From eating gold leaf to creating your own gilded plate, Kanazawa invites you to immerse yourself in a world of natural gold. Located in Ishikawa Prefecture, the city offers a uniquely luxurious and memorable experience. Let’s dive in!
The Golden Future of Kanazawa
In 2020, Kanazawa's "Entsuke" gold leaf craft was recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This honor highlights Kanazawa's glittering legacy: the city produces an astonishing 99% of Japan's gold leaf, with the remaining 1% coming from Kyoto. While many tourists flock to Kyoto to marvel at the iconic Golden Pavilion (金閣寺: Kinkaku-ji), which is lavishly adorned with gold leaf, it's worth noting that most of that gold leaf originates from Kanazawa. So why not visit Kanazawa and see the source of this golden artistry?
For the savvy traveler, there's even more reason to visit now. According to J.P. Morgan, gold prices are expected to rise by the end of 2024. This could have a direct impact on Kanazawa, where the gold leaf industry is a significant cultural and economic fixture.
“Today, Kanazawa produces over 99% of Japan’s gold leaf. We use high-quality gold that's even edible. However, if global gold prices rise, our industry feels it immediately.”
Gold leaf, after all, is still real gold. Eri encourages visitors to explore Kanazawa’s gold leaf crafts before potential price hikes or changes in gold content occur. At Tajima Gold Leaf, they use No.4 gold leaf, which contains less than 5% silver and less than 1% copper—an indicator of its high quality. Even if prices go up, experiencing this craftsmanship firsthand remains a priceless opportunity.
Gold leaf production in Kanazawa has been a cherished craft for over 400 years, passed down through generations. The skill required to create gold leaf is immense, with the final product being just 1/10,000 of a millimeter thick—so thin it becomes almost transparent when held up to light. Mastering these techniques can take at least three years.
However, preserving this craftsmanship requires supporting the artisans. With demand fluctuating and Japan's population aging, finding successors to carry on this tradition is increasingly challenging. Gold, unlike most materials, remains untarnished by air or water, retaining its brilliance forever. Once you create your own gold-leaf-adorned plate or accessory, its beauty is truly everlasting.
Visitors, both from Japan and abroad, can participate in hands-on workshops to craft their own gold leaf items. While many workshops offer same-day reservations, booking in advance is recommended to avoid any wait times. Why not create your own masterpiece and take a piece of Kanazawa’s golden heritage home with you?
What is Kanazawa Famous For?
Every prefecture in Japan has its own unique history and culture, and Kanazawa is no exception. For those who appreciate the tranquil beauty and traditional architecture of Kyoto and Nara, Kanazawa is a must-visit. The city is known for its serene nature, traditional Japanese architecture, and a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage, particularly its long-standing gold crafts tradition.
A visit to the Higashi Chaya District is highly recommended for Kyoto and Nara enthusiasts. Here, you can explore Shima, a historic Ochaya (tea house) built in 1820. Except for modern updates to lighting and restrooms, the structure remains much as it was. Recognized as a National Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government, Shima offers a glimpse into the past, when geishas entertained upper-class merchants. While stepping back in time to the Edo period, why not enjoy a cup of matcha (powdered green tea) in this traditional setting?
Where is Kanazawa?
Kanazawa is located in the northwest of Japan, bordered by the Sea of Japan to the west. The Hokuriku Shinkansen (北陸新幹線), a high-speed bullet train, recently extended its route from Tsuruga in Fukui to Kanazawa in March 2024. This complements the existing line connecting Tokyo to Kanazawa, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours that has been in operation since 2015. With improved accessibility, Kanazawa has become a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Kanazawa is a delight in every season. For winter sports enthusiasts, the city offers powder snow perfect for skiing and snowboarding. After a day on the slopes, unwind in one of Kanazawa's many rich hot springs, which will warm you from the inside out. In summer, the city becomes vibrant, and you can enjoy scenic drives along the Sea of Japan's coast—Chirihama Beach is the only beach in Japan where you can literally drive your car on the sand.
What to Eat in Kanazawa?
Kanazawa’s proximity to the sea means it boasts some of Japan’s finest seafood. Don’t miss the sushi, especially the Kaga crabs and Blackthroat seaperch, known locally as Nodoguro. Another must-try is Jibu-ni, a traditional Kanazawa dish dating back to the Edo period. This comforting stew, made with dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake, and local vegetables and meats, can be found at many tourist spots. For meat lovers, Ishikawa is home to Noto beef, a premium A5 wagyu renowned for its exceptional quality.
