Nishi Chaya District
にし茶屋街
Historic geisha district in Kanazawa with traditional wooden teahouses where shamisen performances evoke an authentic atmosphere each evening.
In the past, the central area of Kanazawa was dotted with many geisha houses. However, in 1820, these were relocated to three specific districts outside the city center. One of these districts is the Nishi Chaya District which is located 500 meters from the Saigawa Ohashi Bridge in the central part of the city. A Chaya is a traditional place for feasts and entertainment. Visitors can find a number of two-story wooden Chaya houses along the main street. At dusk, you may hear the sound of the shamisen, a three-stringed musical instrument, and experience the atmosphere of a traditional Kanazawa Chaya district. The Kanazawa Nishi Chaya Shiryokan Museum is a replica of a Chaya house that allows visitors to see the guest room of the Chaya house.
The Kanazawa City Tourism Association organizes geisha performances in the three geisha districts of the city on certain Saturdays, so ensure to schedule your visit accordingly.
Tea houses
Traditional architecture
Geisha performances
Nishi Chaya Shiryokan Museum
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