Shirakawa-go Private Day Trip and Metal Casting from Kanazawa

Kanazawa , Japan

Shirakawa-go Private Day Trip and Metal Casting from Kanazawa

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About this experience

Discover the cultural richness of Shirakawa-go on this full-day trip from Kanazawa. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage village and experience traditional craftsmanship by creating your own tin sake cup in Takaoka. Savor local Hida beef grilled with miso, and enjoy doburoku sake from your handmade cup. Explore historic sites like Wada House and Myozen-ji Temple while soaking in the stunning mountain scenery. This all-inclusive tour features a dedicated English-speaking guide and private transport for a comfortable and informative experience.

- Full-day guided tour from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go
- Create a tin sake cup and taste local doburoku sake
- Savor Hida beef grilled with miso for lunch
- All-inclusive with hotel pickup, meals, and admission fees

Available options

Shirakawa-go Private Day Trip and Metal Casting from Kanazawa

Pickup included

What's included

Private Car with Professional Driver

English-Speaking Local Guide (8 hours)

Local Lunch

Takaoka Tin Cup Workshop

Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off

Tour Photos

Facility Admission Fees

Doburoku Sake Experience

Café or Snack Stop

Detailed itinerary

Hands-on tin sake cup (guinomi) crafting at NOUSAKU Foundry, Takaoka

Start your day with a warm welcome from your guide in Kanazawa before heading to Takaoka, Japan’s historic casting town. Join local artisans at the renowned Nousaku foundry and experience hands-on craftsmanship as you mold and polish your very own suzu (tin) sake cup. Learn why tinware softens flavors and enjoy a scenic drive through the majestic Tateyama mountain range, where nature and craft have coexisted for centuries.

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

Bring your handmade cup to Shirakawa-go and toast with doburoku—a rich, unfiltered sake loved since ancient times. Compare its smooth taste between ceramic and tin cups and discover why locals cherish this tradition

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

Savor hooba-miso grilled with premium Hida beef, a comforting regional dish born from life in harsh winters.

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

Follow your guide through the UNESCO-listed village where time seems to stand still. Visit the stately Wada House, the serene Myozen-ji Temple, and the revered Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine—home of the lively Doburoku Festival.

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

Wander between gassho-style homes warmed by glowing irori hearths, discover cozy cafés and handmade sweets, and cross the graceful Deai Bridge over the Shogawa River before your peaceful return to Kanazawa.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.

The workshop involves handling molten tin and metal tools; please follow the instructor’s safety guidance at all times.

For safety reasons, please do not wear open-toed shoes, sandals, or flowing clothing during the workshop.

The experience includes making a small tin sake cup (guinomi) to take home as a souvenir.

Minor differences in color or texture are part of the handmade process and make each piece unique.

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

Vegetarian menus are also available upon advance request./Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free meals can be arranged with advance notice.

While we will do our 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