Kanazawa Folklore Museum

Housed inside a rather spectacular European-style school building, the Folklore Museum offers an insight into the history of Kanazawa’s people and is also known as the Kanazawakurashino Museum.

Once a Junior High School, the building is known for its three spires, and maintains the feel of a Japanese school, with one room maintained as a classroom. On the ground floor, the exhibitions begin with changing displays of seasonal festivities and cultural events. Later, children’s toys and examples of traditional homes from times gone by offering a glimpse into the past of the everyday residents of the city. Photographs line the walls capturing street scenes, school events and cultural festivals. While most museums in the city are dedicated to Samurai and writers of centuries gone by, it is refreshing to see some of the more recent history – everyday moments and candid scenes. Upstairs there are ‘experience’ rooms with spaces for trying on traditional outfits, playing with toys and more – perfect if you’ve got any children with you.