Experience samurai history at Kanazawa Castle
Kanazawa, Japan • 
Popular
Popular
Best months to visit
Apr, May, Aug
7°C – 17°C, mild and pleasant spring weather, high crowds, peak season
7°C – 17°C, mild and pleasant spring weather, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Many areas are accessible, but some historic paths have uneven stone surfaces and steps.
Many areas are accessible, but some historic paths have uneven stone surfaces and steps.
Value for money
Medium
Free entry, but some attractions have extra fees.
Free entry, but some attractions have extra fees.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Romantic Setting
Couples found the castle and gardens perfect for a romantic stroll. Beautiful and peaceful.
Picturesque Beauty
Visitors loved the stunning views, especially with the cherry blossoms in spring. Great photo ops!
Historical Ambiance
Couples enjoyed the history and architecture. The reconstructions were well done and impressive.
Not Authentic
Some felt the reconstructions lacked the historical feel of original castles. It felt newer.
Can Be
During peak season, couples noted the crowds. It could be hard to find a quiet space.
Uneven Paths
Some couples found the paths in the garden challenging. Uneven surfaces and steps were noted.
How to book
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Hours of operation
Monday
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Tuesday
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Wednesday
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Thursday
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Friday
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Saturday
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Sunday
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
Delve into the captivating history of Kanazawa Castle!
Discover Kanazawa Castle with this captivating video tour!
A tourist explores the majestic Kanazawa Castle and other captivating sights around.
Explore the vibrant highlights of the majestic Kanazawa Castle!
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
LOW
2-9°C
December brings colder temperatures and frequent precipitation, including rain and occasional early snow. The castle grounds are quieter and have a serene winter atmosphere.
December brings colder temperatures and frequent precipitation, including rain and occasional early snow. The castle grounds are quieter and have a serene winter atmosphere.
Open
The castle park and main buildings operate on winter hours (8:00 to 17:00 from October 16 to February). Some outdoor paths may be slippery due to rain or snow.
The castle park and main buildings operate on winter hours (8:00 to 17:00 from October 16 to February). Some outdoor paths may be slippery due to rain or snow.
Recommended
December offers a peaceful experience at Kanazawa Castle, with winter scenery and minimal crowds. Visitors should be prepared for colder, wetter weather.
December offers a peaceful experience at Kanazawa Castle, with winter scenery and minimal crowds. Visitors should be prepared for colder, wetter weather.
January
LOW
0-6°C
Cold, often wet and snowy. Skies are frequently overcast and there is a high chance of rain or snow.
Cold, often wet and snowy. Skies are frequently overcast and there is a high chance of rain or snow.
Open
Park open 8:00 to 17:00. Some areas may have limited accessibility in heavy snow. Indoor exhibits remain open.
Park open 8:00 to 17:00. Some areas may have limited accessibility in heavy snow. Indoor exhibits remain open.
Not recommended
Visiting Kanazawa Castle in January offers a quiet experience, but the weather is cold and often snowy or rainy, which may restrict some outdoor areas.
Visiting Kanazawa Castle in January offers a quiet experience, but the weather is cold and often snowy or rainy, which may restrict some outdoor areas.
February
LOW
1-7°C
Continues to be cold and damp, with frequent rain or snow. Occasional clear days but still winter conditions.
Continues to be cold and damp, with frequent rain or snow. Occasional clear days but still winter conditions.
Open
Park open 8:00 to 17:00. Some paths may be slippery or closed during snowfall.
Park open 8:00 to 17:00. Some paths may be slippery or closed during snowfall.
Not recommended
February sees slightly milder temperatures than January, but winter conditions persist. The castle is open, but outdoor exploration may be limited.
February sees slightly milder temperatures than January, but winter conditions persist. The castle is open, but outdoor exploration may be limited.
March
MEDIUM
3-12°C
Transition to spring, with milder temperatures and less frequent snowfall. Rain is still common, but cherry blossoms may begin to bloom late in the month.
Transition to spring, with milder temperatures and less frequent snowfall. Rain is still common, but cherry blossoms may begin to bloom late in the month.
Open
No significant restrictions; park open regular hours.
No significant restrictions; park open regular hours.
Recommended
March provides improving weather and the first hints of cherry blossom, making it a pleasant time to visit before the main tourist season.
March provides improving weather and the first hints of cherry blossom, making it a pleasant time to visit before the main tourist season.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
The local bus system, including the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop and Left Loop), provides service from JR Kanazawa Station to stops near the castle, such as Kenrokuen-shita and Hirosaka.
Taxi
Recommended
Taxis are readily available at Kanazawa Station for a direct ride to the castle.
Walking
Recommended
Kanazawa Castle is within walking distance from other central attractions, approximately 20-25 minutes from Kanazawa Station.
Bike
Bicycle rental services are available for exploring Kanazawa and reaching the castle.
Car
Travelers arriving by car can use the Hokuriku Expressway, exiting at Kanazawa West, Kanazawa East, or Morimoto interchanges, and park at nearby public parking lots like the Kenroku Car Park.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required
Age
Suitable for all ages