This is a personalized tour for people or group who want to explore Kanazawa in a half day (5hour).
Kanazawa attractions: Kenrokuen park, Kanazawa castle park, Nagamachi Samurai District, Higashi Tea (Geisha) Street, Nomura house and so on.
You can choose starting time at either 9am or 1pm.
The Itinerary is one example. This tour is very FLEXIBLE AND DESIGNED ONLY FOR YOU.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
Kenrokuen
Kenrokuen (兼六園) in Kanazawa is justifiably classified as one of Japan's "three most beautiful landscape gardens" alongside Mito's Kairakuen and Okayama's Korakuen. The spacious grounds used to be the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle and were constructed by the ruling Maeda family over a period of nearly two centuries. Opened to the public in 1871, Kenrokuen features a variety of flowering trees which provide the garden with a different look for each season.
Bukeyashiki(Samurai Residential area) / Nomura samurai house
The Samurai District and Nomura Family Residence
Step back in time to Kanazawa’s Edo period at the Nagamachi Samurai District, a beautifully preserved neighborhood where samurai once lived. Stroll through narrow, cobblestone streets lined with earthen walls and traditional wooden gates, evoking the atmosphere of a bygone era. This area offers a glimpse into the lives of samurai, who were not just warriors but also scholars and artists, embodying the refined culture of their time.
At the heart of Nagamachi lies the Nomura Family Samurai Residence, a stunning example of samurai architecture and lifestyle. The Nomura family, once high-ranking samurai, lived here for over 300 years. The residence features elegant tatami rooms, intricate wooden carvings, and a collection of samurai armor and artifacts. One of its highlights is the breathtaking Japanese garden, an oasis of tranquility with a koi pond, stone lanterns, and a cascading waterfall. The garden’s design reflects the samurai’s appreciation for harmony and nature, offering visitors a serene retreat.
The Nomura Residence is more than just a historic site—it’s a window into the world of the samurai, showcasing their dedication to honor, beauty, and tradition. Visiting this site is a journey into Japan’s rich cultural heritage, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Kanazawa.
Higashi Chaya District
The Higashi Chaya District (東茶屋街, Higashi Chayagai) is the largest and by far the most interesting. Two chaya, the Shima Teahouse and Kaikaro Teahouse, are open to the public. Other buildings along the central street now house cafes and shops. One of the shops, Hakuza, sells gold leaf products, a specialty of Kanazawa, and displays a tea ceremony room which is completely covered in gold leaf.
Casual lunch / street food tour at Omicho market
Omicho Market, known as the “Kitchen of Kanazawa,” is a bustling hub of fresh seafood, local produce, and vibrant energy. With a history spanning over 300 years, it has been a vital part of Kanazawa’s culinary culture. The market features over 180 stalls offering everything from premium crab and fresh sashimi to seasonal fruits and traditional sweets. Visitors can enjoy freshly prepared meals at small eateries or pick up unique local specialties to take home. Omicho Market is not just a place to shop but a lively experience where you can immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of Kanazawa.
At your hotel
Ending Point
At your hotel
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Including guide fee, hotel pick-up in the center of Kanazawa, transportation fee (bus) for guide
Transportation fee for participants. Taxi fee if you prefer (You and guide), entrance fee for you and guide
Entrance fee: Kenrokuen 320yen, Nomura house 550yen
Taxi: 1,200yen per ride on average
This tour is a half day (around 5 hours) tour walking around in Kanazawa
Walking distance per tour.
Walking only: 6-7km
Walking with bus 4-5km
Waling with Taxi: 3-4km
Hello,
I'm Yoji, based in Kanazawa.
I spent my formative years in Kanazawa and pursued my master's degree in the United States. Having lived in Washington D.C. and California for six years, I then resided and worked in China and various Southeast Asian countries. My passion lies in exploring new destinations and connecting with people worldwide. Now, it's my turn to extend the same hospitality I've received to you. I specialize in crafting personalized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. If you're a food enthusiast, you've come to the right place. For those seeking to delve into Japan's rich history and culture, I highly recommend joining my full-day tour in Kanazawa. Additionally, I offer tours to Shirakawago and Takayama. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey together.
Steve L.
【PRIVATE CAR TOUR】A full day tour to UNESCO World Heritage, SHIRAKAWAGO & Old town, TAKAYAMA
“Spectacular ”
This was the second day in a row we toured with Yoji. Yesterday we covered Kanazawa, and today we covered Takayama and Shirakawa-go. Again, we started the day with a casual, but informative breakfast. From there we drove to Takayama and walked around the old town, visiting many sites and trying local delicacies. After we finished touring this great town, we drove over to Shirakawa-go to visit the Historic Village of Shirakawa-gō, one of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Yoji accompanied us to our gassho-zukuri and helped us get situated. Yoji went way above and beyond our expectations and was an absolute treasure to travel with. Five stars, two thumbs way up!!!️️
Yoji K.
Thank you very much for such a wonderful review on my tour. I can’t express my appreciation by words. Both of you treated me very well. I hope to see you again in NJ. Please stay in touch and enjoy the rest of your journey. I’m always here to assist you. Best regards,
“Cowabunga Kanazawa ”
Yoji was at our inn before the start of our tour. He was kind enough to take us to breakfast before beginning the day. After breakfast we visited the Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle (Park), the samurai district, and the geisha district before heading over to 1/3 Hamburger Factory for dinner. Since it was snowing and my wife was getting cold, Yoji offered and took us to a store to buy her a winter coat. Truly amazing! Great guide, great person!
Yoji K.
Dear Steve san, Thank you for such nice comment and review on my tour. When we met this morning, my sensor detected that today was going to be a fun day. I was right that It was very fun and wonderful day to me. Thank you for sharing nice photos and great time today!
“Excellent tour of Kanazawa with Yoji”
Yoji was an excellent guide! He was very personable, considerate, informative, and was able to answer all of our many questions about the sites we saw. He led us all around Kanazawa and we were able to see so many sites within one day because of him, like calling ahead for us to visit Myouryuji (Ninja Castle). He also expertly helped us snap several photos throughout. Because we're foodies, he also recommended Busaksu, a really amazing restaurant for dinner and it was one of our top eating experiences during our 3 week trip in Japan and all of 2024! He even helped us adjust a reservation we had when our US Google Voice number was unable to get through. Thanks so much Yoji!
Yoji K.
Dear Brandon san, Thank you very much for such a great review and comment on me and my tour. I am pleased to have such a great opportunity to meet both of you. Since I’m in Mexico already, I’m my response was late. It was fun walking with you even though it was very cold. I’m glad to hear that you liked the restaurant. I also happy to help you if you are having hard time to call or talk to the local. Thank you very much for choosing me as your guide. Please come back to Japan and Kanazawa!! Stay in touch! Yoji
$232/ per group