Higashi Chaya District

Tourist attraction

★ 4.9 (25K+ reviews) • 73K+ booked

Step into the enchanting world of Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa's largest and most captivating chaya district. Nestled along the serene Asano River, this beautifully preserved historical area offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural past. Established in 1820, it was once an exclusive entertainment hub for wealthy merchants and nobility. Today, the district thrives as a treasure trove of cultural heritage, where the elegance of geisha performances and the charm of traditional teahouses come alive. Wander through the timeless streets lined with traditional wooden buildings and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions that make this unique destination a must-visit for any traveler.

1 Chome Higashiyama, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0831, Japan

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

4.9 /5

25K+ reviews

Read all reviews

Klook User

11 Sep

Katie was amazing. She was able to take us through Kanazawa and really show us the culture of the city. My family and I enjoyed the knowledge and history of the geisha district, Samurai residences, Omicho Market. Katie shared a croquette location at the market that i will NEVER forget!! Also, don't forget the gold leaf ice cream!

WATANABE *****

11 Sep

The hotel's location in front of the station was very convenient. We stayed as a family of three with a breakfast-included plan. The room size was just right, and the breakfast was delicious. I will definitely choose this hotel again when I go to Kanazawa.

hsu *******

11 Sep

If you're traveling in the Hokuriku region and prefer not to drive, a JR PASS is a great option for independent travel. You can choose to stay in one city for several nights, or use your JR PASS to take the Shinkansen for day trips to various cities in the Hokuriku area, which is very cost-effective. I visited Kanazawa, Shin-Takaoka, Takaoka, Amaharashi, Himi, Toyama, Unazuki Onsen, and Komatsu over four days, and it was very convenient.

류 **

10 Sep

The JR Hokuriku Arch Pass offers unlimited rides for one week on the Haruka Airport Express, Shinkansen, and Tokyo JR trains when traveling from Osaka Kansai Airport to the Hokuriku area and Tokyo. I recommend this pass if you plan to travel through Osaka and Tokyo, as well as the Hokuriku region (Toyama, Kanazawa, Nagano, Karuizawa, etc.) located in between. It's a great value for the price. A recommended route is Kansai Airport - Osaka - Kyoto - Kanazawa - Toyama - Nagano - Karuizawa - Tokyo.

Klook User

9 Sep

I highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Kanazawa. Everything was fantastic, and Yasushi was truly excellent – possibly the best guide I've ever had on a tour.

Oana ********

7 Sep

went only for a overnight trip to kanawaza and kikunoya is perfect for a short stay. very close to almost the touristy places. staff very friendly!

Lin *****

7 Sep

The lobby 'staff' were very entertaining. After the initial shock, it felt like a pleasant surprise. The room was comfortable, well-equipped, and perfectly located.

박 **

1 Sep

I think I spent about 10 times the amount on the Shinkansen to Kanazawa, Fukui, and Toyama over 4 days. The Hokuriku Rail Pass is essential for traveling in the Hokuriku region. Even though the distances were far, the Shinkansen, which covers an hour's distance in 20 minutes, made travel time much shorter.

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Shima Teahouse

Step back in time at the Shima Teahouse, a beautifully preserved gem in the heart of Kanazawa's Higashi Chaya District. This former geisha house, now a captivating museum, invites you to explore its enchanting rooms where geisha once performed. Discover the kitchen and various instruments that tell the story of this traditional art form, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, Shima Teahouse promises an unforgettable journey into the elegance of Japan's cultural heritage.

Kaikaro Teahouse

Immerse yourself in the elegance of traditional Japanese hospitality at Kaikaro Teahouse, one of the few remaining operational teahouses in Kanazawa. With its doors open to the public, Kaikaro offers a unique experience where you can enjoy a delightful tea service as part of your visit. The ambiance of this historic venue, coupled with the chance to witness the grace of geisha performances, makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic cultural experience. Let Kaikaro Teahouse transport you to a world of refined beauty and timeless tradition.

Hakuza Gold Leaf Store

Discover the shimmering world of Kanazawa's gold leaf craftsmanship at the Hakuza Gold Leaf Store. This exquisite store offers a dazzling array of gold leaf products, perfect for those looking to take home a piece of Kanazawa's rich heritage. The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the breathtaking tea ceremony room, entirely adorned in gold leaf, showcasing the opulence and meticulous artistry of the region. Whether you're shopping for souvenirs or simply marveling at the craftsmanship, Hakuza Gold Leaf Store is a golden opportunity not to be missed.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Higashi Chaya District is a living testament to the Edo Period's rich cultural heritage, where chaya districts thrived as vibrant centers of entertainment. The district's beautifully preserved architecture and traditional practices offer a fascinating glimpse into Japan's past, making it an essential stop for history buffs.

Local Cuisine

While wandering through Higashi Chaya District, treat your taste buds to Kanazawa's culinary treasures. Delight in local specialties like fresh seafood, traditional sweets such as kintsuba, and dishes featuring the region's famous gold leaf. Don't miss the luxurious experience of tasting gold leaf ice cream, a unique and flavorful indulgence.

Cultural Significance

Higashi Chaya District is one of the few remaining geisha districts in Japan, where the enchanting art of geisha entertainment is still alive. Recognized as a Japanese cultural asset, the district provides a rare opportunity to witness traditional performances and enjoy the melodic sounds of shamisen and drums.

Gold Leaf Heritage

Kanazawa is celebrated for producing 99% of Japan's gold leaf, a craft that involves over 20 meticulous steps. Visitors can delve into this fascinating art at the Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum, which features a collection of gold-beating tools and stunning artifacts, offering a deeper appreciation of this shimmering tradition.

Higashi Chaya District