The name "Kanazawa" literally means "marsh of gold" in Japanese, but in modern times it is known as the "little Kyoto" of Japan. You can capture that traditional Japan, but at a fraction of the cost and less headaches getting filming permission than Kyoto. With the Nagamachi Samurai District, the Tea House District, temples, and canals, it is an attractive castle town with an emotional atmosphere. Plus, one of the most fascinating temples in Japan (Ninja-dera) is an ancient ninja temple with numerous hidden passages and secret rooms.