The legends of the Samurai remain apparent everywhere in Kanazawa and immersive experiences that dive deep into the culture are thriving like never before. These attractions have rapidly risen in popularity as visitors from around the world find themselves with enhanced opportunities to experience martial arts, explore former residences and gardens, observe tea ceremonies and indulge in Samurai food culture.
In order to truly submerse oneself in the culture, locals recommend a spectrum of highlights and experiences that transport travelers into another time and space. The ideal starting point is Kanazawa, a castle town during the Edo period (1603-1867) which was famous for its wealth and its abundant rice production. Kanazawa is home to the famed Nagamachi Samurai District which is a world unto itself with traditional earthen walls narrow cobblestone streets and restored homes that reflect the décor and style of this bygone era.
The Nomura Samurai Family Residence remains another top highlight that deepens ones understanding of the curious culture. Replete with artifacts from the ruling Maeda Clan dating back from the 16th Century, the exquisite armor, documents and weapons depict a lifestyle framed out of a need for protection for their world around them. Inside, the delicate craftsmanship from carved ebony and rosewood walls, lush gardens, ancient paintings and tatami mats depict the Samurai lifestyle as it once was.
Should travelers wish to take it one step further, meeting an actual Samurai descendant and training with him is entirely possible. A visit to Masahisa Shijimaya, a sixteenth-generation Samurai and second-dan master of iaido swordsmanship will allow travelers to delve further. Within his 140-year-old workshop lies his extraordinarily extensive collection of Muromachi and Edo period samurai blades upon which he guides visitors through the inscriptions that tell curious tales. There is even an option to enjoy a traditional healthy lunch of fermented foods from the market nearby, or don a Samurai kimono for plenty pf photo ops with replica swords.
Unlocking the last level en route to becoming close to warrior status is to pay a visit to Saishikan for a kendo experience. Kendo is a Japanese marital art that originated in the Edo period with the use of bamboo swords. Saishikan is a kendo dojo created from rich cedar and its master has been practicing kendo for over 50 yars. Through this visit, travelers can suit up in traditional armor including the distinctive facemask and learn authentic kendo techniques.
Ending any Kanazawa experience is best with an immersive Tea Ceremony at the Nishida Family Garden. The Samurai considered tea ceremonies a social accomplishment and today, travelers can take part in preparing the tea themselves and experiencing a meditative experience in the serene surroundings of this lush 400 year old garden.
For information on Kanazawa’s tourism opportunities, please visit https://www.ishikawatravel.jp/en/
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