The Higashi Chaya District (ひがし茶屋街) is a historic geisha district located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, in the Chubu region of Japan. It is one of three geisha districts in Kanazawa and is the largest and most famous of the three.
The district is characterized by its traditional Japanese architecture, which features wooden buildings with lattice windows, sliding doors, and tiled roofs. These buildings were originally constructed in the Edo period and were used as teahouses and entertainment venues for wealthy merchants and samurai.
Today, the Higashi Chaya District is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful streets and alleys, which are lined with shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can also visit the teahouses, some of which are still in operation, and experience traditional Japanese hospitality, including tea ceremonies, music performances, and geisha entertainment.
The district is particularly beautiful at night, when the buildings are illuminated by lanterns and the sound of traditional Japanese music fills the air. Visitors can take a stroll through the district and enjoy the atmosphere of old Japan, or they can participate in guided tours and cultural activities to learn more about the history and culture of the Higashi Chaya District.
Getting there
From Kanazawa Station to Higashi Chaya District:
Bus | Kanazawa Station ↓ Bus Number 39 ↓ 4 minutes (2 stops) Musashigatsuji・Ohmicho Market Bus Stop ↓ Walk about 13 minutes ↓ Higashi Chaya District (Cost 210 yen) |
Walk | About 23 minutes (1.7 km) |