Highlights of Kanazawa: A great introduction to the golden city of Japan.
Kanazawa is an enchanting city filled with stories, and I’m here to make sure you experience its heart and soul. Join me, and together we’ll explore Kanazawa’s rich traditions, hidden gems, and vibrant local life.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Station/Hotel/Other
- I can pick you up at any point in the city.
A visit at Kanazawa's Must-see Spots
We’ll start our adventure with some of Kanazawa’s must-see spots—the timeless Oyama Shrine, the serene Nagamachi Samurai District, and the fascinating Nomura Samurai House. But the true magic lies in the lesser-known places that I’ll guide you to, giving you an authentic experience that few visitors get. Through my personal stories and insights, you’ll get a real feel for what makes Kanazawa unique.
Hidden Gems in the City
What makes this tour different is the connection you’ll gain to Kanazawa’s past and present. I’m passionate about sharing stories that bring history to life and weaving in details you won’t find in any guidebook. And if you’d like to personalize your journey or spend more time in a certain spot, I’m here to make that happen. Book this tour with me, and let’s discover Kanazawa together—one unforgettable moment at a time!
Let's take a break with a local snack or drink!
When you’re ready for a break, I’ll take you to a local favorite—perhaps a cozy café or a hidden spot cherished by the community. This is your chance to try a taste of Kanazawa as the locals do, with recommendations tailored just for you. If you’re curious about life here or want ideas for the rest of your visit, I’ll be happy to share tips and insights from my own experience in this incredible city.
Ending Point
I'll help you get to whichever point of the city you'd like to go to.
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
Completely Private Tour
Photography
A Local Food or Drink per Person
Personalized Tour
Transportation (6-10 USD per person)
Entrance Fees to Attractions (5 USD~ per person)
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Important message from the supplier
Hello and thank you for your interest in having me as your guide in Kanazawa. I mainly do tours in the city of Kanazawa but can do other nearby cities as well. Please feel free to send me a message and we can talk about making a personalized tour for you. See you soon!
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 Criselda C.
Hello! My name is Criselda, but friends and family often call me Selda. Welcome to my page and I'm glad you're interested in knowing about the wonderful city of Kanazawa with me. I am originally from the Philippines and I've been living and working in the Hokuriku region for almost 7 years. I definitely consider Kanazawa as my home in Japan. Kanazawa is known for many things including gold leaf, a rich samurai history, its beautiful gardens, delicious seafood, and historic Geiko (Geisha) culture. I would love to introduce these things and so much more! Did you know Kanazawa is also home to the oldest sake brewery in the region? What about the local ceramics and laquerware? You can also participate in different workshops like traditional Japanese sweets-making class, gold leaf pasting, Kaga-yuzen (local kimono brand) painting, and sushi-making using local ingredients. There are many beautiful known spots and a lot of hidden gems in the area and I can't wait to introduce them to you. One of my hobbies is photography and I will surely capture your moments in the city to make your stay extra memorable. I'm excited to meet you in the Golden City, Kanazawa.
Reviews
Amanda D.
“Great way to eat our way through Kanazawa”
We booked this tasting tour for our port stop in Kanazawa and it ended up being one of the best things we did in Japan. Criselda picked us up at Kanazawa Station, which made the start easy, and we walked into Omicho Market before the crowds really showed up. She clearly knows the vendors there and they know her. Instead of us wandering around guessing what to try, she took us to stalls she trusts, explained what we were eating, and gave us the backstory on why the seafood along this part of the Sea of Japan tastes the way it does. We would never have found half of these places on our own. From the market we moved on to the Chaya district where we learned about the traditional production of gold leaf and ended with a tasting of sake ice cream and the famous Kanazawa gold leaf ice cream. It was a relaxing way to finish after three hours of eating and walking. What we appreciated most about Criselda: - She's easy to talk to and fun to spend a morning with - She gave us context on the food, history and culture without it ever feeling like a lecture - She paced things well and never made us feel rushed - She checked in on what we liked and adjusted along the way - At the end, she made sure we knew exactly how to get to our next stop Ten tastings sounds like a lot, but the portions were right and we left full without feeling miserable. As a private tour it was worth the price for us, especially since we got to ask as many questions as we wanted. If we make it back to Kanazawa, we'll book with Criselda again, probably for one of her other tours. Highly recommend.
Julia A.
“History and Highlights!”
We had a great time with Criselda. She was very informative and flexible with our family and are interests. We learned a lot about the city and the history behind the region and the castle. She was amazing!! Thank you again for everything and making our time in Kanazawa memorable!
Brian M.
“Introduction to Kanazawa ”
We were given a very nice tour by Criselda of the many splendors of beautiful Kanazawa. She was both knowledgeable and entertaining with all that we experienced.
$209/ per group
More tours by Criselda C.
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The Complete Kanazawa Experience: Tradition & Modern Charm
Experience The Complete Kanazawa Experience, a full-day journey blending tradition and modern charm. Stroll through samurai and geisha districts, marvel at Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden, savor local flavors, and uncover hidden gems while immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture.
The Complete Kanazawa Experience: Tradition & Modern Charm
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Kanazawa’s Seasonal Delights: A Food Lover’s Tour
"Kanazawa’s Seasonal Delights: A Food Lover’s Tour" takes you on a culinary journey through the heart of the city, where you’ll taste the freshest seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. From the bustling markets to hidden gems, every stop offers a new flavor to savor. Whether it’s sampling winter hot pots, spring delicacies, or summer snacks, this food tour is perfect for those eager to indulge in the rich flavors that define the region.
Kanazawa’s Seasonal Delights: A Food Lover’s Tour
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Tasting Tour in Kanazawa: Try 10 Local and Unique Foods and Drinks in Kanazawa
Discover the flavors of Kanazawa on this tasting tour, where you’ll try 10 authentic, locally crafted foods and drinks. Let's explore the Omicho market, hidden eateries, and specialty shops, sampling traditional favorites and unique regional delights that showcase Kanazawa's rich culinary heritage. From savory bites to sweet treats, and refreshing drinks, this tour offers a true taste of local culture. Perfect for food lovers and adventurers eager to experience Kanazawa through its flavors!
Tasting Tour in Kanazawa: Try 10 Local and Unique Foods and Drinks in Kanazawa
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The Tea Path: Exploring Kanazawa’s Traditional Tea Culture
Immerse yourself in "Kanazawa’s Tea Culture"! Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, learn the delicate art of matcha preparation, and savor the unique taste of Kaga Bocha, a local specialty tea. Discover the calming ritual behind each sip in this cultural journey.
The Tea Path: Exploring Kanazawa’s Traditional Tea Culture
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 Heritage Highlights – Full-Day Tour with a Local Guide
This Full-day walking tour introduces Kanazawa through its history, culture, and local atmosphere. You will visit well-known sights such as Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, traditional geisha districts, Omicho Market for local food, and the Nagamachi Samurai District. Along the way, you will learn cultural details and local stories often missed by visitors. With a flexible itinerary, the tour offers a deeper and more personal way to experience Kanazawa beyond standard sightseeing.
Kanazawa Heritage Highlights – Full-Day Tour with a Local Guide
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The Complete Kanazawa Experience: Tradition & Modern Charm
Experience The Complete Kanazawa Experience, a full-day journey blending tradition and modern charm. Stroll through samurai and geisha districts, marvel at Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden, savor local flavors, and uncover hidden gems while immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture.
The Complete Kanazawa Experience: Tradition & Modern Charm
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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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