Kanazawa’s historical tea-house district where geisha entertain
Kanazawa is a city located in Ishikawa Prefecture, japan. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful gardens, and historical districts. One of the most famous historical districts in Kanazawa is the Higashi Chaya District, which is a well-preserved geisha district. This district is located in the Higashiyama area of Kanazawa, adjacent to the Asano River. It is the largest among three well-preserved historical geisha districts in Kanazawa along with Nishichayagai and Kazuemachi.
The Higashi Chaya District is a place where you can experience the traditional Japanese culture of geisha entertainment. Geisha are traditional Japanese female entertainers who are skilled in various arts such as classical music, dance, and games. They have been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries and are highly respected for their skills and beauty.
In the Higashi Chaya District, you can still find geisha entertaining guests in traditional tea-houses. These tea-houses, known as chaya, are beautifully preserved wooden buildings that date back to the 1820s. They are an important cultural asset and have been designated as such by the Japanese government.
Visiting the Higashi Chaya District is like stepping back in time. The district has a unique atmosphere with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and old-world charm. As you wander through the district, you can get a glimpse into the past and experience the beauty of traditional Japanese culture.
One of the highlights of visiting the Higashi Chaya District is the opportunity to witness a geisha performance. In the evenings, you can hear the sound of the shamisen (a traditional Japanese musical instrument) and drums playing from the tea-houses. The geisha sing, dance, and play traditional games to entertain their guests. It is a truly magical experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the world of geisha entertainment.
Apart from the geisha performances, there are other activities that you can enjoy in the Higashi Chaya District. One of them is visiting the gold leaf workshops. Kanazawa is famous for its gold leaf production, and the district is home to many gold leaf workshops. You can visit a gallery and have a hands-on experience of creating your own gold leaf designs. It is a unique opportunity to learn about one of Kanazawa’s traditional crafts and create a beautiful souvenir to take home.
Another activity that you shouldn’t miss in the Higashi Chaya District is taking a stroll through the historical townscape. The district is filled with charming streets lined with traditional buildings, shops, and cafes. You can take your time to explore the narrow alleyways, admire the architecture, and soak in the atmosphere of old Japan. The district also offers beautiful views of the tea-houses from the opposite side of the river, which is a perfect spot for photography.
To get to the Higashi Chaya District, you can take a bus from Kanazawa Station. The Kanazawa Loop Bus is a convenient way to reach the district. You can board the bus at Kanazawa Station and get off at the Hashibacho bus stop. From there, it is just a five-minute walk to the Higashi Chaya District. If you prefer walking, you can also reach the district from Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle in about 20 minutes.
In conclusion, the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture. It is a place where you can experience the beauty of geisha entertainment, learn about the art of gold leaf production, and immerse yourself in the charm of old Japan. The district’s well-preserved tea-houses, narrow streets, and historical atmosphere make it a unique and enchanting place to explore. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of traditional arts, the Higashi Chaya District will not disappoint.
Address And Maps Location:
Higashiyama, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa-ken
Find Location And Direction On Google Maps
Subscribe, follow travelbloggerindonesia.com