Kanazawa, Japan Cruises

Kanazawa, Japan Cruise Port

• One of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Kenroku-en was begun in the 17th century. Famous for its landscape featuring streams and ponds, the grounds are open year round and renowned for their beauty no matter what the season. A visit during mid-March will allow you to see the plethora of plum blossoms that blanket the ground.
   
• Adjacent to the garden, you'll find the historic Kanazawa Castle. Originally built around 1580, the castle was destroyed and rebuilt several times. After a fire in 1881 damaged most of the structure, the remains were incorporated into Kanazawa Castle Park with other sections continuing to go through various reconstructions.
   
• The Buddhist temple known as Myoryu-ji (also called Ninja-dera or "Ninja Temple") was built around 1585 and originally closer to the castle; it was later moved south of the castle to the Tera-machi district as a shield from intruders of the day. With hidden tunnels, secret rooms, and concealed stairways, this is a popular attraction that requires a guide.
   
• To step back into the present, visit the spectacular 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. With a wide range of permanent and traveling exhibits, there's plenty to see both indoors and on the museum grounds.