Located within walking distance of the revered Higashi Chaya district, Hotel Nikko Kanazawa boasts affordable luxury and amazing views throughout
Location
Kanazawa is the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture on the north coast of Japan’s central Honshu Island. The city is known for well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, gardens and its restored castle. Located just five minutes from Kanazawa station (in fact, you’ll spend more time finding your way out than actually locating the building), the hotel is close to the city’s main geisha district, Higashi Chaya, as well as tourist hotspots such as Kenrokuen Garden and Omicho Market, all within walking distance (max 30 minutes). However, the hotel has excellent bus links if you’d rather not walk.
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The vibe
The decor skews more towards business chic – think impressive, luxe interiors and, in this case, a huge indoor fountain and spiral staircase. However, there’s still a homely touch – the lobby is populated with huge rugs and ample seating (there’s even a florist on the first floor) and the rooms themselves maximise comfort.
Service
Before I even set foot in the building, a very kind concierge answered all my questions about sending my luggage a week in advance and kept me updated from the moment it left Kyoto until it arrived and was stored. The front desk staff made check-in smooth and ensured I had everything I needed for my stay.
Bed and bath
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa has 249 guest rooms, including three suites. Although the rooms aren’t as grand as the lower floors, what you are guaranteed is an incredible view. From the 17th floor up, rooms face either the surrounding mountains or the Sea of Japan. My Comfort Double room offered views of snowy peaks and slowly changing autumn leaves, all of which you could see without even leaving bed.
The rooms feature spacious bath/shower suites, comfy beds, and warm, inviting interiors.
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Food and drink
The hotel boasts eight dining and bar options, including a Chinese restaurant on the 29th floor and a European eatery on the 30th. When it comes to Japanese cuisine, the options are immense: there’s traditional sushi and tempura at Benkay, while meat lovers can sample beef from the Noto peninsula at Icho.
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Breakfast is available at either Benkay or at The Garden House (western-style food). The continental breakfast I opted for was excellent – there were easily 40-plus options to choose from, including freshly prepared eggs, whichever way you like.
Facilities
The hotel partners with Central Fitness Club in the building next door. Purchase a ticket from reception to access the gym, pool and sauna. Otherwise, the hotel doesn’t have as many facilities as other luxury establishments. If, however, you need a venue for a function, you are in luck: there are six event spaces, including a hall that can accommodate more than a thousand people. Underground parking is available.
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Accessibility
Accessible rooms are available, and the hotel has lifts in the lobby which access all floors.
Pet policy
Pets are not allowed in the hotel.
Check in/out
Check in is at 3.pm and check-out is at 12pm.
Family-friendly
Children of any age are welcome; however, guests over 13 will be charged as adults.
At a glance
Best thing: The views from your room
Perfect for: Pretty much everyone, as it’s a very reasonable price for the level of service you get
Not right for: People who are looking for a hotel with more traditional Japanese facilities, such as an onsen
Instagram from: either the sleek marble entryway with fountain, or be sure to get some pictures from your hotel with the mountains in the background
Address: 2 Chome-15-1 Honmachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0853, Japan
Phone: +81 76-234-1111
Website: hnkanazawa.jp
