Day 10-Part 1: Kanazawa Nights & Sunrise

We arrived late in Kanazawa and checked into a beautiful traditional Japanese house in the Kazuemachi Chaya District, one of the city’s three preserved geisha districts. The wooden machiya houses, narrow lanes, and the gentle sound of the river outside our window made the place feel like stepping into old Japan—quiet, atmospheric, and absolutely charming.

In the evening we set out again, this time to photograph yet another illuminated garden—a speciality of Kanazawa during autumn. The combination of lanterns, glowing maple trees, and reflections on still ponds created a magical scene, almost like walking through a painting. No matter how many illuminated gardens we’ve seen on this trip, Kanazawa’s version felt especially grand and theatrical.

The next morning we rose early and returned to the garden for sunrise. Without the crowds and without the evening lights, the atmosphere had completely changed—soft colours, morning mist over the water, and the garden’s natural beauty taking centre stage. A peaceful start to the day and a perfect contrast to the vibrant display of the night before.Read more