Making the most of Kanazawa
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The Port of Kanazawa sits in the center of an area surrounded by Japan's Alps, the Noto Peninsula National Park, and the Hakusan National Park. The passenger terminal is located on the outskirts of the city, approximately 20 mins by bus to Kanazawa station. Most likely you will dock at the Tomizu Wharf. Larger ships use the Ohama Wharf nearby.
Kanazawa is the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. sits on the Sea of Japan, bordered by the Japan Alps, Hakusan National Park and Noto Peninsula National Park. The city sits between the Sai and Asano rivers.
The reconstructed, classic castle town of Kanazawa (only the gate of the original castle still stands) offers streets of samurai houses and two geisha quarters.
Kenrokuen Garden is by far the most famous part of Kanazawa. Originally built as the outer garden of Kanazawa castle, it was opened to the public in 1875. It is considered one of the "three most beautiful gardens in Japan" and is filled with a variety of trees, ponds, waterfalls and flowers stretching over 25 acres (100,000 m²).
Getting around
As the central city is fairly compact, one of the best ways to get around is simply walking, exploring the narrow side streets. From east (Higashiyama) to west (Teramachi) would take about an hour at a leisurely pace.
There is a Tourist Information Lobby in the station, with English speaking staff always present, where you can get free maps of the city and help with any questions you may have. Kanazawa's train station is an attraction in itself, a futuristic marvel that integrates a traditional wooden temple gate with glass and steel
A bus loop system pass is also available. It costs 600 yen for an all day pass and contains 2 loops that travel to different destinations.
Food and shopping
A City of Crafts and Folk Art, Kanazawa is also known for its intricate kaga-nui embroidery and delicate kutani porcelain, among other handicrafts, making it a shopper's paradise!
Money
The currency in Japan is the yen. It comes in denominations of ¥10,000, ¥5,000 and ¥1,000 notes, as well as ¥500, ¥100, ¥50, ¥10, ¥5 and ¥1 coins.
ATMs in Japan are becoming more useful, and most can be used to withdraw funds from overseas accounts. Post offices also offer ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted at a majority of stores and restaurants in large urban areas, but if you plan on spending any time in rural areas, be sure to carry sufficient cash. Japan is still very much a cash society and some stores, hotels and restaurants-regardless of location-refuse credit cards.
Don't tip, as it's considered rude!