For visitors to Kanazawa, knowing in advance about the various events taking place can greatly enhance your experience of the city. The Hyakumangoku Festival procession in June and the Hyakumangoku Odori Nagashi are particularly noteworthy, offering valuable opportunities to immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s rich history and culture. These events are often highlights of the year, but some may require tickets in advance, and crowds are expected, so planning ahead can make your visit to Kanazawa even more enjoyable.
The Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden Cherry Blossom Festival is held in early April and is one of the most colorful events of spring in Kanazawa. In June, the Kanazawa Lantern Festival (Kaga Yuzen Toro Nagashi) takes place the day before the Hyakumangoku Festival. During this event, beautifully illuminated lanterns float down the Asano River, offering a glimpse of Kanazawa’s traditional beauty. However, it is not held every year, so it’s important to check in advance.
The Hyakumangoku Festival, Kanazawa’s largest event, is held on the first weekend of June. The festival celebrates the arrival of Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Kaga Domain, with a spectacular warrior and historical procession through the city, allowing visitors to step back into the history of this castle town. Simultaneously, the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Music Festival is held, featuring a variety of performances by artists from both Japan and abroad.
In July and August, the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater hosts the Evening Noh Performances. This event is an excellent way to experience the elegance of Noh theater, and it is particularly recommended for beginners. Also in mid-August, the Hyakumangoku Odori Nagashi takes place—a large-scale bon dance festival where both locals and visitors can dance together in the heart of the city.
At the end of October, the Kanazawa Marathon is held, offering spectators the chance to enjoy the beautiful Kanazawa cityscape while cheering on runners as they make their way through the city.
On November 6th, the Ishikawa Crab Fishing Season officially opens, marking the start of the season for Kano-gani and Kobako-gani crabs. From November 8th, these fresh crabs appear in Omicho Market, offering visitors a taste of Kanazawa’s winter delicacies.
| Event Name | Time of Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden Cherry Blossom Festival 金沢城・兼六園桜まつり | Early April | A spring event where you can enjoy illuminated cherry blossoms in Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenrokuen Garden. |
| Kanazawa Lantern Festival 加賀友禅燈ろう流し | The day before the Hyakumangoku Festival in June | A beautiful event where Kaga Yuzen lanterns are floated down the Asano River. Note: This event is not held every year, so please check in advance. |
| Hyakumangoku Festival 百万石祭り | First weekend of June | Kanazawa’s largest festival celebrating the entrance of Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Kaga Domain, with a spectacular warrior and historical procession through the city. |
| Hyakumangoku Odori Nagashi 百万石踊り流し | Concurrent with the Hyakumangoku Festival in June | A large-scale bon dance festival where locals and visitors enjoy dancing together in the city center. |
| Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Music Festival 百万石音楽祭 | Concurrent with the Hyakumangoku Festival in June | A music festival featuring a variety of performances by artists from Japan and abroad. |
| Evening Noh Performances 能楽の夕べ | July and August | An event held at the Ishikawa Prefectural Noh Theater where you can easily experience the appeal of Noh theatre, recommended for beginners. |
| Kanazawa Odori 金沢踊り | September | A traditional Japanese dance performance by geigi from the Higashi, Nishi, and Kazue-machi districts, showcasing the elegance of Kanazawa’s geisha culture. |
| Kanazawa Marathon 金沢マラソン | Late October | A large-scale marathon that runs through the city of Kanazawa, offering a chance to enjoy the beautiful cityscape while cheering on the runners. |
| Kenrokuen Light-up 兼六園ライトアップ | Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter | Seasonal light-up events in Kenrokuen Garden, with winter featuring the popular combination of snow-covered trees and illuminated garden. |
| Ishikawa Crab Fishing Season カニ解禁 | November 6th | The opening of the crab fishing season for Kano-gani and Kobako-gani, with fresh crabs available at Omicho Market starting from November 8th. |
Kanazawa’s annual events allow visitors to fully appreciate the city’s natural beauty and traditional culture throughout the four seasons. By participating in these events, you can deepen your connection with the unique charm of Kanazawa. When planning your visit, be sure to check the event schedule in advance to fully enjoy all that Kanazawa has to offer.
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