1-Day Kanazawa, Kenrokuen Garden, Samurai District & Sushi-making

Kanazawa , Japan

1-Day Kanazawa, Kenrokuen Garden, Samurai District & Sushi-making

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience authentic Japan in Kanazawa, where ancient traditions come alive through unforgettable hands-on adventures. Start at vibrant Omicho Market before learning sushi-making from local masters and participating in a traditional tea ceremony at the historic Ohiyu Art Museum.

Walk through time at a beautifully preserved samurai residence, then discover why Kenroku-en is considered one of Japan's most stunning gardens. End your journey in the magical Higashi Chaya district, where geisha culture and traditional tea houses transport you to old Japan.

With expert English-speaking guides sharing insider stories and cultural secrets, this immersive tour delivers the complete Kanazawa experience - from culinary mastery to samurai heritage - all in one perfect day.

Available options

From Kanazawa Station

Tourist Information Center: Meet by 9:15AM. Meet near Kanazawa Station Tourist Information Center (inside Kanazawa Station building).

What's included

Air-conditioned and heated tour bus

With 1 drink during meal, alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink

National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter

Other admission fees, transportation costs included in the tour

Souvenir teacup (Yunomi)

Detailed itinerary

Cherished as the kitchen of Kanazawa City’s residents, Omicho Market has plenty to offer including the fresh bounty of the sea, in-season vegetables, and regional specialties. Lined with approximately 170 shops, this lively, bustling market is visited by everyone from local residents and sightseers to professional chefs

This museum introduces visitors to the tea ceremony culture of Kaga, Kanazawa, as well as Ohi ware, a type of pottery with more than 350 years of history.　In the tea room, enjoy some matcha green tea and Japanese confectionery

Sushi-making Experience and Lunch: Experience making hand-pressed sushi and savoring the bounty of the sea off Kanazawa. Learn how to make hand-pressed sushi from a chef with over 50 years of experience

Visit a former residence of a samurai family from the Kaga Domain. Admire the traditional architecture and gaze at the beautiful Japanese garden

Stop 5

This beautiful garden is considered one of the top three Japanese gardens.
It offers amazing seasonal views all year round

Wooden-latticed exteriors of teahouses line both sides of the stone-paved street here where something from the Edo period (1603-1868) still lingers in the air. This area is an Important Traditional Building Preservation District

What's not included

Fees other than those listed in Includes

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

After departure, the tour may stop by at hotels in Kanazawa City to pick up customers. Please note that customers may not disembark for a break here

If sightseeing facilities are closed, the tour will be taken to alternative destinations

The departure and arrival times and time to be spent at destinations written on the itinerary are an estimate. The order of activities and arrival times may differ depending on road conditions and congestion at destinations

Depending on the tour date, the cooking experience content and venue may be subject to change

Please note that customers on this plan may ride along with participants of other tours

Children up to 5 years old may join free of charge, but will not be provided with bus seats and lunch. If bus seats or lunch are required, please make a booking under the child rate

For those who would like to make meal-related requests such as a meal, please input in the special requirement field. Depending on the menu, requests may not be accommodated.

Allergy-friendly meals are not available

Under the guidance of a sushi chef, customers will experience making 2 pieces of sushi and 1 sushi roll. Those who would like may slice their own sushi toppings

Ingredients for sushi toppings may vary depending on stock availability on the day

After cooking experiene, tour bus may stop at Kanazawa station for customers joining the afternoon tour

Transfer time between each destination is included inside total duration

Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour

Guide Language Support: English - (2025) The tour is accompanied by a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter or a Region-specific Tour Guide Interpreter. - (2026) An English-speaking guide accompanies the tour

Photo courtesy of Kanazawa City, Ohi museum

Meeting point

Meeting Time: [2025] 9:15AM [2026] 9:05AM. In front of the Tourist Information Center, near the Kenrokuen Gate (East Gate) in the station's concourse area

Important notes

• If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance

• In case bookings have been made separately, you may be assigned to be on separate tour buses

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