More than 90 historic buildings of the 19th century are well preserved in this 1.8 ha area.
However, inside of the buildings are modernized and you will find amazing shops, cafes and restaurants here.
What is Higashi Chaya District?
Higashi Chaya District is the largest and most popular historic area among the three tea house districts in Kanazawa.
Nishi Chaya District and Kazoe-machi are other two tea house districts.
What is Geigi or Geiko?
People in Kanazawa call professional female performers "Geigi" or "Geoko".
They don't call them "Geisha", so please call them Geigi-san, or Geiko-san in Kanazawa.
It takes about 1 to 2 years to be a professional performer, and even after that they practice singing and dancing almost every day.
”No first-time customers” Policy
Several Tea Houses are still active now, but due to the policy of "No First-time customers", customers are not allowed to enter the facilities without introduction from somebody.
Two Tea-houses open to public in the daytime
Although customers without any introduction from somebody are not allowed to enter the tea-house, a couple of them are open to public during the daytime.
Shima
Important Cultural Asset since 1820
Admission Fee: 500 yen
Kaikaro
Admission Fee: 750 yen
The largest tea house building in this district.
1st floor is used for cafe, and a gorgeous tea room with gold tatami mats is a must-see spot.
Want a guided tour?
For more information please contact me from this contact form.
