Japan 2019 – Kanazawa Castle
Visiting Kanazawa without the castle would be a no-no – Kanazawa Castle, a significant historic symbol and part of the cultural heritage of Japan, was initially constructed in the late 16th century. It became the stronghold of the Maeda clan, one of the most powerful samurai clans of the Edo period. If you read about Samurai and Edo, this clan is the pure role model.
The Maeda family, ruling over the Kaga Domain, was known for its wealth and cultural patronage, significantly influencing the development of Kanazawa.
The castle, having undergone multiple reconstructions due to fires, was rebuilt in the 1990s using traditional techniques. This included the “shouin-zukuri” style, noted for its unique tiled roofs and white walls. There is (or was during my visit) an interesting exhibition about the wooden ‘knots’ used for joining beams and other elements in wooden constructions. Specifically, the Gojikken Nagaya storehouse, reconstructed in 2001, features displays on traditional carpentry.
The Maeda clan’s legacy is also deeply intertwined with the nearby Nagamachi Samurai District. This area, where samurai and their families lived, still retains historical charm with its well-preserved samurai residences, narrow lanes, and earthen walls. It stands as a living reminder of the samurai culture that thrived under the Maedas’ rule.
Today, Kanazawa Castle, coupled with the Samurai District, offers a vivid glimpse into Japan’s feudal past, highlighting the Maeda clan’s significant role in shaping the region’s history and cultural landscape.
