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.
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
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
- Guide fee
- Hotel/Station pick-up within Kanazawa City Center
- Transportation fee
- Lunch
- Admission fee
- 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.
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.
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!
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!!
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.
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!
Hans L.
“A kind and attentive guide who made us feel welcome”
We spent one and a half days touring Kanazawa with Haru and truly appreciated her punctuality and sense of responsibility. When we arrived at our ryokan on the first day, she was already there waiting for us, which made us feel very welcomed and well taken care of. Haru was knowledgeable about the main sights, and she made sure we were comfortable throughout the tour. Overall, it was a pleasant and enriching experience. We’re grateful both to Haru and to GoWithGuide for making this connection possible.
Haru G.
Thank you so much, Hans for your kind words. I enjoyed spending showing around Kanazawa to you and your wife. I hope you will come back to see other parts of the region in the future. Arigato gozaimasu!
$278/ per group