The Three Chaya districts of Kanazawa
The Three Chaya districts of Kanazawa
The Three Chaya districts of Kanazawa
(Higashi, Nishi, and Kazuemachi).
Kanazawa is home to three historic chaya districts—Higashi, Nishi, and Kazuemachi—that have been preserved since the Edo period. These districts have long served as refined social venues where Kanazawa gentlemen could enjoy the sophisticated performances of Kanazawa geiko. Carrying on a tradition of elegance and prestige from the feudal era to the present, these districts have nurtured many renowned geiko.
Even today, the chaya districts retain their old-town charm, featuring traditional wooden facades with delicate latticework known as “kimusuko” and narrow wooden eaves. As you stroll through the streets, you might hear the distant sound of shamisen and taiko drums drifting through the air, immersing you in the unique atmosphere and refined elegance of Kanazawa.
Higashi Chaya District
Higashi Chaya District is located in the Higashiyama area on the right bank of the Asano River, which flows along the base of Utatsuyama. In 2001, it was designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, making it the second chaya district in Japan to receive this recognition after Gion in Kyoto.
As one of Kanazawa’s most iconic tourist destinations, it attracts many visitors. The district is also well known as the setting of Hiroyuki Itsuki’s novel Toki no Haka (The Grave of the Crested Ibis).
Teahouses
in Higashi Chaya District
Hachishige
Nakamura
Hachino fuku
Fujinoya
Nishi Chaya District
Nishi Chaya District is located just a short walk from Saigawa Ohashi Bridge, which spans the Saigawa River, often mentioned alongside the Asano River.
This charming area is lined with traditional two-story chaya buildings featuring beautiful lattice windows, alongside long-established kaiseki restaurants, creating an atmosphere rich in history and elegance.
The district is also known as the childhood home of Seijiro Shimada, the author of Chijo, a major bestseller from the Taisho era.
Teahouses
in Nishi Chaya District
Meigetsu
Hanya
Mion
Asano-ya
Hana no Yado
Kazue-machi Chaya District
Kazue-machi Chaya District stretches along the left bank of the Asano River, from Asanogawa Ohashi Bridge to Naka-no-hashi Bridge, with a row of houses featuring traditional red latticework. Because of its scenic riverside views, the area has long been affectionately known as Nagare.
Lined with historic teahouses and traditional ryotei restaurants, the district retains its old-world charm. In the evening, the sound of shamisen music can sometimes be heard drifting through the streets.
In 2008, it was designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
