- USD ($)
- Wishlists
4 Hours - Kanazawa's Main Attractions ! Can be personalized to your liking!
This 4 hours itinerary covers the essential attractions of Kanazawa, providing a mix of historical insights, natural beauty, and local culture.
Who is it originally designed for?
1] People wanting to max out all the Kanazawa essentiels in just a few hours!
2] People wanting to slowly focus on a couple spots in the city.
However, feel free to let me know what you like & I'll make sure to cater the tour for you!
9:00am or 13:30pm Start! Let's explore the city!
Itinerary
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. "This is just an example of the tour we may do."
Omicho Market
Discover a 300 years old history market with 180 stands filled with local food and folklore!
Nagamachi [Samurai District] + Special Ceramics shop if wanted.
Explore this historic area with narrow lanes, earthen walls, and the beautifully preserved Nomura-ke Samurai Residence, showcasing traditional architecture and exquisite gardens.
Kenrokuen Garden & Kanazawa Castle
One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, featuring ponds, streams, walking paths, and tea houses. Highlights include the Kotojitoro Lantern and Kasumigaike Pond.
Adjacent to Kenrokuen, this partially restored castle offers insights into the region’s history with its impressive gates, storehouses, and gardens.
Kazuemachi
Kazuemachi, the smallest geisha district in Kanazawa, may be small in size, but its enchanting charm will leave you captivated. A visit here is sure to create unforgettable memories!
Higashi Chaya [Most famous Geisha District]
Higashi Chaya, Kanazawa’s most famous geisha district, is a historic area renowned for its beautifully preserved wooden teahouses that exude timeless elegance. Stroll through its atmospheric streets, where you’ll find shops offering exquisite gold leaf products, cozy cafes perfect for a relaxing break, and glimpses into the cultural heritage of traditional tea ceremonies. This district effortlessly blends history with charm, making it a must-visit destination.
Ending Point
I can provide you with tips to explore Higashi Chaya further, discover its shops and surroundings, guide you to your next destination, or assist you in returning to the market or your hotel.
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/56007/44e15c38-a5f2-40ef-be9b-42793c505029.png)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide's Fee.
Service with a Smile.
Entrance of Garden & Samurai's House [app. 1000Yen].
Tour Important Information
Lunch or Special Experiences were not included in the base plan as I like to be flexible depending on my clients' requests.
Feel free to tell me what you're after [specific Or vague], so I can really cater that for you!
Let's have a great time and create memories together!
There might also be possibility on starting this tour around lunch time. Contact me to confirm. Thank you.
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
About Tour Guide Raphaël P.
Hello Explorers,
If you're looking to discover Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Takayama, Yuwaku, Kaga and more, of the beautiful surrounding regions in a way few ever do—you’re in the right place.
Since making Kanazawa our home in 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, I’ve immersed myself deeply into the local culture, traditions, and daily life. This city and its surroundings aren't just places I guide through—they’re part of my story.
With a rich background in tourism, hospitality and the performing arts, I bring a seamless, heartfelt energy to every tour, offering you not just information, but real connection and insight.
Get ready for picture-perfect moments, unforgettable local flavors, inspiring stories, and tips that will make your entire stay even more memorable.
Choose to explore with me, and let’s create experiences as rich, vibrant, and lasting as Japan itself!
Reviews
Joey S.
“Excellent tour of Kanazawa”
From planning and discussing the tour details to the actual tour itself, it has been a very smooth and pleasant experience with Raphael. Everyone also enjoyed the tour thoroughly and had a lot of fun! Thank you so much :)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/56007/44e15c38-a5f2-40ef-be9b-42793c505029.png)
Raphaël P.
Joey, thank you for the review. Despite having a long and cold day with everyone, I am glad we were able to make it a fun and memorable one! Although it does not often happen, I am happy I was able to contribute to the trip of a group that includes 3 generations traveling together, absolutely lovely to see! Enjoy your time back in Singapore/Australia and don’t hesitate reaching out again when in Japan! All the very best! Raphaël
Francois D.
“A true 5 star tour at the end of the year”
We had an exceptional 7-hour tour in French with Raphael on December 31st. He was, by far, the best guide we have experienced on this platform. Raphael was incredibly well-prepared and took the time to review the itinerary with us at our hotel before we set off. His passion for his home city is clear, and while his deep historical knowledge was impressive, he also made the entire day incredibly fun and engaging. We especially loved discovering Kanazawa through his personal stories and unique perspective; it felt like spending the day with a knowledgeable friend rather than a formal guide. Our group of four was unanimous in our praise. We all loved our experience and highly recommend Raphael without any hesitation!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/56007/44e15c38-a5f2-40ef-be9b-42793c505029.png)
Raphaël P.
François thank you very much for taking the time to write a review. I am extremely pleased to know you were all very happy about the tour! I must say, it was an absolute pleasure to guide you all around and make this last day of the year a memorable one to everyone. Thank you again! All the very best! Raphaël
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/41924/01858047-fec8-449d-99b1-a954d627f49e.png)
Kevin R.
“Another Great Tour with Raphael”
Raphael was fantastic! He’s very knowledgeable, easygoing, and made the whole experience feel like we were being shown around by a friend in Japan. He shared great insights, answered all our questions, and was always helpful along the way. Another great tour with Raphael—we highly recommend him!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/56007/44e15c38-a5f2-40ef-be9b-42793c505029.png)
Raphaël P.
Kevin, thank you again for taking the time to write a review. I had such a good time with you guys that I think it will remain as a highlight of 2025! All the very best and safe flight home to everyone. Happy New Year! Raphaël
$244/ per group
More tours by Raphaël P.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15528/6b2345a5-bda7-4993-911f-5bece6c249a6.jpg)
All Highlights! Can also be a fully Personalized Tour!
Typical Full Highlights Day, but Each Tour Can be uniquely crafted for you. In the latter case; Share your age, interests, places you'd like to visit, experiences, activities, or special restaurants you’d love to try. As a local guide and father who's lived here for 5+ years, I’ll create the perfect personalized journey for you and your loved ones!
All Highlights! Can also be a fully Personalized Tour!
Perfect mix of Kanazawa Highlight & Nature Walk.
Starting Time: 7:00 to 10:00am. In this particular 6-hour Walking Tour, We explore some of the magic of Kanazawa. It promises a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, quirky stories, and delightful culinary experiences! <Bamboo forest / Riverside walk / Geisha districts / Old Tea house / Ninja Temple / Kutani Ceramics / Kanazawa Delights [Golden Ice cream / Fluffy Pancakes / Matcha Tea / Kaga Tea / Famous Omu Rice Omelet] / Perfect Photo Spots / Surprise.
Perfect mix of Kanazawa Highlight & Nature Walk.
Discover the Magic of Kanazawa: 9-Hour Walking Tour
Starting Time: 7:00 to 9:00am. In this immersive 9-hour walking tour, we delve into the enchanting beauty of Kanazawa. This tour promises a perfect blend of natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, fascinating stories, and delightful culinary experiences! <Bamboo forest / Riverside walk / All 3 Geisha districts / Old Tea house / Stunning Garden / Samurai District / Ninja Temple & Museum / Kutani Ceramics / Perfect Photo Spots / Surprise. KZ Delights [ex]: Golden Ice Pancakes - Matcha/Kaga Tea
Discover the Magic of Kanazawa: 9-Hour Walking Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15148/fa621603-0af1-4bcd-a16e-983d0eaa7529.jpg)
Kanazawa & Beyond
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.
Kanazawa & Beyond
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Kanazawa
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20832/4aa1cd19-b6aa-4aa6-b8fc-57662baadb11.jpg)
Kanazawa Essentials: A Full-Day Journey via the Loop Bus
Explore Kanazawa's history and culture on this private, 7-hour loop bus tour. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour covers Omicho Market, the Nagamachi Samurai District, the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, and the charming Higashichaya-gai (Tea House Street). The itinerary is completely customizable.
Kanazawa Essentials: A Full-Day Journey via the Loop Bus
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/78234/26edd56f-90d0-430d-a1cc-166a4c714429.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20774/7fa83c25-1ba1-4f0c-9f01-e8bf4ca80d05.jpg)
Kanazawa the hidden gems
Hi all! Nice to meet you!! In this tour we will be able to visit the main historical places in Kanazawa: • Kanazawa station • Higashi chaya ( geisha district ) • Kazuemachi Chaya ( geisha district) • Kenrokuen garden • Castle of Kanazawa • Gyokusen Garden ( tea experience ) • Nagamachi ( samurai district ) • Ashigaru Museum ( samurai house) • Omicho market Plus we can always modify and change the itinerary based on desires!! The tour can start anytime between 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM every day
Kanazawa the hidden gems
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/83012/78c4707c-9dd7-4329-935a-dc5688ee68e6.png)
Kanazawa Kenrokuen garden & Kanazawa castle park tour
Kenrokuen garden and Kanazawa castle park are really popular places for tourists in Kanazawa area, Hokuriku region. Both places have lots of attractions, so I think guests should enjoy taking enough time to go around there. I have seen many cases that tourists go around both places without enough time, so I made this see around with enough time. Each spots have meanings, so I will guide you about the meanings as best I can.
Kanazawa Kenrokuen garden & Kanazawa castle park tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/79807/e951be35-a41a-419e-bbaa-9423d039a0ba.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21981/ac8a6229-d6f8-4de7-a04c-317b41c0456a.jpg)
Kanazawa Immersion - Kenrokuen, Samurai Villa & Tea Experience (Half Day Tour)
Step into the heart of Kanazawa on this immersive half-day walking tour. We’ll explore the city’s rich samurai and garden heritage—from the vibrant Omicho Market to the serene paths of Kenrokuen. Enjoy matcha in a hidden garden, admire the elegance of Seisonkaku Villa, and uncover stories of Shinto tradition at local shrines. With thoughtful pacing and cultural depth, this tour blends history, beauty, and personal connection into an unforgettable experience.
Kanazawa Immersion - Kenrokuen, Samurai Villa & Tea Experience (Half Day Tour)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/93216/de2d4fe0-2c54-4470-a5c6-7a3dc1ed5881.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15346/557e9a34-e8e5-4de4-a313-8e88bb5e3c53.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15346/aada6ba8-5480-499d-94cb-d8394474c820.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15346/25f061ef-95d2-4d69-b461-ab84ba180d5a.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15346/2a0dc575-6c06-4873-8538-7802b6b500f0.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15346/253f54b2-090b-4388-a26b-7eda6018581a.jpg)