Kanazawa Castle Park is a large park in the center of Kanazawa, easily accessible from various directions. The most popular entrance is through the Ishikawa-mon Gate, just a few meters from Kenrokuen Garden.
You can reach the park via the Kanazawa Loop Bus, which takes about 20 minutes from Kanazawa Station for 210 yen. Alternatively, Hokutetsu buses frequently run to Kenrokuen in 15 minutes, also costing 210 yen. JR buses from Kanazawa Station are another option and are covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
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Kanazawa Castle
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1 of 21 in Kanazawa
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5.0
(2 reviews)
Kanazawa Castle (金沢城, Kanazawajō) was once the seat of the powerful Maeda Clan, rulers of the Kaga domain, from 1583 until the end of the Edo Period. Though the castle endured numerous fires, including the devastating blaze in 1881, many key structures have been preserved, such as the Ishikawa-mon Gate, which offers a direct view of the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden. After being occupied by Kanazawa University for many years, recent restoration efforts have revitalized the castle, bringing it closer to its original grandeur.
Among the most notable restored features are the Gojukken Nagaya Storehouse, the Hishi and Tsuzuki Yagura turrets, and several gates, including Kahoku-mon and Nezumita-mon. These reconstructed buildings offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese carpentry and provide valuable context about the castle's history. The Gyokuseninmaru Garden, a serene space with a reflective pond, has also been lovingly restored and is now open to the public free of charge, offering visitors a peaceful escape amidst the castle's historic grounds.
Hours and Fees
Kanazawa Castle
- Opening hours
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7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (March 1 to October 15)
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (October 16 through February)
- Closed
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No closing days
- Entrance fee
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Free
Gojukken Nagaya Storehouse and Turrets
- Opening hours
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9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last admission 4:00 PM)
- Closed
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No closing days
- Entrance fee
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320 yen (covered by the Kenrokuen Plus One Ticket)
Kahoku-mon Gate and Nezumita-mon Gate
- Opening hours
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9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM)
- Closed
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No closing days
- Entrance fee
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Free
Getting there
Google MapsResources
English
Kanazawa Castle
Official website
Japanese
Kanazawa Castle
Official website
Events
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1Kaga-tobi Dezomeshiki FestivalAcrobatics atop ladders
Nearby
Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
I recently visited Kanazawa Castle, and it was an amazing experience! The castle grounds are beautifully maintained, with impressive stone walls and stunning wooden gates. Walking through the park felt so peaceful, especially with the cherry blossoms in bloom. The views from the turrets were fantastic, offering a great perspective of Kanazawa. It’s a perfect spot for history lovers and anyone who enjoys scenic walks. Highly recommend visiting!
5 months ago — by Emma -
5/5 - Excellent
Kanazawa Castle is a beautiful and historic site that offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. The castle itself is impressive, with its well-preserved structures and stunning grounds. The surrounding park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially during cherry blossom season. I loved how the castle has been carefully restored, maintaining its traditional features while offering modern amenities. The views from the top are breathtaking, providing a great perspective of the city. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful spot to relax, Kanazawa Castle is definitely worth a visit!
5 months ago — by Wesley
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