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Kanazawa & Beyond

Gondola Ride

Paragliders' View

Gondola Ride

Sweets

Steps to Famous Hime Shrine

One of the shrines

Geisha District

Above Tedorigawa

One way to the shrine

Samurai House

Very big Temple

In Tedorigawa

Shrine

Tsurugi Canal

Very big Temple's entrance

Shrine's entrance

Tedorigawa River

Shrine

One way to Famous Hime Shrine

Kanazawa & Beyond

Off the Beaten Path

Joined 2024

Raphaël P.

5.00 / 5

(44 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Ishikawa

English (Native), French (Native), Japanese, Spanish

8 hours

Private tour (only you and Raphaël P.)

Up to 6 people

Starting Time: 7:00 to 9:00am.

Embark on a transformative journey that combines the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Japan with personal reflection and inner discovery. This 8-hour tour through Kanazawa and Tsurugi offers a unique blend of activities designed to help you reset, recharge, let go of daily stresses & find yourself a bit more.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

07:00 AM

Meeting Point

Starbucks Coffee - Korinbo Tokyu Square

- Conveniently located and easily accessible from most hotels.

07:20 AM

Nishichaya District [One of the three geisha district].

Stroll through the historic Nishichaya District, one of Kanazawa's three traditional geisha districts. Enjoy the charming atmosphere, beautifully preserved teahouses, and a glimpse into the cultural heritage of old Japan.

07:50 AM

Nomachi Station

Enjoy a scenic 30-minute train ride to Tsurugi City, where more adventures and breathtaking views await you.

08:20 AM

Arrive in Tsurugi Station.

08:50 AM

Kinking Shrine & Waterfall.

Take a serene walk to Kinkengu Shrine, where you can admire the tranquil beauty of the nearby waterfall. This peaceful spot offers a perfect blend of natural and spiritual beauty.

09:20 AM

Tsurugi-betsuin Temple

Visit Tsurugi-betsuin Temple, a place of historical and spiritual significance. Explore its serene grounds, admire the traditional architecture, and soak in the peaceful ambiance that invites reflection and tranquility.

10:00 AM

Gondola - Paragliders & Mountain Views.

Experience breathtaking mountain views from a serene gondola ride. Watch as paragliders soar gracefully above, adding to the stunning panorama.

11:00 AM

Lunch - Rest

Indulge in a meal of your choice at one of the local specialty restaurants, whether it be homemade soba, gourmet pizza, or a delicious burger. Each restaurant is dedicated to perfecting their specialty, offering a memorable culinary experience.

12:10 PM

Shirayama Hime Jinja Shrine

Nestled in serene surroundings, Explore Shirayama Hime Jinja Shrine, a sacred site with deep historical significance.

12:40 PM

Afternoon Snack at Omoteya

Obanyaki at Omoteya!

01:00 PM

Stunning Famous Tedorigawa River View!

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the famous Tedorigawa River. The perfect spot for capturing memorable photos and taking in the natural beauty of the area.

01:40 PM

Station ride back to Kanazawa

02:10 PM

Arrive in Nomachi station

02:30 PM

Samurai District

Wander through the historic Samurai District, where you can explore well-preserved samurai residences and cobblestone streets.

Ending Point

Samurai district or Back to Starbucks [5 mn walk].

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

Guide fee [French, English, Spanish]

What‘s not included

Return train tickets 1200¥

Gondola Ride 700¥

Lunch & Sweet [1200-2500¥]

Insurance

Tour Important Information

Depending on the starting time of your choice, we may have to switch a few things around.

I am very flexible, if there are different things you may want to visit such as a sake brewery, coffee shop, insect museum, garden, or else; feel free to let me know prior or during the tour. An adventure isn't an adventure without a bit of showmanship on the spot.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time

Joined 2024

Raphaël P.

5.00 / 5

(44 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Raphaël P.

Kanazawa-based private guide offering deeply curated, seamless experiences across the region.

I have been living in Kanazawa since 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, and over time have developed a deep understanding of the region: its history, craftsmanship, and everyday life. This is not simply where I guide, but where I live and build my life.

Over the past couple of years, I have led more than 500 private tours across Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Takayama, Kaga, and beyond, working with international guests in English, French, and Spanish.

My background spans over 20 years in the international service industry, including hospitality, consulting for Michelin-level restaurants and traditional ryokan, and the performing arts. This experience naturally shapes the way I guide, combining structure, adaptability, and attention to detail, while keeping each day engaging and personal.

Each experience is carefully adapted to the people in front of me. Whether that means exploring major highlights, discovering quieter places, or adjusting the pace to create a smooth and memorable day.

If this approach resonates with you, I would be very happy to guide you.

Kind regards,

Raphaël

Reviews

John P.

5 / 5

Oct 6, 2026

Personalized Day in Kanzawa.

Oct 6, 2026

Ishikawa

7 hours

Customized

“Fantastic Kanzawa Tour”

Thank you Raph for giving us such a marvellous full day private tour. We all enjoyed it immensely. Your knowledge humour and attitude made it perfect Regards The kiwis

Raphaël P.

Maxine, John, Garry and the rest of Team NZ; Thank you very much for choosing me in being your guide. It was such a pleasure being able to guide fellow Kiwis in this wonderful town. Thank you for reminding me (if it was necessary) why NZ would always be a part of me. I am glad we could make it happen despite all conditions. Wishing everyone a lovely rest of trip. Kindest regards, Raphaël

Brenda C.

5 / 5

Oct 4, 2026

All Highlights! Can also be a fully Personalized Tour!

Oct 4, 2026

Kanazawa

7 hours 30 mins

“Fantastic Custom Tour from a Charismatic Guide”

This could not have been a better tour. Raphael is smart, energetic, easy to talk to and a guide that not only cares but does his homework. I cannot wait to book him again. Having traveled extensively, i'd say he is among the best guides i have worked with in the world!

Raphaël P.

Brenda, Jeff, thank you So much for taking the time to write such a lovely review. I really appreciate the high praise. Thank you. I had a wonderful time showing you around. If you ever come back in the area let me know so we can explore some more together! All the very best & Enjoy the rest of your trip! Raphaël

Jonathan D.

5 / 5

Jul 13, 2026

All Highlights! Can also be a fully Personalized Tour!

Jul 13, 2026

Kanazawa

7 hours 30 mins

“Incredible Local Insight and a Perfect Kanazawa Day”

Raphaël made our day in Kanazawa absolutely unforgettable. From the moment we started, he brought the city to life walking us through the Samurai District, Omicho Market, the Geisha District and Higashi Chaya, Kanazawa Castle, and the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, all while sharing rich details about the local culture, history, and cuisine along the way. He has a wonderful way of making every stop feel meaningful, not just a checklist of sights. One of the highlights of the day was Raphaël taking us to a fantastic local shop where we picked out a beautiful chef's knife his knowledge and recommendations made all the difference in finding exactly the right one. He was attentive to our family's interests all day and made sure we left with a genuine understanding and appreciation of Kanazawa. We couldn't have asked for a better guide, and we'd recommend Raphaël to anyone visiting the city.

Raphaël P.

Jonathan, It was an absolute pleasure showing you and your family around. I’m so glad we were able to fit so much into a single day while keeping the experience relaxed, genuine, and enjoyable. I have to say, you have an incredible son. It always warms my heart to see the special bond some parents share with their children, and the connection between yourselves was truly wonderful to witness. Keep it up, it was inspiring. I hope the rest of your journey is every bit as smooth and memorable as the beginning. And if you ever find yourselves back in Japan, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. It would be a pleasure to see you all again. Until then, enjoy putting your beautiful new chef’s knife to good use! My warmest regards to you and your family, Raphaël