"Timeless Treasures: Moss Garden, Unique Temple, Craft Studio and Ceramic Village"
Joined 2024
"Step into a world of timeless beauty and creativity with this curated tour. Wander through the tranquil Moss Garden, marvel at the unique architecture and surrounding and sacred 1300 years old history of Natadera Temple (My favorite in Japan), and experience the art of Japanese craftsmanship at a traditional local studio. End your journey in a charming ceramic village, where tradition meets creativity. This tour is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and artistry."
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your Hotel.
- I will pick you up at your place of residence.
Moss Garden - Forest of Wisdom.
The Moss Garden, near Natadera Temple, is a serene oasis of tranquility and natural beauty. Enveloped by a lush forest, this garden showcases an enchanting carpet of vibrant green moss that thrives in the shaded, humid environment. The moss, soft and rich in texture, creates a calming atmosphere, making the space feel almost otherworldly.
Natadera Temple
Natadera Temple is a sacred Buddhist site with over 1,300 years of history, nestled in the scenic Komatsu area of Ishikawa Prefecture. It is a place of profound spiritual significance and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking cultural enrichment and tranquility.
Break Time
Depending on your preferences, the weather, and the rest of our planned activities, we could visit a café, a konbini, a local restaurant, or even enjoy a picnic.
Ceramics Studio & Kiln Museum.
The Kiln Museum in Kaga offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of traditional Japanese ceramics. Located in a region renowned for Kutani ware, the museum showcases historic kilns, exquisite ceramic pieces, and the intricate techniques used to create them. Visitors can learn about the evolution of ceramic art, observe live demonstrations, and even participate in hands-on pottery workshops. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese craftsmanship and culture.
The Kutani Ceramic Art Village
The Kutani Ceramic Art Village offers a unique blend of education, creativity, and culture, making it an unmissable destination for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. If you're looking to purchase ceramics, whether small and inexpensive or rare and luxurious, you'll find countless shops lined along a single charming street. Many of these stores feature English-speaking staff, making it easy for international visitors to explore and take home a piece of Kutani artistry. [Otherwise, I'll make sure to translate so you can communicate / ask as many questions as you wish].
Gondola Ride with spectacular view.
If you wish, and depending on the schedule we'll make a stop at The Shishiku Gondola Ride in Ishikawa Prefecture offers a breathtaking journey up Mount Shishiku, a scenic gem in the region. As the gondola ascends, visitors are treated to panoramic views of lush forests, expansive landscapes, and, on clear days, the distant Sea of Japan.
Seasonal Beauty:
In spring, enjoy cherry blossoms dotting the slopes.
In autumn, the vibrant red and gold foliage creates a stunning tapestry.
In winter, snow transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland.
The gondola makes it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy the mountain without a strenuous hike.
The Shishiku Gondola Ride is a peaceful and family-friendly way to experience the natural beauty of Ishikawa, offering both adventure and tranquility.
Ending Point
Your Hotel
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
- Driver and Guiding Fees: Your professional guide [me] will ensure a seamless and enriching experience.
- Transportation via HONDA N Box model car.
- Toll fee if any.
- Gas: Fuel costs for the journey are fully covered.
- Service with a Smile: Friendly and attentive service to make your day enjoyable and memorable.
Entrance Fees: Admission costs to attractions (e.g., Natadera Temple 1000Yen p/p, Kiln Museum 350Yen p/p, Gondola Ride 700Yen p/p).
Drinks and Food: Any meals, snacks, or beverages during the tour.
Please note that all tickets, including mine, as well as lunch, will be at your charge. Thank you for your understanding.
Tour Important Information
*I understand that every client has different ideas of what they’d like to enjoy, so this is just an example of an itinerary heading south of Kanazawa. Depending on the season or the day of your visit, some activities may or may not be available. Please let me know in advance what you absolutely want to see so we can plan the day accordingly and book any necessary stops.
We could go for a light trail walk, visit Kaga Onsen, try sweets from a shop with 400 years of history, enjoy a cup of coffee by the river, or sample sake.
However, please note that it’s not possible to fit all of these activities into a single round trip within a few hours. Feel free to reach out, and we’ll work together to create the perfect itinerary for your visit.
**Don’t be fooled by the compact appearance of this K-car—despite its small size, it feels just as spacious, if not roomier, than a regular sedan. Plus, you’ll get to experience one of Japan’s most beloved and iconic vehicles. [approximately 2 Million of these sold per Year in 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 Raphaël P.
Hello Explorers!
Are you ready to discover Kanazawa like never before? I'm here to guide you on an exceptional journey through this captivating city.
Since settling in Kanazawa in 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, I've deeply integrated local life into the fabric of my tours. For me, this city is not just a place I work—it's my home. My diverse background in the service industry, from hospitality to performing arts, ensures that your experience will be both enriching and seamless.
Prepare for picture-perfect moments, delectable local eats, insightful answers to your curiosities, and delightful tips that will enrich your stay beyond measure!
Choose to explore Kanazawa with me, and let's create memories as rich and vibrant as the city itself!
Reviews
Stephen N.
“Great day trip around Kanazawa with Raphael”
We highly recommend Raphael for tours in and around Kanazawa. My wife and I had a great day with Raphael touring the area around Kanazawa. Raphael is a charming and knowledgeable guide. He speaks English fluently (is a native French speaker) and is very comfortable speaking Japanese. He knows Kanazawa and the surrounding area very well, and is a curious and enthusiastic person. My wife has some dietary restrictions and Raphael was wonderful in helping us find good restaurants that could accommodate our needs. He was also really flexible and patient, and cheerfully made some changes in the planned schedule to suit our interests. We had a second day tour with Raphael, and when my wife wasn't feeling well, Raphael was very willing to pivot and the two of us changed our plan to include some hiking in the hills north of Kanazawa. Raphael has a very nice car that he uses for his day trip tours. Raphael was also really helpful in suggesting things we could do in Kanazawa on our own. We highly recommend Raphael. After a day together, we count him a friend and can't imagine a better guide to Kanazawa and area.
Raphaël P.
Dear Alyssa, Stephen, Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. It was a true pleasure spending time with both of you and sharing not only the highlights of Kanazawa and its surroundings, but also the quieter, more personal sides of this region that I hold dear. Your flexibility, openness, and enthusiasm made guiding such a joy. I'm especially glad we could adapt the plans to suit your pace and interests—and that it was possible to accommodate your dietary needs without compromising on flavor and experience. That hike in the hills and picnic will stay in my memory as a wonderful, spontaneous moment shared! I’m truly touched by your words and very grateful to now count you as friends. Wishing you many more memorable journeys ahead—and should you ever return to Japan, know that you will always be welcome. Warmest regards, Raphaël
Stephen N.
“Great day trip out of Kanazawa with Raphel”
We highly recommend Raphael for tours in and around Kanazawa. My wife and I had a great day with Raphael touring the area around Kanazawa. Raphael is a charming and knowledgeable guide. He speaks English fluently (is a native French speaker) and is very comfortable speaking Japanese. He knows Kanazawa and the surrounding area very well, and is a curious and enthusiastic person. My wife has some dietary restrictions and Raphael was wonderful in helping us find good restaurants that could accommodate our needs. He was also really flexible and patient, and cheerfully made some changes in the planned schedule to suit our interests. We had a second day tour with Raphael, and when my wife wasn't feeling well, Raphael was very willing to pivot and the two of us changed our plan to include some hiking in the hills north of Kanazawa. Raphael has a very nice car that he uses for his day trip tours. Raphael was also really helpful in suggesting things we could do in Kanazawa on our own. We highly recommend Raphael. After a day together, we count him a friend and can't imagine a better guide to Kanazawa and area.
Raphaël P.
Dear Alyssa, Stephen, Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. It was a true pleasure spending time with both of you and sharing not only the highlights of Kanazawa and its surroundings, but also the quieter, more personal sides of this region that I hold dear. Your flexibility, openness, and enthusiasm made guiding such a joy. I'm especially glad we could adapt the plans to suit your pace and interests—and that it was possible to accommodate your dietary needs without compromising on flavor and experience. That hike in the hills and picnic will stay in my memory as a wonderful, spontaneous moment shared! I’m truly touched by your words and very grateful to now count you as friends. Wishing you many more memorable journeys ahead—and should you ever return to Japan, know that you will always be welcome. Warmest regards, Raphaël
Carol C.
“Adapted Tour focused on Samurai district and Special Gardens”
Raphael was an excellent tour guide and showed us all the wonderful sights of Kanazawa. He is very knowledgeable on the Samurai & Geisha districts (a highlight of our Japanese adventure) and the beautiful gardens of Kanazawa. Raphael helped to make our trip of a lifetime to Japan very special and we would highly recommend him as your tour guide in Kanazawa.
Raphaël P.
Carol, Peter, Thank you So much for your lovely review. It was an absolute pleasure meeting you and guiding you around. I hope you keep a wonderful memory of your time here. Please, don't hesitate reaching out again if you ever come back. All the very best, Raphaël
$546/ per group
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Nestled in Central Japan's mountains, Takayama boasts a beautifully preserved Edo Period (1603-1868) historical center, known as the ‘Sannomachi’. This charming old town, once a thriving merchant hub, showcases skilled craftsmanship in its Edo Period buildings. Visitors can wander its narrow streets lined with black-fronted buildings housing museums, galleries, sake breweries, and craft shops, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking Japan's rich history and traditional charm.