JAPAN 2019 – Kanazawa Higashi Chaya District

Kanazawa, besides the Castle and Nagamachi (Samurai) district, also offers a glimpse into the past, especially Japan’s rich Edo period history, with its traditional teahouses and charming streets: The Higashi Chaya District (Higashi-Chayamachi)

During the Edo / Tokugawa period (1603-1867), ochaya (teahouses) were exclusive establishments where guests could be entertained by geishas with performances and conversation. Higashi-Chayamachi still retains this cultural essence. Visitors can explore teahouses, which have been converted into museums, providing an authentic peek into the geisha lifestyle and, if you like, an introduction to the tea ceremony.

Nowadays, Higashi Chaya is a contemporary hub for artisanal crafts. The district is renowned for its gold leaf craftsmanship, a technique integral to Kanazawa’s cultural identity.

While strolling through the district, you will enjoy the traditional machiya (wooden-latticed buildings housing) unique shops and cafes, offering a blend of historical ambiance and modern comforts.