All Highlights! Can also be a fully Personalized Tour!
Joined 2024
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!
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At Your Hotel.
Samurai District.
After the presentation and a brief introduction, we will be heading to the Samurai District where History, Architecture, Stories will blend and special places be visited.
Omicho Market + Special Artisan’s Shops.
Heading to a 300 years old covered market where 180 shops display a folkloric mix of Fresh Seafood, Fruits & Veggies, Quick Snacks, Souvenirs, and more.
You can choose to make your own Hanko (signature stamp handmade by an artisan) and / or Buy (or only check) a Kitchen knife from the Newest Highest quality artisan’s knives you’ll find in Japan!
(I’ll be there to help you with recommendations & translation if needed too).
Kazuemachi (Geisha District)
We’ll walk through the Cutest neighborhood in Kanazawa where I’ll tell you all about Geishas’s History and fun facts!
Restaurant Break!
Whether you want to eat some local food or not; take your time to eat or not; I have many recommendations for us to eat at your pace for all diets & feelings of the day!
The famous Eastern Tea & Geishas District.
We’ll walk through the most famous spot of Kanazawa where old architecture, history, arts, snacks, and wonderful experiences blend together for an array of amazing memories.
Kanazawa Castle
We’ll walk to and through Kanazawa Castle and its amazing fortress, with a 400+ years of History.
Kenrokuen Garden.
Considered a Top 3 best in all JAPAN, Kenrokuen is a large garden full of wonderful scenes, transporting you in another realm, regardless of the weather & season.
I’ll be there to point you to a few specifics and best photo spots!
Walk back to the hotel
We’ll finish the tour quietly returning to your hotel.
I’m of course always happy to answer any questions you may have, help you have with queries and help you make a reservation for some of the best restaurants in town!
Ending Point
At your Hotel
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
Guide Fees.
Service with a smile.
Invaluable informations for the rest of your stay.
Costs for foods & drinks [The price will really depend on your preferences]; Entrance fees [generally $500 per person on average per place]; for you and guide.
Transportations if needed.
Tour Important Information
This is a walking and public transport tour—no buses or private cars. Be ready to explore the city on foot and experience it like a local!
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It might take time to craft the perfect itinerary if you choose to fully personalize it, so I kindly ask that you book at least one week in advance in this case - if you can.
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To ensure clear communication and avoid any confusion, I only speak directly with future participants, not third parties or tour company personnel.
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
About Tour Guide Raphaël P.
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!
Reviews
Roland L.
“One day in Kazanawa”
Dear Raphael, in one day you made us love Kanazawa. We got to see all the historical places and had great food. Your explanations were very clear and interesting. Thank you again for this wonderful day. Cher Raphaël, en une seule journée, tu nous as fait découvrir Kanazawa. Nous avons pu découvrir tous les sites historiques et déguster d'excellents plats. Tes explications étaient très claires et intéressantes. Merci encore pour cette merveilleuse journée. Le groupe des six. A une prochaine fois.
Raphaël P.
Dear Roland and the rest of the group (A., S., M., I. & D.), What a wonderful message to receive! It was truly a pleasure guiding you through Kanazawa and sharing its history, culture, and flavors with you. I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed the experience! Your enthusiasm and curiosity made the day even more special. I sincerely hope our paths cross again for another adventure—whether in Japan or elsewhere. Merci encore et à une prochaine fois ! Warmest regards, Raphaël
Joel W.
“Fantastic Guide”
Raphael accepted our request at the last minute for a walking tour in Kanazawa. He met us at our hotel and was able to listen to our requests and make some additional suggestions in the local area. Raphael is polite, and knowledgeable on local history and geography. We had a fantastic day with Raphael and he was especially good with our 4 year old who took an instant liking to him. Raphael also went out of his way to check on availability of tourist spots and activities and even a restaurant for after the tour. I fully recommend Raphael as a guide for Kanazawa 10/10
Raphaël P.
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a pleasure guiding you through Kanazawa and making the experience enjoyable for the whole family—including your little one! I’m glad you appreciated the flexibility and recommendations along the way. All the very best to you back in Australia. Raphaël
Sandra rosaura R.
“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
$424/ per group
More tours by Raphaël P.
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. [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!
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.
"Timeless Treasures: Moss Garden, Unique Temple, Craft Studio and Ceramic Village"
"Step into a world of timeless beauty and creativity with this curated tour. Wander through the tranquil Moss Garden, marvel at the unique architecture and surrounding and sacred 1300 years old history of Natadera Temple (My favorite in Japan), and experience the art of Japanese craftsmanship at a traditional local studio. End your journey in a charming ceramic village, where tradition meets creativity. This tour is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and artistry."
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
Other Popular Highlights Tours in Kanazawa
Best of Kanazawa - Half Day
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
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
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.
Excursión de un día completo a Kanazawa
Kanazawa es una ciudad castillo que se desarrolló alrededor del castillo Kanazawa. Este tour de un día lo llevará a los principales lugares turísticos de Kanazawa. Kanazawa es una ciudad compacta, por lo que pueden recorrerla prácticamente a pie. Podrán sentir la clásica atmósfera japonesa mientras disfrutas del hermoso ambiente de Kanazawa. Hay mucho que ver, pero pueden cambiar el contenido si hay algo más que les gustaría ver. Soy flexibles, así que informenme si tienen alguna solicitud.
