Kanazawa Port Cruise Terminal

This guide to the Kanazawa Port Cruise Terminal follows two unassuming pillars beside the waiting room, covered in works from across Ishikawa Prefecture's craft traditions, several by artisans holding Japan's living national treasure designation. It traces how the terminal, opened in 2020 for cruise ships now docking on the Sea of Japan side of the city, became an unlikely showcase built around one theme: the sea. You'll hear how Kutani porcelain, Kaga silk, Wajima lacquer, Yamanaka lacquerware and hammered Kanazawa gold leaf all answer that brief on the same small surface. Look up as you pass through, and the wave-curved roof and glass wall keep the theme going toward the water outside.