This 4-hour itinerary covers the essential attractions of Kanazawa, providing a mix of historical insights, natural beauty, and local culture. Starting with the historical Nagamachi Samurai District, moving to the serene Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle, and exploring the historical Higashi Chaya District, this plan offers a comprehensive snapshot of what Kanazawa has to offer. If time permits, additional quick stops at Omicho Market, a Museum or Myoryuji Temple can enhance the experience.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your Hotel - Or "Starbucks at M'Za".
- If your hotel is centrally located, I will pick you up directly. Otherwise, we'll meet at the STARBUCKS in the M'ZA shopping mall, just across from the famous Omicho Market.
Nagamachi District [Samurai District]
Explore this historic area with narrow lanes, earthen walls, and the beautifully preserved Nomura-ke Samurai Residence, showcasing traditional architecture and exquisite gardens.
Kenroku-en Garden
One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, featuring ponds, streams, walking paths, and tea houses. Highlights include the Kotojitoro Lantern and Kasumigaike Pond.
Kanazawa Castle
Adjacent to Kenrokuen, this partially restored castle offers insights into the region’s history with its impressive gates, storehouses, and gardens.
Higashi Chaya [Most famous Geisha District]
A historic district with well-preserved wooden teahouses, shops selling gold leaf products, and cozy cafes.
Kazuemachi [another Geisha district]
Mini stop in Kazuemachi on the way back to the hotel / Starbucks / Omicho Market.
Ending Point
Arrive in the destination of your choice, Hotel / Starbucks / Omicho Market!
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guide's Fee.
Service with a Smile.
Entrance of Garden & Samurai's House [app. 1000Yen].
Feel free to contact me if you would like to change the tour. I am very flexible. :)
There might also be possibility on starting this tour around lunch time. Contact me to confirm. Thank you.
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!
Sandra rosaura R.
Perfect mix of Kanazawa Highlight & Nature Walk.
“A MUST WHEN VISITING KANAZAWA”
This tour was more than we expected! Raphael is an excellent person and knows a lot about the culture and main landmarks of Kanazawa. He took us to the best hidden gems and made sure that everyone in our group was satisfied with their visit. We took this tour with my 70 year old mom and aunt. He was extremely patient and made the necessary alterations to the itinerary so that they could as well get the best of the tour even if they couldn't make the hike. He has great recommendations about local crafts and I would definitely book this experience again in the future since this city was one of our favorites :) maybe even thanks to Raphael's guidance! Thank you Raphael for your patience :) see you soon!!
Raphaël P.
Sandra, Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience! It was truly a pleasure guiding you and your family around Kanazawa. I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed the hidden gems and cultural highlights of the city. It was important to me to ensure that everyone, including your wonderful mom and aunt, could fully enjoy the day. Kanazawa is indeed a special place, and I’m thrilled it became one of your favorites. Your warm energy and curiosity made the tour even more enjoyable for me as well! If you ever return, I’d be delighted to show you more of what this beautiful region has to offer. Wishing you all the best, and I hope to see you again soon! Warm regards, Raphaël
“History, dinner to remember, and inside look into Kanazawa”
It was me and my partner's first trip to Japan and we didn't know much about Kanazawa beforehand. We were coming in from Kyoto and figured the evening walk would be a light introduction to the city. What we ended up with, was a rich history of the city, a wonderful dinner that surpassed any we had until that point and a fantastic, knowledgeable guide. Raph himself is very knowledgeable, humorous, and a knowledge font! We also discussed Shirakawa-go and would recommend everyone experience that village when you travel. I couldn't recommend Raph enough and if you are lucky enough to see he has free time, would recommend booking a trip with him.
Raphaël P.
James, Katie, Thank you so much for the glowing review. It was a pleasure showing you around and answering (most) of all your questions! :) I have had a great time with you and I’m glad you felt the same way about it. First time in Japan, checked! Having a good time, checked! Learning a lot, checked! Come back anytime, Japan would love to see you again! All the very best to you two! Raphaël
“Awesome Guide!”
I booked the walking Tour of Kanazawa for my husband and I last minute. Raphael responded immediately and met us at our hotel the next day. He provided us with many options of where to visit and allowed us to tailor the tour to our preferences. Raphael was very engaging, knowledgeable and passionate about Japan. We did several tours whilst in Japan and all guides were great however Raphael was exceptional and I would highly recommend booking a tour with him!
Raphaël P.
Tracey, Kevin, It was a real honor and pleasure, to meet and guide you in beautiful Kanazawa! Thank you So Much for your very special words, they go straight to my heart! Have a wonderful time back in Brisbane and I hope I’ll get a chance to meet you guys again, maybe even coffee in hands. All the very best! Raphaël
$172/ per group