2 Days in Kanazawa Itinerary: How I Spent 48 Hours in Kanazawa 2026

One of my absolute favorite cities in Japan definitely has to be Kanazawa, and for so many reasons. 

It is way less popular and way less touristy than the famous places like Kyoto, Tokyo, or Osaka. Especially after exploring all of those, I thought Kanazawa was such a nice change of pace. I really enjoyed the calmer, more grounded vibe here.

Kanazawa is famous for its beautiful castle and gardens, but it’s also known for having several different geisha and samurai districts. So, if you’re into traditional villages with old architecture and small cobblestone walkways, this is 100% the spot for you.

I spent quite a few days in Kanazawa, and I realized that because it’s not quite as popular, there is also less information out there for planning. 

I definitely felt that when I was trying to organize my own trip! So, needless to say, I’m putting together my own 2 days in Kanazawa itinerary to help you guys out with my firsthand tips and experience so you can plan your own trip without the guesswork.

2 Days in Kanazawa Itinerary – My Experience

I’m putting together this 2 days in Kanazawa itinerary because that is what most people have asked me for after my trip. 

I actually spent a full 3 days there, which is actually pretty helpful because now I can pack my highlights into two days and cut out the things that I didn’t think were worth it.

When I was in Kanazawa, I made sure to base myself very centrally because one thing that was amazing about this city is how walkable it was. I could literally explore the whole time only on foot! I never had to take public transportation, which is right up my alley. I think the furthest I ever walked was 20–30 minutes from my hotel, which is just great.

I definitely took my time in Kanazawa exploring the different geisha and samurai districts. I’m a total sucker for Japanese architecture, so I really enjoyed those. Traditional Japanese houses and cobblestone alleys? Sign me up.

However, I also loved the Kanazawa Castle Park and the Kenroku-en garden next to it. They are so beautiful; definitely one of the most stunning gardens I’ve been to in Japan. I was even there during the fall foliage, which made it extra beautiful.

One last experience I had which I really want to mention here: I did a sake tasting in Kanazawa and wow, do I hate sake. I couldn’t even finish it. You might as well sit me down for a vodka tasting, ugh sorry!

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Kanazawa

Location Matters

When you book your hotel, make sure to pick a place that’s centrally located—ideally in Kamiomicho. That’s where I stayed, and it was perfect because I could literally walk to all the attractions and restaurants. Being central made the whole experience so much easier.

Get an eSIM (I Usually Go For Sim Local)

I’m always so dependent on having internet to navigate around the city, look up restaurants, or call Ubers. I always make sure I have data, and for that, I use Sim Local. They’re amazing and have never let me down. (Sign up here and use my discount code GIRLONAZEBRA to save some money!)

Pick the right time of year

I visited Kanazawa in the fall—late November, to be exact—and honestly, it was perfect. The temperatures were mild (definitely sweater weather, but not freezing), and the fall foliage was just so beautiful. Seeing the city covered in those autumn colors was a total highlight.

Take it slow

Kanazawa is definitely less about “ticking off attractions” and more about the atmosphere. I spent hours just exploring and wandering around cool areas, popping into random shops or local restaurants. Don’t rush it; the magic is in the wandering.

Walkable

It’s definitely one of the most walkable cities in Japan I have been to. This was a huge plus for me, I didn’t feel the need for public transportation at all. If you like seeing a city on foot, you’re going to love it here.

2 Day Kanazawa Itinerary

Day 1: Kanazawa Catle, Kenroku-en & Nagamachi Samurai District

Kanazawa Castle

I started the very first morning of my first day by heading immediately over to Kanazawa Castle. I’m a little bit of a nerd when it comes to anything Japanese architecture, and that includes castles for sure. This one is definitely one of my favorites because it’s so majestic, with these huge walls and moats and a beautiful park wrapping all around it.

I picked up a classic 7-Eleven breakfast that morning (the iconic egg sandwich and a coffee), took it with me, and had it on a bench in the park. It was the perfect way to start, just wandering around and soaking in the views of the castle. 

I did go inside and paid about $6 USD for the ticket, but honestly, I didn’t think it was worth it or even necessary (the inside of Osaka Castle is way better). Just seeing the castle from the outside is well worth the trip on its own!

Kenroku-en (Kanazawa Gardens)

One of my absolute highlights in Kanazawa was the Kenroku-en Gardens. I literally just walked over from the castle, they’ve built a huge bridge going straight from the castle gate to the gardens, which is super handy.

Funny enough, I didn’t even know about this garden before I rocked up at the castle, and wow, it is so beautiful! I spent hours wandering around taking pictures because it’s just so peaceful. 

One funny thing I learned while I was there: they put up these ropes over all the trees to catch the snow so the branches don’t break. That’s how much they love their trees here!

Nagamachi Samurai District

The last stop on my first day was the Nagamachi Samurai District, which is literally right next to the castle park. I told you everything is super close and within walking distance! 

I think this was actually my favorite out of all the traditional areas. It has beautiful houses and cobblestone walkways.

I even went inside the Nomura Samurai Family Residence, which is an old, original samurai house. It is stunning, especially the garden inside. Entrance only cost me a few dollars, and I thought it was definitely worth taking a look inside. 

One last little tip: if you’re into good coffee, I had my absolute favorite coffee in town at Moron Coffee right in that area. It’s the perfect spot for a quick caffeine break!

Day 2: Omicho Market, Higashi Chaya District & Sake Tasting

Omicho Market

The more time I spent in Japan, the more I got used to having fish and sushi for breakfast. Omicho Market is a massive mix of fresh fish, produce, and street food stalls, and since the fish is freshest in the morning, it just makes the most sense to have sushi for breakfast.

Yes, I had sashimi at 9:00 AM. It was delicious, sue me! But I didn’t stop there. I also put away some amazing takoyaki, deep-fried croquettes, and Noto Beef. All of it was incredible. If you’re happy to get going early in the morning, I definitely recommend hitting this market.

Higashi Chaya District

The Higashi Chaya district is probably the most popular out of all the traditional areas in Kanazawa. I mentioned earlier that I actually preferred the samurai district because it’s a bit more “under the radar,” but this one is still cool. Just be warned: it’s definitely the most touristy spot in the whole city.

I really liked wandering the cobblestone streets and popping into all the little boutique shops. Since Kanazawa is famous for gold leaf production, you’ll see it everywhere, usually stuck onto soft-serve ice cream. Obviously, I had to get it for the gimmick, but spoiler alert: it’s totally not worth the extra money, haha!

Join a Sake Tasting

Even though I absolutely hated this, I would still say it’s something you should try. 

I hadn’t really had much sake at that point, so I figured a tasting at Fukumitsuya Higashi was a great idea. It’s a super cool sake bar right in the Higashi Chaya District, and the staff were lovely, they explained all the different types to us which was great.

The problem was, I honestly couldn’t even finish it. I felt so bad, but I really just did not like the taste at all. I just thought it was gross, but loads of other people there seemed to be loving it, so you should definitely give it a go and see for yourself!

Where to Stay in Kanazawa Japan

When it comes to where to stay in Kanazawa, I really don’t want to make this more difficult for you than it needs to be. Kanazawa is way smaller than somewhere like Tokyo, so the specific neighborhood doesn’t matter nearly as much as just making sure you’re staying somewhere central.

I stayed in an area called Kamiomicho, which is basically the heart of the city center, and it was perfect. 

I had the Omicho Market right next to my hotel (they have amazing sushi there, by the way) and I could walk from my hotel to the train station, the castle, and all those traditional geisha and samurai districts. 

In my entire time in Kanazawa, I didn’t have to use public transport or a taxi once, which is basically the dream scenario, isn’t it?

Book Here: Hotel Kanazawa Zouchi

Book Here: UAN Kanazawa

FAQs About Kanazawa 2 Day Itinerary

How to spend two days in Kanazawa?

Kanazawa is super easy to explore and two days is a great amount of time to see the best bits. Make sure to visit the Nagamachi Samurai District and Higashi Chaya District, which are both beautiful traditional areas. You definitely can’t miss the Kanazawa Castle and Omicho Market for all the good food!

What are the best things to do in Kanazawa Japan?

I think my personal favorite thing I did was visiting the Kanazawa Castle and the Kenroku-en Gardens. They were absolutely beautiful and easily the most stunning Japanese garden I’ve visited in my whole time in Japan.

Is Kanazawa worth visiting?

100%, Kanazawa is worth visiting. I loved exploring a city that’s less touristy and less busy than Kyoto or Tokyo. It definitely felt like I got off the “beaten tourist path.” I know it’s not necessarily a “hidden gem” anymore, but it’s still a very different, more authentic experience compared to the main hubs.

What is the best 1 day Kanazawa Itinerary?

If I only had one day in Kanazawa, I would for sure visit Omicho Market in the morning (for that 9am sushi!), then head to Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Gardens. I’d finish the day off with a sake tasting in Higashi Chaya District, even if you end up hating it like I did, it’s still the vibe!

Final Thoughts on How to Spend 2 Days in Kanazawa

I think Kanazawa is one of the best cities in Japan to visit if you want to go somewhere that’s less packed with tourists but still super easy to get to and navigate. I had the most amazing time here!

While I wouldn’t say it’s a “must visit” in the sense that I’d pick it over Tokyo or Kyoto for a first-timer, I still think that if you have the time to add it to your itinerary and you’re the type of person who’s interested in a calmer, more authentic side of Japan, then this is a super cool spot to visit.

I hope my little 2 days in Kanazawa itinerary gave you a rough idea of what there is to do and how to spend your 48 hours there. Of course, this is only my own personal itinerary and what I loved, so use this as inspiration to make your own adventure out of it!

Check Out My Other Kanazawa Guides

How Many Days in Kanazawa: A Day to Day Guide

The Best Time to Visit Kanazawa: My Favorite Season of the Year

Best Cafes in Kanazawa: My Favorite Coffee Shops in Kanazawa

Best Food in Kanazawa: My Number One Restaurants in Kanazawa

Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

2 Days in Kanazawa Itinerary: How I Spent 48 Hours in Kanazawa

Where to Stay in Kanazawa: My Favorite Areas & Hotels I Stayed At

Things to Do in Kanazawa: Activities in Kanazawa I Enjoyed the Most

Check Out My Other Japan Travel Guides

Japan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Japan

Best eSIM for Japan: My Honest Comparison

Is Japan Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

Is Japan Expensive to Visit? Japan Budget Guide

7 Days in Japan Itinerary: How I Spent 1 Week in Japan