Off the beaten paths in Kanazawa
Utatsuyama Temple Area
In Utatsuyama Temple Area, there are small temples scattered along narrow streets as they were in the Edo period. Although it is located right next to the Higashi Chaya district, which is crowded with tourists, it is surrounded by silence as if time has stood still.
This temple area was formed at the beginning of the Edo period (early 17th century) when temples located in the castle town were gathered together at the foot of Mt. Utatsu. Visitors can explore the historic temple gates and discover the old stone Buddhas left in the gardens.
The Honda-no-Mori Park and Bijutsu-no Komichi
Honda-no-Mori Park is located on the site of the former residence of the Honda family, the chief vassals of the Kaga Clan in the Edo period. There are now several museums and promenades connecting them. Although the park is located in the middle of the city, it is covered with trees and nature. There is a waterway by the side of the promenade, where the sound of running water echoes in silence. This promenade is called Bijutsu-no-Komichi which means “the promenade of the art”.
Walking down from the top of the hill where the National Crafts Museum, the Museum of History, and so on are located, you will come to the D.T. Suzuki Museum. D. T. Suzuki was the person who introduced Zen Buddhism to the world. The museum offers visitors a chance to experience his ideas and contemplate them.
Take a local train to the suburb area
A local train runs from JR Kanazawa Station to Uchinada Station. Tourists rarely ride this line, which is used mainly by commuters. The train passes through the town where you can catch a glimpse of the people’s daily lives, then it runs into the suburb, and finally, it reaches a seaside town.
In less than only 20 minutes, you will arrive at Uchinada, the terminal station. Another 20 minutes walk will take you to Uchinada Beach. Swimming is prohibited except in midsummer, take a stroll along the quiet beach instead. In the evening, you can watch the sunset over the Sea of Japan.
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