Nagamachi Samurai District
Step into feudal Japan through beautifully preserved samurai estates
The Nagamachi district served as the residential area for middle-ranking samurai of the Kaga Domain during the Edo period (1603-1868). Located at the foot of Kanazawa Castle, this area housed samurai families who served the powerful Maeda clan, one of the wealthiest daimyo families in feudal Japan. The district's layout and earthen walls remain largely unchanged from the Edo period, offering an authentic glimpse into samurai life.
The district's distinctive earthen walls, called 'tsuchi-kabe,' were designed to protect samurai residences while reflecting their social status. These ochre-colored walls, combined with narrow winding lanes and water channels, create a maze-like streetscape that helped defend the castle in times of conflict. Several former samurai residences have been preserved and opened to the public, most notably the Nomura Samurai House, which showcases the refined lifestyle of upper-class samurai families.
Unlike many historic districts in Japan that have been heavily reconstructed, Nagamachi retains much of its original character. The district survived World War II largely intact and has been carefully preserved by the city of Kanazawa. Today, it serves as one of Kanazawa's most popular tourist attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to walk the same streets as samurai warriors and explore authentic Edo-period architecture. In winter, the earthen walls are covered with protective straw mats called 'komo-gake,' adding to the district's historic atmosphere.
Key Highlights
- Edo-period samurai residential district with original earthen walls and street layout
- Nomura Samurai House features beautiful gardens and authentic samurai living quarters
- Traditional earthen walls (tsuchi-kabe) protected with straw mats in winter
- Nagamachi Yuzen Silk Center showcases traditional Kaga Yuzen dyeing techniques
- Shinise Kinenkan Museum displays artifacts from samurai and merchant families
- Free to walk the district streets; admission fees for individual residences and museums
- Located within walking distance of Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden
- Winter 'komo-gake' straw coverings create photogenic seasonal scenery (November-March)
Access Information
Location
1-3-32 Nagamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0865
Nearest Stations
- • Kanazawa Station (JR Hokuriku Main Line, Hokuriku Shinkansen) - 15-minute bus ride
- • Korinbo Bus Stop - 3-minute walk to district entrance
Opening Hours
District streets open 24 hours. Nomura Samurai House: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (April-September), 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (October-March). Nagamachi Yuzen Silk Center: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Most attractions closed December 29 - January 3.
Admission Fee
Free to walk the district. Nomura Samurai House: Adults ¥550, High school students ¥400, Elementary/Junior high ¥250. Nagamachi Yuzen Silk Center: Free admission, dyeing experiences from ¥1,200.
How to Get There
From Kanazawa Station
Take Kanazawa Loop Bus (right route) to Korinbo stop (15 minutes, ¥200), then walk 3 minutes west along Seseragi Street
20 minutes
From Tokyo
Take Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station (2.5 hours), then local bus to Korinbo (15 minutes)
2.5 hours
From Kyoto
Take JR Limited Express Thunderbird to Kanazawa Station (2 hours 10 minutes), then local bus to Korinbo (15 minutes)
2.5 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Best Times to Visit
Visit early morning (8:30-10:00 AM) or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better photography light. Winter months (November-March) feature beautiful 'komo-gake' straw coverings on earthen walls, creating unique seasonal scenery.
Photography Spots
Seseragi Street along the water channel offers classic shots of earthen walls and traditional architecture. The Nomura Samurai House garden is particularly photogenic, especially during autumn foliage season.
Multi-Attraction Pass
Consider the Kanazawa Cultural Facilities Pass (3-day pass ¥520) if visiting multiple museums. It includes Nomura House and several other attractions, saving money on admission fees.
Walking Route
Combine with nearby attractions: start at Oyama Shrine, walk through Nagamachi, then continue to Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle. Total walking time is about 90 minutes without stopping.
Nomura House Visit
The Nomura Samurai House is the highlight - allow 30-45 minutes to explore the residence, garden, and tea room. Audio guides available in English. Remove shoes before entering.
Traditional Crafts
The district has several craft shops and galleries selling Kaga Yuzen silk, Kutani porcelain, and gold leaf products. Try a gold leaf application workshop at Nagamachi Yuzen Silk Center.
Dining Options
Several traditional restaurants serve Kaga cuisine in historic buildings. Reservations recommended for lunch. Many cafes along Seseragi Street offer matcha and traditional sweets.
Guided Tours
Free volunteer guides available at Kanazawa Station (reservation required). Self-guided walking map brochures in English available at tourist information centers and most attractions.
FAQ
How long should I spend exploring the samurai district?
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours to walk through the district, view the earthen walls and canals, and visit one or two samurai residences. If you're interested in detailed museum exploration at Nomura Samurai House, allow an additional 30-60 minutes.
Which samurai house is most worth visiting?
The Nomura Samurai House is the most popular, featuring a beautiful garden, authentic rooms, and detailed explanations. The Shinise Kinenkan Museum offers free entry and displays traditional merchant culture. Both provide different perspectives on Edo-period Kanazawa life.
Can I walk on the earthen walls?
No, the distinctive mud walls (tsuchikabe) are protected historical structures and should not be touched or climbed. You can walk alongside them and photograph them from the street. Some walls are covered with straw mats in winter for protection from snow.
Is the district accessible in winter?
Yes, but pathways can be icy and snowy from December to February. Wear appropriate footwear with good grip. The winter scenery is beautiful, and you'll see traditional yukitsuri (rope structures protecting trees from snow) in gardens. Some paths may be closed during heavy snowfall.
Are there English explanations available?
The Nomura Samurai House offers English pamphlets and some signage. Audio guides may be available for rent. Throughout the district, English signage is limited, so consider downloading information beforehand or joining a guided tour for deeper historical context.
Can I wear kimono while exploring the district?
Absolutely! Many visitors rent kimono from shops near Kenrokuen Garden or Kanazawa Station and stroll through Nagamachi. The traditional streetscape provides excellent photo opportunities. Several kimono rental shops offer packages including hair styling and accessories.
What are the best photo spots in the district?
The canal alongside earthen walls near Nomura House is iconic. The narrow stone-paved lanes, traditional gates, and walls create atmospheric shots. Early morning offers the best light and fewer crowds. The garden at Nomura House is beautiful year-round.
Are there good lunch options nearby?
Several traditional restaurants are located within or near the district, serving Kaga cuisine, sushi, and tea. Some are in renovated samurai residences. Nearby Katamachi district (5-10 minutes walk) has more diverse dining options including cafes and international cuisine.
Can I visit inside any active samurai residences?
Most buildings in the district are private residences and not open to the public. Only designated museums like Nomura Samurai House and Shinise Kinenkan allow interior visits. Please respect privacy by not peering into private properties or gardens.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Higashi Chaya District
A beautifully preserved geisha district with traditional wooden tea houses lining cobblestone streets. This atmospheric neighborhood offers a glimpse into Kanazawa's cultural heritage and the elegant world of geisha entertainment.
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa
Innovative contemporary art museum featuring interactive installations, including the famous swimming pool artwork by Leandro Erlich.
Kenrokuen Garden
One of Japan's Three Great Gardens, a masterpiece of landscape design featuring ponds, streams, bridges, teahouses, and meticulously pruned trees across all seasons.
Omicho Market
Kanazawa's bustling food market with nearly 300 years of history, offering fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, local produce, and authentic dining experiences.
Wakura Onsen
A prestigious seaside hot spring resort on Nanao Bay with over 1,200 years of history, known for high-quality ryokan, therapeutic salt waters, and fresh Noto Peninsula seafood.