🗺️ Higashichaya District

Higashi Chaya District is one of the representative tourist areas in Kanazawa, recognized for its beautiful lattice windows and stone-paved streets, and designated as a National Important Traditional Building Preservation District. The origins of the street date back to the 3rd year of the Bunsei era (1820), when the 12th lord of the Kaga Domain, Maeda Narihiro, consolidated the tea houses scattered throughout the castle town into a single tea house street. Many traditional buildings from the Edo period are still preserved today. Many of these buildings have been renovated and transformed into cafes and shops offering Japanese snacks, traditional crafts, and miscellaneous goods. Visitors can enjoy shopping and dining in the charming streets. Additionally, after sunset, the lights under the eaves create an even more atmospheric setting. The picturesque scenery is beautiful from any angle, making a simple stroll a delightful experience. It is worth mentioning that the so-called tea houses were places where wealthy merchants and local men gathered at night to enjoy performances by geisha, including dances and shamisen music. Kanazawa's tea house culture has a tradition of "refusing new customers," and to this day, entry is prohibited without an introduction, except for some facilities that are open for public viewing.

One of the representative tourist areas of Kanazawa. Including Higashi Chaya District, there are several places in Kanazawa City where you can rent kimono. You can also stroll through the quaint streets while wearing a kimono. After sunset, the lights under the eaves become even more atmospheric.