Best of Kanazawa - Full Day
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?
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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
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
Robert S.
“Fab guide, so knowledgeable ”
Haru was a thoroughly knowledgeable and perfect guide and great at making sure we were fully understanding what we were looking at at the shrines and temples but more than that she gave us insights into the Japanese customs and approach to life. Such a wonderful change from Tokyo - Kanazawa is a place which has beautiful gardens and such history and Haru gave us a great 4 hour tour. We visited Samurai House which gave us real insight into how people lived, the castle which was fascinating and Haru was so knowledgeable about it answering all our questions. A wonderful day, so much knowledge, we glided through the tour, very efficient planning, transferring between sites. clearly loves her job, she moved along just at the right pace, well prepared with background information not just about the sites we were visiting but the history of Japan too. We thoroughly enjoyed the day! - Many Thanks
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Haru G.
Thank you very much, Robert! It was a real pleasure showing you and your family around my city. I hope you had a wonderful dinner and a great time exploring the city the following day. I’m truly honored to receive such kind words. Arigato-gozaimashita!!
Felix R.
“100% Recommendation”
Haru was welcoming, friendly and guided us very well throughout the whole day. She was very considerate (f.e. pointing out nearby restrooms, where to shop souvenirs) and made sure to fulfill our request to have crab meat for lunch at Omicho Market and even gave us recommendations for suhsi dinner options (It was very delicous!). Haru spoke english very well, the day was planned good and she was spontaneous, when needed. We saw everything we wanted within this 7 hour walking tour of Kanazawa. Thank you Haru for your tour and wishing you all the best!
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Haru G.
Thank you for your kind feedback, Felix! I enjoyed the tour with you. I hope you went back home safely and will come back to Japan in the future. Arigato Gozaimasu!!
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Diane K.
“Wonderful day with Haru”
We had a fabulous day touring the Kanazawa area with Haru. She was very organized and made prior reservations for us to do activities that we really enjoyed. She is extremely sweet and has an excellent command of the English language. Haru went out of her way to make certain that we enjoyed our day. We very highly recommend her for your tour.
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Haru G.
Thank you so much for your feedback, Diane! I am happy to hear that you enjoyed the day and I did too. I look forward to seeing you again when you come back for another trip!
$258/ per group
More tours by Haru G.
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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!
Best of Kanazawa - Half Day
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Evening Food Tour in Kanazawa
Taste local food of Kanazawa! On this tour, we will visit a few restaurants and bars learning about Japanese food culture and ingredients. You will sample a drink and a shared plate at each location and we will hop around. Your evening will be spent with a local guide by going to her favorites places and sharing stories together. The locations will be adjusted accordingly to availabilities. Two spots are included as a default but contact me for more options.
Evening Food Tour in Kanazawa
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A Day Trip to Shirakawago
Embark on a journey from Kanazawa to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go, renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. This guided day trip from Kanazawa offers guests an immersive cultural experience, stunning views, and a taste of local flavors.
A Day Trip to Shirakawago
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Off the beaten path in Kanazawa
Experience the true spirit of Kanazawa with an off-the-beaten-path tour that dives deep into the city’s local treasures. Leave the bustling main attractions behind and explore hidden gems where residents go to relax, dine, and celebrate their traditions. I may introduce you to meet some local artisans/artists. This tour needs more planning depending on the seasons and schedules of visiting places so please consult me first.
Off the beaten path in Kanazawa
Other Popular Highlights Tours in Kanazawa
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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!
Best of Kanazawa - Half Day
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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.
Kanazawa Must-See Places One Day Tour
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Kanazawa Full Enjoyment One Day Tour
This tour is one day tour in Kanazawa that include various tour spots such as Kenrokuen-garden, Samurai residence, Higashi Chaya district and Ohmimachi market. You can have an impressive experience by watching the remains of castle town established by a local feudal load ;Toshiie Maeda. Kanazawa is called “Little Kyoto” as a town having traditional beauty like Kyoto.
Kanazawa Full Enjoyment One Day Tour
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Kanazawa Golden Tour
Kanazawa literally means "golden small river." Actually about 99% of golds are producedin kanazawa. I'd like to show you how to make gold leaves. Furtehrmore I can take you to Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle Park, Higashichaya district, Samurai residence district, and Omi Market. We use public city loop bus, so the transportation fee is 600 yen per person and the entrance fee is 1,400 yen per person.
Kanazawa Golden Tour
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