Wondering where to stay in Kanazawa on your next trip to Japan? Find out the best areas and accommodation options below.
Kanazawa is slowly getting more attention, especially with the New Golden Route and the Hokuriku Shinkansen now connecting Kanazawa and Tokyo. And rightfully so! With well-preserved geisha districts, samurai houses, traditional crafts and one of Japan’s most beautiful landscaped gardens, Kanazawa is a great addition to any Japan itinerary.
With so much to see and do, you’ll want to allocate at least a few days in Kanazawa. But where should you stay? After having visited Kanazawa multiple times over the years, I’ve found some great places to stay (and the best areas to book a hotel!).
If you’re unsure of where to stay in Kanazawa, then this guide has you covered. I’ve broken down the best areas, including what each district has to offer, accommodation recommendations, and nearby attractions.
If you’ve not got time to read the full guide, here is a quick overview of my top ryokans and hotels in Kanazawa:
If you’re staying in Kanazawa for a few days, staying in Downtown Kanazawa is your best option. There are some great modern hotels here, lots of restaurants and bars nearby, and it’s within walking distance of the majority of main sights in the city. I’ve stayed here multiple times and never regretted it.
Another great area is Higashi Chaya Geisha District, which is the perfect choice if you’re looking for something a bit more traditional. As this is one of Kanazawa’s three Geisha Districts, you’ll be able to find some ryokans (Japanese inns) here.
If you’re only planning to stay in Kanazawa for one night or are planning to travel to other areas near Kanazawa during your stay, booking a hotel in the Station Area would be a good option. As Kanazawa doesn’t have a metro, it can be a bit annoying getting to Kanazawa Station, especially with luggage.
Don’t forget to check out our 2-day Kanazawa itinerary for our recommended route.
As Kanazawa does not have a metro, you will have to get a bus or taxi to get to your hotel from the station (unless you’re staying near the station). Go Taxi is a handy app to get taxis in Japan, but you can also head to the taxi rank just outside the station. Kanazawa also has a bus line that loops around the city, which also stops at Kanazawa Station.
Higashi Chaya Geisha District
Best for first-time visitors and convenience
Downtown Kanazawa is arguably the best place to stay in Kanazawa for first-time visitors. I’ve stayed here multiple times, and it’s always been a great choice.
The Korinbo and Katamachi areas are Kanazawa’s main dining, shopping, and entertainment district. There’s no shortage of restaurants to choose from, so you’ll have plenty of dining options, especially if you want to sample the local cuisine.
Basing yourself in this area will put you within walking distance from Omicho Market, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Oyama Shrine, and Gyokusenin Maru Garden, which lead into the Kanazawa Castle Area and Kenroku-en. You’ll also be very close to Nagamachi, Kanazawa’s Samurai District.
Downside: The Korinbo and Katamachi areas can feel more crowded and touristy, especially at night. I’ve added accommodations north of the hotspots, which are located in a quieter area.
Nagamachi, Kanazawa’s Samurai District
Here are my top picks for places to stay in Downtown Kanazawa:
Minn Kanazawa is located on one of the main roads, within walking distance of some of the main sights. You can find a bus stop just outside the hotel, making it easy to get around the city. Kanazawa is very walkable, so if you plan your days accordingly, you won’t even really need to use the bus much.
We stayed in the Double Room, which was so much bigger than expected. The bed was raised on a platform and was incredibly comfortable, plus we had more than enough room to open both our suitcases comfortably. The rooms are modern with some small traditional Japanese touches. Some of the rooms even come with a small tatami area.
It’s also a great option for families or groups, as the hotel offers rooms that can sleep up to 6 people. They also offer the option of connecting rooms for groups that want more privacy.
One of the biggest advantages of this hotel is the free laundry room. While most hotels charge you a few hundred yen for washing and drying, Minn Kanazawa lets you do it for free. Some of the rooms even come with a built-in washing machine, so you don’t even have to leave your room.
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During my second visit to Kanazawa, I stayed in Onyado Nono Kanazawa. The biggest selling point for this lovely hotel is the traditional touches (tatami floors in the rooms) and the on-site onsen. Guests can use all baths for free, including an indoor hot spring bath with city views, an open-air bath, a dry sauna and an ice bath.
The hotel offers lots of freebies, including free ramen and ice cream at night and free Yakult in the morning. Near the entrance of the onsen, you can also find a manga library. You’re free to borrow books and bring them back to your room during your stay.
There are various rooms to choose from, most of which sleep two to four people. Onyado Nono Kanazawa also offers a Japanese and Western breakfast buffet where you can try local specialities and other freshly-made egg dishes.
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Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa sits on the same street as the previously mentioned hotels, giving you easy access to most of the sights in the city. With spacious rooms, laundry facilities, and a 24-hour front desk, this hotel is a great option for staying in the Downtown area.
Guests staying at Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa can also take advantage of the hotel’s public bath. Located on the top floor, you’ll get panoramic city views as you relax. You can also indulge in local Japanese specialities at the on-site restaurant.
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UAN Kanazawa is set in a beautiful building and offers stylish rooms, some of which feature a terrace. Every guest room is also equipped with a bath so you can relax after a long day of exploring.
Japanese tea is available 24/7, and you can indulge in free soba noodles between 9 PM and 11 PM. UAN Kanazawa also offers sake tasting sessions and workshops. There’s even a charming reading space, where you’ll find various art books and novels.
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Best for a traditional atmosphere and staying in a ryokan
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and history, the Higashi Chaya Geisha District is the best place to stay in Kanazawa. Kanazawa is home to three well-preserved Geisha districts, but Higashi Chaya is the largest and offers the best accommodation.
When wandering around this area in the evening, you may hear geishas singing or playing the shamisen. As there are so many traditional houses in this area, it’s the perfect place for staying in a traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan.
The bus route that loops around Kanazawa also stops in Higashi Chaya District, and you can get to Downtown Kanazawa on foot in around 30 minutes. In the area itself, the Tokuda Shusei Kinenkan Museum and Utasu Shrine are a must-visit for those looking to learn more about the local culture.
Utatsuyama Park is just a short walk away if you want to spend time in nature, or you can hop over the river to explore the Kazuemachi Chaya District (which also has its fair share of cultural attractions).
Downside: This area of Kanazawa can be more expensive as it’s a popular place to stay. Accommodation often needs to be booked in advance, and there may be fewer options to choose from during peak season.
Here are the best places to stay in Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya Geisha District:
Maki No Oto Kanazawa offers an adults-only experience where guests can experience traditional Japanese cuisine and relax in spacious Western and Japanese-style rooms. You can enjoy comfortable Western beds alongside more Japanese features like tatami floors.
The location is unbeatable, as this stunning ryokan sits in the middle of the geisha district. While there is no onsen at this property, every room does have a regular bath.
While staying in Maki No Oto Kanazawa, you’ll get pyjamas, a bathrobe, towels, and hair products all included in your stay. This property also offers extended check-out (for an additional charge), allowing you to make the most of your time in Kanazawa.
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Located on a small hill looking out over the rest of the Geisha district, Yamanoo is one of the best ryokans in Kanazawa. The building is incredibly well preserved and has stunning views over the old town.
The beautiful traditional tatami floor rooms come with futon beds and yukata garments to wear. It’s the ultimate ryokan stay, with a private onsen in each room and a traditional kaiseki dinner made with local and seasonal ingredients.
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Kototoki is another great option in the Higashi Chaya Geisha District. You’ll be staying in a 160-year-old teahouse, making it one of the best authentic and traditional stays in this area. With tatami floors, futon beds and sliding doors, this ryokan is the real deal. Better yet, the owners will introduce you to the local folk art, culture, and shops.
Although there is no kitchen space, there are plenty of amenities at Kototoki. This includes an electric kettle, free WiFi, heating, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. You’ll also be offered eco-friendly toiletries, so you’ll have everything you could need.
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If you would rather stay in a hotel instead of a ryokan but still want to benefit from this location, there’s Hotel Rashiku Kanazawa. This hotel offers several rooms that sleep two people, making it a good option for couples. There are plenty of amenities too, including a refrigerator, TV, WiFi, and air conditioning. An Asian breakfast is also available.
Although there’s no restaurant on site, there are plenty of traditional dining options nearby, where you can indulge in fresh Japanese cuisine (especially seafood). Utasu Shrine and the Tokuda Shusei Kinenkan Museum are also just a short walk away.
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Best for public transport & getting around Kanazawa
If you’re looking to travel around Kanazawa and the surrounding area, then the Station Area is a great place to stay. As the name suggests, this is where Kanazawa Station is located, which is likely how you’ll arrive in the city (unless you’re planning to hire a car).
Likewise, Kanazawa Station offers plenty of day trip opportunities if you plan to use this historic city as a base. Tokyo is only a 2.5-hour train ride away, while Osaka and Kyoto can be reached in two hours or less. There are multiple bus routes serving nearby destinations as well.
You’ll be able to find countless restaurants near the station. Plus, Kanazawa Forus and Kanazawa Hyakubangai offer endless shopping opportunities, and there’s a tourist information centre inside the station where you can learn about the city and what there is to do here.
Downside: The Station Area can be very busy, with people constantly arriving and departing from Kanazawa. You may also find that this part of the city doesn’t feel as authentic, and there aren’t many major tourist attractions in the vicinity.
Here are the best stays in the Kanazawa Station Area:
Dormy Inn Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring is one of the best hotels in the Station Area. As the name suggests, this place offers indoor hot springs and a sauna, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. You can even opt for a massage!
There’s also an on-site restaurant at the hotel, which only serves breakfast, but free ramen noodles are available after 9:30 PM. Additional facilities include a water dispenser, vending machines, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry services.
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Just a 7-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, you’ll find Super Hotel Premier Kanazawaeki Higashiguchi. Offering a buffet breakfast, coin laundry facilities, and cosy rooms, it’s extremely affordable considering the number of available amenities.
The highlight of staying at this hotel has to be its hot springs baths – there’s even a ladies-only room! Super Hotel Premier Kanazawaeki Higashiguchi also offers a dinner-collaboration plan with a popular local restaurant, which serves local sake, seafood, and noto beef.
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Best for sightseeing and museums
Lastly, staying near the Kanazawa Castle area is another great choice. Located close to the Downtown area, this part of the city is home to one of Kanazawa’s key historic attractions: Kanazawa Castle Park.
Kanazawa was an important castle town dating back to the late 1500s, so there’s a lot of history in this area. The samurai lived in the surrounding neighbourhoods to defend the castle, and many of these neighbourhoods are still intact today.
As well as Kanazawa Castle Park itself, there’s Kenroku-en Garden, which is one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. This part of the city is also home to the Museum District, where you’ll find the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of History, Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and the D.T. Suzuki Museum, among others.
As there’s so much to see and do, the Kanazawa Castle area is perfect for sightseeing. It’s also located between Downtown and the Higashi Chaya Geisha District, with both being within walking distance. Due to Kanazawa Castle Park’s central location, there are plenty of bus links in the surrounding area too, making it easy for people to travel around the city.
Downsides: There tend to be fewer accommodation options in this part of Kanazawa. Some of the hotels are also quite pricey, so just be mindful of that.
Here are the best hotels in the Kanazawa Castle Area:
HOTEL AO Kanazawa has some beautifully stylish rooms, some even offer a private bath/sauna. From the Japanese-style room with tatami floors to the more modern rooms, you’ll have a great stay here. You can also take advantage of the free mini bar, which stocks craft beer, fruit juice, and more.
Not only are the rooms modern and spacious, but HOTEL AO Kanazawa boasts an on-site restaurant. Here, you can enjoy traditional dishes and sake. There’s also a sushi restaurant at this hotel, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.
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Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku is located right next to Kanazawa Castle Park. It’s also just a short walk from Kenroku-en Garden, making it a great base for exploring the city.
While staying at Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku, you can relax in the hotel’s natural hot springs. There’s a men’s bath and a women’s bath as well as a sauna and a cold bath. Afterwards, you can enjoy a post-bath ice cream and a drink!
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If you don’t mind not having an onsen, UAN Kanazawa is a great spot. Free soba noodles are served every night from 9 PM to 11 PM, and Japanese sweets are available at any time. This hotel also offers Japanese tea and a selection of Kanazawa sake if you really want to embrace the culture.
Another highlight of staying here is that UAN Kanazawa offers traditional craft workshops. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who want to explore the city on two wheels.
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As you can see, the historic city of Kanazawa is a must-visit for those exploring Japan. You can immerse yourself in the local culture, appreciate the architecture, or simply enjoy the city’s fantastic food and nightlife scene.
Deciding on the best place to stay in Kanazawa will all depend on what you want from your visit. Luckily, there are some fantastic districts on offer as well as endless accommodation options, ranging from affordable hostels and traditional ryokans to more luxurious hotels.
Hopefully, this guide has given you an idea of where to stay in Kanazawa. Now, you can start planning your trip to this historic city (and its surroundings) as there’s so much to do!
Kanazawa is slowly getting more attention, especially with the New Golden Route and the Hokuriku Shinkansen now connecting Kanazawa and Tokyo. And rightfully so! With well-preserved geisha districts, samurai houses, traditional crafts and one of Japan’s most beautiful landscaped gardens, Kanazawa is a great addition to any Japan itinerary.
With so much to see and do, you’ll want to allocate at least a few days in Kanazawa. But where should you stay? After having visited Kanazawa multiple times over the years, I’ve found some great places to stay (and the best areas to book a hotel!).
If you’re unsure of where to stay in Kanazawa, then this guide has you covered. I’ve broken down the best areas, including what each district has to offer, accommodation recommendations, and nearby attractions.
In a Rush? Best Places to Stay in Kanazawa Overview
If you’ve not got time to read the full guide, here is a quick overview of my top ryokans and hotels in Kanazawa:
| Best For… | Hotel | Book Now |
|---|---|---|
| First Time Visitors | Minn Kanazawa | Check Availability |
| Free On-site Onsen (Hot Spring) | Onyado Nono Kanazawa | Check Availability |
| Traditional Ryokan | Maki No Oto Kanazawa | Check Availability |
| Near Station | Dormy Inn Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring | Check Availability |
If you’re staying in Kanazawa for a few days, staying in Downtown Kanazawa is your best option. There are some great modern hotels here, lots of restaurants and bars nearby, and it’s within walking distance of the majority of main sights in the city. I’ve stayed here multiple times and never regretted it.
Another great area is Higashi Chaya Geisha District, which is the perfect choice if you’re looking for something a bit more traditional. As this is one of Kanazawa’s three Geisha Districts, you’ll be able to find some ryokans (Japanese inns) here.
If you’re only planning to stay in Kanazawa for one night or are planning to travel to other areas near Kanazawa during your stay, booking a hotel in the Station Area would be a good option. As Kanazawa doesn’t have a metro, it can be a bit annoying getting to Kanazawa Station, especially with luggage.
Don’t forget to check out our 2-day Kanazawa itinerary for our recommended route.
As Kanazawa does not have a metro, you will have to get a bus or taxi to get to your hotel from the station (unless you’re staying near the station). Go Taxi is a handy app to get taxis in Japan, but you can also head to the taxi rank just outside the station. Kanazawa also has a bus line that loops around the city, which also stops at Kanazawa Station.
Higashi Chaya Geisha District
1. Downtown Kanazawa
Best for first-time visitors and convenience
Why Stay in Downtown Kanazawa?
Downtown Kanazawa is arguably the best place to stay in Kanazawa for first-time visitors. I’ve stayed here multiple times, and it’s always been a great choice.
The Korinbo and Katamachi areas are Kanazawa’s main dining, shopping, and entertainment district. There’s no shortage of restaurants to choose from, so you’ll have plenty of dining options, especially if you want to sample the local cuisine.
Basing yourself in this area will put you within walking distance from Omicho Market, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Oyama Shrine, and Gyokusenin Maru Garden, which lead into the Kanazawa Castle Area and Kenroku-en. You’ll also be very close to Nagamachi, Kanazawa’s Samurai District.
Downside: The Korinbo and Katamachi areas can feel more crowded and touristy, especially at night. I’ve added accommodations north of the hotspots, which are located in a quieter area.
Nagamachi, Kanazawa’s Samurai District
Where to Stay in Downtown Kanazawa?
Here are my top picks for places to stay in Downtown Kanazawa:
Minn Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 2-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: No
- Laundry?: Yes, free of charge in the common laundry room. Some rooms also have a washing machine available inside the room.
- On-site restaurant?: No
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
Minn Kanazawa is located on one of the main roads, within walking distance of some of the main sights. You can find a bus stop just outside the hotel, making it easy to get around the city. Kanazawa is very walkable, so if you plan your days accordingly, you won’t even really need to use the bus much.
We stayed in the Double Room, which was so much bigger than expected. The bed was raised on a platform and was incredibly comfortable, plus we had more than enough room to open both our suitcases comfortably. The rooms are modern with some small traditional Japanese touches. Some of the rooms even come with a small tatami area.
It’s also a great option for families or groups, as the hotel offers rooms that can sleep up to 6 people. They also offer the option of connecting rooms for groups that want more privacy.
One of the biggest advantages of this hotel is the free laundry room. While most hotels charge you a few hundred yen for washing and drying, Minn Kanazawa lets you do it for free. Some of the rooms even come with a built-in washing machine, so you don’t even have to leave your room.
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Onyado Nono Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 1-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: Yes
- Laundry?: Yes (additional charge for drying)
- On-site restaurant?: Yes
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
During my second visit to Kanazawa, I stayed in Onyado Nono Kanazawa. The biggest selling point for this lovely hotel is the traditional touches (tatami floors in the rooms) and the on-site onsen. Guests can use all baths for free, including an indoor hot spring bath with city views, an open-air bath, a dry sauna and an ice bath.
The hotel offers lots of freebies, including free ramen and ice cream at night and free Yakult in the morning. Near the entrance of the onsen, you can also find a manga library. You’re free to borrow books and bring them back to your room during your stay.
There are various rooms to choose from, most of which sleep two to four people. Onyado Nono Kanazawa also offers a Japanese and Western breakfast buffet where you can try local specialities and other freshly-made egg dishes.
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Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 1-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: Yes
- Laundry?: Yes (additional charge)
- On-site restaurant?: Yes
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa sits on the same street as the previously mentioned hotels, giving you easy access to most of the sights in the city. With spacious rooms, laundry facilities, and a 24-hour front desk, this hotel is a great option for staying in the Downtown area.
Guests staying at Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa can also take advantage of the hotel’s public bath. Located on the top floor, you’ll get panoramic city views as you relax. You can also indulge in local Japanese specialities at the on-site restaurant.
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UAN Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 5-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: No
- Laundry?: Yes (additional charge)
- On-site restaurant?: No
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
UAN Kanazawa is set in a beautiful building and offers stylish rooms, some of which feature a terrace. Every guest room is also equipped with a bath so you can relax after a long day of exploring.
Japanese tea is available 24/7, and you can indulge in free soba noodles between 9 PM and 11 PM. UAN Kanazawa also offers sake tasting sessions and workshops. There’s even a charming reading space, where you’ll find various art books and novels.
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2. Higashi Chaya Geisha District
Best for a traditional atmosphere and staying in a ryokan
Why Stay in the Higashi Chaya Geisha District?
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and history, the Higashi Chaya Geisha District is the best place to stay in Kanazawa. Kanazawa is home to three well-preserved Geisha districts, but Higashi Chaya is the largest and offers the best accommodation.
When wandering around this area in the evening, you may hear geishas singing or playing the shamisen. As there are so many traditional houses in this area, it’s the perfect place for staying in a traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan.
The bus route that loops around Kanazawa also stops in Higashi Chaya District, and you can get to Downtown Kanazawa on foot in around 30 minutes. In the area itself, the Tokuda Shusei Kinenkan Museum and Utasu Shrine are a must-visit for those looking to learn more about the local culture.
Utatsuyama Park is just a short walk away if you want to spend time in nature, or you can hop over the river to explore the Kazuemachi Chaya District (which also has its fair share of cultural attractions).
Downside: This area of Kanazawa can be more expensive as it’s a popular place to stay. Accommodation often needs to be booked in advance, and there may be fewer options to choose from during peak season.
Where to Stay in Higashi Chaya Geisha District?
Here are the best places to stay in Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya Geisha District:
Maki No Oto Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 2-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: No
- Laundry?: No
- On-site restaurant?: Yes
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
Maki No Oto Kanazawa offers an adults-only experience where guests can experience traditional Japanese cuisine and relax in spacious Western and Japanese-style rooms. You can enjoy comfortable Western beds alongside more Japanese features like tatami floors.
The location is unbeatable, as this stunning ryokan sits in the middle of the geisha district. While there is no onsen at this property, every room does have a regular bath.
While staying in Maki No Oto Kanazawa, you’ll get pyjamas, a bathrobe, towels, and hair products all included in your stay. This property also offers extended check-out (for an additional charge), allowing you to make the most of your time in Kanazawa.
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Yamanoo
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 7-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: Yes (private onsen in suites)
- Laundry?: No
- On-site restaurant?: Yes (kaiseki dinner and breakfast are included in the stay)
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
Located on a small hill looking out over the rest of the Geisha district, Yamanoo is one of the best ryokans in Kanazawa. The building is incredibly well preserved and has stunning views over the old town.
The beautiful traditional tatami floor rooms come with futon beds and yukata garments to wear. It’s the ultimate ryokan stay, with a private onsen in each room and a traditional kaiseki dinner made with local and seasonal ingredients.
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Kototoki
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 3-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: No
- Laundry?: Yes
- On-site restaurant?: No
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
Kototoki is another great option in the Higashi Chaya Geisha District. You’ll be staying in a 160-year-old teahouse, making it one of the best authentic and traditional stays in this area. With tatami floors, futon beds and sliding doors, this ryokan is the real deal. Better yet, the owners will introduce you to the local folk art, culture, and shops.
Although there is no kitchen space, there are plenty of amenities at Kototoki. This includes an electric kettle, free WiFi, heating, air conditioning, and a refrigerator. You’ll also be offered eco-friendly toiletries, so you’ll have everything you could need.
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Hotel Rashiku Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 2-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: No
- Laundry?: No
- On-site restaurant?: No
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
If you would rather stay in a hotel instead of a ryokan but still want to benefit from this location, there’s Hotel Rashiku Kanazawa. This hotel offers several rooms that sleep two people, making it a good option for couples. There are plenty of amenities too, including a refrigerator, TV, WiFi, and air conditioning. An Asian breakfast is also available.
Although there’s no restaurant on site, there are plenty of traditional dining options nearby, where you can indulge in fresh Japanese cuisine (especially seafood). Utasu Shrine and the Tokuda Shusei Kinenkan Museum are also just a short walk away.
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3. Kanazawa Station Area
Best for public transport & getting around Kanazawa
Why Stay in the Kanazawa Station Area?
If you’re looking to travel around Kanazawa and the surrounding area, then the Station Area is a great place to stay. As the name suggests, this is where Kanazawa Station is located, which is likely how you’ll arrive in the city (unless you’re planning to hire a car).
Likewise, Kanazawa Station offers plenty of day trip opportunities if you plan to use this historic city as a base. Tokyo is only a 2.5-hour train ride away, while Osaka and Kyoto can be reached in two hours or less. There are multiple bus routes serving nearby destinations as well.
You’ll be able to find countless restaurants near the station. Plus, Kanazawa Forus and Kanazawa Hyakubangai offer endless shopping opportunities, and there’s a tourist information centre inside the station where you can learn about the city and what there is to do here.
Downside: The Station Area can be very busy, with people constantly arriving and departing from Kanazawa. You may also find that this part of the city doesn’t feel as authentic, and there aren’t many major tourist attractions in the vicinity.
Where to Stay in the Kanazawa Station Area?
Here are the best stays in the Kanazawa Station Area:
Dormy Inn Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring
- How far from Kanazawa Station: 4-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: Yes
- Laundry?: Yes (additional charge)
- On-site restaurant?: Yes (only serves breakfast)
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
Dormy Inn Kanazawa Natural Hot Spring is one of the best hotels in the Station Area. As the name suggests, this place offers indoor hot springs and a sauna, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. You can even opt for a massage!
There’s also an on-site restaurant at the hotel, which only serves breakfast, but free ramen noodles are available after 9:30 PM. Additional facilities include a water dispenser, vending machines, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry services.
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Super Hotel Premier Kanazawaeki Higashiguchi
- How far from Kanazawa Station?: 2-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: Yes
- Laundry?: Yes (additional charge)
- On-site restaurant?: No
- Luggage storage?: No.
Just a 7-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, you’ll find Super Hotel Premier Kanazawaeki Higashiguchi. Offering a buffet breakfast, coin laundry facilities, and cosy rooms, it’s extremely affordable considering the number of available amenities.
The highlight of staying at this hotel has to be its hot springs baths – there’s even a ladies-only room! Super Hotel Premier Kanazawaeki Higashiguchi also offers a dinner-collaboration plan with a popular local restaurant, which serves local sake, seafood, and noto beef.
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4. Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Area
Best for sightseeing and museums
Why Stay in the Kanazawa Castle Area?
Lastly, staying near the Kanazawa Castle area is another great choice. Located close to the Downtown area, this part of the city is home to one of Kanazawa’s key historic attractions: Kanazawa Castle Park.
Kanazawa was an important castle town dating back to the late 1500s, so there’s a lot of history in this area. The samurai lived in the surrounding neighbourhoods to defend the castle, and many of these neighbourhoods are still intact today.
As well as Kanazawa Castle Park itself, there’s Kenroku-en Garden, which is one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. This part of the city is also home to the Museum District, where you’ll find the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of History, Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and the D.T. Suzuki Museum, among others.
As there’s so much to see and do, the Kanazawa Castle area is perfect for sightseeing. It’s also located between Downtown and the Higashi Chaya Geisha District, with both being within walking distance. Due to Kanazawa Castle Park’s central location, there are plenty of bus links in the surrounding area too, making it easy for people to travel around the city.
Downsides: There tend to be fewer accommodation options in this part of Kanazawa. Some of the hotels are also quite pricey, so just be mindful of that.
Where to Stay in the Kanazawa Castle Area?
Here are the best hotels in the Kanazawa Castle Area:
HOTEL AO Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 2-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: No
- Laundry?: No
- On-site restaurant?: Yes
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
HOTEL AO Kanazawa has some beautifully stylish rooms, some even offer a private bath/sauna. From the Japanese-style room with tatami floors to the more modern rooms, you’ll have a great stay here. You can also take advantage of the free mini bar, which stocks craft beer, fruit juice, and more.
Not only are the rooms modern and spacious, but HOTEL AO Kanazawa boasts an on-site restaurant. Here, you can enjoy traditional dishes and sake. There’s also a sushi restaurant at this hotel, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.
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Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 1-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: Yes
- Laundry?: Yes (additional charge)
- On-site restaurant?: Yes
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku is located right next to Kanazawa Castle Park. It’s also just a short walk from Kenroku-en Garden, making it a great base for exploring the city.
While staying at Kanazawa Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku, you can relax in the hotel’s natural hot springs. There’s a men’s bath and a women’s bath as well as a sauna and a cold bath. Afterwards, you can enjoy a post-bath ice cream and a drink!
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UAN Kanazawa
- How far from the nearest bus stop?: 4-minute walk
- Onsen/public bath?: No
- Laundry?: Yes (additional charge)
- On-site restaurant?: No
- Luggage storage?: Yes.
If you don’t mind not having an onsen, UAN Kanazawa is a great spot. Free soba noodles are served every night from 9 PM to 11 PM, and Japanese sweets are available at any time. This hotel also offers Japanese tea and a selection of Kanazawa sake if you really want to embrace the culture.
Another highlight of staying here is that UAN Kanazawa offers traditional craft workshops. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who want to explore the city on two wheels.
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Conclusion – Best Hotels in Kanazawa
As you can see, the historic city of Kanazawa is a must-visit for those exploring Japan. You can immerse yourself in the local culture, appreciate the architecture, or simply enjoy the city’s fantastic food and nightlife scene.
Deciding on the best place to stay in Kanazawa will all depend on what you want from your visit. Luckily, there are some fantastic districts on offer as well as endless accommodation options, ranging from affordable hostels and traditional ryokans to more luxurious hotels.
Hopefully, this guide has given you an idea of where to stay in Kanazawa. Now, you can start planning your trip to this historic city (and its surroundings) as there’s so much to do!