Kanazawa Port’s cruise terminal is a real showstopper with its cool wave design and killer Sea of Japan views.
For other Japan Cruise destinations check out our Japan Cruise Ports Guide page.
The Ohama Wharf can handle massive ships up to 170,000 G/T and goes 13m deep.
Getting around is pretty straightforward – grab the public bus for just ÂĄ200, jump in a taxi for about ÂĄ1,000-1,500, or take the shuttle to Kanazawa Station if you don’t mind paying a bit extra.
Make sure to check out the Hyakumangoku Marine Terrace for some jaw-dropping 360° views.
The terminal looks especially awesome at night when they light it up until 9:00 PM – definitely worth seeing after dark!
Map of Kanazawa Cruise Ship Port
Terminal Facilities and Panoramic Views
When you walk into Kanazawa Cruise Ship Terminal, you can’t miss that cool wave-shaped roof – it’s totally designed to look like the foam patterns on the Sea of Japan. The whole place has these massive glass walls that bring in tons of natural light and give you some killer ocean views throughout all three floors.
For the absolute best views, head up to the observation deck (it’s huge – like 2,872㎡ huge) where you can watch all the ships coming and going. Or check out Hyakumangoku Marine Terrace if you want those full 360° views. And if you’re hungry, BAY ARCE restaurant is a must – they’ve got this smart stepped seating setup so everyone gets to enjoy the sea while they eat.
Cruise Ship Capacity and Docking Information
Kanazawa Port handles ships of all sizes, but the real star is the Ohama Wharf – stretching 400m long with a 13m depth that can take cruise ships up to a massive 170,000 G/T.
There are other docking spots too, like Tomizu and Muryoji wharves, both 10m deep for the medium-sized vessels. The port can handle two cruise ships at once and process about 4,000 passengers through customs.
Before the pandemic hit, this place was buzzing with up to 55 ships yearly at its busiest, with fancy luxury liners making up 44% of visitors. When you drop anchor here, you’ll get help from some serious muscle – tugboats like the Inuwashi-Maru and Kitano-Maru to guide you in.
Transportation Options From Port to City
Transportation Options From Port to City
Need to get from Kanazawa Port to the city? No sweat! There are plenty of ways to reach all the cool spots without breaking the bank. Hop on public buses that run every 15-30 minutes for just ÂĄ200 (even cheaper on weekends at only ÂĄ100), or grab a day pass for ÂĄ500 if you’ll be buzzing around a lot.
Your cruise ship probably offers shuttle service to Kanazawa Station for about $20 round-trip. In a hurry? Taxis will get you to central areas for ÂĄ1,000-1,500. Traveling with friends or family? Book a private transfer ahead of time and customize where you want to go. Got comfortable shoes and like stretching your legs? The Kanaiwa and Ono neighborhoods are just a 30-minute walk away.
Customs and Immigration Processing
Stepping off the ship at Kanazawa Port? You’ll breeze through entry at the sleek CIQ facilities that can process a whopping 4,000 passengers in just a couple of hours.
Just have your passport handy as you follow the clearly marked lanes to immigration. While you’re waiting in line, check out the gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the Sea of Japan.
Want to save time? Pre-register using Visit Japan Web before you arrive. Quick heads-up: don’t bring fresh foods, plants, or undeclared animal products – they’re no-nos. The cool thing about these processing areas? During quieter seasons, they turn into event venues or fun zones where kids can play.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Aomori for a different Japan Cruise destination.
Dining and Observation at Hyakumangoku Marine Terrace
Once you’ve made it through customs, head upstairs to what’s honestly the best part of Kanazawa Port—the Hyakumangoku Marine Terrace. You’ll walk into this amazing space with huge windows stretching from floor to ceiling, giving you killer views of the Sea of Japan under a cool roof that looks like ocean waves.
Grab a bite at Bay Arce restaurant where they serve up local Noto beef and super fresh seafood. The tiered seating means pretty much everyone gets those awesome ocean views while they eat. They’re open from 10 in the morning until 9 at night, but they take Mondays off.
The observation deck is massive—2,872 square meters—and perfect for watching ships come and go. It’s especially gorgeous in the evenings when they turn the lights on (until 9pm). While you’re up there, try out the navigation simulator for fun, then maybe check out some of the historic port areas nearby.
Port Illumination and Evening Visitor Information
Stick around Kanazawa Port after sunset to catch the terminal lighting up like a giant lantern – it’s definitely worth hanging out for! The whole place glows until 9:00 PM each night, with those massive glass walls showing off the traditional Kaga Gosai colors.
The lights kick on at different times depending on the season – around 5:00 PM in winter when it gets dark early, and closer to 7:00 PM during summer months. For the best views, climb up to the second-floor deck where you can see the whole harbor with lit-up cruise ships dotting the water. That wavy roof looks even cooler at night, so don’t forget your camera!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Luggage Storage Facilities Available at the Terminal?
Unfortunately, no luggage storage options at the terminal. You’ll need to use the lockers or baggage room at Kanazawa Station before heading over. Just something to keep in mind when planning your trip!
What Souvenirs or Local Products Can Be Purchased at the Port?
You’ll discover some amazing finds at the port shops! Look for cool gold leaf souvenirs, yummy dried seafood straight from Omicho Market, and grab-and-go Kanazawa curry boxes that are perfect for travelers. Oh, and make sure to check out the gorgeous washi paper stuff while you’re there!
Is Free Wifi Available Throughout the Cruise Terminal?
Yep, free Wi-Fi covers the whole Kanazawa Port Cruise Terminal. You can get online anywhere – lounges, observation decks, you name it. Just need to do a quick email registration once, and you’re good to surf for 180 minutes per session.
Are There ATMS or Currency Exchange Services On-Site?
Yes, we’ve got you covered on the currency front! There’s a currency exchange machine located on the 3rd floor of the terminal for those last-minute yen needs. No ATM in the airport though – if you need to withdraw cash, you’ll have to head over to Kanazawa Station nearby. Just something to keep in mind while planning your arrival.
What Accessibility Features Exist for Visitors With Mobility Challenges?
Our airport is completely accessible with elevators big enough for everyone, ramps wherever you need them, doors that open automatically, and wheelchairs you can borrow. We’ve got spacious bathrooms that work for everyone, reserved parking spots close to entrances, and you can get around the whole terminal without dealing with stairs. If you ever run into a tricky spot, just flag down any staff member – they’re happy to show you the easiest way around.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Okinawa (Naha) Cruise Ship Port.
