Kanazawa Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

(10 reviews)

Thank you for considering me as your guide! I am excited to become not just your guide, but your friend as we explore Kanazawa together—a city where rich cultural traditions seamlessly blend with modern vibrancy. Being a native of Ishikawa Prefecture, with Kanazawa as its heart, I have a deep connection to this place. Though I spent several years living in New York, I’ve always carried the spirit of Japan with me. Upon returning to Japan, I immersed myself in the travel industry, gaining over a decade of experience and obtaining my guiding license in 2017 while working for successful inbound travel agencies. My time abroad has given me a profound appreciation for Japan’s uniqueness, and my passion for sharing its beauty and culture with travelers has only grown stronger. Now, I am eager to share that enthusiasm with you as we explore Japan together, uncovering hidden gems and experiencing its timeless charm.

Yoji K.

(50 reviews)

Hello, I'm Yoji, based in Kanazawa. I spent my formative years in Kanazawa and pursued my master's degree in the United States. Having lived in Washington D.C. and California for six years, I then resided and worked in China and various Southeast Asian countries. My passion lies in exploring new destinations and connecting with people worldwide. Now, it's my turn to extend the same hospitality I've received to you. I specialize in crafting personalized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. If you're a food enthusiast, you've come to the right place. For those seeking to delve into Japan's rich history and culture, I highly recommend joining my full-day tour in Kanazawa. Additionally, I offer tours to Shirakawago and Takayama. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey together.

Yuichi W.

4.56 / 5

(16 reviews)

Hello, I'm Yuichi, an English tour guide in Hokuriku region. If you are thinking about traveling to historical places such as Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go and Takayama, I am willing to offer a tour. I can bring you to those popular destinations from my base, Toyama city. These are the examples of my tour: Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Takayama Takaoka - Gokayama - Shirakawago - Takayama Toyama - Tateyama Kurobe Alipne Route - Omachi (Nagano Pref.) During the tour I like to provide simple explanations about Japanese history, and small tips for using the Japanese language on your request. My interests are food, cooking, sake and wine as well as Japanese novels and movies. It would be possible to add those tastes to our tour including a visit to local wineries, movie scenes, etc... Finally, I will do my best to give you a pleasant stay. Looking forward to seeing you in Hokuriku!

Lucy F.

(5 reviews)

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Hi, everyone! I'm Lucy, and I'm happy to share a bit about myself with you. Originally from the south of France, my career in fashion and costume design took me across both France and Germany. However, in 2019, my husband’s career brought us to the enchanting city of Kanazawa, and it didn’t take long for this beautiful place to capture my heart. Over time, Kanazawa has become much more than my adopted home—it’s a city I’ve come to truly adore. Becoming a tour guide here has been a deeply fulfilling journey, giving me the chance to meet incredible people from all over the world and share the rich culture, history, and hidden treasures of this incredible city. When I’m not guiding tours, I enjoy exploring Kanazawa’s lesser-known gems, delving into pottery and crafts, or hiking through the stunning natural landscapes nearby. My goal is not just to guide you through Kanazawa, but to create a meaningful connection and share the beauty and inspiration I’ve found in this special place. I can’t wait to explore it with you!

New Kanazawa Tour Guides

Shoten S.

Hello, my name is Shoten, please call me Sho. I was born in a local area in Toyama prefecture. I majored in civil engineering at a college and am interested in historical infrastructures. After graduation, I continued to study English at a local English circle. In international activities, I also guided foreign people around Toyama Prefecture, Ishikawa Prefecture, and Gifu Prefecture. After retirement, I work as a guide interpreter and a translator. The Hokuriku region has many sightseeing spots, including beautiful landscapes like Kenrokuen Garden and Tateyama, tasty food like traditional Kaga dishes and fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, and traditional crafts like Takaoka copperware and Inami woodcarving. I introduce these spots and historical infra tourism, such as the Kurobe dam and industrial tourism. I look forward to welcoming you to the Hokuriku region.

Jorge S.

(1 reviews)

Originally born in Mexico City, where I spent the first eight years of my life, I grew up in Montreal, Canada, for 22 years. Fascinated by Japanese popular culture and history—I have a minor in Japanese history and am a history buff—I participated in the JET Program Canada, where I was placed in Shirakawa-go for three years as an ALT. Currently, I live in Kanazawa with my Japanese wife and son. As a tour guide in Kanazawa, I specialize in history, hidden gems, culture, shopping (especially Japanese popular culture products), and food. I strive to provide an excellent customer experience. Fluent in English (Native), French (Native), Spanish (Native), and a good grasping of Japanese. I can communicate effectively with a diverse range of guests. Thanks to my North American background and my extensive experience living in Japan, I offer explanations that are easy to understand for Western guests, enriching their understanding of Japan as a vibrant and unique living space. Additionally, I am currently studying to become an official National guide in Japan, further enhancing my expertise and ability to provide exceptional tours.

Raphaël P.

(6 reviews)

Hello Explorers! Are you ready to discover Kanazawa like never before? I'm here to guide you on an exceptional journey through this captivating city. Since settling in Kanazawa in 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, I've deeply integrated local life into the fabric of my tours. For me, this city is not just a place I work—it's my home. My diverse background in the service industry, from hospitality to performing arts, ensures that your experience will be both enriching and seamless. Prepare for picture-perfect moments, delectable local eats, insightful answers to your curiosities, and delightful tips that will enrich your stay beyond measure! Choose to explore Kanazawa with me, and let's create memories as rich and vibrant as the city itself!

Ali G.

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As a foreigner resident of Kanazawa , where I have spent a number of years living, I offer tours of the city's well-known landmarks and historical sites. I have worked in Pakistan and Dubai in similar capacities.In addition, I received my master's degree from Peshawar University.I like difficult travel locations with lots of adventure.interested in history, customs, environment, wildlife, and landscapes. My ultimate travel goal and reward has always been meeting different kind of people internationally.

Popular Kanazawa Private Tours

Best of Kanazawa - Half Day

4 hours

Kanazawa is a charming city where old and new co-exist. Let's explore it together and see the richness of the culture throughout the day! In this tour, we will visit some of the highlights: Kenrokuen Garden, Samurai and Geisha Districts. We will move at your pace and take breaks as needed as this is a private tour. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on the weather or your health conditions on the day. It is most important for you to enjoy the time together and become a fan of Kanazawa!

Kanazawa Must-See Places One Day Tour

7 hours 30 min

I am originally from Kanazawa and I would like to tailor your Kanazawa tour only for you. Kanazawa is different from cosmopolitan cities like Tokyo and Osaka, but you can see well preserved Japanese culture and history. Please feel free to contact me what you want to visit and see. I will make an itenerary based on your request. Here is my propsosed itinerary but I am very flexible on it.

Tailored Tour to Takayama / Shirakawago & Gokayama

8 hours

This guided tour will bring guests to one/some of traditional destinations in Hokuriku and Hida region which cover the traditional streets, old government office building in Takayama and UNESCO's gassho-zukuri (A-shaped) houses in Shirakawago/Gokayama. The whole tour can be flexibly arranged based on guests' preferences and requests on either one way and round trip between Kanazawa and Takayama.

Full Day Kanazawa highlights in 7 hours

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7 hours

Explore Kanazawa’s uniqueness by visiting all highlights in just one day. Kanazawa is not just a city charged with an interesting history, it is also a beautiful and relatively quiet town where contemporary arts meets deep traditions. This is the perfect tour if you want to get to know all important spots of the city such as one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, well preserved historical sites, local crafts and specialties.

New Kanazawa Private Tours

Off the beaten path in Kanazawa

Experience the true spirit of Kanazawa with an off-the-beaten-path tour that dives deep into the city’s local treasures. Leave the bustling main attractions behind and explore hidden gems where residents go to relax, dine, and celebrate their traditions. I may introduce you to meet some local artisans/artists. This tour needs more planning depending on the seasons and schedules of visiting places so please consult me first.

Beautiful Kanazawa Tour - Full Day

7 hours

Kanazawa has a lot of historical and beautiful spots. I will show you the best spots in Kanazawa city. We go to Buke Yashiki, Kanazawa Castle Park, Kenrokuen Garden, Lunch, Higashi Chaya District. The Itinery is one of example. I can customize this tour for you.

FROM$243/ per group

Shoten S.

Gourmet Kanazawa: A Daytime Food Odyssey

Join me on a tantalizing journey through Kanazawa, where you'll savor the city's rich culinary heritage. Begin with the freshest sushi, expertly prepared from the day's catch. Delight in the region's succulent fruits, renowned for their exceptional flavor. Indulge in Kanazawa's unique golden ice cream, a luxurious treat adorned with edible gold leaf. Throughout the day, explore a variety of local delicacies, each offering a taste of Kanazawa's vibrant food culture.

Discover Kanazawa's Pop Culture Treasures: A Unique Shopping Adventure

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Embark on a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that delves into the heart of Kanazawa's vibrant pop culture scene. This tour is perfect for fans of anime, retro games, and all things geeky. We will explore some of the city's best spots for pop culture enthusiasts. Join us on this exciting journey through Kanazawa's pop culture hotspots and take home unique souvenirs that will remind you of this unforgettable adventure.

Popular Kanazawa Private Cars

【PRIVATE CAR TOUR】A full day tour to UNESCO World Heritage, SHIRAKAWAGO & Old town, TAKAYAMA

9 hours

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakawago, renowned for its breathtaking Gassho-style thatched-roof houses, offering a glimpse into Japan's rural life and traditions. Then we go to Takayama boasting a beautifully preserved Edo Period historical center called 'Sannomachi'. Wander its charming streets lined with Edo Period buildings housing museums, galleries, sake breweries, and craft shops. Immerse yourself in Japan's rich history and traditional charm.

☆Kanazawa Day Tour with a Private Car

5 hours

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

【PRIVATE CAR TOUR】World Heritage GOKAYAMA/SHIRAKAWAGO Tour from Kanazawa

8 hours

Shirakawago, with its stunning Gassho-style thatched-roof houses, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that captivates visitors with its beauty. Recognized in 1976 for its cultural significance, it offers a glimpse into Japan's rural life and traditions. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, it attracts tourists from overseas. Shirakawago, which showcases Japan's changing seasons, retains a fantastical beauty of the countryside. Please enjoy the scenery that cannot be experienced in Tokyo Osaka, or Kyoto.

☆Kanazawa Day Tour with a Private Car

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Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

Day Trips from Kanazawa

Gifu

Ishikawa

Toyama

Fukui

Kanazawa Tour Reviews

Brandon S.

5 / 5

Dec 28, 2024

Kanazawa Must-See Places One Day Tour

7 hours 30 min

Dec 28, 2024

“Excellent tour of Kanazawa with Yoji”

Yoji was an excellent guide! He was very personable, considerate, informative, and was able to answer all of our many questions about the sites we saw. He led us all around Kanazawa and we were able to see so many sites within one day because of him, like calling ahead for us to visit Myouryuji (Ninja Castle). He also expertly helped us snap several photos throughout. Because we're foodies, he also recommended Busaksu, a really amazing restaurant for dinner and it was one of our top eating experiences during our 3 week trip in Japan and all of 2024! He even helped us adjust a reservation we had when our US Google Voice number was unable to get through. Thanks so much Yoji!

Yoji K.

Dear Brandon san, Thank you very much for such a great review and comment on me and my tour. I am pleased to have such a great opportunity to meet both of you. Since I’m in Mexico already, I’m my response was late. It was fun walking with you even though it was very cold. I’m glad to hear that you liked the restaurant. I also happy to help you if you are having hard time to call or talk to the local. Thank you very much for choosing me as your guide. Please come back to Japan and Kanazawa!! Stay in touch! Yoji

Kc T.

5 / 5

Dec 15, 2024

Kanazawa Must-See Places One Day Tour

7 hours 30 min

Dec 15, 2024

“Great experience of Kanazawa”

Yoji speaks good English and able to explain the destinations history well. He was exposed internationally and he understands international visitors' requirements well. He brought us to places with great food offerings.

Yoji K.

Thank you very much for such a great review and comment. I hope you enjoyed the tour in Kanazawa and the rest of your trip in Japan. We could see snow this time! I truly enjoyed chatting with you global and engineer mind. Thank you very much!

Sugeng W.

5 / 5

Dec 15, 2024

【PRIVATE CAR TOUR】A full day tour to UNESCO World Heritage, SHIRAKAWAGO & Old town, TAKAYAMA