When to Visit Kanazawa: 5 Must-See Seasons and Festivals You Can't Miss

Kanazawa, a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offers unique experiences throughout the year. Whether you’re drawn to the serene landscapes, the festive atmosphere, or the cultural heritage, knowing the best seasons and festivals to visit can make your trip unforgettable. Here, we’ll explore five must-see seasons and festivals that will help you plan your ideal visit to Kanazawa.

1. Spring: Cherry Blossoms and Traditional Beauty

Spring in Kanazawa is a time of transformation as the city comes to life with vibrant cherry blossoms. One of the most iconic spring experiences is visiting Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most famous gardens, which becomes a sea of delicate pink as cherry trees bloom. The cherry blossoms in Kanazawa typically reach their peak around early April, offering the perfect backdrop for enjoying the city’s tranquil atmosphere.

Aside from cherry blossoms, spring is also the season for Kanazawa’s Hakuichi Gold Leaf Festival. Kanazawa is famous for its gold leaf, and the festival celebrates this unique cultural element with various gold-leaf-themed activities, performances, and displays. Visitors can also try their hand at applying gold leaf to various items, offering a memorable souvenir to take home.

Weather tip: Temperatures are mild in spring, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), making it a comfortable time to explore outdoor attractions.

2. Summer: Festivals and Fireworks

Summer in Kanazawa is a season full of energy, with many festivals bringing the streets to life. One of the highlights is the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri (Kanazawa 100,000 Stone Festival), held every year in early June. This festival commemorates the arrival of the first lord of the Maeda Clan to Kanazawa. The streets are filled with processions, dances, and lively parades, creating an exciting atmosphere throughout the city.

Summer fireworks in Kanazawa are another treat. The Kanazawa Fireworks Festival, held in August, is a grand display that lights up the night sky. Visitors can enjoy the fireworks along the Saigawa River, surrounded by beautiful views of the city. The summer months are also ideal for exploring Kanazawa’s traditional tea houses, as the festivals often feature performances of Noh and other cultural arts.

Weather tip: Summer in Kanazawa can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F). Make sure to stay hydrated and dress accordingly.

3. Autumn: Gorgeous Fall Foliage and Cultural Immersion

Autumn in Kanazawa is an enchanting season, with the city’s parks, temples, and shrines bathed in the warm glow of fall foliage. Kenrokuen Garden again takes center stage, as the autumn leaves paint the garden in stunning shades of red, orange, and gold. The garden is particularly beautiful in November when the colors are at their peak.

The Kanazawa Autumn Festival, usually held in early October, is a perfect way to experience the cultural side of the season. This festival features traditional music, dance, and rituals that honor the changing seasons. It’s a celebration of nature’s beauty and a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local community.

For those interested in food, autumn is also a great time to explore the city’s rich culinary traditions. Kanazawa’s fall cuisine includes Kani (crab) and Kabu (radish), both of which are harvested in the autumn months and featured in many local dishes.

Weather tip: Autumn offers cool, crisp air, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). It’s an excellent time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

4. Winter: Snowy Landscapes and Traditional Winter Culture

Winter in Kanazawa is magical, especially if you’re a fan of snow. The city experiences heavy snowfall, transforming its streets and gardens into winter wonderlands. Kenrokuen Garden, with its snow-covered trees and traditional yukimidōri (snow-viewing structures), offers a serene and almost otherworldly experience in winter. The garden’s snow-covered landscape is a unique sight that can’t be found in other seasons.

Winter also marks the season for the Kanazawa Snow Festival, where the city celebrates the snowy season with a series of events, including ice sculpting exhibitions and outdoor performances. This is a great time to enjoy the winter delicacies Kanazawa is known for, such as Nabe (hot pot) and Fugu (pufferfish).

Weather tip: Winter temperatures can drop to -2°C (28°F) or lower, so make sure to bundle up and prepare for potential snowstorms.

5. Year-Round: Unique Experiences and Culture

While each season offers its unique charm, there are several cultural experiences in Kanazawa that you can enjoy year-round. These include visiting the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, where you can explore cutting-edge exhibitions, or experiencing traditional tea ceremonies at one of the city’s historic tea houses.

In addition to cultural experiences, Kanazawa is famous for its gold leaf production, and year-round, visitors can participate in hands-on workshops to create their own gold-leaf art. These workshops are great opportunities for those who want to take home a special memento of their time in Kanazawa.

Weather tip: Kanazawa is a city that offers something for every season, and visiting year-round ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching experiences.