Family-Friendly Kanazawa: Activities Kids and Adults Will Love

Liam Larnach
4 days ago
2 min read

Family-Friendly Kanazawa: Activities Kids and Adults Will Love

Traveling Japan as a family doesn’t have to mean crowded attractions and long queues. In Kanazawa, you’ll find a rare balance between culture, fun, and relaxation. Known for its samurai heritage, colourful geisha districts, and hands-on experiences, Family-Friendly Kanazawa offers something for every age — from playful gardens to creative workshops that bring history to life.

1. Step Back in Time at Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden

Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenrokuen Garden make a perfect first stop. Kids can run freely through the castle grounds while adults admire the architecture and historic gates. In Kenrokuen, Japan’s most famous landscape garden, families can watch koi fish, stroll across stone bridges, and enjoy seasonal beauty — cherry blossoms in spring and snow lanterns in winter. Don’t forget to grab a gold-leaf matcha ice cream near the garden’s Katsurazaka Gate.

Serene Japanese garden with a stone lantern by a tranquil pond. Lush green trees and purple blooms reflect in the water, creating a peaceful scene. — Kenrokuen Garden ©Kanazawa City,

2. Discover Samurai Secrets at Nagamachi District

Step into the Nagamachi Samurai District, where cobblestone lanes and restored houses tell stories of Japan’s warrior class. The Nomura Samurai House offers armor displays and gardens that fascinate both adults and children. Nearby craft shops let kids try simple samurai or ninja-themed activities — great for photo souvenirs and hands-on learning.

3. Experience Traditional Arts at Hands-On Workshops

For families wanting to get creative, Kanazawa’s cultural workshops are a highlight. Try your hand at gold leaf art, Kaga Yuzen silk painting, or a Japanese calligraphy session. These activities allow children to engage directly with local culture while adults appreciate the centuries-old craftsmanship that defines Kanazawa.

4. Explore the Higashi Chaya Geisha District

This beautifully preserved geisha area feels like a scene from a storybook. Wander the narrow streets, peek into wooden teahouses, and stop by the Shima Geisha House Museum to learn about traditional music and dance. Many cafés and souvenir shops welcome kids, making it easy for families to enjoy the district’s nostalgic charm together.

Traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings and a tree. Few people walk along the cobblestone path under a clear blue sky. — Higashi Chaya ©Kanazawa City,

5. Relax at Omicho Market and Kanazawa Station

Omicho Market is a sensory playground — colourful seafood stalls, sizzling skewers, and friendly vendors. Kids love spotting giant crabs and trying fresh fruit or sushi. For parents, it’s a great spot to sample local flavours. End your day at Kanazawa Station’s Tsuzumi Gate — one of Japan’s most photographed landmarks — and enjoy the fountain clock that greets travellers in both Japanese and English.

Night view of a modern train station with a large, glass roof and wooden structure. Busy street below, with cars and pedestrians. — Kanazawa Station ©Kanazawa City,

6. Easy Day Trips for Families

If you have more time, Kanazawa is the gateway to family-friendly adventures across the Hokuriku region. Visit the gassho-style farmhouses of Shirakawa-go, take a scenic drive to Noto Peninsula for ocean views and festivals, or enjoy Toyama’s glass art museum and park spaces. Each destination combines learning, nature, and play — perfect for curious young travelers.

Creating Memories in Family-Friendly Kanazawa

With its safe streets, rich history, and hands-on culture, Family-Friendly Kanazawa stands out as one of Japan’s most rewarding destinations for parents and kids alike. Whether crafting gold leaf souvenirs, wandering samurai streets, or tasting new foods together, Kanazawa offers an experience that feels both authentic and joyful — a place where families connect with Japan in a meaningful way.