Kanazawa, a city known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts and beautiful gardens, is becoming increasingly accessible to wheelchair users. This guide covers attractions, accommodations, transportation, and accessibility tips to ensure a comfortable visit.
Attractions
- Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s three great gardens, Kenrokuen offers stunning landscapes with ponds, streams, and seasonal flowers. Paved paths and accessible routes throughout the garden. Some areas have slight slopes, but most paths are navigable. Accessible restrooms and seating areas within the garden.
- Kanazawa Castle: A historic castle with beautiful grounds and reconstructed buildings. Accessible paths around the castle grounds and elevators available in some areas. The interior of the castle has limited accessibility. Accessible restrooms and seating available.
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: A modern museum featuring contemporary art and architecture. Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and wide paths throughout the museum. Accessible restrooms and a café with wheelchair-friendly seating.
- Higashi Chaya District: A well-preserved geisha district with traditional tea houses and historic buildings. Some areas are cobbled and may be challenging, but there are accessible routes through the district. Accessible restrooms in some tea houses and shops.
- Omicho Market: A bustling market known for fresh seafood and local specialties. The market has wide aisles and is mostly accessible, though it can get crowded. Accessible restrooms available in the market area.
Accommodations
- Hotel Nikko Kanazawa: A luxury hotel offering comfort and accessibility. Rooms with king-sized or twin beds, typically accommodate 2-4 guests. Accessible rooms have roll-in showers and grab bars.
- Kanazawa Manten Hotel Ekimae: A mid-range hotel close to Kanazawa Station. Rooms with twin beds or double beds, generally accommodate 2-3 guests. Accessible rooms have roll-in showers and grab bars.
- APA Hotel Kanazawa-Ekimae: A budget-friendly option near the train station. Rooms with double beds, typically accommodate 2 guests. Roll-in showers with grab bars in accessible rooms.
Transportation
- Kanazawa Station: The main transportation hub with connections to local and national destinations. Fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and barrier-free facilities. Accessible restrooms are available.
- City Buses: Kanazawa’s city buses are generally accessible, equipped with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs. Bus stops have accessible features.
- Taxis: Accessible taxis are available throughout Kanazawa. Kanazawa Taxi and other local services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
