Kanazawa is one of the most underrated and overlooked cities in Japan. Incredible landmarks, well-preserved history and delicious food scene – Kanazawa is an absolutely thrilling city!
But there’s just one problem with Kanazawa – it’s a large city with a tonne of districts to choose from.
That’s why we wrote this neighborhood guide for where to stay in Kanazawa.
Our expert travel writer breaks Kanazawa down by category, so you know exactly where to stay based on what you want to do.
So whether you’re looking to have a few drinks, get back to nature, or indulge in delicious cuisine, our guide will show you everything you need to know (and more) about this incredible city!
So, let’s jump right into where to stay in Kanazawa, Japan.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Kanazawa.
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Cosy Traditional Apartment in Kenrokumachi | Best Airbnb in Kanazawa
This cosy apartment is ideal if you want to stay in a quiet and peaceful place near to the main sightseeing spots and within easy walking distance of Kenrokuen garden and Kanazawa castle. Walk in the area and find old-fashioned public baths, restaurants, cafes and supermarkets. Embrace the Japanese experience and sleep on comfortable futon mattresses
Hotel Trusty Kanazawa Korinbo | Best Hotel in Kanazawa
This elegant and modern four-star hotel is our favourite hotel in Kanazawa. It is conveniently located in Korinbo and there is a myriad of shopping, dining and nightlife options at its doorstep. This hotel provides spacious rooms with comfortable beds and air-conditioning. There’s also a delicious on-site restaurant for guests to enjoy.
Blue Hour Kanazawa | Best Hostel in Kanazawa
Blue Hour Kanazawa is our pick for one of the best hostels in Kanazawa. This bright and airy hostel is located near central Kanazawa and is a short walk from the station. It is close to a great selection of restaurants and shops and is well-connected throughout the city. This hostel offers comfortable pods and a quiet atmosphere.
Kenrokumachi
If you’re visiting Kanazawa for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than the Kenrokumachi district. Set at the centre of the city, this neighbourhood is home to Kanazawa’s most famous tourist attractions and landmarks.
Kanazawa Station
Kanazawa Station is the city’s main railway station. It’s the first place in Kanazawa most tourists visit – and thankfully, it’s a very beautiful building! The neighbourhood surrounding the station wins our vote for where to stay in Kanazawa if you’re on a budget.
Korinbo
Korinbo is a neighbourhood located in southern Kanazawa. It is centrally situated and sits nestled between Kanazawa Castle Park and the Samurai houses of Nagamachi. This lively and vibrant neighbourhood is where you’ll find Kanazawa’s main shopping, dining and nightlife district.
Higashi Chaya
Our pick for the coolest neighbourhood in Kanazawa goes to Higashi Chaya. This beautiful district is located a short 15-minute walk northeast of the city centre. It sits on the northern shores of the Asano River and is the city’s traditional entertainment district.
Nagamachi
Nagamachi is a small neighbourhood best-known for its well-preserved Samurai houses. It lies at the foot of Kanazawa Castle Park and was where traditional samurai and their families used to reside.
Kanazawa is a historic city in the Ishikawa prefecture of Japan. It is located on the island of Honshu and sits northwest of Tokyo.
Thanks to its relatively off-the-beaten-path location, Kanazawa is one of the most overlooked cities in Japan. However, it is one of the crown jewels of the country and is where you can see some of the best-preserved Edo-period buildings in Japan.
The city is also famous for its incredible cuisine. Thanks to its location between the hot south and cold north currents, Kanazawa is a hub for delicious and mouthwatering seafood dishes and sushi.
This a relatively compact city is divided into numerous districts. Each district offers something different to travellers and we recommend you visit at least three or four throughout your trip.
The Kanazawa Station district is home to the main rail hub and is the first place most tourists see in the city. Although it doesn’t have many landmarks or attractions, this neighborhood does boast great shops, tasty restaurants and a myriad of backpacker hostels and budget hotels.
The Higashi Chaya District is set to the east of Kanazawa Station. It is home to beautifully preserved buildings and houses, and is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of “Old Japan”.
Head south from here and you’ll arrive in Kenrokumachi. The green core of the city, Kenrokumachi is where you’ll find the city’s most famous attractions and landmarks, including Kenroku-en Garden.
Korinbo is a lively and vibrant district set to the southwest of Kenrokumachi. It is the city’s main entertainment district and is brimming with restaurants, bars, cafes and shops.
And finally, continue travelling west to Nagamachi. This small neighborhood is home to a collection of well-preserved Samurai houses, narrow, winding alleys, and authentic mud walls.
Still not sure where to stay in Kanazawa? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!
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Kanazawa’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Kanazawa organized by interest.
1. Kenrokumachi – Where to Stay in Kanazawa First Time
If you’re visiting Kanazawa for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than the Kenrokumachi district. Set at the centre of the city, this neighborhood is home to Kanazawa’s most famous tourist attractions and landmarks. It boasts everything from a castle and gardens to museums and restaurants, making it the ideal base for travellers of all ages and interests.
Kenrokumachi’s most famous attraction is the Kenroku-en Garden. One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, Kenroku-en is a serene Japanese Garden with plants and trees, teahouses, stone lanterns and the oldest fountain in Japan. Here you can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the green heart of the city.
Cosy Traditional Apartment in Kenrokumachi | Best Airbnb in Kenrokumachi
This cosy apartment is ideal if you want to stay in a quiet and peaceful place near to the main sightseeing spots and within easy walking distance of Kenrokuen garden and Kanazawa castle. Walk in the area and find old-fashioned public baths, restaurants, cafes and supermarkets. Embrace the Japanese experience and sleep on comfortable futon mattresses
Guest House Shiro | Best Hostel in Kenrokumachi
This charming property has two private rooms and two dormitories. Each room is covered with tatami mats and the beds are made of high resilience foam mattresses. In the dormitory, each bed comes complete with a curtain, socket, reading light and private storage space. They also provide guests with a shared kitchen and a comfortable lounge.
Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku | Best Hotel in Kenrokumachi
This elegant four-star hotel is located at the heart of the city. It is close to well-known tourist attractions and is within walking distance of great restaurants, bars and shops. This hotel is comprised of 85 comfortable rooms with modern features. All of this combined makes this our pick for where to stay in Kenrokumachi.
UAN Kanazawa Hotel | Best Hotel in Kenrokumachi
The UAN Kanazawa is a modern and luxurious hotel in the Kenrokumachi district. It offers a convenient base for exploring the city and is close to shopping, dining and sightseeing options. They provide air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities and free internet access.
Things to See and Do in Kenrokumachi
- Browse an interesting collection of art at the Kanazawa Nakamura Memorial Museum.
- Dine on fresh fare at Kourin Sushi.
- Dive deep into the history of the region at the Ishikawa Prefecture History Museum.
- Explore the scenic grounds of Kanazawa Castle Park.
- Feast your eyes on colourful and creative works of art at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Learn about the people who shaped the city at the Kanazawa Furusato Ijinkan (Great People of Kanazawa Memorial Museum).
- See what remains of Kanazawa Castle.
- Snack and sample your way through the bustling Omicho Market.
- Visit the D.T. Suzuki Museum.
- Wander the peaceful and stunning grounds of Kenroku-en Garden.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Kanazawa Station – Where to Stay in Kanazawa on a Budget
Kanazawa Station is the city’s main railway station. It’s the first place in Kanazawa most tourists visit – and thankfully, it’s a very beautiful building!
The neighborhood surrounding the station wins our vote for where to stay in Kanazawa if you’re on a budget. Because it has a good selection of backpacker hostels as well as modern and charming boutique hotels, this neighborhood is perfect for travellers on all types of budgets.
Although the area around the station isn’t home to any major sites, Kanazawa Station is where you can shop until you drop, indulge in fresh and delicious food, and get a great night’s sleep at a reasonably priced hotel.
Affordable Guest House Close to Sights | Best Airbnb in Kanazawa Station
Located just 4 minutes walk from Kanazawa Station, this affordable guest house is perfect for visitors on a budget. This bedroom comes with all basic amenities, from air-conditioning, heating, dryer, washer, a TV and all other essentials. The bathroom and toilet are shared, and there’s a common area with every feature you would need.
Hotel MyStays Premier Kanazawa | Best Hotel in Kanazawa Station
The Hotel MyStays Premier is one of our favourite hotels near Kanazawa Station because of its large rooms and good-sized beds. This hotel is ideally located in Kanazawa and is within walking distance of restaurants, shops and top tourist attractions. They also provide free wifi and luggage storage.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kanazawa | Best Hotel in Kanazawa Station
Daiwa Roynet is a comfortable 3.5-star hotel set in central Kanazawa. It has 208 recently refurbished rooms with cosy beds and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a variety of services, including an on-site spa and wellness centre. There are also laundry facilities and luggage storage on-site.
Blue Hour Kanazawa | Best Hostel in Kanazawa Station
Blue Hour Kanazawa is our pick for where to stay near Kanazawa Station. This bright and airy hostel is located a short walk from the station. It is close to a great selection of restaurants and shops and is well-connected throughout the city. This hostel offers comfortable pods and a quiet atmosphere.
Things to See and Do in Kanazawa Station
- Browse the shops and boutiques selling clothes, gifts and handicrafts at the magnificent Kanazawa Hyakubangai Shopping Center.
- Catch a glimpse of the awesome and distinctive Tsuzumi Gate.
- Eat amazing and flavorful sushi at Mori Mori Sushi Kanazawa Ekimae. Trust us, the dishes are worth the wait!
- Grab a slice of gooey and delicious pizza at Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE.
- Sip cocktail at InFusion.
- Snap a pic beside the giant Yakantai Tentosuru teapot.
- Taste local tuna, macakrel, squid and more at Kanazawa Maimon Sushi.
- Tuck into a warm, comforting and delicious bowl of ramen at Taiga Noodles.
- Visit the Hiraokano Shrine.
3. Korinbo – Best Area to Stay in Kanazawa for Nightlife
Korinbo is a neighborhood located in southern Kanazawa. It is centrally situated and sits nestled between Kanazawa Castle Park and the Samurai houses of Nagamachi.
This lively and vibrant neighborhood is where you’ll find Kanazawa’s main shopping, dining and nightlife district. The streets and alleys of Korinbo are packed with buzzing bistros and hip restaurants that serve delicious local dishes as well as cuisine from around the world.
Looking to dance? This district is also where you’ll find some of the best clubs and bars in the city. So whether you want a rowdy night on the dancefloor or a relaxed evening in a pub, Korinbo has just what you’re looking for.
Double Room in a Perfect Location | Best Airbnb in Korinbo
If you are looking for comfort and privacy close to the nightlife, this room is an excellent pick. It comes with a double bed and basic amenities. Guests also have access to a community lounge, a shared kitchen, a bar, a jacuzzi and la aundry room are in the common area.
K’s House Kanazawa – Backpackers Hostel | Best Hostel in Korinbo
K’s House is an excellent option for backpackers and travellers on a budget. It offers comfortable and clean accommodations right at the heart of the city – and for a very reasonably priced. This hostel provides private and shared rooms outfitted with modern amenities. There’s also a social lounge and well-stocked kitchen.
Kaname Inn Tatemachi | Best Hotel in Korinbo
This hotel is ideally located in Korinbo. It is close to many of the city’s most famous attractions and landmarks and is within close proximity to nightclubs, restaurants and cafes. Comprised of 38 rooms, this hotel offers guests a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Hotel Trusty Kanazawa Korinbo | Best Hotel in Korinbo
This elegant and modern four-star hotel is our top pick for where to stay in Korinbo. It is conveniently located for exploring the city and there is a myriad of shopping, dining and nightlife options at its doorstep. This hotel provides spacious rooms with comfortable beds and air-conditioning.
Things to See and Do in Korinbo
- Choose from a good selection of craft beers at Kourinbo Jibiruba.
- Dig into Indian dishes at Aashirwad.
- Drink delicious and reasonably priced cocktails at Suntory Jigger Bar St. Louis.
- Eat sushi at Otomezushi.
- Grab a pint at Oriental Brewing.
- Hear DJs spin as you sip cocktails at Kanazawa Music Bar.
- Indulge in Italian fare at The Cottage.
- Listen to music at Orbital Bar.
- Sample urbane cocktails at Kaname Bar & Café.
- Sink your teeth into the perfect cheeseburger at The Godburger.
- Try premium cocktails at Furansu Cocktail Bar.
- Watch a live act and enjoy a few drinks at Ivory Coast Kanazawa.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Higashi Chaya – Coolest Place to Stay in Kanazawa
Our pick for the coolest neighborhood in Kanazawa goes to Higashi Chaya. This beautiful district is located a short 15-minute walk northeast of the city centre. It sits on the northern shores of the Asano River and is the city’s traditional entertainment district. Once home to geisha and teahouses, Higashi Chaya is where you can see some of the best-preserved streets and buildings in the city.
Culture vultures won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore the Higashi Chaya district. Tucked throughout its labyrinth of streets and alleys are a great selection of shops and cafes that let you step back in time and experience “Old Japan.”
The Share Hotels HATCHi | Best Hostel in Higashi Chaya
This is one of our favourite hostels in the city because of its great location, clean facilities and open-concept design. It offers travellers a comfortable place to lay their heads and has reading lights, power outlets and private bunks. Guests can enjoy free wifi, hot showers and a delightful outdoor terrace.
Kanazawa Guesthouse Stella | Best Guesthouse in Higashi Chaya
This property wins our vote for the best place to stay in Higashi Chaya. It is conveniently located in Kanazawa and offers easy access to top tourist attractions throughout the city. This guesthouse has six recently refurbished rooms with comfortable beds and air conditioning. They also provide luggage and concierge services.
Condensed Homey Twin Room | Best Airbnb in Higashi Chaya
This homey clean twin room is located only a 15 minutes walk from Kanazawa Station, a 10 minutes walk from Omicho Market and Kenrokuen and walking distance to major attractions. There are common areas to share that are very neat and clean and come with all the essentials. The host, Shuji-san, gives lots of great tips for places to eat and see.
Kanazawa Higashiyama Cabin Hakobune | Best Hotel in Higashi Chaya
Kanazawa Higashiyama Cabin Hakobune is centrally located in Kanazawa. It is within walking distance of Kenroku-en Garden as well as the sights, sounds and cafes of Higashi Chaya. This hotel has 10 rooms and each is outfitted with air conditioning and traditional amenities.
Things to See and Do in Higashi Chaya
- Explore Higashi Chaya Rest House.
- Go for a stroll through Kanazawa Higashi Chayagai Kaikaro – who knows, you might even see a geisha sneak by.
- Grab pints and snacks at Oriental Brewing HIGASHIYAMA.
- Indulge in a sweet and shiny gold leaf ice cream treat at Hakuichi, Higashiyama.
- Learn all about the gold leaf process at the small but interesting Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum.
- Sip a delicious coffee at Jugatsuya.
- Take a quick detour to the other side of the river and go for a stroll along Kazuemachi Tea House Street.
- Taste incredible flavours at Fumuro Chaya.
- Visit Shima, a former geisha house.
- Wander the historic streets of Higashichaya Old Town.
5. Nagamachi – Best Neighborhood in Kanazawa for Families
Nagamachi is a small neighborhood best-known for its well-preserved Samurai houses. It lies at the foot of Kanazawa Castle Park and was where traditional samurai and their families used to reside. Steeped in history, this neighborhood is a must for anyone interested in Samurai culture and Japanese legends.
This neighborhood is our pick for where to stay in Kanazawa for families because of its vast array of all-ages activities. From well-preserved houses and unique museums to delicious restaurants and cosy cafes, this neck of the woods is bursting with fun and adventure the whole family will love.
Stylish and Spacious Hut in Nagamachi | Best Airbnb in Nagamachi
This stylish and newly renovated and fully furnished house is located in center of Higashi Chaya District and can accommodate up to 8 guests. This extremely comfortable and modern place is perfect for families visiting Kanazawa and wanting to stay in a quiet and great area. It combines traditional Japanese-style with modern interior design and facilities.
Lan’s Home | Best Apartment in Nagamachi
Lan’s Home is your best bet for budget accommodations in Nagamachi. This charming apartment is located at the heart of the neighborhood. It is a short stroll from public transit and is close to restaurants, shops and landmarks. This apartment has a comfortable lounge, a small kitchen, and an outdoor terrace.
Kanazawa New Grand Hotel | Best Hotel in Nagamachi
This elegant five-star hotel offers a luxurious home away from home in Nagamachi. It has spacious rooms ideal for families that come complete with air conditioning, essential amenities and free internet access. This hotel is conveniently located in Kanazawa perfect for sightseeing, exploring and dining.
Kanazawa Hotel Tokyu | Best Hotel in Nagamachi
The Kanazawa Hotel Tokyo is our number one choice for where to stay in Nagamachi. This hotel provides comfortable and modern four-star accommodations at an incredible price. You’ll enjoy cosy rooms with modern amenities, including free wifi, satellite channels, and a private bathroom with a shower. Guests also have access to a tasty restaurant, a coffee bar, and an on-site beauty centre.
Things to See and Do in Nagamachi
- Admire the detail of the Tounji Temple.
- Browse the shops that line the cobblestone streets of Nagamachi.
- Dine on flavourful French cuisine at Hiramipan.
- Eat a hot, filling and delicious hot pot at Taro.
- Enjoy a variety of tasty dishes at Saan.
- Explore the samurai houses at the Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Wagashi Murakami.
- See an incredible collection of colourful and intricately detailed silks at Nagamachi Yuzen Kan.
- Step inside a restored Edo-era home that showcases samurai artefacts, gardens and a tearoom at the Nomura Family Samurai House.
- View the Hosenji Buddhist temple.
- Visit the Kutaniyaki Kaburaki.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Kanazawa
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Kanazawa and where to stay.
What To Pack For Kanazawa
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kanazawa
Kanazawa is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. A fabulous food scene, well-preserved history and exquisite natural beauty, this is without a doubt a jewel in Japan’s crown.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Kanazawa. If you’re still not sure which neighborhood is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourite places.
Blue Hour Kanazawa is our favourite hostel because of its excellent location, comfortable and private pods, and it’s bright and airy design.
Our recommendation for the best hotel is Hotel Trusty Kanazawa Korinbo. This elegant and modern hotel has a great central location close to restaurants, cafes and bars, and it offers clean, comfortable and cosy beds.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Japan.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Kanazawa.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Japan instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Japan.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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