Unveil the hidden charm of Kanazawa like never before with an enchanting journey aboard the Kanazawa Light-Up Bus. As the sun sets over this culturally rich city, a new world awakens, where historical landmarks and modern marvels are bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight’s warmth. If you’re a traveler seeking a unique way to experience the beauty and significance of Kanazawa’s cultural heritage, the Kanazawa Light-Up Bus offers an unforgettable night experience every Saturday that showcases the city’s most exquisite attractions in a captivating nocturnal setting.
In the heart of Kanazawa’s captivating beauty lies an experience that surpasses imagination—the night, Light-Up Bus. As I embarked on this journey through the city’s illuminated landscapes, I realized that it was the best way to witness the sheer magnificence of Kanazawa’s landmarks. The night transformed these iconic sites into ethereal wonders, casting them, quite literally, in a whole new light.
For anyone visiting Kanazawa, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the night Light-Up Bus journey. It’s the best way I could have imagined experiencing the resplendent beauty of Kanazawa’s landmarks in all their nighttime glory.
Kanazawa Light-up Bus
Operating season: April 2023 – March 2024
● Runs on SATURDAYS
● Runs between 19:00 and 22:30
● Fares (per ride): Adults 300 yen / Children 150 yen
Kanazawa Light-up Bus
Operating season: April 2023 – March 2024
● Runs on SATURDAYS
● Runs between 19:00 and 22:30
● Fares (per ride): Adults 300 yen / Children 150 yen
1 | Asanogawa Ohashi Bridge
The Asanogawa Ohashi Bridge, which boasted an amazing view of the Kazue-machi Chaya-gai Geisha District supported by the Asanogawa River that faintly reflected the moonlight. I was in awe of the scenery that can be captured at the Asanogawa Ohashi Bridge – it is truly a magnificent place.
2 | Kuragari-Zaka
Kuragari-Zaka is the quintessential Geisha backstreet with a spiral staircase illuminated by a single andon light. Kuragari-Zaka was formerly home to wealthy shop owners who would escape to this entertainment district. I was transported back to the times of the wealthy merchants and could visualize the history from over 100 years ago.
3 | Kazue-machi Chaya-gai Geisha District
As I strolled beside the gentle flow of the Asanogawa River, I experienced a sense of serenity like no other. The combination of historic architecture and the soothing sound of the water added to the district’s allure, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful escape.
4 | Nakanohashi Bridge
As day turned into night, the Nakanohashi Bridge underwent a mesmerizing transformation. The soft glow of lanterns illuminated the arches, casting a magical aura over the waters below and inviting travelers to enjoy a romantic evening stroll.
5 | Higashi Chaya-gai Geisha District
As darkness descended, the Higashi Chaya-gai Geisha District was transformed into a realm of understated elegance. The soft glow of traditional paper lanterns revealed glimpses of wooden machiya houses, each exuding an air of mystery that left me captivated by the district’s timeless allure. Under the gentle glow of the moon and lantern light, the Higashi Chaya-gai Geisha District became a realm of intrigue and wonder.
6 | Gojikken Nagaya*
The majestic nature of Gojikken Nagaya is truly amplified by the nightscape. The blissful, relaxing nature of Gojikken Nagaya is only found there at night. During the day swarms of tourists descend, excited to bear witness to such a marvel. At night, however, you are immersed in the sounds of the wind brushing through the trees and the creaks of insects that help you to place your full attentive devotion on the scenery before you, rather than the distraction of others.
7 | Kanazawa Castle*
As the city lights dimmed, it emerged as a captivating storyteller. Bathed in the gentle glow of night, its stone walls and wooden gates captured the re-constructed essence, inviting me to delve into the lives of the daimyos and samurai who once inhabited this remarkable stronghold.
8 | Gyokusen’inmaru Teien*
The soft illumination of the garden’s features highlighted its historical significance, as Gyokusen’ inmaru is a reconstruction of the original ponds that were present in that era. The moonlit ponds reflected the tranquility that the past lords must have felt while gazing upon the garden.
9 | Nezumitamon
Nezumitamon is undoubtedly beautiful during the day, but at night, it is indescribable. The lack of light means all of the other structures and surroundings disappear from view, leaving you to gaze solely upon the Nezumitamon lights. Walking across Nezumitamon at night is like crossing a bridge into another realm, which can only be truly experienced at night.
10 | Oyama Shrine
Walking through the stone Torii gate of Oyama Shrine at night felt like entering another realm. As I passed the Torii gate and climbed the stairs, I was greeted by a tapestry of stars. Here, the beauty of the Oyama Shrine took on a different form. The quiet pond reflected the moon’s glow, offering an opportunity for personal reflection and a deep connection to Kanazawa’s heritage.
*This special event is held between Saturday, 30 September and Sunday, 26 November.During this time, lit-up spots 6, 7 and 8 in Kanazawa Castle Park are not accessible.
Kanazawa Light-up Bus
This limited-time bus, which runs every 15 minutes on Saturdays, visits Kanazawa’s 16 biggest nighttime lit-up spots. Alight anywhere along the route for an evening walk in Kanazawa.
Kanazawa Light-up Bus
