![[One-day bus tour departing from Kanazawa Station] Shirakawa-go and Gokayama - Two World Heritage Villages Enjoyable Bus Tour](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-674x446/15/71/89/fd.jpg)
[One-day bus tour departing from Kanazawa Station] Shirakawa-go and Gokayama - Two World Heritage Villages Enjoyable Bus Tour
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This bus tour departs from Kanazawa Station where you can enjoy the world heritage site Shirakawago and the Gasshozukuri settlement of Gokayama in a day.The tour is accompanied by an English speaking staff, so it is safe for foreigners.On the bus, your guide will give you a walking map of each tourist destination.The guide will guide you through the sights and souvenirs beforehand, so you can enjoy walking around efficiently.Lunch is a Japanese set meal full of local dishes from the Hida region and mountain produce.You don't have to worry about food, so you can take a leisurely stroll.
The tour ends (arrival at Kanazawa Station) at 3:45 p.m.
＜Itinerary＞
07:50 The JR Kanazawa Station assembly Kanazawa Port Exit (West Exit) Group bus drop-off point
08:00 forehand departs JR Kanazawa Station
09:15 - 09:30 Michi no Eki "Shirakawago"
09:40 - 11:45 Shirakawa-go Freedom walk
11:45 - 12:30 Lunch
13:15 - 14:15 Gokayama Aikura Gassho Village Free walk
15:45 Group bus stop at the west exit of Kanazawa Port Station
*Schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to road conditions, weather, etc.
*Michi no Eki Shirakawago is closed from December 29 to January 1.On regular holidays, we will stop at Jottekale Castleside (Toyama Prefecture).
*The price of the trip does not include admission to each facility or meals during free time.
*Infants do not include meals.Bus seat prices only.If you require infant meals, please book as a child.
*Under 2s are free.Bus seats and meals are not included.
Notes
Please climb the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory yourself.Walking is about 10 to 15 minutes one way.A paid shuttle bus costs 300 yen one way (paid locally).
Available options
[One-day bus tour departing from Kanazawa Station] Shirakawa-go and Gokayama - Two World Heritage Villages Enjoyable Bus Tour
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Japanese set meal using traditional food from the Hida region
Detailed itinerary
1
You can tour the Gassho Museum attached to the roadside station Shirakawago. Take a look at the Gassho-zukuri structure before heading to Shirakawa-go. They also sell many souvenirs.
Please note that we will be closed from December 29th to January 1st, so you will have to stop at a different location.
*From April 2024, the drop-in time will be 15 minutes.
2
The World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go is open for free exploration. Stroll at your own pace and enjoy the countryside at your own pace. A delicious lunch full of mountain delicacies is included.
*The total duration of the tour is 2 hours and 50 minutes, including lunch.
3
It is a free walk in the World Heritage Site, Gokayama Ainokura Village. Please enjoy slow mountain time in the Gokayama Ainokura village where the original scenery of Japan remains dark with a calm atmosphere in the Gassho-style village.
What's not included
Meals are not included for infants. Only the bus seat fee will be charged. If you require infant meals, please book as a child.
Transportation expenses, lodging expenses, food and beverage expenses, etc. in case of activities other than the travel itinerary
personal expenses
Medical expenses related to disability/illness
Optional travel accident insurance premium
The price of the trip does not include admission to each facility or meals during free time.
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
133 reviews
5★
112
4★
17
3★
1
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.8
110 reviews
5★
94
4★
14
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
JR Kanazawa Station Kanazawa Port Exit (West Exit) Group Bus Stop
(About 1 minute walk from Kanazawa Port Exit, to the right of the taxi stand / Follow the signs for "Group Bus Stop")
*Not on the rotary side of Kanazawa Station Kanazawa Port Exit (West Exit).
*Does not depart from Kanazawa Station Kenrokuen Exit (East Exit).
About Kanazawa
Kanazawa, a beautifully preserved city on Japan's western coast, is renowned for its well-maintained Edo-era districts, traditional arts, and fresh seafood. Often overlooked in favor of more famous cities, Kanazawa offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that sets it apart from other Japanese destinations.
Top Attractions
Kenrokuen Garden
Kenrokuen is one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens. It features a variety of trees, ponds, and walking paths, and is especially stunning during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Nature
1-2 hours
320 JPY
Kanazawa Castle
Kanazawa Castle is a historic castle that played a significant role in the city's history. The castle grounds are open to the public and feature several restored buildings, including the Ishikawa Gate and the Gyokusin-en Garden.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (some areas may have a small fee)
Higashi Chaya District
Higashi Chaya is a historic geisha district that has been preserved to maintain its traditional atmosphere. The district features wooden teahouses, narrow alleys, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, costs vary for shops and restaurants
Omicho Market
Omicho Market is a bustling seafood market that offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, produce, and local specialties. The market is a great place to sample Kanazawa's famous seafood dishes and pick up souvenirs.
Food
1 hour
Free to explore, costs vary for food and souvenirs
Nagamachi Samurai District
Nagamachi was the former samurai district of Kanazawa, and many of the original samurai residences have been preserved. The district features narrow streets, traditional houses, and several museums.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, costs vary for museums and exhibits
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaisendon (Seafood Bowl)
A bowl of rice topped with fresh, local seafood such as crab, shrimp, and scallops. Kanazawa is famous for its kaisendon, which features a variety of seafood sourced from the nearby Sea of Japan.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Jibuni (Duck Stew)
A traditional Kanazawa dish made with duck, tofu, and vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Jibuni is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cold weather.
Dinner
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Gold Leaf Ice Cream
A unique and luxurious dessert made with local gold leaf, which adds a delicate crunch and a touch of elegance. The gold leaf is edible and safe to consume.
Dessert
Contains dairy, may contain allergens
Kanazawa Sake
Kanazawa is known for its high-quality sake, which is brewed using local ingredients and traditional methods. The city has several sake breweries that offer tours and tastings.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mount Hakusan
Onsen hopping in Kaga Onsen
Exploring Shirakawa-go's traditional villages
Staying in a traditional ryokan
Exploring Kanazawa's gardens and parks
Visiting Kanazawa's historic districts
Attending a traditional tea ceremony
Exploring Kanazawa's museums and art galleries
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Spring brings cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn offers vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kanazawa is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft is uncommon. The city is generally safe for solo travelers, women, and LGBTQ+ travelers, but it's important to exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and insist on using the meter
- • Avoid unsolicited offers for tours or services
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Komatsu Airport • 30 km from Kanazawa
By train
Kanazawa Station
By bus
Kanazawa Station Bus Terminal, Hokuriku Expressway Bus Stops
Getting around
Public transport
The Kanazawa Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. It operates on several routes and offers unlimited rides with a day pass.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kata-machi
Higashi Chaya District
Nagamachi District
Korinbo
Day trips
Shirakawa-go
60 km from Kanazawa • Full day
Shirakawa-go is a remote mountain village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The village is especially stunning during the winter when the heavy snow creates a picturesque landscape.
Kaga Onsen
30 km from Kanazawa • Half day to full day
Kaga Onsen is a group of hot spring towns in Ishikawa Prefecture, known for their therapeutic waters and traditional ryokan (inns). The area offers a variety of hot spring experiences, from public baths to private onsen in ryokan.
Mount Hakusan
50 km from Kanazawa • Full day to overnight
Mount Hakusan is one of Japan's three holy mountains and is known for its stunning natural beauty and hiking trails. The mountain offers a variety of hiking routes, from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks.
Festivals
Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival • June
Kanazawa Gold Leaf Festival • October
Kanazawa Samurai Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit Kenrokuen Garden early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning seasonal views
- Try gold leaf ice cream, a unique and delicious Kanazawa specialty
- Explore the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of the Nagamachi Samurai District for a glimpse into Kanazawa's samurai history
- Attend a traditional tea ceremony or geisha performance for a memorable cultural experience
- Shop for gold leaf products and traditional crafts in the Higashi Chaya District for unique souvenirs
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
