Enchanted Path of Kokoro no Michi - Discover Hidden Gems Around Higashi Chaya Gai
Joined 2024
Join me on an unforgettable journey through Kokoro no Michi, a mystical and serene path nestled behind the historic Higashi Chaya Gai in Kanazawa. This tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and intriguing folklore, perfect for those looking to experience the lesser-known wonders of the city.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Meeting Point: Higashi Chaya Gai Entrance (Police Station)
- Our tour begins at the entrance of Higashi Chaya Gai, a historic district known for its traditional teahouses. Please arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a prompt start.
Hidden Bamboo Forest
We start our journey by stepping into the tranquil Hidden Bamboo Forest. This serene grove provides a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Enjoy the soothing sounds of rustling bamboo and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Temples and Shrines
Next, we'll explore a collection of ancient temples and shrines that form the spiritual heart of Kokoro no Michi. Each site has its own unique architecture and historical significance.
Ending Point
Kazue Machi Area
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
Guided tour
Transportation to and from the meeting point
Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks, and beverages)
Additional activities or attractions not specified in the itinerary
Travel insurance
Tour Important Information
Waiver and Release of Liability
-By participating in the Kokoro no Michi tour, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms and conditions
Assumption of Risk:
-You understand and accept that participation in the Kokoro no Michi tour involves certain risks and hazards, including but not limited to walking on uneven surfaces, encountering natural obstacles, and exposure to varying weather conditions.
-You acknowledge that these risks could result in injury, illness, or other unforeseen events.
Release and Waiver:
-By joining the tour, you agree to release, waive, and discharge the tour organizers, guides, and affiliated entities from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, and expenses that may arise from participation in the tour.
-This includes, but is not limited to, personal injury, property damage, or any other losses incurred during the tour.
Medical Fitness:
-You affirm that you are physically fit and capable of participating in the tour.
-You agree to inform the tour organizers of any medical conditions or special requirements prior to the tour.
Compliance with Instructions:
-You agree to follow all instructions and safety guidelines provided by the tour guides.
-You understand that failure to comply with these instructions may increase the risk of injury or harm.
Personal Responsibility:
-You acknowledge and accept full responsibility for your personal belongings during the tour.
-The tour organizer is not responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to personal items.
Photographs and Media:
-By participating in the tour, you consent to the use of photographs or video recordings taken during the tour for promotional and marketing purposes.
-If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please inform the tour guide at the start of the tour.
Jurisdiction:
-This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Japan.
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 Jorge S.
Originally born in Mexico City, where I spent the first eight years of my life, I grew up in Montreal, Canada, for 22 years. Fascinated by Japanese popular culture and history—I have a minor in Japanese history and am a history buff—I participated in the JET Program Canada, where I was placed in Shirakawa-go for three years as an ALT. Currently, I live in Kanazawa with my Japanese wife and son.
As a tour guide in Kanazawa, I specialize in history, hidden gems, culture, shopping (especially Japanese popular culture products), and food. I strive to provide an excellent customer experience. Fluent in English (Native), French (Native), Spanish (Native), and a good grasping of Japanese. I can communicate effectively with a diverse range of guests. Thanks to my North American background and my extensive experience living in Japan, I offer explanations that are easy to understand for Western guests, enriching their understanding of Japan as a vibrant and unique living space. Additionally, I am currently studying to become an official National guide in Japan, further enhancing my expertise and ability to provide exceptional tours.
Reviews
Sage S.
“The Best Guide! ”
You won’t find a better tour guide—Jorge is a tourist’s dream. With his unique and inspiring background, he offers a rare dual perspective: the critical eye of an outsider, and the lived experience, respect, and connections of an insider. Add to that his broad scholarly knowledge and deep curiosity, and you’ve got a guide who can speak insightfully on everything from history to daily life to shopping. From the start, Jorge listened closely to what we wanted and tailored the day to match. He checked in with us throughout, making sure the pace, content, and focus were right. Whatever you're looking for, he can make it happen. Our only regret is that we didn’t hire him to guide (or plan) our entire Kanazawa visit—or our whole trip to Japan. Jorge lived in Shirakawa for three years (so if you’re headed there, don’t even consider anyone else), but he told us his best tour is of Kanazawa. We believe it. We only had one day with him, but he filled it with insight, conversation, flexibility, and generosity. He gave us extra time at both ends, never rushed us, and shared knowledge that went far beyond the typical tour script. He truly went above and beyond in every way! Make the most of your time in Japan: hire Jorge. You won’t regret it.
Jorge S.
Dear Sage-san, It was a real pleasure bringing you to Shirakawa-go and I am very grateful for your kind words and for choosing my tour! It is of the utmost importance for me to provide all my guests with experiences that suit their needs and wants. That being said, your words warm my heart, especially my knowledge and curiosity that matched your own knowledge and great curiosity! I am a walking nerd and I deeply enjoyed sharing my experiences living in Shirakawa-go and I hope that I will be able to guide you through Kanazawa in the near future and share with you my deep love for this city and its inhabitants!
Ian R.
“Jorge S. in was outstanding!”
Jorge S. in was outstanding in Kanazawa. Thank you Jorge! Really. You were great. Thank you so much!
Jorge S.
Thank you very much for your review. It is always a pleasure to guide Spanish speaking guests.
$174/ per group
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