Best of Kanazawa - Full Day
Joined 2023
Kanazawa is a captivating city where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist. Join me on a journey to discover its rich culture and history! This private tour will take you to some of Kanazawa’s most iconic highlights, including Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, Omicho Market, and the historic Samurai and Geisha districts. We’ll move at a comfortable pace, allowing time for breaks as needed. As this is a private tour, the itinerary can be adjusted based on the weather or your preferences.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel or preferred location
- Pick-up is included for hotels located within the city center. If your hotel is outside this area, please contact me for arrangements. Please note that Kanazawa Port is considered outside the city center.
Kanazawa Castle
Home to the powerful Maeda family, who ruled Kanazawa since 1583, this historic site stands as a testament to their legacy, offering a glimpse into centuries of samurai tradition, architectural grandeur, and cultural heritage.
Kenrokuen Garden
Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s three most celebrated gardens, is a breathtaking masterpiece that captivates in every season. Once the private garden of the Maeda lords, it now welcomes visitors to explore its timeless beauty, featuring tranquil ponds, elegant bridges, and meticulously landscaped scenery.
Nagamachi Samurai District
The streets and preserved buildings offer a glimpse into the humble yet disciplined lives of the samurai. We will visit a beautifully restored residence of a high-ranking samurai, where you can explore the architecture and lifestyle of the Edo period.
Oyama Shrine
Oyama Shrine is a hidden gem in Kanazawa, dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the powerful Maeda clan. Blending Japanese, Chinese, and Western architectural styles, its most striking feature is the unique three-story gate with stained glass windows—a rare sight in Japan. The shrine’s tranquil gardens, with stone bridges, koi ponds, and lush greenery, provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. A visit to Oyama Shrine offers not only spiritual significance but also a glimpse into Kanazawa’s rich history and artistic fusion of cultures.
Omicho Market
Nicknamed "Kanazawa’s Kitchen," this lively market offers a vibrant array of fresh ingredients, from seafood and meat to seasonal vegetables and local specialties. You’ll discover rare delicacies from across Japan alongside regional favorites. We may enjoy lunch here or at a nearby restaurant, savoring the flavors of Kanazawa.
Kazuemachi Geisha District
Kazuemachi is one of Kanazawa’s three historic geisha districts, offering a quieter, more intimate atmosphere compared to the bustling Higashi Chaya. Nestled along the Asano River, its narrow streets are lined with beautifully preserved wooden teahouses, where geisha continue to perform traditional music and dance. In the evening, the district glows with the warm light of paper lanterns, creating a timeless charm. Whether strolling through its scenic alleyways or enjoying a riverside café, Kazuemachi offers a glimpse into Kanazawa’s refined cultural heritage.
Higashi Geisha District
This is one of Kanazawa’s three historic geisha districts, where beautifully preserved streets and traditional wooden teahouses reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the charming alleyways, browse unique local shops, and step inside a teahouse for an authentic glimpse into this elegant world.
Ending Point
At your hotel or preferred location
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 fee
- Hotel/Station pick-up within Kanazawa City Center
- Transportation fee
- Lunch
- Admission fee
Tour Important Information
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to remove them at certain locations.
- This is primarily a walking tour, but taxis can be used upon request. If you choose to take a taxi, please cover the fare on the spot.
- Bring enough cash for admission fees and lunch, as some places may not accept credit cards.
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 2023
About Tour Guide Haru G.
Thank you for considering me as your guide! I am excited to become not just your guide, but your friend as we explore Kanazawa together—a city where rich cultural traditions seamlessly blend with modern vibrancy.
Being a native of Ishikawa Prefecture, with Kanazawa as its heart, I have a deep connection to this place. Though I spent several years living in New York, I’ve always carried the spirit of Japan with me. Upon returning to Japan, I immersed myself in the travel industry, gaining over a decade of experience and obtaining my guiding license in 2017 while working for successful inbound travel agencies.
My time abroad has given me a profound appreciation for Japan’s uniqueness, and my passion for sharing its beauty and culture with travelers has only grown stronger. Now, I am eager to share that enthusiasm with you as we explore Japan together, uncovering hidden gems and experiencing its timeless charm.
Reviews
“A most excellent Food tour”
We were a small group of friends that went on this amazing food tour with Haru-san. It was so unexpected that began our evening adventure with drinks at this exclusive hidden gem of a bar that only regulars know about. The owner/bartender had this exceptional collection of vintage whiskey that he was so excited to show us. He demonstrated his mesmerizing skill at ice carving for pieces to fit our drinks. He shared his passion and very interesting story on how he started his bar. What an experience of epitome entertainment at a bar. We then proceeded to dinner at this sought after Izakaya joint that served the most delectable fresh seafood and unusual delicious desserts. Got there just in time, bcos after we were seated, a long queue firmed outside. Had a most enjoyable meal. Overall a wonderful night of great food and drinks. Haru-san knows exactly where to bring you once she gets to know your thinking. We were friends the moment we met.
Haru G.
Thank you so much, K b! The tour was a lot of fun for me as you and your friends were all nice and friendly. I enjoyed it very much and I hope to see you all again. Wishing you a wonderful holidays coming ahead and fresh new year. Thank you again and please give my regards to everyone.
“Lovely Day and a Half Touring Kanazawa with Haru ”
So glad we found Haru for our visit Kanazawa. She is knowledgeable about the history, culture and customs of Kanazawa, and speaks English very well. We visited all the major sites in Kanazawa, and learned much from Haru. Haru also knows the best places to shop! She took us to superb lacquered pottery and gold leaf shops, two of the unique specialties of Kanazawa. I highly recommend Haru for your visit to Kanazawa!
Haru G.
Thank you so much Joseph. I really loved that you all enjoyed the food in Kanazawa. Please give my regards to everyone and I hope you will come back to explore other parts of Japan and try more local food. Arigatooo!!
“Lovely Day and a Half Touring Kanazawa with Haru ”
So glad we found Haru for our visit Kanazawa. She is knowledgeable about the history, culture and customs of Kanazawa, and speaks English very well. We visited all the major sites in Kanazawa, and learned much from Haru. Haru also knows the best places to shop! She took us to superb lacquered pottery and gold leaf shops, two of the unique specialties of Kanazawa. I highly recommend Haru for your visit to Kanazawa!
Haru G.
Again, thank you and I hope you are well settled by now at home. Please enjoy the craft you took back and remember Kanazawa and me :-)
$263/ per group
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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!
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