Nishi Chaya District: A Glimpse into Kanazawa's Geisha Past
Step back in time in Kanazawa's Nishi Chaya District, a preserved geisha district with traditional teahouses, museums, and a serene atmosphere.
Nishi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's three well-preserved teahouse districts, offers a serene escape into the city's Edo-era entertainment culture. Established in 1820, this compact area features traditional wooden buildings, some still operating as exclusive geisha parlors, alongside modern cafes and sweet shops.
A brief summary to Nishi Chaya District
- 2 Chome-25-18 Nomachi, Kanazawa, 2 Chome Nomachi, Ishikawa, 921-8031, JP
- +8176-232-5555
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the late afternoon or early evening for a chance to hear shamisen music and possibly catch a glimpse of geiko.
- Explore the Nishi Chaya Museum to learn about the history of the district and geisha culture.
- Sample local sweets and tea at one of the charming cafes or confectionary shops.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Myoryuji Temple (Ninja Temple).
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Left Loop) to the Hirokoji bus stop. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes. From the Hirokoji bus stop, it is a short 3-minute walk to Nishi Chaya District. The fare for the bus is ¥210. A one-day pass for unlimited rides on the Kanazawa Loop Bus and other city buses is available for ¥800.
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Walking
From Katamachi, Kanazawa's downtown area, walk west for about 10 minutes. Turn right at the Nomachi Hirokoji intersection, and you will see the entrance to Nishi Chaya District on your left. The walk is relatively flat and straightforward.
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Taxi
A taxi from Kanazawa Station to Nishi Chaya District will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥1,500 and ¥2,000. Taxi stands are located at the West Exit of Kanazawa Station.
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