ALLTOURS

Kanazawa Autumn Illuminations & Gardens: Secret Histories Emerge

1. The "Ninja Temple" Built for Deception

Myoryuji Temple, Kanazawa, Japan

Myoryuji Temple, known as the "Ninja Temple," was not for ninjas but a heavily fortified hideaway for the Maeda lords, packed with traps and secret passages.

2. A Samurai's Enduring Garden

Nomura Samurai House, Kanazawa, Japan

The Nomura Samurai House's meticulously preserved garden was designed to be viewed from multiple angles, a practice reflecting samurai aesthetics.

3. The Lord's Gift for His Mother

Seisonkaku Villa, Kanazawa, Japan

Seisonkaku Villa, built for a feudal lord's mother, features vibrant blue walls made from a rare pigment and innovative hidden heating systems.

4. A Gate of East-Meets-West

Oyama Shrine, Kanazawa, Japan

Oyama Shrine's main gate uniquely blends traditional Japanese architecture with a Dutch-designed stained-glass window at its apex.

5. The Lost Garden's Revival

Gyokusen-en Garden, Kanazawa, Japan

Gyokusen-en, a private garden predating Kenrokuen, was meticulously restored using ancient maps and records after generations of neglect.

6. The Castle's Defensive Facade

Kanazawa Castle Park (Kahoku-mon Gate), Kanazawa, Japan

The Kahoku-mon Gate of Kanazawa Castle was meticulously reconstructed using traditional methods, including a complex system of interlocking timber joints, without nails.

7. Serenity of Zen, Beyond the City

Daijoji Temple, Kanazawa, Japan

Daijoji Temple, an active Soto Zen monastery, maintains strict monastic practices, offering a glimpse into unadulterated Zen life rarely seen by outsiders.

8. A Geisha District's Ancient Guardian

Yuya Shrine, Kanazawa, Japan

Yuya Shrine, nestled discreetly in the Higashi Chaya district, predates the geisha houses and served as a spiritual anchor for the local community for centuries.

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