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. [In this case, the itinerary will be designed specially for you, and at your pace!]
However, feel free to let me know what you like & I'll make sure to cater the tour for you!
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.
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.
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].
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.
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!
Josh W.
“Raphael is amazing ”
We had (great) guides in Seoul and Tokyo, but Raphael is next level. His depth of knowledge is really incredible. He's funny, highly professional smart...I could go on and on. I highly recommend a visit to Kanazawa, which is a great little city, and Raphael really brings it to life.
Raphaël P.
Josh! Thank you SO much for taking the time to write a review, and 'What a review!'. This is the reason why I have been in the service industry for the last 20 years! Thank you for noticing, thank you for appreciating, and thank you for sharing! I had a great time with you all but you just made my day! All the very best! Raphaël
Wanessa S.
“Great Tour with a Guide Who Truly Understands Visitors”
We had a very pleasant time during the tour. Our guide showed great knowledge and, even though he is a foreigner living in the city, he truly understands the mindset and curiosity of other foreigners who want to learn more about the local culture. He was very kind and attentive, explaining not only about the place we were visiting, but also about other regions we had been to, such as Takayama and Shirakawago. He also gave us excellent restaurant recommendations in the city and useful tips for our upcoming destinations — Kyoto and Osaka. We highly recommend him!
Raphaël P.
Wanessa & Family! Thank you So much for this amazing review! It was an absolute pleasure for me to guide you through Kanazawa. Your high energy, attention and care during the tour were highly appreciated! Thank you very much! Enjoy Kyoto, Osaka and the rest of your trip. Kindest regards, Raphaël
Tyron V.
“4 hour tour in Kanazawa ”
Had a great time with Raph taking me and my mother out to check out some of Kanazawa. Very knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. Highly recommended
Raphaël P.
Thank you very much for taking the time to write a review. I was very happy to get the opportunity to show you around Kanazawa and share with you a few tips for the next couple stops. If you ever come back, don’t hesitate to reach out. Kind regards, Raphaël
$286/ per group