Private Day Trip to Shirakawa Go from Kanazawa

Kanazawa , Japan

Private Day Trip to Shirakawa Go from Kanazawa

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About this experience

Explore the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go on this private 6-hour tour from Kanazawa. Accompanied by an expert guide, wander through the village renowned for its iconic Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Savor a delicious lunch featuring Hida beef grilled with hooba miso in an authentic farmhouse setting. This tour offers a unique glimpse into Japan's cultural heritage and stunning countryside views, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking an immersive experience. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and a private vehicle for a comfortable journey.

- Private tour with a dedicated English-speaking guide
- Scenic drive through the picturesque Hokuriku countryside
- Enjoy a local lunch featuring traditional dishes
- Visit iconic sites like Wada House and Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine

Available options

Private Day Trip to Shirakawa Go from Kanazawa

Pickup included

What's included

Private Car with Professional Driver

English-Speaking Local Guide (6 hours)

Local Lunch

Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off

Facility Admission Fees

Café or Snack Stop

Detailed itinerary

Arrive in Shirakawa-go and enjoy panoramic views from the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory

Meet your friendly local guide in Kanazawa and hop into a comfortable private car bound for Shirakawa-go! Enjoy a peaceful 70-minute ride through the picturesque Hokuriku countryside, where rice fields, rustic homes, and snow-capped peaks paint a storybook scene. Before exploring the village, take a short walk to a hilltop lookout for a breathtaking panorama of the UNESCO-listed thatched-roof houses below—your first glimpse into timeless Japan.

Local Hida beef lunch in Shirakawa-go near cozy Irori restaurant

Savor an unforgettable lunch inside an authentic gassho-zukuri farmhouse restaurant, one of Shirakawa-go’s most iconic landmarks. Indulge in local specialties like tender Hida beef grilled with hooba miso, sweetfish simmered in soy sauce, and hearty beef shigure simmer. Prefer something lighter? Opt for handmade soba, udon, or Japanese curry—each dish a warm reflection of this mountain village’s rich culinary heritage.

Stroll through the UNESCO village — Gassho-zukuri houses,　Viewpoint, Wada House, Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine, Deai Bridge, and more

Dive deep into Shirakawa-go’s charm as your guide leads you through its living museum of history and culture. Visit the Wada House, Myozen-ji Temple, and the sacred Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine—home of the famed Doburoku Festival

Take a café break or enjoy light local snacks along the village streets.

Feel the warmth of irori hearths still burning today, discover hidden cafés and local snacks, and stroll across the scenic Deai Bridge over the Shogawa River before heading back to Kanazawa with your heart full of mountain memories.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A confirmation email will be sent immediately after booking.

Out of respect for all participants, the tour will start on time. Guests arriving late cannot join, reschedule, or receive a refund.

This tour is suitable for most travelers. However, it is not recommended for guests with mobility issues, as some areas in Shirakawa-go are not accessible by wheelchair or stroller.

We will visit Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines—please wear respectful clothing.

Please wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain.

You will be required to remove your shoes frequently when entering traditional houses. Some interiors do not provide slippers, and floors can be cold—especially in winter—so warm socks are recommended.

Please bring rain gear in case of light rain; the tour will proceed unless conditions are unsafe.

During winter, heavy snowfall may cause road closures or delays. In such cases, the itinerary may be significantly shortened or canceled for safety reasons. Refunds or discounts cannot be offered if the tour proceeds under these conditions.

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking.

Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free meals can be arranged with advance notice.

Will do best to accommodate your preferences, some dishes may still contain ingredients prepared in shared kitchens.

The guide’s food and drinks are covered and do not require any additional payment from you.

Please bring some cash if you wish to buy additional snacks or souvenirs in Shirakawa-go, as some local shops may not accept credit cards.

The tour will proceed as scheduled, and refunds will not be provided for limited visibility due to weather.

The itinerary may be adjusted or canceled depending on weather or traffic conditions.

If shrines, temples, or other facilities are closed on the day of your tour, alternative locations will be visited instead. Cancellations or refunds will not be provided due to such changes.

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