Private Bespoke Kanazawa Walking Tour
By Hikari Pathways
Free cancellation available
per adult*
*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
Features
- Free cancellation available
- 9h
- Mobile voucher
- Instant confirmation
- Selective hotel pickup
- Multiple languages
Overview
Discover Kanazawa with a tour that goes beyond the ordinary. While the listed landmarks offer an idea of what we’ll explore, the experience is fully tailored to your passions, interests, and style. Enriched with cultural depth, local insights, and personal storytelling, our tours uncover hidden gems and Kanazawa’s rich heritage.
From serene gardens to samurai districts and the finest local cuisine, every detail is crafted to exceed your expectations. This is more than just a tour—it’s a meaningful connection to the heart of Kanazawa.
Join us for a unique, premium experience designed just for you!
Activity location
- Omicho Market
- 50 Kamiomicho
- 920-0905, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Higashide Coffee
- 42 Jikkenmachi
- 920-0906, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
Check availability
9 AM - 2 PM Start | 4 Hours
- 9h
- English
Duration: 4 hours
Pickup included
Price details
Total
*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
20% off
Until Mon, 24 Mar
9 AM Start | 7 Hours
- 9h
- English
Duration: 7 hours
Pickup included
Starting time: 9:00am
Price details
Total
*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
20% off
Until Mon, 24 Mar
9 AM Start | 9 Hours
- 9h
- English
Duration: 9 hours
Pickup included
Starting time: 9:00am
Price details
Total
*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
20% off
Until Mon, 24 Mar
What's included, what's not
- Bottled Water
- Professional Service with a Smile
- Bespoke Itinerary | Cultural Insights | Extra Tips from a Local
- Meals & Museum Tickets (2-3000 Yen pp + guide)
- Transport if Needed
- Travel Insurance
Know before you book
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transport options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please Note: This tour involves a significant amount of walking and is not recommended for individuals with poor physical conditions.
Activity itinerary
Omicho Market
- 45m
Known as the "Kitchen of Kanazawa," Omicho Market is a bustling hub of fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional delicacies. With close to 300 years of history & 180 shops, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s culinary culture, sample seasonal treats, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Nagamachi Neighborhood
- 40m
Step back in time in Nagamachi, Kanazawa’s historic samurai district. With its preserved earthen walls, narrow winding streets, and charming canals, this area offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of the Edo-period samurai. It's a serene spot to explore history, culture, and traditional architecture.
Nomura Family Samurai House
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
Nestled in the heart of Nagamachi, the Nomura-ke is a beautifully preserved samurai residence that offers a rare glimpse into the life of a high-ranking samurai family. With its stunning traditional architecture, exquisite garden, and historical artefacts, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the elegance of Japan’s feudal era.
Kazuemachi Tea House Street
- 15m
Kazuemachi is Kanazawa’s smallest geisha district, tucked along the serene Asanogawa River. Despite its size, this charming area is rich in atmosphere, with traditional wooden teahouses and narrow streets that transport you to another era. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and a glimpse into Kanazawa’s elegant geisha culture.
Utasu Shrine
- 15m
Utasu Shrine, located in the heart of Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya district, is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the founder of the Kaga Domain. Beyond its cultural significance and tranquil atmosphere, visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as obtaining a beautifully designed Goshuin (shrine stamp), drawing an Omikuji (fortune slip), and learning the proper way to bow and show respect in Japanese tradition. Surrounded by seasonal beauty, it’s a perfect stop to immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s rich heritage and spirituality.
Hakuichi Higashiyama
- 20m
Located in the historic Higashi Chaya district, the Hakuichi Higashiyama Store is a must-visit destination for anyone intrigued by Kanazawa’s famous gold leaf craftsmanship. Renowned for its exquisite products, the store offers everything from elegant gold-leafed tableware to unique beauty items and souvenirs. Visitors can also enjoy gold leaf ice cream, a luxurious treat that’s become iconic in Kanazawa. It’s the perfect spot to explore the artistry and heritage of gold leaf, a tradition deeply rooted in the city’s history.
Higashichaya Old Town
- 1h 20m
The Higashi Chaya District is Kanazawa’s most iconic and well-preserved geisha quarter, where history comes alive through its beautifully maintained wooden teahouses and narrow cobblestone streets. Once the bustling heart of Kanazawa’s entertainment scene, it now offers a charming blend of traditional culture and modern attractions. Visitors can explore tea houses, shop for gold leaf products, enjoy local delicacies, or simply soak in the timeless elegance of this historic district. It's a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kanazawa.
Kenrokuen Garden
- 30m
- Admission ticket not included
Kenrokuen Garden is one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, renowned for its exquisite beauty and seasonal charm. Once part of the Maeda clan’s castle grounds, this vast garden perfectly embodies the six elements of ideal garden design: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water features, and scenic views. From vibrant cherry blossoms in spring to snow-covered landscapes in winter, Kenrokuen offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Kanazawa Castle
- 25m
Kanazawa Castle, once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan, stands as a symbol of the city’s feudal history and architectural splendour. While much of the original structure was lost to fire, its beautifully reconstructed gates, walls, and turrets showcase traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Surrounded by lush grounds and located next to Kenrokuen Garden, the castle offers panoramic views and a fascinating glimpse into the samurai era. A visit here is a journey through time, exploring Kanazawa's rich cultural and historical heritage.
Kanazawa Station
- 40m
Kanazawa Station is not only a transport hub but also a stunning architectural landmark, featuring the iconic Tsuzumi-mon Gate and the Motenashi Dome, symbolising hospitality. Inside, you'll find a variety of shops offering local specialities, including traditional sweets like wagashi (delicate Japanese confections) and gold leaf-covered treats unique to the region. Whether you're indulging in anko-filled delights or sampling freshly made sweets, Kanazawa Station is a perfect starting point to savour the city’s rich culinary heritage.
D. T. Suzuki Museum
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
The D.T. Suzuki Museum in Kanazawa is dedicated to the life and philosophy of Daisetz Teitaro Suzuki, a renowned Buddhist philosopher who introduced Zen Buddhism to the West. The museum’s minimalist architecture and serene water features reflect Zen principles, creating a space for quiet contemplation and self-reflection. Through thoughtful exhibits and tranquil surroundings, visitors can explore Suzuki’s profound teachings and their relevance in today’s world. It’s a must-visit for those seeking peace and insight into Japanese spirituality.
Gyokusenin Maru Garden
- 15m
Gyokusenin Garden, located within the Kanazawa Castle grounds, is a stunning example of a daimyo (feudal lord) garden designed for tranquility and beauty. Originally created in the Edo period for the Maeda family, it features a serene pond, lush greenery, and carefully arranged stones that reflect traditional Japanese landscaping principles. This hidden gem offers a peaceful escape and a chance to immerse yourself in the elegance of Kanazawa’s samurai history. It’s especially enchanting during the changing seasons, with vibrant colours in autumn and a quiet charm in winter.
Oyama Shrine
- 15m
Oyama Jinja is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the founder of the Kaga Domain. Known for its unique blend of Japanese, Chinese, and European architectural styles, the shrine’s iconic gate with stained glass windows is a standout feature. Surrounded by a peaceful garden with a koi-filled pond and stone bridges, Oyama Jinja offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Kanazawa. It’s a place of cultural significance, where visitors can connect with the city’s samurai legacy and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
Ninja Weapon Museum
- 25m
- Admission ticket not included
The Ninja Weapon Museum in Kanazawa offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Japan’s legendary ninjas. Featuring an impressive collection of traditional weapons, tools, and artefacts, the museum provides insights into the skills, strategies, and daily lives of these covert agents. Visitors can see items like shuriken (throwing stars), kunai, and other unique ninja gear. It's an interactive and educational experience, perfect for history buffs and anyone curious about Japan’s mysterious ninja heritage.
2 Chome
- 30m
Katamachi is Kanazawa’s vibrant entertainment and shopping district, known for its bustling streets filled with restaurants, bars, boutiques, and karaoke spots. A hub of nightlife and local culture, it’s the perfect place to experience Kanazawa’s modern side. Whether you’re savouring regional cuisine, enjoying a drink at a cosy izakaya, or exploring trendy shops, Katamachi offers a lively atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the city’s historical districts.
Ashigaru Museum
- 15m
The Ashigaru District in Kanazawa offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Japan’s foot soldiers, or ashigaru, during the Edo period. Unlike the grand samurai homes, the modest wooden houses here reflect the simpler lifestyle of these lower-ranking warriors. Strolling through the district, visitors can explore well-preserved homes and learn about the ashigaru’s vital role in Kanazawa’s feudal history. It’s a quiet yet fascinating area that showcases a different perspective on the city’s rich samurai heritage.
Toyokuni Shrine
- 40m
Located on the hills surrounded by a serene bamboo forest, Toyokuni Shrine is a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s great unifiers. The shrine’s traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere provide a perfect setting for reflection, while its elevated location offers scenic views of the surrounding nature. It’s a serene escape that connects visitors to Japan’s rich history and spiritual heritage.
Kaga Yuzen Kaikan
- 40m
- Admission ticket not included
Located in Kanazawa, Kaga Yuzen Kaikan is a cultural centre dedicated to the art of Kaga Yuzen, a traditional silk-dyeing technique unique to the region. Visitors can marvel at beautifully crafted kimonos, learn about the intricate dyeing process through exhibits, and even participate in hands-on workshops to create their own small piece of Kaga Yuzen art. The centre offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Kanazawa’s most celebrated crafts, blending elegance, tradition, and artistry.
Location
Activity location
- Omicho Market
- 50 Kamiomicho
- 920-0905, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Higashide Coffee
- 42 Jikkenmachi
- 920-0906, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
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