Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
Kanazawa (金沢市; -shi) is the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan. Kanazawa 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 name “Kanazawa” (金沢), which literally means “marsh of gold”, is said to derive from the legend of the peasant Imohori Togoro (lit. “Togoro Potato-digger”), who was digging for potatoes when flakes of gold washed up. The well in the grounds of Kenrokuen known as ‘Kinjo Reitaku’ （金城麗澤）was recreated by the Maeda lords to acknowledge these roots.
Kanazawa’s importance grew in the 15th century when the powerful and militant Ikko sect established its new headquarters there after being chased out of Kyoto by the monks of Mt.Hiei.
During the Edo Period, Kanazawa was the seat of the Maeda clan, the second most powerful clan after the Tokugawa in terms of rice production and fief size. Accordingly, Kanazawa grew to become a town of great cultural achievements, rivaling Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo).
Today Kanazawa is one of Japan’s lesser known cities although it is one of the most beautiful. The attractions you can expect from Kanazawa ranges from it’s famous Kenroken garden to ancient samurai historical sites as well as geisha districts.
How to get to Kanazawa?
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Source: Japan Guide
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