All Chubu Tours & Excursions in 2026

Venture beyond Kanazawa without having to figure out public transportation options on this convenient day tour to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go. Travel directly to the mountain village, then enjoy free time to explore its distinctive thatched-roof houses at your own pace. To get more out of the day, an extended tour includes Kanazawa sightseeing, with a stop at the magnificent Kenrokuen Garden.

This is a Kanazawa-only craft bonsai experience using rare black-glazed tile pots handcrafted by Hokuriku’s only onigawara artisan. More than a simple workshop, this experience invites travelers to help preserve Kanazawa’s traditional tile culture through hands-on creation and take home a meaningful bonsai they made themselves. All bonsai are made using artificial plants, making them easy to take home to your own country.

1. More Than Just Samurai, Gardens & Geisha We’ll absolutely show you Kanazawa’s famous sights—but we’ll also help you understand the stories and people behind them. From samurai life and the powerful Maeda family to geisha culture and Japanese religion, we make history easy to understand, relatable and fun. 2. Explore With a Local, Not Just Follow a Guide We want this to feel more like exploring Kanazawa with a knowledgeable local friend. Ask questions, have conversations, wander down interesting streets and experience the city. 3. Your Tour, Your Pace Some guests are fascinated by samurai history. Some love food. Others want beautiful photos or simply want to slow down and enjoy Garden. 4. Great Memories—and Great Photos Our guides are also photographers, so we’ll naturally capture photos of you throughout the experience. You don’t need to spend the whole tour worrying about getting the perfect shot. Enjoy Kanazawa, and we’ll help take care of the memories.

Get incredible photos of your vacation—without having to set up a tripod or angle a selfie stick—with this hassle-free private photoshoot. Led by a professional photographer, enjoy an experience that’s tailored to your needs, with the flexibility to choose from suggested locations, such as Kenrokuen Garden. Then, after the experience, receive a collection of professionally edited photos—the perfect way to remember your trip.

Make the most of your time in Kanazawa with this private half-day tour, tailored entirely to your interests and preferred travel style—by taxi, on foot. In just a few hours, explore Kanazawa’s cultural highlights, atmospheric districts, and lesser-known backstreets with the insight of a knowledgeable local guide. Your itinerary is fully flexible. Visit iconic places such as Kenrokuen Garden, wander the historic lanes of the Higashi Chaya District, step inside traditional crafts workshops, or explore the preserved samurai neighborhood of Nagamachi. You may also discover markets, small local shrines, and artisan shops along the way. Whether your interests are architecture, cuisine, crafts, or culture, your guide will shape the experience to match your pace and preferences, ensuring a meaningful introduction to the city without feeling rushed.

In four hours, immerse yourself in traditional and exceptional Japan. You will have the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of Japanese culture, both past and present, and the daily life of the Japanese people today. Your guide will answer your many questions and share their passion and knowledge with you. During this tour, you will also meet many locals. An experienced and passionate guide who has lived in Kanazawa for over 10 years, specialising in social and cultural anthropology of Japan, history, culture and sociology. Passionate about photography, cinema, literature, design, art and crafts, and a practitioner of several traditional Japanese arts (Kyudo, tea ceremony), he will show you his adopted city with enthusiasm.

Our tour offers the best route to some of Kanazawa's must-see spots and many of its lesser known gems, in one day on foot. Our knowledgeable guides will ensure you come away with an enriched understanding of the culture of Kanazawa. Guests will also have the opportunity to go inside a teahouse that once held actual geisha performances and have time, after a guided tour, to explore the geisha district by yourself. This tour also go deeper into Kenrokuen and go inside the daimyo's mother's villa, often missed by guests in Kanazawa. Please consider participating in this tour if you want to make the best of your time in Kanazawa on a course that is fairly exhaustive but not exhausting.

Kanazawa is famously known as the city of arts, and while you can find art workshops throughout Japan that you can easily participate in, it is rare to find one like yours that offers you a chance to truly experience Japan's traditional arts in the form of Katazome stencil dyeing, as well as an opportunity to sit down and have a conversation with the artisan who has dedicated their life to making it. Your translator will be there to ensure that the communication between you and the artist is as smooth as possible, and you will be able to bring home with you a tote bag that you make yourself!

There’s so much to see in the picturesque Noto peninsula, but if you want to go exploring without the hassle of taking photos, then this combination of a guided tour and photoshoot is a great choice. Benefit from having a professional photographer to show you interesting locations—such as Wajima Morning Market, Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces, and Wajima Kiriko Art Museum—and enjoy having great vacation photos captured along the way.

Unwind in the tranquil halls of Iwamura Brewery during an exclusive after-hours tour, where the art of sake making comes alive after dark. This intimate experience, limited to just six participants, offers a unique opportunity to learn from the brewery's president, who shares his passion and stories in both Japanese and English. Explore the serene atmosphere as you taste fermenting moromi directly, gaining insight into the craft of sake production and its rich heritage. Engage in open dialogue and enjoy a sensory journey that deepens your appreciation for this traditional Japanese beverage. - Exclusive after-hours tour limited to 6 participants for a personal experience - Guided by the brewery’s president for authentic insights into sake making - Unique opportunity to taste fermenting moromi, a rare privilege in sake tours - Bilingual experience available in Japanese and English for wider accessibility

Departure Confirmed Nov 6 Travel through the scenic Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road, a beautiful mountain route in Hakusan National Park surrounded by stunning autumn foliage. An English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour. The route connects Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go, the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional Gassho-style villages. Enjoy breathtaking seasonal scenery, waterfalls including Ubaga-Taki Waterfall (one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waterfalls), and panoramic viewpoints along the way. The best autumn foliage season is from mid-October. Explore Shirakawa-go at your own pace with free time to discover the charming village and its unique traditional houses. The tour also includes a visit to Hakuichi’s flagship store “Hakukokan”, a “Gold Leaf Museum” showcasing Kanazawa’s famous gold leaf craftsmanship. Enjoy the popular Gold Leaf Soft-Serve Ice Cream, visit the café, and browse unique souvenirs. A light lunch box and a bottle of water are included.

Discover a quieter side of Kanazawa on this guided outdoor evening walk. Begin in Higashi Chaya District after the daytime crowds disappear. Walk among wooden teahouses while your local guide explains Kanazawa’s geisha culture, architecture, and Edo-period life. Continue to peaceful Kazuemachi Chaya District along the Asano River, then walk through central Kanazawa to Oyama Shrine. Admire its illuminated grounds and distinctive gate while learning how the Maeda Clan shaped Kanazawa’s samurai history. Important: This is a quiet outdoor history and culture walk, not a nightlife, bar, shopping, or entertainment tour. Shops, teahouses, museums, and other buildings in the historic districts are closed during the tour, and no indoor visits are included. The calm, dimly lit streets are part of the experience. If you prefer lively streets, open shops, or indoor visits, we recommend one of our daytime tours. Your guide will also share local stories, photo spots, and recommendations.

Murodo's snow corridor sits high on the Tateyama range, and reaching it usually means piecing together trains, cable cars, and buses. This full-day tour makes the journey effortless, with a coach trip from either Kanazawa or Toyama. Walk the corridor, where walls of snow rise as high as 60 feet (20 meters), then take your time to wander across the snowfields.

Experience everyday life with a real Japanese family in a private home rather than a tourist attraction or cooking studio. Your family has welcomed more than 30 international guests through cultural exchange and homestay experiences, creating meaningful connections with visitors from around the world. Activities change with the seasons and may include harvesting vegetables from your family garden, preparing home-style dishes, learning about Japanese food culture, and sharing time around the family table. Each experience is personalized according to guests’ interests, offering an authentic opportunity to discover a side of Japan that most travelers never see. Small groups, a welcoming atmosphere, and genuine interaction make this a memorable cultural experience beyond traditional sightseeing.

When traveling abroad, there is no other experience like cooking and eating a meal with a local. Akiko opens her Nagoya home to visitors to cook a meal and share conversation. Enjoy learning to make classic Nagoya dishes such as red miso stew and shrimp tempura in an onigiri (rice ball) or fried chicken. Get a glimpse into the life of an Osaka local, and immerse yourself in Japanese cuisine and culture.

The Magic of Metal Inlay: A Private Masterclass with a Kanazawa Artisan Experience the 'Magic of Metal Inlay' at the renowned Kazawa Bishō Studio—whose works grace Kanazawa Station—as you enjoy a private lesson from a master craftsman, learning to carve and inlay metals into a seamless, silky-smooth masterpiece.

Discover the heart and soul of Kanazawa with a journey that blends nature, craftsmanship, cuisine, and history. Stroll through the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden. Step into the world of gold leaf at Imai Gold Leaf, meeting artisans who keep this shimmering tradition alive. End your day wandering the charming Higashi Chaya and Kazue-machi Chaya districts, where time seems to slow amid teahouses, narrow lanes, and hidden gems.

Escape tourist-oriented restaurants and dive into the real nightlife of Kofu City. This guided evening tour takes you through the lively streets around Kofu Station, where locals gather after work. You will visit 2–3 carefully selected venues: traditional izakayas with seasonal dishes, trendy modern bars popular among young locals, and nostalgic snack bars that are usually difficult to enter without a Japanese speaker. Your guide—an experienced interpreter and Yamanashi local—will help you order food and drinks, translate conversations, and introduce the cultural background of each place. Learn about Kofu’s unique wine history, the old castle town atmosphere, and the friendly drinking culture that defines Yamanashi. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour offers a safe, warm, and memorable night in Kofu.

Colors of Kanazawa – Afternoon Walking Tour with Hands-On Kaga Yuzen Experience Discover Kanazawa’s vibrant history, beautiful gardens, and traditional crafts in this fun and interactive afternoon tour! Stroll through Oyama Shrine and Kanazawa Castle, learning about the city’s samurai past before relaxing with a refreshing drink at a traditional café in Kenrokuen Gardens. The highlight of the day is a hands-on Kaga Yuzen workshop, where you’ll paint your own small traditional bag using vibrant dyes under the guidance of a local artisan – a special souvenir to take home. With a maximum group size of just 12 guests, this tour offers a personal and memorable experience, perfect for families, couples, and first-time visitors.

Private Japanese dance lesson taught by a highly skilled female instructor with over 8 years of cultural arts experience in Japan and the U.S. Supported by a certified kimono dresser and cultural arts specialist who provides English interpretation throughout the lesson Ideal for international guests, beginners, families, and especially children Learn refined traditional dance movements and perform a complete short piece Dances taught (by difficulty): “Sakura Sakura,” “Haru yo Koi,” “Togetsukyo” Includes yukata dressing, tabi socks, and all dance props—adjusted for choreography and comfort Held at Hagijian, a beautiful traditional Japanese house with a tea room Enjoy a vast 700‑tsubo Japanese garden and breathtaking hilltop views Immersive cultural experience combining dance, kimono, and Japanese aesthetics Perfect for couples, families, small groups, and culture‑focused travelers Maximum group size:

Discover the history, culture, and scenic beauty of Niigata on a private half-day tour from Niigata Port. Travel comfortably by private vehicle and visit Saito Villa, a beautifully preserved traditional residence, before exploring the historic Furumachi district and peaceful Hakusan Shrine. Continue to Niigata’s historic waterfront area to learn about the city’s maritime heritage, then enjoy panoramic views of Niigata City, the Shinano River, and the Sea of Japan from the Befco Bakauke Observatory Room. With a private guide and vehicle throughout, this tour offers a relaxed and convenient introduction to Niigata, with plenty of time to return to the port before departure. This tour is great for any types of travelers , such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.

Enjoy a comfortable journey from Kanazawa to Osaka. We recommend that you explore Kanazawa's historic sites, then visit Osaka's vibrant districts and iconic landmarks like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori. ●Travel with the freedom to explore at your own pace. ●Immerse yourself in the traditional and modern blend of Osaka. ●Experience Japan's scenic beauty and heritage from Kanazawa to　Osaka.

Recommended Spot Big Zelkova Tree (Kamisuwa Shrine) Experience the serenity of this 1,000-year-old tree, believed to protect the land and worshipped as a god of agriculture. Cedar Tree Path to Shrine Explore the historic Yahiko Cedar path, a natural monument, and cultural property, either by TUKTUK or Motorcycle. Triangle Field (Hachimai-zawa Forest Path Branch) Enjoy the expansive landscape and peaceful time with views of Mt. Yahiko. Haraedo Shrine Dedicated to the god of purification, cleanse yourself before visiting Yahiko Shrine’s main hall. Yahiko Shrine Known as "Oyahikosama," it's the symbol of Yahiko Village. Offer prayers with two bows, four claps, and one bow. Mt.Yahiko Ropeway (4-hour and 2-hour courses only) Take a 5-minute ride to the summit for stunning views. On clear days, you can see Sado Island. Rice Field Area Witness Mt. Yahiko reflected in water-filled rice fields, a beautiful and nostalgic landscape.

Kanazawa is one of the three major confectionery areas in Japan. The Sono Residence was built in 1921, and each room of the residence and its tea ceremony room was built under the guidance of the Omotesenke Iemoto, a master of the Omotesenke school of tea ceremony, for use in tea ceremonies　In this program, you can experience making seasonal Japanese sweets with a Japanese confectionary chef, and then you can experience the tea