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21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa is a must-see spot when visiting the region. Here's why!

'Jikabuki': Local Kabuki in Gifu Prefecture

At Aioiza, a small museum and playhouse in Gifu, you can get right behind the scenes with 'jikabuki'—and even try on the makeup and costumes for yourself!

Celebrating a 410-Year-Old Castle in Style

After watching this video, we are ready to pack our bags and head over to Hikone Castle to celebrate 410 years of history!

Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Garden

Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden were emblematic of the power of the Maeda Clan, which dominated the Kanazawa region throughout the Edo Period.

A Basic Guide to Kenrokuen Garden

Located in the heart of Kanazawa, Kenrokuen Garden is counted among the Three Great Gardens of Japan, and an absolute must-see when in Ishikawa Prefecture.

8 Ways to Go Deeper (& Cheaper!) in Kanazawa

While you can just take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kanazawa, why not take your time and take in some culture on the way? Then we've got some tips for how to save money while you're there!

Top 10 LGBT+ Pride Events Outside Tokyo

While Tokyo Rainbow Pride is probably Japan's best-known pride extravaganza, there are plenty of rainbow flags flying across the country. Here are Japan's best-kept-secret prides!

All Aboard the 'Your Name' Bus!

If you’re an anime fan planning to make a pilgrimage to the location that inspired the hit anime film 'Your Name,' your bus has arrived!

The Earliest Blooming Sakura on Mainland Japan

People around the country are sharing stunning photos of the early blossoming sakura in full bloom.

Top 5 Onsen in Gifu

With its stunning mountain ranges and natural spring water, Gifu Prefecture is one of the best places in all of Japan to experience hot spring baths. Check out our favorite picks!

Hikone Castle: A National Treasure at 410

2017 marks the 410th birthday of Hikone Castle, one of just 12 remaining original-construction castles in Japan. Join us as we take a look inside!

Top 5 Must-Try Food Experiences in Kanazawa

Gold's not the only thing to buy and try in Kanazawa. Thanks to its proximity to the shoreline, the city's also famous for glorious, scrumptious food. Perhaps a crab feast is in order!

10 Picture-Perfect Views in Kanazawa, Japan

Since the 2015 opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, the Hokuriku area of Japan has been getting much more attention from tourists. Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture is especially popular with its abundant nature and rustic environment.

The Best of Kanazawa for Every Traveler

If you only have a limited time to explore Kanazawa, make the most of your trip by knowing all the must-try foods and must-do activities in this charming and historic town before you go. We'll break it down for each type of traveler out there.

The Weeping Willow Plum Trees of Mie

The city of Suzuka, in Mie Prefecture, has a garden that opens its gates after nightfall, allowing guests to see the gorgeous blossoms in a whole new light.

Atami & Shuzenji Hot Spring Resorts

If you're looking for an intimate view of Mount Fuji, Atami and Shuzenji present a compelling alternative to Hakone.

Kanazawa's Geisha & Samurai Districts

One of Japan’s best-kept secrets, Kanazawa is a beautiful city famous for its rich culture and history, including areas frequented by geisha and samurai.

The Top 11 Hot Spring Hot Spots in Japan!

Before modern medicine was invented, onsen (hot springs) were revered as sacred places blessed with magical healing properties. During the Edo Period, sick patients would soak in the onsen for weeks to leave the pools feeling healthy and refreshed!

Gifu Festival Celebrates 700 Years of Swords

Seki City in Gifu Prefecture has been forging samurai swords for over 700 years. On the second weekend of October every year, the Seki Cutlery Festival celebrates the region's long history of blade-making—and offers gorgeous works at discount prices!

Take a Kanazawa Side-Trip for Just ¥390

For expert JR users, there's a way to take a round-trip between Osaka and Tokyo and add Kanazawa to your tour for just ¥390 (about US$3.46). Here's how.

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