2026 Event Dates and Times

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Kanazawa travel info.

To plan your trip, review Kanazawa travel info.

Plan for about one hour to enjoy the full display and atmosphere. Each projection cycle lasts roughly five to seven minutes in total. Arriving early ensures you find a good spot before the crowd grows. Most visitors prefer the shows between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Winter weather in Kanazawa can be unpredictable during the month of February. Shows might be canceled or delayed during heavy snowfall or high winds. Always check local weather forecasts before heading to the castle park grounds. The event atmosphere changes beautifully when snow covers the stone walls.

Best Viewing Spots for Projection Mapping

The Gojukkan Nagaya storehouse serves as the main screen for the digital art. This long white building provides a massive surface for the colorful light projections. Stand in the middle of the San-no-maru Plaza for the best perspective. This open area allows you to see the entire building clearly.

Photographers should bring a tripod to capture the sharpest images of the lights. Position yourself near the back of the plaza to avoid blocking other guests. You can find many best photo spots at Kanazawa Castle winter events. Look for reflections in small puddles or on the fresh snow.

Move around the plaza to see the artwork from different angles and heights. The side views offer unique details of the wooden architecture and stone base. Some areas might be slippery so please walk carefully on the frozen paths. Security staff will guide you to the safest standing zones during peaks.

Ticket Prices and Entry Information

The Kanazawa Castle winter projection mapping 2026 is often free for all visitors. You do not need to book tickets in advance for the main show. Simply enter through the Ishikawa-mon Gate or the Nezumitamon Gate after sunset.

Some special indoor exhibits may require a small fee of 300 to 500 yen. These exhibits often showcase traditional crafts or history related to the castle. You can pay with cash or most major Japanese transit cards locally.

The gates open for the night event around 5:30 PM each evening. Large bags or suitcases are not allowed inside the main viewing areas. Use the coin lockers at Kanazawa Station before you travel to the park.

How to Reach Kanazawa Castle

Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from the East Exit of Kanazawa Station. This bus stops directly at the Kenrokuen-shita stop near the castle gates. The ride takes about fifteen minutes and costs 200 yen per adult.

You can also walk to the castle from the Omicho Market area easily. The walk takes roughly fifteen to twenty minutes through the city streets. Follow the signs for Kanazawa Castle Park or the local museum.

Taxis are readily available at the station for a faster and warmer journey. A taxi ride usually costs between 1,000 and 1,500 yen for one way. Tell the driver you want to go to the Ishikawa-mon Gate.

Tips for a Better Winter Experience

Wear several layers of warm clothing to stay comfortable in the cold air. Temperatures in Kanazawa often drop below freezing during the winter night shows. Thermal heat packs called kairo are very helpful for keeping your hands warm.

Wear shoes with good grip to prevent slipping on ice or snow. The paths around the castle can become quite slick after many visitors walk. Consider visiting the nearby Kenrokuen Garden winter light up on the same night.

Bring a portable battery for your phone or camera to avoid power loss. Cold weather can drain electronic batteries much faster than usual during outdoor events. Keep your devices inside your pockets when you are not taking any photos.