There’s no denying the allure of Japan’s larger cities; however, Takayama and Kanazawa are just as impressive and much less touristy. Both cities are relatively small and accessible on Japan’s bullet train, making them an easy addition to your larger Japan getaway. For reference, we spent eleven days in Japan and visited Tokyo, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Kyoto (in that order). Given their size, we spent less time in Takayama and Kanazawa, finding one to two days in each surprisingly doable.
Despite having this all in common, each city has its own unique character. If faced with the challenging decision to visit Kanazawa or Takayama, keep the following in mind.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a coastal city on the Sea of Japan, known for its preserved cultural heritage, museums, gardens, and fresh seafood.
Where to Stay
Kanazawa UAN – Despite its unassuming exterior, Kanazawa UAN has a refined and modern feel. Upon entering, the receptionist warmly greeted us and provided a welcome beverage to enjoy in their inviting bar/lounge area. By the time our drink was finished, two dinner reservations were secured (thanks to the concierge) and we were on our way. Our room was relatively spacious by Japanese standards and we also enjoyed the locally sourced amenities. Pro tip – skip their breakfast option and grab something from the Omicho Market down the street instead.
Things to Do
Kenrouken
Kenrokuen is classified as one of Japan’s three most beautifully landscaped gardens. Japanese gardens are ranked based on six key attributes: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, water, and broad views. Kenrokuen showcases all six; hence, its name translates to “garden of six attributes.” Visit in the morning or early evening to avoid the midday crowds!
Nagamachi Samurai District
I was pleasantly surprised by the Nagamachi Samurai District. Not that I had low expectations, but I’m not much of a history buff and figured that was the main appeal. The scenic neighborhood dates back to the Edo Period and is filled with well-preserved homes where samurai warriors once lived. As you can imagine, the architecture is spectacular, and the winding, pristine streets connecting the homes are just as picturesque. Stop in a traditional tea house for your caffeine fix and window shop as you stroll.
Kanazawa Castle
After visiting the infamous Kenrokuen Garden, make your way over to Kanazawa Castle. The castle is worth seeing, although there’s no need to spend extensive time here.
Seafood
Kanazawa is known to have some of the best seafood in all of Japan. While I was excited to visit the aforementioned attractions, the city’s seafood really drove our visit. Especially coming out of a three-night stay in Tokyo, which many uphold as the sushi golden standard. I’ll skip to the chase and mention Sushi Yojiro, the best nigiri we had in Kanazawa (although, quite honestly, all of the sushi was incredible). Make a reservation to sit at the sushi counter bar.
Takayama
The quaint city of Takayama is nestled in the Japanese Alps and is best known for its old town, traditional architecture, and local sake breweries.
Where to Stay
Hidatei Hanaougi – I’d be remiss to discuss Japanese accommodations without highlighting the Hidatei Hanaogi ryokan (if you’re unsure what a ryokan is, more on that below). Our one-night stay here was among our favorite experiences in Japan. Honestly, classifying the ryokan as an accommodation feels like a disservice because it’s so much more. Leave your worries at the door (along with your shoes), grab a traditional yukata, head to the onsite onsen, and prepare for an authentic, hospitable Japanese experience.
Things to Do
Explore the Old Town
With a notably small-town feel, Takayama’s old town feels like something out of a storybook. Feudal-aged homes frame either side of narrow, pedestrian-only streets. Local school children weave their way around tourists, whose eyes are pressed firmly to their camera lenses. Boutiques, ceramic shops, woodworking storefronts, and breweries are scattered throughout the historic old town, providing a little something for everyone. It’s a spectacular destination for those who enjoy venturing off the beaten path.
We instantly fell in love with the area and tried to make the most of our twenty-four-hour stay by eating and drinking our way through the quaint old town, admiring the autumnal Japanese Alps views, shopping for souvenirs, and conversing with friendly locals. Overall, Takayama’s rustic, laid-back nature was a welcomed retreat coming from the restless streets of Tokyo.
Stay at a Ryokan
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. While each can vary, expect minimalist rooms with straw matt flooring, fusuma paper screens, and futon mattresses (which are placed on the ground). The hospitality and authenticity of a ryokan stay are unrivaled; a must-experience in Japan. Ryokan stays are also food-focused and typically include multiple-course meals highlighting traditional cuisine. Show up hungry!
Visit a Sake Brewery (or two)
Takayama’s high concentration of sake breweries is rare in Japan, making the city a popular destination for sake connoisseurs. Or even for the sake novices, such as myself. We tried four of the seven breweries and had a lot of fun in the process…
Takayama Matsuri
Ranked as one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals, Takayama Matsuri attracts thousands of spectators from across the globe. The festival occurs twice a year, once in the spring and once in the autumn. Each occurrence centers around a different shrine: the Hie-jinja Shrine in the spring and the Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine in the fall. We missed the autumn festival by just two weeks, although I’d love to experience it in the future.
Visit Shirakawa-go
Another draw of Takayama is the city’s proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go. Shirakawa-go is a quick fifty-minute drive from Takayama, with several bus routes running between the two daily. The picturesque village is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses and is an excellent spot for those interested in photography.
The Final Verdict
This all to say, if faced with the decision to choose between the two cities, I’d personally prioritize Takayama. The Japanese Alps region is remarkable and something I recommend to anyone visiting Japan. Again, it all comes down to your preferences and what you want to experience.
Check out Kanazawa if you’re interested in Japanese history and enjoy an urban setting. If you want to explore the Japanese Alps, experience Japan’s sake culture, and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, Takayama is the better choice for you. You really can’t go wrong either way!
Until next time, Takayama and Kanazawa.