Kanazawa Customized Private Tour Top Attractions in 1 Day
Active
4h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Kanazawa is known for well-preserved Edo-era(from 17th century) districts, art museums and regional handicrafts. At Edo era, Kanazawa was the best 5 cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nagoya. There are so many to see and feel based on their culture! Let's explore Kanazawa with your private guide!!
Available options
6-hour Walking Tour
Duration: 6 hours: It's a 6-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 2-3 locations, planned in advance with your guide.<br/>Pickup included
4-hour Walking Tour
Duration: 4 hours: It's a 4-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 2 locations, planned in advance with your guide.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup
English-Speaking Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Kenrokuen, revered as one of Japan's "three most beautiful landscape gardens," offers a perfect stroll through ponds, hills, and historic teahouses, showcasing stunning beauty in every season.
2
Step back in time in the Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa's largest and most atmospheric geisha district. Explore beautifully preserved wooden teahouses, browse gold leaf crafts, and soak in the traditional ambiance.
3
Dive into "Kanazawa's Kitchen" at Omicho Market, a vibrant and lively market packed with over 170 stalls. Sample incredibly fresh seafood (like the local nodoguro), try regional snacks, and experience the city's culinary heart.
4
Adjacent to Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle Park features impressive gates and reconstructed storehouses (GoJukken Nagaya) built using traditional techniques. Climb the walls for commanding views of the city and explore its rich feudal history.
5
Wander the winding earthen-walled lanes of the Nagamachi Samurai District, once home to Kanazawa's high-ranking samurai. Explore the Nomura-ke, a restored samurai residence offering a rare glimpse into warrior life
6
Experience art in a unique circular building at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. This engaging museum features interactive and thought-provoking installations, famously including Leandro Erlich's "The Swimming Pool."
7
Discover the secrets of Myoryuji, famously known as the "Ninja Temple." This deceptive building is a marvel of defense, filled with hidden traps, secret passages, and false floors. (Note: Advance reservation is mandatory).
8
Find a moment of peace at the D.T. Suzuki Museum, a serene space dedicated to the famed Buddhist philosopher. The stunning minimalist architecture and contemplative "Water Mirror Garden" offer a perfect place for quiet reflection.
9
Visit Oyama Shrine, dedicated to the first lord of the Maeda clan. Its most striking feature is the unique main gate, an unusual blend of traditional Japanese, Chinese, and European architectural styles, including Dutch stained glass.
10
Discover the craft that defines Kanazawa at the Yasue Gold Leaf Museum. Learn about the intricate, painstaking process of hammering gold into whisper-thin sheets and see beautiful artifacts adorned in gold.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A moderate amount of walking is included. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
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
Instant confirmation
