This area, where unique independently-owned izakayas, stylish bistros, and Kanazawa’s famous oden restaurants are densely packed, allows you to experience Kanazawa’s lively “true face,” which is different from its refined “front” façade. In this article, for international visitors, we thoroughly explain the charm of “bar hopping where locals gather” to fully enjoy Kanazawa’s nightlife, and introduce 5 recommended affordable and delicious restaurants. A must-read for anyone who wants to experience Kanazawa’s real night!

What are Kanazawa’s “Kakinokibatake” & “Shintenchi”? A Deep Night Town Loved by Locals, Known to Those in the Know

Kakinokibatake is a historic area that has supported Kanazawa’s food culture for a long time, located just one backstreet from Katamachi and Korinbo. The narrow alleys, retaining the charm of the Showa era, are filled with a mix of old-fashioned eateries and new concept shops. Especially, the adjacent “Shintenchi” is an alleyway with small shops densely packed in narrow passages, creating a deep atmosphere where locals regularly visit. Since there are fewer tourists, you can truly feel the authentic nightlife of Kanazawa.

Enjoying Kanazawa’s Night: The Appeal and Way to Bar Hop

In Kanazawa’s Kakinokibatake and Shintenchi areas, while you can certainly settle in one place for a long drink, we highly recommend trying “bar hopping.” This style of enjoyment, possible because of the dense concentration of diverse shops in a narrow area, is Kanazawa’s unique nightlife experience loved by local drinkers.

Tips for Enjoying Bar Hopping

Loved by Locals! 5 Affordable & Delicious Restaurants in Kakinokibatake & Shintenchi [Recommended for Bar Hopping]

Kakinokibatake and Shintenchi have countless charming restaurants, but here we carefully select 5 particularly recommended affordable and delicious ones for bar hopping, loved by locals. You’ll be able to fully experience the deep charm unique to Kanazawa.

1. Kanazawa Oden Restaurant “Oden-dokoro Miyuki” – A Long-Established Shop for Kanazawa’s Specialty Oden

When in Kanazawa, you must try “Oden.” Among the Kanazawa Oden shops that can be enjoyed all year round, “Oden-dokoro Miyuki” is a long-established favorite among locals. In its light broth, unique Kanazawa ingredients like kuruma-fu (wheat gluten), bai-gai (whelk), and kanimen (crab face, winter limited) are slowly simmered. It pairs perfectly with sake, offering a heartwarming dish. We recommend starting your bar hopping here by warming your stomach with Kanazawa Oden.

• Genre: Kanazawa Oden, Izakaya
• Price Range: Around ¥1,500 – ¥3,000
• Features: Long-established Kanazawa Oden, local flavor, extensive sake selection
• Official URL: Oden-dokoro Miyuki

Top 10 Kanazawa Oden! Introducing the Charm of Kanazawa Oden!Responding to travelers to Hokuriku and those wondering "Where to ea...

2. Dining “Kawasemi” – A Homely Izakaya-Diner Loved by Locals

Tucked away in a corner of Kakinokibatake, close to Katamachi, “Shokudo Kawasemi” is a homely izakaya-diner beloved by the locals of Kanazawa. You can enjoy comforting “homemade flavors” like daily special set meals made with fresh seasonal ingredients, stewed dishes, and grilled fish. Recommended for those who want to enjoy delicious home-style cooking and a drink at reasonable prices. It’s the perfect spot for those who wish to blend into the local daily life.

• Genre: Diner, Izakaya, Home Cooking
• Price Range: Around ¥1,000 – ¥2,500
• Features: Homely taste, reasonable, popular with locals
• Official URL: Shokudo Kawasemi

3. Standing Bar “Sonochan” – A Lively Shop in Shintenchi Where You Can Drop By Casually

“Sonochan” is a standing izakaya located in the alleys of Shintenchi, always bustling with locals. It’s a small shop centered around an L-shaped counter, offering a charming, at-home atmosphere where you can easily get acquainted with the owner. They offer a wide variety of classic izakaya dishes at reasonable prices, including fresh sashimi, grilled items, and fried foods. This is the perfect spot for those who want to experience Kanazawa’s deep “Senbero” culture and enjoy interacting with locals.

• Genre: Standing Izakaya, Public Bar
• Price Range: Around ¥1,000 – ¥2,500
• Features: Reasonable, homely, popular with locals
• Official URL: Sonochan

4. Izakaya “Ajidokoro Takasaki” – Kanazawa’s Hidden Gem Bustling with Locals

Ajidokoro Takasaki is a hidden izakaya tucked away in an alley of Kakinokibatake. From the outside, it might be hard to see in, but once you step inside, a warm space bustling with locals unfolds. They offer a wide selection of homemade dishes using seasonal ingredients and local sake, allowing you to savor Kanazawa’s “mother’s cooking.” Conversations with the owner and regulars are also enjoyable, making it highly recommended for those who want to experience a truly local vibe.

• Genre: Izakaya, Home Cooking
• Price Range: Around ¥6,000 – ¥7,000
• Features: Popular with locals, homemade dishes, extensive local sake selection
• Official URL: Takasaki

5. Ramen “Menya Taiga” – Kanazawa Black Ramen, Perfect for Closing Out a Night of Drinking

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For the perfect ramen to cap off a night of bar hopping in Kanazawa, head to “Menya Taiga,” a famous Kanazawa ramen shop. Their specialty is “Kanazawa Black Ramen,” characterized by the savory aroma of burnt soy sauce. It’s rich yet surprisingly light in aftertaste. Its deliciousness soaks into your tired body after drinking. Open until late at night, it’s always bustling with locals. An essential stop if you want to experience Kanazawa’s “shime” (closing meal) culture.

• Genre: Ramen
• Price Range: Around ¥800 – ¥1,500
• Features: Kanazawa Black Ramen, late-night hours, popular with locals
• Official URL: Menya Taiga

Tips and Precautions for Enjoying Bar Hopping in Kakinokibatake & Shintenchi

To fully enjoy the charm of Kakinokibatake and Shintenchi, remember the following tips and precautions:

Access to Kakinokibatake & Shintenchi (From Major Kanazawa Spots)

Kakinokibatake and Shintenchi are located in the heart of Kanazawa, making them extremely convenient to access from major tourist spots.

• From JR Kanazawa Station:
  • Approx. 10-15 minutes by bus (local bus). Get off at “Korinbo” bus stop, then approx. 5 minutes walk.
  • Approx. 10 minutes by taxi.
• From Kenrokuen Garden: Approx. 10-15 minutes walk.
• From Higashi Chaya District: Approx. 10 minutes by bus to “Korinbo” bus stop, then approx. 5 minutes walk.

MAP: Kanazawa Kakinokibatake & Shintenchi

*The map indicates the approximate range of Kakinokibatake and Shintenchi. For precise locations and details of each shop, please enjoy exploring on site.

Kanazawa’s Night: Kakinokibatake & Shintenchi is the Place to Be!

Kakinokibatake and Shintenchi offer a deep and human-centered Kanazawa night experience, different from its refined daytime facade. Blending into the daily lives of locals and enjoying delicious food and sake at reasonable prices through “bar hopping” will surely become an unforgettable highlight of your Kanazawa trip.

Come and explore the real local energy of Kanazawa and the labyrinth of unique shops packed together, not found in guidebooks. Be sure to visit!

If this sounds like you, how about a special night in the ancient city of Kanazawa? We introduce an incredibly luxurious plan where you can privately enjoy a “geisha banquet,” an experience normally available only by introduction, amidst the atmospheric “Higashi Chaya District,” with its cobblestone streets gently lit by gas lamps and rows of beautiful latticed houses.

The stage for this experience is “Maki no Oto,” a private inn limited to one group per day. This article will provide all the information you need to make your trip the best it can be, from the charms of the mysterious geisha banquet to specific booking methods and access.

Three Charms of the Geisha Banquet Experience

What makes this experience so special is the chance to feel “authentic” traditional culture, which you’ve likely only seen in movies or on TV, with all your senses in your own private space.

Charm 1: A Breathtaking Performance Right Before Your Eyes

When the banquet begins, geishas—specialists in dance known as “Tachikata” and specialists in song and shamisen known as “Jikata”—will perform elegant arts just for you. The dance, attentive to every fingertip movement, and the heart-stirring sound of the shamisen are simply breathtaking. The performance, tailored to the season and the mood of the banquet, will vibrantly color your night in Kanazawa.

Charm 2: Enjoying “Ozashiki Asobi” and Conversation with Geishas

After appreciating the performance, it’s time for “Ozashiki Asobi” (parlor games) with the geishas. The room will fill with laughter as you enjoy games with simple rules like “Konpira Fune Fune.” An English interpreter will carefully explain the rules, so there’s no need to worry, even if it’s your first time. Engaging in direct conversation with the beautiful geishas and hearing stories of the “Hanamachi” (geisha district) that are rarely heard is another unique pleasure of this experience.

Charm 3: Savoring “Kaiseki Cuisine” with Kanazawa’s Delicacies and Local Sake

The dining in this experience is also first-class. For dinner, an authentic “Kaiseki” course, specially prepared for this day by one of Kanazawa’s leading traditional restaurants, is delivered to you. Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal that maximizes the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients, served one dish at a time in peak condition. It lavishly uses the best local ingredients of the season, such as fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan like Nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch) and sweet shrimp, and colorful Kaga vegetables. The dishes, artistically arranged on beautiful Kutani ware porcelain, are a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The moments spent savoring these dishes with local Kanazawa sake, poured by the geishas, are truly blissful.

The Stage: “Maki no Oto,” a Private Inn in the Higashi Chaya District

The stage for this special experience is “Maki no Oto,” a private inn limited to one group per day, nestled on the main street of the Higashi Chaya District. While preserving the architectural beauty of a traditional Kanazawa machiya townhouse, the interior is a splendid fusion of modern comforts and design.

Step inside, and you’re in a private space, undisturbed by anyone. You can relax completely, as if it were your own villa. The greatest charm is the bath where you can feel the atmosphere of the Higashi Chaya District. Gaze at the quiet night sky, a stark contrast to the daytime bustle, and slowly soothe your travel fatigue.

How to Book and Important Notes

This special experience must be requested through the official website. As it’s an extremely popular plan with bookings from around the world, acting early is the key to success.

1. Access the reservation page on the official website.
2. Select your desired date on the calendar (or state your preferred dates) and fill out the form.
3. Wait for a reply from the staff to confirm availability and proceed with the booking.

Request to Book on the Official Website

How to Get There (from Tokyo, Osaka, and Kanazawa Station)

The Higashi Chaya District, where “Maki no Oto” is located, is easily accessible by bus or taxi from Kanazawa Station, which has good connections from major cities.

From Major Cities to Kanazawa Station

• From Tokyo: Approx. 2.5 hours by Hokuriku Shinkansen (“Kagayaki” or “Hakutaka”).
• From Osaka: Approx. 2 hours 40 minutes by Limited Express “Thunderbird”.

From Kanazawa Station to Higashi Chaya District

• By Bus: At the Kanazawa Station East Gate Bus Terminal (Kenrokuen Exit), take the “Kanazawa Loop Bus (Right Loop)” from bus stop #7 and get off at “Hashiba-cho” bus stop (approx. 10 min). It’s about a 5-minute walk from there.
• By Taxi: Approx. 10 minutes from the Kanazawa Station East Gate taxi stand. The fare is around 1,000-1,500 JPY. This is convenient if you have a lot of luggage or want to go directly to the inn without getting lost.

Conclusion: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Cultural Experience Only in Kanazawa

A night with geishas in Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya District is not just a stay or a meal. It’s bound to become an unforgettable “story” where you can touch the depths of Japanese traditional culture and the true spirit of “omotenashi” (hospitality).

May your trip to Japan be a special journey that doesn’t end with ordinary sightseeing. For an anniversary with a loved one or as a highlight of a journey to explore authentic Japan, why not create the best memories here?

Check Availability on the Official Website

[Conclusion] Classic 1-Day Kanazawa Sightseeing Itinerary

For those short on time! Here is a classic model course that covers the essentials for enjoying Kanazawa.

• Morning: Enjoy a fresh seafood breakfast or lunch at Omicho Market.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the historic streets of the Higashi Chaya District & take a break at a cafe.
• Evening: Wander through the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden.
• Night: Savor local cuisine near Kanazawa Station or in the Katamachi area.

Kanazawa Private & Personalized Hidden Gems Walking Tour

1. Kenrokuen Garden | One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens

When you think of Kanazawa sightseeing, the first thing that comes to mind for most is “Kenrokuen Garden.” It is counted as one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan,” alongside Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama, and is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The vast grounds are skillfully arranged with ponds and man-made hills, and the landscape, woven by nature through the four seasons, is a true culmination of Japanese beauty. The garden, which changes its expression with every step, calms the hearts of its visitors.

2. Higashi Chaya District | A Beautiful Townscape with Kanazawa’s Charm

The Higashi Chaya District is one of the places where you can most strongly feel the traditional atmosphere of Kanazawa. A “chaya” was a place where geishas entertained guests with songs and dances. The streetscape, with its rows of old townhouses featuring beautiful latticed windows (dekigoshi), makes you feel as if you’ve time-traveled to the Edo period. It has been selected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, and just walking around is exciting. Enjoying gold leaf soft-serve ice cream, taking a break at a stylish cafe—the ways to enjoy it are endless.

3. 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa | A Hub of Modern Art for Everyone

This contemporary art museum is characterized by its circular, glass-walled design, based on the concept of being “a museum open to the city like a park.” It exhibits many works that make contemporary art, often considered difficult, accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Particularly famous is Leandro Erlich’s “The Swimming Pool.” It’s hugely popular on social media for the surreal photos you can take that make it look like you’re walking inside a pool while fully clothed. There are paid exhibition zones and free public zones, so you can enjoy it according to your schedule.

4. Omicho Market | Savor Seasonal Flavors at “Kanazawa’s Kitchen”

With a history of about 300 years, this is a huge market that supports the dietary life of Kanazawa’s citizens. About 170 shops are crammed into narrow alleys, selling fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, colorful Kaga vegetables, and fruits. Just walking around and feeling the market’s energy is fun, but the main attraction here is, of course, the food. It’s overflowing with delicious things, like seafood bowls piled high with fresh toppings and raw oysters shucked on the spot. It’s open early in the morning, so visiting for breakfast is also recommended.

5. Nagamachi Samurai District | The Town Where Kaga Clan Samurai Lived

This is an area where the residences of middle and lower-class samurai of the Kaga clan remain. The ocher earthen walls and cobblestone alleys continue, allowing you to imagine the lives of the samurai of that time. In winter, “komo-gake” (straw mats) are put up to protect the earthen walls from snow, creating a winter scene unique to Kanazawa. Within the area, the “Nomura-ke” samurai residence is open to the public, where you can tour the inside of the luxurious mansion and its beautiful garden.

6. Myoryuji (Ninja Temple) | A Mysterious Temple Full of Surprising Tricks

Although it is known by the nickname “Ninja Temple,” it actually has no connection to ninjas. It served as an outpost to protect the feudal lord in case of an emergency, evading the watchful eyes of the Tokugawa shogunate. Therefore, the interior is equipped with more than 20 clever devices to deceive enemies, such as pitfalls, hidden staircases, and fake rooms. Due to its complex structure, it was said that once you entered, you could never get out.

7. Kanazawa Castle Park | The Symbol of the Kaga Domain

Located right next to Kenrokuen Garden, this is a park developed on the ruins of Kanazawa Castle, the former residence of the Maeda family of the Kaga clan. Although there is no main keep, historic wooden structures such as the Hishi Yagura Turret, Gojukken Nagaya Warehouse, and Hashizume-mon Tsuzuki Yagura Turret have been restored, and their magnificence is striking. At night, they are lit up, showing a fantastical appearance different from the daytime.

8. D.T. Suzuki Museum | A Serene Space to Experience the World of Zen

This is a very unique cultural facility where you can get in touch with the philosophy of the Kanazawa-born Buddhist scholar, D.T. Suzuki. The building, designed by architect Yoshio Taniguchi, is quiet and beautiful, giving visitors time for deep contemplation. In particular, the “Water Mirror Garden,” a large shallow pool of water, calms the viewer’s mind and provides an opportunity for self-reflection. It is also recommended to visit to reset your mind in between touring bustling tourist spots.

9. Oyama Shrine | A Unique Gate Blending Three Architectural Styles

This shrine is dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Kaga clan. The main attraction is the “Shinmon Gate,” which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is a rare gate that incorporates Japanese, Chinese, and Western architectural styles. The stained glass (giyaman) fitted into the top floor is said to have once served as a lighthouse. It is lit up at night, and its beauty becomes even more prominent.

10. Kazuemachi Chaya District | A Small, Charming Teahouse District by the River

This is another teahouse district located right near the Higashi Chaya District, along the Asano River. Although smaller in scale compared to Higashi Chaya, it has a quiet and calm atmosphere. Strolling through the charming streets while listening to the babbling of the river is exceptional. It is particularly enveloped in a romantic atmosphere at dusk when the gas lamps are lit. There are also many delicious kappo restaurants and bars, making it an ideal place to enjoy Kanazawa’s nightlife for adults.

Summary

Kanazawa is packed with charms that capture the hearts of travelers, including history, culture, food, and art. The 10 places introduced this time are all especially worth visiting. Please use this article as a reference to plan your own best trip to Kanazawa!

Kanazawa Private & Personalized Hidden Gems Walking Tour

These accommodations are perfect as tourist bases in Kanazawa, dotted with attractive landmarks like “Kenrokuen” and “Kanazawa 21st Century Museum.”

Why not plan a trip that fully enjoys both the hot springs and the sights of Kanazawa?

Natural Hot Spring Kaga no Takara-sen Oyado Nono Kanazawa

Opened in April 2021, “Natural Hot Spring Kaga no Takara-sen Onyado Nono Kanazawa” is a hot spring inn from the Dormy Inn chain, where you can feel the softness and gloss of Japanese style throughout the building.

The pride of the inn is its spacious bathhouse, which includes a wide sauna and a cold bath, creating an open and liberating space. There are also open-air baths and pot baths available for a relaxing time. The tatami-mat rooms equipped with beds offer the comfort of feeling like you are at home. You can choose from single, twin, or double rooms depending on the number of people.

Don’t miss the breakfast where you can enjoy local menus and freshly made egg dishes, starting with a customizable seafood bowl where you can top it with your favorite seafood like yellowtail, sweet shrimp, and salmon roe.

Natural Hot Spring Relax Park Terume Kanazawa

Enjoy a tour of the baths at “Natural Hot Spring Relax Park Terume Kanazawa,” the largest bathing facility in the Hokuriku area. Centered around a large bathhouse using natural hot springs, it offers over 10 types of baths for both men and women, including 100% free-flowing source water baths, high-concentration carbonated baths, and daily medicinal herb baths.

Rooms are available in various sizes for both Japanese and Western styles. For dinner, enjoy Japanese izakaya dishes heavily featuring seafood from the Sea of Japan, or choose a genuine yakiniku restaurant offering quality meats and seafood. The breakfast buffet with over 30 dishes is also popular.

The hotel also features a full range of facilities, including an esthetic salon, a kids’ corner, and karaoke, making it perfect for a comfortable stay with family.

Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Hyakurakuso

Enjoy a private adult getaway at the secluded “Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Hyakurakuso.” Upon arrival, you’re welcomed with a stylish Japanese afternoon tea. The spacious lounge allows for an elegant moment of relaxation.

Rooms are available in two buildings, one themed around “beauty and excitement” for great social media shots, and another offering suites and a premium lounge for an upgraded stay. Enjoy the hot springs in the main building with a large communal bath and private open-air baths, or one of the four private baths in the auxiliary building, allowing for undisturbed relaxation.

Dinner is a kaiseki meal incorporating the seasons of Kanazawa. For special occasions, consider adding exquisite dishes like “Selected Noto Beef Rock Salt Grill” or “Whole Salt Grilled Blackthroat Seaperch.”

Access to Yuwaku Onsen is about a 45-minute bus ride from JR Kanazawa Station.

Natural Hot Spring Kaga no Yuizumi Dormy Inn Kanazawa

“Natural Hot Spring Kaga no Yuizumi Dormy Inn Kanazawa,” located about a 2-minute walk from JR Kanazawa Station, offers excellent accessibility. This facility is the Dormy Inn Group’s first designer hotel, boasting a stylish space that belies its business hotel classification.

It features the only gender-separated natural hot spring large public bath around Kanazawa Station, offering a fantastical and modern Japanese aesthetic. With a spacious sauna and cold bath, as well as an open-air bath and pot baths, you can relax to your heart’s content. The tatami mat rooms equipped with beds offer a homely comfort. Choose from single, twin, or double rooms according to the number of guests.

Don’t miss the breakfast options, including local specialties like your choice of seafood donburi and Hanton Rice, as well as a variety of small dishes and freshly made egg dishes. The late-night ramen service is also popular.

APA Hotel <Kanazawa Chuo>

“APA Hotel <Kanazawa Chuo>,” a large urban hotel boasting 513 rooms, is located about an 8-minute drive from JR Kanazawa Station. Close to attractions like Kenrokuen Garden and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, it’s ideal for both business and sightseeing.

The top-floor scenic open-air bath “Souken no Yu” offers spectacular views of Kanazawa city and the distant Sea of Japan. After enjoying the hot springs, why not relax with a healing sauna (stone sauna), massage, or Korean-style scrub?

Rooms are functional Western-style, and all are equipped with free VOD, allowing access to over 200 titles, including movies. Breakfast is served at the in-house “Seattle’s Best Coffee,” offering a daily Japanese set meal.

Natural Hot Spring Kogado no Yu Super Hotel Premier Kanazawa Ekimae

Located approximately 7 minutes on foot from JR Kanazawa Station and an ideal base for sightseeing in Kanazawa, “Natural Hot Spring Kogado no Yu Super Hotel Premier Kanazawa Ekimae” offers gender-separated large public baths using simple thermal springs, allowing guests to thoroughly unwind from their travels.

The hotel features a variety of room types, including ladies’ rooms for solo female travelers, theater rooms with large screens, and family rooms. The breakfast includes a spread of organic vegetables, specially cultivated rice, and locally sourced dishes. In the evening, guests can relax in the lounge with alcoholic and soft drinks, although dinner is not served on the premises—allowing guests to enjoy their evening meal out in Kanazawa before returning to the hotel for drinks.

Oyado Yamashita

“Oyado Yamashita,” known for having been visited by the painter Takehisa Yumeji and his lover, features a gallery displaying Yumeji’s works on each guest room floor, allowing guests to enjoy art viewing while enveloped by Kanazawa’s nature.

The pride of the inn, the hot spring, uses water from the historically loved Yamanaka Onsen. Facilities are child-friendly, with bath toys and chairs available. After a relaxing bath, guests can unwind further in the relaxation space.

Rooms include standard rooms with wide edges and stepping stones, and a maisonette type available for one group per day. The dining experience features creative kaiseki cuisine using seasonal ingredients served in the rooms for both breakfast and dinner. Special plans featuring local delicacies like Noto beef and boxed crabs are also recommended.

Access to Yamanaka Onsen is about a 45-minute bus ride from JR Kanazawa Station.

Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Yuno Ryokan

“Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Yuno Ryokan” is a place where you can feel the Japanese ambiance at every corner, from the tea rooms to the lush green courtyards. The onsen is a colorless, transparent, weak alkaline saline spring gentle on the skin. Guests can enjoy a spacious indoor bath with two bath types—one made from red granite shaped like plum flowers and another with the fragrance of cypress—and an open-air bath.

The guest rooms vary from cozy traditional rooms to special rooms and rooms with their own open-air baths. Dining at the ryokan features kaiseki meals that change monthly, utilizing seasonal seafood and local specialties like Noto beef, nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), and Kaga vegetables. The breakfast buffet includes local dishes like “toppe” and “berobero” and is not to be missed.

Natural Hot Spring & Health Land Kanazawa Yumenoyu

“Natural Hot Spring & Health Land Kanazawa Yumenoyu” boasts extensive facilities including a healing corner and karaoke room. Though it’s about a 15-minute drive from JR Kanazawa Station, a free shuttle bus is available for convenience.

Enjoy a variety of baths such as an open-air bath with natural stones, the largest bath in the prefecture featuring radium water, powerful jet baths, and carbonated baths infused with natural hot spring water. It’s a bonus that you can enjoy the natural hot spring water in the baths of the Western-style rooms as well.

With diverse dining facilities offering Japanese, Western, Chinese, Indian, and barbecue options, you can choose whatever suits your mood or preference. The breakfast is a Japanese set meal with free refills on drinks, rice, and miso soup.

Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Yamane

Perched on a hill and enveloped by the greenery of the countryside, “Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Yamane” offers a 100% natural hot spring that is gentle on the skin. Its open-air baths are set amongst bamboo groves, allowing guests to enjoy the changing seasons and natural soundscape while soaking in the healing waters.

The indoor bath features a small stained-glass window that evokes the spirit of painter Yumeji Takehisa, who once stayed in the area. Another highlight is the private open-air bath carved from a single block of Kaga clan’s secret stone “Tomuroishi.”

The ryokan has ten guest rooms in total. Options include purely Japanese-style rooms, rooms with living areas furnished with sofas, and special rooms equipped with their own open-air baths. Dining here is a particular treat with dishes such as rice cooked in a traditional kamado stove, and local seafood grilled on a Suzu diatomite charcoal grill, all curated by the head chef. Be sure to check out the irori (sunken hearth) dining room, which can be booked in advance for an exclusive dining experience.

Access to Yuwaku Onsen is approximately 45 minutes by bus from JR Kanazawa Station.

MAP

Due to its hearty portions and diverse flavors, it has become a popular menu item among local business people, and now many tourists visit Kanazawa specifically to try Hanton Rice.

In this article, we will introduce the origins of Hanton Rice, a local food beloved in Kanazawa for over 50 years, and select famous restaurants that will make your cheeks fall.

What is Hanton Rice?

Hanton Rice has gained national fame as a local B-grade gourmet through TV, magazines, and the internet.

It has now become one of Kanazawa’s signature soul foods, alongside Kanazawa curry and Kanazawa oden.

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At first glance, it might seem like just another omurice, but each restaurant’s unique take makes this dish stand out.

First, let’s explore the charm of Hanton Rice, which started in a Western food restaurant and spread throughout Kanazawa.

1. What is Hanton Rice?

The basic form of Hanton Rice consists of butter rice seasoned with ketchup topped with a thin omelet, then further topped with fish fry, plenty of ketchup, and tartar sauce.

This basic form is introduced because, under the omelet, it could be white rice or fried rice instead of ketchup rice.

Also, the fry is not limited to white fish or seafood like tuna shrimp; some restaurants use pork cutlet or fried chicken.

In essence, the common elements of “Hanton Rice” are the “thin omelet,” “fry,” and “tartar sauce.”

It is renowned as a rich and hearty menu item.

2. The Origin and History of Hanton Rice

Hanton Rice was born in the late 1960s.

When the president of the now-defunct legendary bakery “German Bakery” opened a restaurant in Katamachi, he devised Hanton Rice as a signature menu item.

This new Western dish captured the stomachs of students and young business people, becoming one of the popular menus of German Bakery.

Eventually, several chefs who left German Bakery added Hanton Rice to the menus of their new restaurants, spreading it throughout Western food establishments in Kanazawa.

Now, it is offered not only in the Kaga and Noto areas but also in parts of Toyama Prefecture.

Each restaurant innovates with its unique seasoning, so while the name is “Hanton Rice,” the contents can vary significantly.

Some restaurants serve it under the name “Hanton-style Rice.”

3. The Mystery of the Name

There are various theories about the origin of the unusual name “Hanton Rice,” but it is said to be derived from “Han” of Hungary and “Ton,” which means tuna in French.

The connection to Hungary in the name comes from the use of butter rice seasoned with paprika, a common ingredient in Hungarian cuisine, in the original version of Hanton Rice.

It is also said to be taken from a Hungarian home dish called “Rántott tonhal” (fried tuna), where fried tuna is served with tartar sauce and rice sprinkled with paprika and salt.

Interestingly, the “Ton” in the word “Tonhal,” which means tuna in Hungarian, is believed to have influenced the origin of the name Hanton Rice.

Recommended Places to Eat Hanton Rice Locally

Here, we introduce must-visit restaurants serving Hanton Rice for those visiting Kanazawa.

1. Grill Otsuka

Located just a bit off the bustling Million Stone Street, which passes through Korinbo, Kanazawa’s most lively district, and the tourist-frequented Omi-cho Market.

Nestled near the back of Tokyu Square, this restaurant is famous for its Hanton Rice and has an old-fashioned and chic appearance that could easily be missed without its white sign overhead.

Upon entering, you are greeted with numerous autographs of gourmet reporters, and the pure white tablecloths convey a sense of classic Western dining culture.

Since its establishment in 1957, it has been beloved by the locals and is so popular that there are often lines during lunchtime. If you have a preferred seating area, it’s recommended to head out early.

The perfect combination of runny eggs and crispy fry

The Hanton Rice here is characterized by the contrast between the runny eggs and the crispy fried items. The melding of flavors created by placing freshly fried items on the soft eggs draped over rice is the secret to its popularity.

The generous amount of homemade tartar sauce and ketchup gives a rich, slightly dense flavor.

Served on a large stainless steel plate, its rounded, three-dimensional appearance is visually appealing.

Underneath the three eggs’ worth of runny omelette is plain ketchup rice mixed with butter rice.

The fried items, which add a flavor twist, include two pieces each of “Ton” (tuna) and shrimp, originating from the name “Hanton.”

The portion is substantial, and it’s recommended to order a small size for those who prefer less, with prices at 980 yen for a small and 1,030 yen for a regular size (both prices include tax). For those who want more, an extra 150 yen will get you a large serving.

If you prefer a luxurious Hanton Rice with only shrimp fry, a small size with four shrimps is available for 1,030 yen, and a regular size for 1,080 yen (both prices include tax).

Another must-try is the “Cream Soup” for 520 yen (tax included).

It might look like a regular potage, but it’s actually a labor-intensive dish based on “sauce velouté” made with a fish stock (fumet de poisson) extended with butter and flour. The addition of onions, milk, and cream adds a rich sweetness and savoriness, showcasing the chef’s skills.

Please try the flavors of this historic Western-style restaurant in Kanazawa.

1. Katsunoya

Located opposite the bustling Omi-cho Market in Kanazawa, on the basement level of Meitetsu M’za, this restaurant offers steaks and Hanton Rice.

Being part of Meitetsu M’za, a popular shopping mall, the restaurant has a casual atmosphere that makes it easy to drop in. The charming orange tables with bench seating on one side include three tables for two and four tables for four, making it convenient not only for meals with friends but also for families with small children.

There are also seven counter seats, great for quick lunches or dining alone.

The restaurant gets busy with lunchtime diners around 11:30 am. If you’re planning a lunch visit, it’s recommended to go right after opening at 11 am or after the lunch rush at about 1:30 pm.

There isn’t a particularly crowded time in the evening, but since it closes early at 9 pm, it’s best to visit with some time to spare.

Enjoy Hanton Rice with your choice of steak or hamburger

The “Kanazawa Hanton Rice” for 1,210 yen (tax included) is known for its fluffy omelette hiding ketchup rice that’s unusually loose and light, a contrast to the usually dense homemade version.

The portion topped with crispy fried shrimp and plentiful homemade tartar sauce has a significant presence. The elongated, crispy fried shrimp are satisfying to eat, and the taste is enhanced when combined with the tartar sauce.

The meal also includes a refreshing side salad, adding great value.

The original menu item “Steak Hanton” for 1,650 yen (tax included) looks like an omelette over rice topped with steak. However, the rice beneath the egg is a fragrantly sautéed garlic rice.

You can choose between sirloin and fillet for the steak, which is skillfully cooked to be tender and juicy. It’s served medium-rare by default, the optimal doneness for flavor.

Other types of Hanton Rice available all year round include “Tonkatsu Hanton (Fukui Bulgara Rice style)” and “Shiro Ebi Hanton,” each for 1,210 yen, and “Hamburger Hanton (Cheese Hamburger)” for 1,650 yen (all prices include tax).

Seasonal specials include “Unagi Hanton” in the summer and “Oyster Hanton” in the winter menu, each for 1,650 yen (tax included).

This restaurant is definitely worth a visit each time you are in Kanazawa.

Home Cook Wakabayashi

Located near the Urokamachi intersection along Honda-dori, close to Saiou Elementary School, this Western-style eatery specializes in meat dishes and is run by a butcher.

Despite its slightly aged exterior, the white walls with rose pink and peppermint green accents are charming.

Inside, there’s a long counter with 7 seats and four raised four-seater tables, ideal not only for dining with friends but also convenient for families with small children.

As it’s a casual place opened by a local butcher, it has a very populist appeal.

With “Home” in its name, it’s a place where you can relax and linger.

Surprisingly affordable yet exceptionally delicious

The attractively plated “Hanton Rice” is a steal at just 800 yen (tax included)!

However, the portion might be more suited for men—it’s quite substantial.

The rice is a ketchup-flavored chicken rice packed with mushrooms and onions.

On top of this, there’s a thin omelette, a fried white fish fillet, unexpectedly accompanied by a wiener sausage and cucumber, all smothered in plenty of tartar sauce.

The crispy on the outside and fluffy inside fish fillet paired with the house-made tartar sauce is a delight.

It also comes with pickles and miso soup, ensuring even active guys will be full.

There are two other variations of “Hanton Rice”.

One is the “Tonkatsu Hanton Rice” for 900 yen (tax included), topped with a thick slice of tonkatsu.

The crispy-coated, juicy, and tender tonkatsu reflects the butcher’s expertise.

Also, the “Ebi Fry Hanton Rice” for 750 yen (tax included) is a regular favorite.

The shrimp are impressively large, offering a sense of luxury.

Both dishes use the same type of ketchup-flavored chicken rice loaded with ham and onions as the regular Hanton Rice.

There’s also a unique specialty, “Hanton Spaghetti” for 900 yen (tax included), where the typical chicken rice is replaced with spaghetti, another must-try original.

NO SIDE (No Side)

This hidden cafe dining spot is located on a backstreet behind Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, near Kanazawa Station, set in a renovated old house blending chicly into the streets of Kanazawa.

The interior is simple and serene, split between the first and second floors, each with its own seating area.

The first floor features an open kitchen with four seats at the counter and a combination of two-seater and five-seater tables, perfect for individuals or small groups.

On the second floor, there are two three-seater tables, one four-seater table, and a semi-private booth for two by a large window.

This floor can be reserved for groups of 8 to 12, making it ideal for small parties or gatherings.

Five types of toppings to choose from for a fun and delicious signature dish

The most popular dish here is undoubtedly the “Hanton Rice”!

It features slightly under-seasoned ketchup rice enveloped in a well-cooked omelette.

Even without any fried toppings, this dish alone seems filling enough, offering ample volume.

The price varies depending on the topping chosen, but opting for “White Fish Fry” Hanton Rice costs 950 yen each (tax included).

If you prefer large “Shrimp Fry” or “Tonkatsu”, those are available for 1,000 yen each (tax included).

Each option guarantees a hearty meal, but the tonkatsu topping, which includes a whole slice, is particularly substantial.

The white fish topping offers a lighter option.

This cafe dining, preserved by two generations, also excels in elaborately crafted dishes.

The classic “Omelette Rice” at 850 yen (tax included) can be served with a choice of mild demi sauce, traditional ketchup, or a special ketchup-mayo.

You can’t overlook the “Kanazawa Curry” either.

The rich and aromatic curry roux is served with a choice of toppings, accompanied by shredded cabbage, providing a style unique to Kanazawa.

Like the Hanton Rice, you can choose from “White Fish Fry,” “Chicken Fry,” or “Oyster Fry” for 850 yen each (tax included).

“Shrimp Fry” or “Tonkatsu” are available for 950 yen, allowing for a luxurious curry experience.

Be sure to try the Kanazawa curry with varying toppings for a diverse flavor experience.

MAP

We introduce selected “restaurants where you can eat Kanazawa Oden”!

Characteristics of Kanazawa Oden

Using ingredients associated with Kanazawa, such as car gluten, ume shellfish, steamed items, and Kaga vegetables like Gensuke daikon, and each store’s inherited broth defines Kanazawa Oden.

The definition set by the “Kanazawa Oden Old Shops 50-Year Association” is to use “local Kanazawa ingredients” for oden ingredients and be “available year-round.”

The Long-established Oden ‘Mihiro’ Rooted in the Community

A long-established store over 50 years old that relocated last fall. Despite being in the suburbs, it attracts visitors from afar, and its popularity, leading to daily full bookings, has accelerated further since the renewal.

The feature of “Mihiro” is the broth that has remained unchanged since its establishment.

It blends shavings of mackerel, horse mackerel, and sardine to achieve a deep flavor.

The simple seasoning without added sweetness is intended to enjoy the oden ingredients themselves.

While the menu mostly consists of Kanazawa Oden classics, detailed attention is seen in using green-top daikon to retain texture and managing the cooking time for each ingredient, all stemming from a commitment to the ingredients.

This all comes from the passion for ingredients.

Perhaps it has been beloved for so long because it has faithfully inherited the motto set by the founder.

A Family-Friendly Restaurant “Kasamai Oden Tsubomi”

“Tsubomi” is located along Saikawa Otori Street, a bit away from the downtown area. It’s a popular restaurant where lines get longer as it gets colder.

Creating a space where everyone from children to the elderly can enjoy, not just as a “pub”, is one of the reasons for its popularity. Stepping inside from the cold, you’re welcomed by an interior reminiscent of a spacious Japanese-style room and staff with bright smiles, warming your heart.

The skill of the owner, who honed his craft at famous Oden restaurants in the prefecture, shines through in the Oden ingredients. Among them, the specialty “Egg Roll”, made by steaming minced white fish and oden broth, offers a fluffy texture that is irresistible.

There’s also a high reputation for the side menu, with options like chicken wings and fresh fish that will make your mouth water!

Looking around the restaurant, it’s clear why there’s always a line, making it a satisfying visit.

A Famous Shop Busy from Day to Night “Kanazawa Oden Akadama Main Store”

A famous shop established in 1927, located at the corner of Katamachi Scramble Crossing, that has spread the name of “Kanazawa Oden” nationwide.

The ingredients are seasoned with a soy sauce-flavored black broth, served with a clear broth made from Hokkaido kelp and domestic dried sardines.

The store’s namesake fish cake Oden ingredient “Akadama” is worth a look!

Reservation for Kobako crab’s crab face is prioritized, so it’s recommended to reserve by phone or online.

Be sure to check it out.

A Powerhouse from the Downtown Expands to the Station “Kanaeki no Chikuwa”

The second branch of a capable restaurant with its main store in Katamachi.

As the store name “Chikuwa”, which symbolizes building connections with people, suggests, it’s a place where you can easily enjoy dining around a counter that encircles the kitchen.

Ingredients and seasonings grown in the local culture, and oden ingredients made from scratch with broth you can drink up. You’re sure to feel the effort and thoughts packed tightly into it.

Please note that seat reservations are not accepted.

Crab faces are not available. Please understand in advance.

A Popular Store with Excellent Cost Performance Loved by Regulars “Oden-dokoro Otori Chaya”

“Shirayama Chaya” inside the Kanazawa Miyako Hotel opened under a new name in Konohana-cho in 2017.

The broth, blended with sardines, muroaji, and bonito flakes, is flavored with “Kikuhime”, a sake from Hakusan City.

The oden pot features local ingredients, making it a popular spot bustling with regulars due to its convenience. The counter is recommended for a solo drink after work.

Tatami rooms are perfect for parties and drinking sessions. With all-you-can-drink courses available, it’s safe for use by large groups.

A Unique Establishment in the Kanazawa Oden Scene “Oden Takasago”

In Kanazawa Oden, there aren’t many strict rules, and “Takasago” symbolizes this freedom.

The broth is a rare Kanto-style in Kanazawa. A distinctive feature is eating oden with ginger miso. The menu even includes curry oden!

Despite being an established business for 87 years, it gathers fans with its unique approach divergent from the mainstream.

From classic Kanazawa oden items like crab, bai clams, car gluten, akamaki, and Kaga vegetables, to unusual menus like dote-yaki (miso-glazed grilled offal) and curry oden, it boasts a full lineup.

Here, you can enjoy Kanazawa oden that is unique and only available in Kanazawa.

The Charm of Clear Broth Salt Oden “Oden Yama-san”

Founded in 1953, Yama-san is a unique establishment in Kanazawa that serves salt-flavored oden, welcoming a wide range of customers in the station.

Based on a broth made from several kinds of dried fish, it has continued to improve to fit the times.

Its inclusiveness, enriching the gap times of station users with lunch and casual drinks, is admirable.

Enjoy a Higher Grade of Creative Oden at “Private Room Izakaya Gappa”

An izakaya that opened in 2020.

Located just a 2-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, in a building nearby, where you can enjoy a menu focused on oden.

Offers creative oden dishes using luxurious ingredients, such as “Nodoguro Oden” where a half-bodied nodoguro is soaked in broth, and “Hiroshima Prefecture Oyster Daikon” adorned with ikura and gold leaf.

A Toast with Traditional Oden and Mountain Delicacies at “Seasonal Cuisine & Oden Kuroyuri”

The secret broth that has been added to since the establishment wafts softly throughout the restaurant.

In addition to oden soaked in the carefully selected broth, it also offers mountain delicacies like hard tofu and iwana (char).

While many visitors from outside the prefecture have an image of Ishikawa as a seafood destination, oden serves as an entry point to spread the charm of the region.

You can also enjoy Kaga specialties like jibuni (stewed duck or chicken), Hakusan tofu, and washed iwana.

For groups, advance reservations are recommended.

A Wide Array from Classics to Unique Varieties at “Amatsubo Kakibatake Main Store”

A large izakaya that has been delivering Kanazawa’s local “jiwamon” delicacies for half a century, representing the region.

It’s famous for its alcohol, seasonal cuisine, and a rich lineup of about 20 types of oden.

Enjoy a wide range from Kanazawa oden classics like car gluten, rock octopus, and ume clam, to unique dishes like “fried oden” where the fried items are drenched in broth.

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Starting with luxury fish such as nodoguro, dishes with dojo loach and Kaga vegetables, we introduce a carefully selected list of 6 luxury sushi restaurants where you can enjoy ingredients unique to Kanazawa.

Information is packed with recommended shops including rare sushi toppings and stylish interiors with great attention to detail.

Check before going to Kanazawa and spend a luxurious time at a high-end sushi restaurant in Kanazawa.

[Lunch Service Available] Enjoy a special moment at Kanazawa’s luxury sushi restaurants.

Kanazawa has many luxury sushi restaurants where you can enjoy the bounty of the Sea of Japan.

Some restaurants operate from lunchtime, so it’s also recommended to visit at lunch if you want to enjoy luxury sushi at a reasonable price.

Characteristics and price range of luxury sushi restaurants

Generally served as course meals

Luxury sushi is typically served as course meals in a calm atmosphere.

One of the pleasures is to enjoy watching the chef’s skillful hands across the counter.

It’s also characteristic that many are omakase, or chef’s choice, depending on the day’s procurement.

Price range of luxury sushi

The price range for a course menu at a luxury sushi restaurant is about 6,000 to 10,000 yen for lunch and 20,000 to 40,000 yen for dinner.

Comparing to the average cost of about 3,000 yen per person at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, luxury sushi costs about 2 to 3 times more for lunch and 7 to 13 times more for dinner.

Sushi Rekireki Omi-cho Store

Authentic Edomae Sushi with Fresh Ingredients

A sushi restaurant in Kanazawa that offers fresh ingredients and first-class taste, using rare red vinegar rice.

The authentic Edomae sushi, which brings out the sweetness and umami of the ingredients with extra care, is served according to the customer’s preferences.

Focusing on local production for local consumption in Hokuriku, the “Omakase Nigiri ‘Takumi'” is popular for enjoying seasonal ingredients, and the “Nodoguro Temaki” is also recommended.

There’s also an original blend of local sake, offering a luxurious moment to enjoy with alcohol.

Enjoying Luxury Sushi Without Formality

Located in the Kanazawa’s kitchen, Omi-cho Market, where about 170 stores of fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits line up. It’s conveniently located for a visit during sightseeing.

Polite service is recommended for anniversary lunches and dinners. It’s nice that prices are relatively reasonable.

There are table seats in addition to counter seats, making it enjoyable for groups and families with children.

Sushizen Daiki

Enjoy Kanazawa’s Famous Sushi and Dishes

A shop where you can taste carefully selected seafood from Hokuriku and other regions, served with subtly sweet rice and a unique blend of soy sauce.

Popular kohada (gizzard shad) and fluffy anago (conger eel), inherited from the predecessor, are the restaurant’s specialties. Try Kanazawa’s famous dojo (loach) kabayaki as well.

Affordable priced lunches featuring Kanazawa’s unique ingredients during the day, and at night, it’s recommended to enjoy local sake with à la carte dishes, grilled items, and snacks.

Relax in a Kanazawa-like Interior

The stylish modern Japanese exterior catches the eye.

Located a 7-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, it’s easy to stop by during sightseeing, and the interior, incorporating elements typical of Kanazawa like Kutani ware, Mizuhiki, and gold leaf, offers a relaxing atmosphere.

In addition to low wooden counter seats, there are sofa table seats, making it recommended for various travel situations.

Sushi Place Kawagishi

Enjoy Sushi with an Izakaya Feel

Opened with the motto of providing “satisfactory offerings at low prices.” You can enjoy selected fresh fish and à la carte dishes with an izakaya feel.

In addition to sushi made with fresh seafood procured from Kanazawa Port and Kanazawa Central Wholesale Market, the restaurant also offers local dishes such as Noto pork kushikatsu and radish sushi, attracting regulars who come specifically for the à la carte dishes.

Takeout sushi and course meals are also available according to your budget.

Usable in Various Scenes

The interior, which has a variety of seating options including counter, table, and tatami, totaling 22 seats, is versatile for various scenes.

Its spacious seating and community-based homely atmosphere are perfect for a relaxed dinner during sightseeing.

The owner’s desire for customers to enter casually without compromise is reflected in the reasonable prices, adding to the restaurant’s charm.

Sentori Sushi Main Store

Exquisite Sushi at a Renowned Establishment

A sushi restaurant with the elegance and dignity of a well-known establishment nationwide.

The rice, cooked in a kettle with clear well water, pairs excellently with the carefully selected ingredients. You can also enjoy Kanazawa-like ingredients and local sake.

Recommendations include the “Millionaire’s Sushi” with 10 selected pieces (3,800 yen), “Seasonal Sushi” with 10 nigiri (4,950 yen), and “Omakase Sushi” with 10 nigiri, one nori roll, and miso soup (6,050 yen).

Chic Space and Friendly Artisan Hospitality

Located near Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s three great gardens, the location is perfect for a stop during sightseeing.

The counter with friendly artisans, spacious tatami rooms, and private rooms with counter seats overlooking a garden adding seasonal colors, offer 53 seats that can be reserved for various scenes.

Open from lunchtime through dinner, you can visit at any time without worrying about the hours.

Sushi Hachimaru

Casual yet Detailed Sushi

Ingredients are carefully selected from seasonal fish caught in the Sea of Japan and Hokuriku. The sushi rice is a blend of red vinegar from Edo-mae and rice vinegar with Koshihikari rice from Noto, and rice selected for each season.

“Seasonal Selected Nigiri” and “Artisan’s Choice Sushi Course” are recommended, complemented by a selection of over 30 types of sake, sours, and highballs that go well with sushi.

Both lunch and dinner are strictly by reservation, so be sure to book in advance.

A Dedicated Space in a Convenient Location

The restaurant is located just a 5-minute walk from JR Kanazawa Station, making it easily accessible.

The interior offers a variety of seating options including spacious counters, tables, and private rooms, allowing for different usage scenarios.

The interior, where you can spend private time without worrying about your surroundings, has relaxing background music, making it suitable for meals, entertainment, and anniversaries in various scenes.

Casual service and pricing are also popular, and the restaurant is open for lunchtime.

Sushi Kappo Sushi Ryu

Sushi and Local Cuisine Enjoyed with Sake

A restaurant where you can enjoy nigiri sushi and chirashi sushi that shine with 30 years of artisan skill, using fresh seasonal seafood delivered directly from Kanazawa Port. Local cuisine using Kaga vegetables that emphasize local production for local consumption goes perfectly with original sake brewed in Noto and Kaga. The “Millionaire’s Sushi” (3,450 yen), including the artisan’s special “Father’s Nigiri,” is recommended.

Warm Hospitality of a Friendly Master in a Travel Destination

This storied restaurant, located about a 5-minute walk from JR Kanazawa Station near Nakajima Ohashi Bridge, has a dignified presence. The restaurant, with a total of 40 seats including counters, raised tatami floors, and second-floor tatami rooms, can be chosen according to the scene and is reservable. On a journey, chatting with the friendly master over the counter is also recommended. Not only tourist information but also interesting local stories might be heard. Open from noon through midnight, allowing visits at any time without worrying about the hours.

8 Recommended Kanazawa Curry Shops! Introducing the characteristics of Kanazawa Curry!On a stainless steel plate, a pitch-black curry roux. Have you he...

MAP

Have you heard of “Kanazawa Curry,” characterized by a generous amount of sauce on a cutlet and cabbage?

As a popular local gourmet dish, Kanazawa Curry is frequently enjoyed by tourists as well as locals, but what sets it apart from typical curry? In this article, we’ll introduce the features of Kanazawa Curry that many people love, and particularly recommend some curry shops.

Each shop uses its own special roux and toppings, offering a variety of flavors. Please use this article as a reference to taste the local gourmet of Ishikawa, “Kanazawa Curry”!

What are the characteristics of Kanazawa Curry?

Kanazawa Curry is distinctive for its curry with a cutlet on top and shredded cabbage on the side.

Many people might feel it resembles cutlet curry because the cutlet is placed on top of the curry.

The difference from cutlet curry lies in whether there is sauce on top of the cutlet.

Kanazawa Curry features a special sauce on the cutlet, allowing for a richer flavor.

It is thicker and blacker than typical curry roux, and the reason for its darkness is “caramel.”

By adding caramel and slightly burning the roux during simmering, it creates a richer and more profound flavor.

Kanazawa Curry, served in a stainless steel dish and appealing to all ages for its cute appearance, is popular among all.

Many shops use a spork or fork, which is a small but notable detail.

Champion Curry, Nonoichi Main Store

Introducing “Champion Curry, Nonoichi Main Store,” affectionately known as ChanKare, located an 8-minute walk from Nonoichi Koudai Mae Station.

This shop is said to be the originator of Kanazawa Curry, as its founder, Mr. Yoshiwa Tanaka, created the recipe and the distinctive style of Kanazawa Curry.

The main store is located in Nonoichi City, next to Kanazawa City, but within Kanazawa City alone, there are 5 stores, including the Omi-cho Store, a 15-minute walk from Kanazawa Station, and the Takayanagi Store, a 9-minute walk from Higashi-Kanazawa Station.

Please choose a store that is easy to access.

The signature menu item is the “L-size Katsu Curry” for 720 yen (tax included).

After purchasing a meal ticket and handing it to the staff, the curry is served in less than 5 minutes, a hallmark of Kanazawa Curry’s speed of service.

The roux, smooth enough to be scooped up with a spoon or fork, is concentrated with the flavors of various ingredients.

The roux, with its moderate spiciness and sweet and spicy taste, pairs well with white rice.

The cutlet is perfectly thick and large!

Despite its size, the cutlet, with its crispy breading and minimal fat, can be easily finished.

Fukujinzuke (pickled vegetables) are also available on the table for unlimited topping.

The original fukujinzuke, with its moderate sweetness and acidity, perfectly complements the rich roux.

“Champion Curry” is said to be the birthplace of Kanazawa Curry.

With many outlets in Ishikawa Prefecture, those interested should definitely pay a visit.

Turban Curry Main Store

Introducing “Turban Curry,” located a 30-minute walk from Nomachi Station.

This shop has a particularly deep history among Kanazawa curry establishments, having been in business for nearly 50 years since its founding in 1971.

Reminiscent of an old-fashioned Western-style restaurant, this shop offers a variety of curry dishes and toppings.

There are 7 types of curry, in addition to many seasonal menus.

With over 10 types of toppings, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

In such cases, the “L Set Curry” for 1,150 yen (tax included), which allows you to enjoy loin cutlet, wieners, and hamburgers all at once, is recommended.

The curry roux is characterized by its mild acidity and spices, making it easy to eat.

In fact, the roux uses a commitment to over 20 types of spices!

You can enjoy a taste similar to spicy Indian curry and the richness of European-style curry.

The crispy cutlet on top of the thick curry roux has a satisfying bite.

The pork is sweet and matches well with the richness of the curry.

Not only can you choose the ingredients and toppings, but you can also select the amount of rice from “S” -50 yen to “LL” +200 yen (each tax included).

It’s about an 8-minute walk from Kenrokuen, so enjoy it after sightseeing!

Curry no Shimin Alba Komatsu Main Store

Introducing “Curry no Shimin Alba Komatsu Main Store,” located a 6-minute walk from Komatsu Station.

Originally a curry shop with a history of over 50 years, it was reopened under a new manager after closing in 2021.

The roux, with a 50-year history, is blended with Nagoya Cochin and young lamb broth, adding more flavor and richness to the curry.

This shop, having undergone several improvements, offers a lighter version of Kanazawa curry compared to other places.

The “Tonkatsu Curry” for 850 yen (tax included) is the shop’s most popular menu item.

A novel dish with cutlet on rice, topped with curry roux.

The rich roux has depth, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness.

You can order a larger portion for an additional 100 yen.

The cutlet is fried at a high temperature, giving it a crispy texture.

Even with the roux, it’s cooked at a high temperature to improve the texture.

In a retro atmosphere of yesteryear, you can enjoy a distinct version of Kanazawa curry.

Texas

“Texas” has become a popular spot where lines form before opening even on weekdays.

With access being difficult, a 50-minute walk from Kamimoroike Station, it’s better to go by car or taxi.

There’s one parking spot in front of the shop and another across the road.

At this restaurant, you can enjoy more than 20 types of dishes, including curry, pasta, and set meals.

It’s a famous spot frequented by locals for its delicious food.

The “Texas Curry” for 800 yen (tax included) is a satisfying menu item that comes with salad, miso soup, and a drink.

Different from other Kanazawa curries is the “cutlet” used.

While typical Kanazawa curry uses pork cutlet, here they use a cutlet wrapped with myoga and cheese in shiso and chicken breast.

The saltiness of the myoga, the refreshing taste of shiso, and the richness of the cheese are irresistible.

The curry roux here is thicker and creamier than other Kanazawa curries.

The miso soup is also uniquely Kanazawa, made with seafood broth.

The ingredients change daily, offering luxurious miso soup with crab, shellfish, shrimp, and more, which is another reason for its popularity.

Since it’s a popular spot with lines even on weekdays, if you’re interested, make sure to visit with time to spare.

Kitchen Yuki

“Kitchen Yuki,” located a 20-minute walk from Matsuto Station, is a popular restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Kanazawa curry in a Western-style diner setting.

Both the dining area and kitchen are located on the second floor, offering a spacious environment filled with numerous tables.

True to the style of old Western-style diners, it’s a space where you can relax and enjoy your time.

The “Tonkatsu Curry” for 990 yen (tax included) is known for its richness and sweet flavor.

Because the curry is mild, it’s suitable for people who do not like spicy food and children.

As a Western-style diner, the restaurant offers a wide variety of menu options.

The “Curry Bake with Tonkatsu” for 1,150 yen (tax included), which is a tonkatsu curry served on Kitchen Yuki’s signature dish, “Bake Rice,” is also popular.

Bake Rice refers to the restaurant’s original fried rice, characterized by its Japanese broth flavor and the umami of fried rice.

The combination of Japanese and Western styles in the rice, topped with rich curry, is a perfect match!

It’s a popular menu item that allows you to experience the essence of Kanazawa.

Gold Curry Main Store

Introducing “Gold Curry,” notable for its orange exterior.

Since it’s a bit far from the station, it’s better to go by car or taxi.

While Tonkatsu on curry is basic for Kanazawa curry, this place offers a wide variety of toppings.

From “Cheese Mille-feuille Katsu Curry” for 880 yen to “Noto Pork Katsu Curry” for 1,030 yen (tax included), there are various Kanazawa curries to try.

The most orthodox and popular is the “G Katsu Curry” for 800 yen (tax included).

The large cutlet is characterized by its crunchy texture and coarse breadcrumbs.

The combination of crispy breading and juicy pork is superb.

The curry roux is spicier compared to other restaurants.

It’s smooth to the touch, offering a rich and refreshing flavor that’s unique.

Another highlight of this restaurant is the limited-time offers that allow you to enjoy curry at a discount.

Regardless of weekdays or weekends, from 11:00 to 15:00 during lunchtime, G Katsu Curry is only 680 yen.

Miso soup is provided for free as a service with Gold Curry!

When you order curry, miso soup is self-service, perfect for a break from the curry.

Besides the rich menu, the challenge menus are also interesting.

There’s even a big eater menu where you can try up to 10 kilos of curry.

If you’re curious, give it a try.

Indian Curry Main Store

Introducing the “Indian Curry Main Store,” just a 5-minute walk from Mikuchi Station.

Because of its convenient access from Kanazawa Station, this shop is beloved by many.

It has a long history and offers a taste of traditional Kanazawa curry.

The signature menu item of this shop is the “Vegetable Egg Curry” for 780 yen (tax included).

Known affectionately as “Yasatama Curry,” this dish is completed by adding vegetable eggs as a topping to the curry.

A luxurious dish topped with plenty of vegetables and a soft-boiled egg on the curry.

The thickly simmered roux matches exquisitely with the mild taste of the omelet.

The “Indian Curry Vegetable Egg DX” for 1,130 yen (tax included) is a plate full of the most popular toppings, offering a generous volume.

The menu includes items from Ishikawa’s fresh seafood to deliciously fatty pork cutlets, all fried.

All the fries are crispy, making them a perfect match with the rich roux.

This shop, where you can enjoy delicious curry in a traditional setting, also offers self-service miso soup, so if you’re interested, be sure to visit.

Go Go Curry Kanazawa Main Store

Located 30 minutes by bus from Kanazawa Station, “Go Go Curry Kanazawa Main Store” is the flagship store of a nationally famous curry specialty shop.

It’s said that Go Go Curry helped popularize the term “Kanazawa Curry,” making it a familiar name even to those outside Kanazawa.

The shop’s most popular and orthodox dish is the “Loin Katsu Curry” for 800 yen (tax included).

What sets this curry apart is, above all, its size!

Even the M size (regular) offers plenty of rice, curry roux, and a large cutlet, making the “S size (small)” for 750 yen (tax included) recommended for those with a smaller appetite or women.

The cutlet is crispy and very satisfying to eat.

It uses pork with less fat, making it easier and lighter to eat.

The curry roux has the rich and flavorful taste characteristic of Kanazawa curry.

Furthermore, this curry is distinctive for its stronger acidity compared to others.

The added acidity enhances the spiciness of the curry even more.

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