2010 Kanazawa Art Journey: Experiences in Gold Leaf and Kaga Yuzen Crafts

In ancient times, the Hokuriku region of Japan implemented a policy of governance through culture, gathering renowned artisans from across the country to study and refine techniques for crafting art objects. To this day, most of Japan’s top craftsmen hail from the Hokuriku area, earning it the title of the “Kingdom of Art and Craft.” Among them, Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture was the wealthiest and best-preserved cultural city during the Edo period, as well as a leading producer of traditional crafts such as lacquerware and gold leaf. In 2010, the local area launched a Kanazawa journey dedicated to handicrafts and folk arts, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in Kanazawa’s traditional crafts.

In downtown Kanazawa, you’ll find an abundance of traditional crafts such as Wajima lacquerware, gold leaf, Kutani ware, and Kaga Yuzen. In addition to observing master artisans at work, you can also try your hand at crafting yourself—this is one of the most rewarding experiences when traveling in Hokuriku. During winter in Kanazawa, there are various free-entry events, including the “Kanazawa Fire Department New Year Launch Ceremony,” a traditional firefighting drill participated in by 1,100 volunteer firefighters. This event showcases the centuries-old technique known as “Kaga Tobi Ladder Climbing,” which has been passed down for 350 years and is both spectacular and captivating. Meanwhile, Kanazawa’s Kenroku-en Garden in winter, with its white-walled buildings and snow-covered trees supported by yukitsuri (snow-protecting ropes), is illuminated by artistic lighting to create a serene and elegant ambiance. Winter in Kanazawa is also the season for delicious seasonal delicacies. During the “Kanazawa Gourmet Festival,” the open-air venue gathers around 100 different food stalls, satisfying every visitor’s taste buds.

The 2010 Kanazawa Craft Journey allows participants to experience the craft-making process firsthand, along with exploring specially curated sightseeing routes. The program is divided into one-day and half-day options, and includes free English-speaking guides who introduce craft facilities and tourist sites. Key landmarks in Kanazawa such as Higashi Chaya District, Kenroku-en Garden, the front of the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Kaga Yuzen Traditional Industry Hall serve as important points of interest. You can choose your preferred route based on your interests and plan your visit accordingly. The program operates on a reservation basis, with entrance fees and experience costs paid separately on the day of the activity. For detailed dates and content, please check the official event website.

One-day itinerary: Includes a free English-speaking guide introducing craft facilities, with special lecturers providing explanations at the visiting sites.
Event Dates: January 10 (Sunday) 09:30–17:00, February 13 (Saturday) 11:30–17:00
Event Fee: Entrance fees to be paid individually on the day (700 Q?阅讴
Participant Limit: 10 people per session (reservation required in advance)

Half-day itinerary: Includes a free English-speaking guide introducing craft facilities, etc.
Event Dates: February 6, 7, 13, 14, 13:00–17:00
Event Fee: Entrance fees and experience costs to be paid individually on the day (total 1,300 Q?
Participant Limit: 10 people per session (reservation required in advance)

Registration Organization: Kanazawa Goodwill Guide Network
Registration Phone: 076-232-3933
Registration Email: kggn@po4.nsk.ne.jp
Event Website: http://www.kanazawa-tourism.com.tw/event2010/

Further Reading: Tohoku Hiba Zukuri Handicrafts (provided by Tripass Attractions)