intimate morning service directly with the monks of Eiheiji Temple, whilst the in-house restaurant serves authentic Buddhist vegetarian cuisine and local Sake from Echizen.

Book Hakujukan

How to Get There

Fukui Prefecture can be accessed via train from Tokyo along the JR Tokaido Shinkansen, transferring from Tokyo at Maibara Station and then transferring to JR Shirasagi Limited Express bound for Fukui. From Kyoto, take a JR local line to Maibara Station (taking about 70 minutes) and rest is the same. By air, flights run daily from Tokyo’s Haneda airport and also Ishikawa’s nearby Komatsu airport. Upon arrival in Fukui, the easiest way to travel around is by car, and several rental car options are available in the area. with a visit to nearby World Heritage sites Shirakawago and Gokayama.

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Opened in 1995 and nestled in the scenic Yoro Park, the Site of Reversible Destiny offers a unique experience that blends art, architecture, and philosophy. Designed by the innovative duo Arakawa Shusaku and Madeline Gins, this installation invites visitors to engage in a playful exploration of their surroundings.

As you wander through vibrant colours, unconventional structures, and unexpected pathways, you'll find that each element challenges traditional perceptions and encourages new ways of seeing the world. With its stunning natural backdrop and thought-provoking design, the Site of Reversible Destiny is a destination where creativity and nature intersect.

Embrace the Experience

The more you embrace the experience at The Site of Reversible Destiny, the more you’ll get from it. Visitors become part of the landscape, encouraged to move and engage with the space in a way that stimulates both mind and body. The abstract structures, with their bold forms and vivid colours, invite exploration, while patches of carefully maintained grass and scattered trees offer a contrast to the sculptural chaos. As you weave through the site, each step becomes an interaction with art, a living exhibit that challenges conventional experiences of space and perception.

Art and Architecture

The Site of Reversible Destiny immerses visitors in a landscape where colour and form reshape perception. Paths twist unpredictably, with sudden shifts in height and angle, urging a change in movement and thought. Bold, sculptural structures of vivid hues (like the Reversible Destiny Office) disrupt the conventional, challenging both balance and spatial awareness. Every corner offers a fresh visual experience, encouraging quiet reflection as art and architecture blur, leaving behind a lingering sense of disorientation and discovery.

Nature’s Influence

In Yoro Park, the Site of Reversible Destiny interacts with the natural world in subtle yet striking ways. The vibrant hues of autumn leaves, sharp against the disorienting forms of the architecture, create an ever-shifting backdrop. In winter, the bare trees frame the pavilions, enhancing their surreal geometry. The park’s quiet hum—soft wind, distant birds—acts as a counterpoint to the bold structures, grounding the site in its surroundings.

How to Get There

Take the train to Yoro Station on the JR Taita Line, which is about an hour from Nagoya. From the station, you can reach the site by a short bus ride or a scenic 30-minute walk through Yoro Park, and pay the small ¥750 entrance fee.

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