Kanazawa

Kanazawa is the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Located on the western coast of Honshu along the Sea of Japan, it is a major regional city and cultural center with an estimated population of roughly half a million. Historically, Kanazawa developed as the seat of Kaga Domain under the Maeda clan during the Edo period, amassing wealth through rice production and trade. The city preserved a distinctive urban fabric from that era, including samurai and merchant districts.

Notable sites include Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three great gardens, located beside Kanazawa Castle. The Nagamachi Samurai District preserves lanes and earthen walls, while the Higashi Chaya District retains historic teahouses and crafts shops. The city also hosts modern institutions such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Kanazawa is renowned for traditional crafts. It is a leading producer of gold leaf, and is known for Kutani porcelain and Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing. These crafts continue to influence local culture, cuisine, and tourism.

Cultural attractions are complemented by museums and events, including the Hyakumangoku Festival that commemorates the Maeda era. The city is a destination for food lovers as well, offering seafood from the Sea of Japan and regional specialties.

Transportation and accessibility are strong points. Kanazawa Station is a major hub served by JR lines and the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which connects to Tokyo, and by Komatsu Airport. Kanazawa University is a major local educational institution.