Kanazawa

This compact city on the Sea of Japan is often referred to as ‘little Kyoto’, though that doesn’t really do it justice. Built around a restored castle, there are pristine areas that were once geisha districts and the homes of samurai. Like Kyoto, there is a discernible self confidence in the air. Its citizens are proud of their city’s famously complicated, expensive and traditional art and design, from silk dyeing to lacquerware, and even fireworks. Dip into Kanazawa’s delicate kaga ryori cuisine, washed down with a premium Japanese beer, and break away from the Golden Route trail.