World Heritage Shirakawa-go and Experience Tours from Kanazawa
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the world famous UNESCO village on our full-day Shirakawago & Kanazawa tour from Kanazawa station!
Admire the picturesque landscapes in Shirakawa-go in the morning, then return to Kanazawa to visit must-see attractions like Kenrokuen Garden and Higashi Chaya District.
In Kanazawa, you will make Japanese sweets with a professional craftsman and enjoy the traditional craft of gold leaf experience.
Stroll through the geisha district while savoring luxurious soft serve ice cream adorned with gold leaf.
Enjoy unique experiences on this one-day tour that you wouldn't have on your own.
・1 Day adventure to World Heritage Shirakawago and Kanazawa city
・A Professional English-speaking guide attend this tour
・On top of that, multilingual audio guidance is available in EN, FR, IT, ES, DE, PT, UK
・Please enjoy Walking & Local food in Shirakawa-go
・Let's make Japanese Sweets(Wagashi)with professional Wagashi craftsman
・Learn about Traditional craft Gold leaf experience
Available options
From Kanazawa (No Lunch)
★: You may have lunch by yourself
What's included
A Professional English, Japanese Speaking Tour Guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Admission for Kenrokuen Garden
Japanese sweets making experience or painting of Daruma dolls
Multilingual Audio Guidance
Wi-Fi service available on the bus
Gold leaf experience
Detailed itinerary
1
Our meeting point
2
・Shirakawa-go（Shirakawa Village) is a Japanese mountain
settlement.
・Gassho style, which looks like hands joined in prayer.
・You can enjoy lunch by yourself at Shirakawa-go village
・This fairytale village is bound to inspire you as one of
Japanese most picturesque site.
・You can have lunch by yourself
3
The Ogimachi Castle Site Scenic Lookout affords visitors unimpeded views over the village of Ogimachi, the central settlement in Shirakawa-go and part of the “Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama” World Heritage Site.
You can choose to hike the gentle slope with our guide or make your own way to the observation deck by shuttle bus.
4
Walk pass
5
Stop 5
・One of Japan's three most famous gardens
・You can enjoy the beauty of the four seasons
6
★Japanese Sweets making or Craft making
・Enjoy making Japanese sweets(Wagashi) with professional Wagashi craftman
※Depending on the craftsman's schedule, this experience may be making traditional crafts (painting of Daruma dolls).
7
★Gold leaf experience
・You can learn about traditional gold leaf experience
8
Our finish point
9
・Discover one of Kanazawa’s largest geisha districts
・Please Try gorgeous gold leaf ice cream!
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
PT
UK
EN
IT
FR
ES
Guide guide
JA
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
16 reviews
5★
15
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
3,538 reviews
5★
3430
4★
103
3★
4
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Germany, Portuguese, Ukrainian
Itinerary order is subject to change depending on traffic, weather, and operation.
If any of the visiting places is closed, we will try to attend an alternative place.
We do not supply any extra pick up & drop off service.
Please let us know your booking numbers and total number of people before the tour, if you have several bookings or if you have booked separately so that we can arrange same bus for you..
Due to the weather conditions, traffic conditions, or suspension of operation, we may have a possibility not to achieve all the activities. The tour will be attending to alternative place or giving out a gift as a compensation, depending on the situation at that time. There will not be any refunds for these changes.
Late arrivals will not be entertained and joining midway is not feasible for the tour. Please arrive the meeting point on time.
Meeting point
【MEETING POINT】 Kanazawa Station West Plaza - Short-term Car Park
URL; https://maps.app.goo.gl/uf7DTGVBCAgC8VwJ7
【ADDRESS】1 Chome-802 Hirooka, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Japan
【Meeting time】7:50am
【Departure time】8:00am
★Look out for green and white flag "Japan Panoramic Tours"
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
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