All Kanazawa Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

Kanazawa Omicho Market Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide

Enjoy cherry blossom season in a city known for its gardens, castle grounds, and historic teahouses. Explore Kanazawa with a local host, then settle in for a hanami picnic with a bento box, shared sushi platter, Japanese sweets, and two drinks. Discover spring traditions as you admire blossoms around Kenrokuen or beside the Asano River. Before you meet, you’ll receive a short Personalization Form so we can tailor the experience to your interests and pair you with a local guide. The true luxury is having their expertise and undivided attention, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace and focus on what interests you most. - Enjoy a traditional Japanese picnic as part of hanami - Discover blossoms around Kanazawa’s gardens and castle grounds - Savor a bento box, shared sushi platter, Japanese sweets, and two drinks - Explore the riverside setting of the Kazuemachi teahouse district - Personalize your private 4-hour experience before you meet

Kanazawa: Private Custom Cherry Blossom Walking Tour with Picnic

Kanazawa: Private Custom Cherry Blossom Walking Tour with Picnic

Casual Tea Experience With Wearing Kimono Experience in Kanazawa

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.

Noto peninsula 1 day/Photoshoot with professional photographer

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Gokayama and Shirakawago/Photoshoot by professional photographer

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Discover the charm of Kanazawa after dark on this Night Walk & Izakaya Tour with a friendly local guide. Walk through beautifully illuminated streets, hidden alleys, and atmospheric neighborhoods that show a different side of the city at night. Along the way, your guide will share stories about Kanazawa’s history, culture, and local life, while taking you to scenic and photo-worthy spots often missed by tourists. After the walk, enjoy an authentic izakaya experience at carefully selected local restaurants loved by residents. Your guide will explain the menu, recommend dishes and drinks, and help you order with ease. Taste classic Japanese favorites such as yakitori, fresh seafood, and local specialties, along with sake or craft beer, in a relaxed atmosphere. This small-group tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families, and is perfect for both first-time and repeat visitors. Please note: Food and drinks are not included and should be paid on-site.

Kanazawa Night Walk and Izakaya Tour with Local Guide

Kanazawa Night Walk and Izakaya Tour with Local Guide

1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Visit the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, one of the world's largest dinosaur museums. Discover 51 life-size dinosaur skeletons, interactive exhibits, and dinosaurs found in Fukui, including Fukuiraptor and Fukuisaurus. Travel directly from Kanazawa with no transfers. During the journey, your guide will explain why so many dinosaur fossils have been discovered in this region and introduce the museum highlights and lunch options. Enjoy approximately 3.5 hours of free time to explore the museum. As a special gift, receive dinosaur souvenirs such as a pin badge, stickers, or a mini figure. After the tour, enjoy drop-off at either Kanazawa Station or your hotel in central Kanazawa. The museum is almost entirely indoors, making it ideal for families, couples, and dinosaur enthusiasts in any weather. The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is one of Hokuriku's must-visit attractions, alongside Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

Kanazawa : World-Class Fukui Dinosaur Museum Small Group Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

Hakusan Shirakawa-go White Road & Shirakawa-go from Kanazawa

8 hoursFree Cancellation

$110$105

This isn’t just a quick sightseeing tour—it’s a personalized introduction to Kanazawa, guided by a knowledgeable local who helps you experience the city like someone who lives here. You’ll gain a meaningful feel for the city through a carefully tailored route that highlights Kanazawa’s culture, history, and everyday rhythm. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re seeking a deeper, more local perspective, this experience is designed to orient you and inspire the rest of your stay. Your host will share personal insights, recommend places to explore after the tour, and offer helpful tips to make the most of your time. The pace is relaxed, the route flexible, and the conversation open—just the way an introduction should be. After booking, you’ll receive a brief questionnaire so we can match you with a like-minded local host. They’ll reach out before your tour to customize the experience around what matters most to you.

Kanazawa Like a Local: Private & Personalized Experience 2-3 hrs

Kanazawa Like a Local: Private & Personalized Experience 2-3 hrs

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

*Savour 450 Year Old Wisdom and Purify Your Heart *The Power of Words: Kotodama *The Beauty of Graceful Conduct *Refining the Heart to Fulfill Your Mission *Welcome to the Timeless Tradition of Japanese Tea Culture *Discover the Beauty of Japanese Tradition: The Way of Tea *A Special Moment to Savour Japanese Culture *Understanding the Significance of Movements with Thoughtful Explanations *Questions and Curiosity Are Always Welcome *The Tea Ceremony Experience Reflects the Seasons *Passing Down the Spirit of the Tea Ceremony *Aesthetics of the Tea Ceremony and Samurai Hospitality were *Fostered Under the Kaga Hyakumangoku *What is Kaga Hyakumangoku?

Private Traditional Tea Ceremony

Immerse yourself in the art of sushi-making in Kanazawa, where a seasoned chef with over 50 years of expertise will guide you through traditional Edomae techniques. Standing at the chef’s counter, you’ll learn how to prepare sushi rice, slice fresh fish, and form sushi pieces like a pro. Choose from two engaging courses: the Sushi-Master Course, which includes a delightful meal and a certificate, or the Apprentice Course for a quick yet informative session. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this authentic culinary experience.

Kanazawa Sushi Making Experience with a 50-Year Master Chef

1 hourFree Cancellation

Kanazawa Half Day Tour (Private Guide)

Walking Tour in the Geiko Districts

Group Photo in the Kazue-machi Chaya District

Experience our Half Day Private Tour with Photoshoot by photographer in Kanazawa! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of Japan as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Kanazawa. Experience the beauty of Kanazawa through this unique guided tour and photoshoot package. Explore iconic landmarks such as Higashichaya Old Town, Kenrokuen Garden, and Kanazawa Castle while a professional photographer captures stunning images of your journey. We'll greet you directly at the city center or hotels and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day. Leave the details to us as we escort you on an extraordinary adventure, crafting memories that will stand the test of time!

Half Day Private Tour with Photoshoot by photographer in Kanazawa

Deep in the Japanese Alps, the historical and beautiful old thatched houses of Japan stand strong. These houses are over 150 years old and still are lived in today. These homes stand tall in the natural scenery. Several of these houses are open to the public. Join one of our tours guides to this area and learn about history and culture in a way that you would have never been able to on your own! This private and customizable tour will allow you to take in the beauty of Shirakawago at your own pace. Once you place your reservation, a guide will be in touch with you to plan out the details of your tour. Be sure to let your guide know where you would like to visit and your interests so they can plan out an itinerary for you! If you will not have time to visit all the sights on your must-see list, contact us directly regarding extension fees. Learn about this world heritage site with us! We hope to guide you soon!

Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Kanazawa by Car, Licensed Guide

Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Kanazawa by Car, Licensed Guide

8 hoursFree Cancellation

The Coast of the Sea of Japan has so much variety, from the beautiful golden beaches to beautifully treacherous cliffs. Tojinbo and the northwest area of Fukui is widely known for its dramatic cliffs, interesting rock formations and its sacred island. On this tour you will get a chance to fully experience this area as well as go to a historically prosperous port, Mikuni Port. Enjoy walking along the coast, exploring an uninhabited island, seeing the great cliffs and visiting National Heritage Site temples and shrines. Connect with the sea in this dive into the beauty of the scenery of the coast.

From Kanazawa: Fukui's Stunning Cliffs, Spiritual Island & Port

From Kanazawa: Fukui's Stunning Cliffs, Spiritual Island & Port

9 hoursFree Cancellation

Kanazawa Craft and Jewelry Making Private Activity

2 hoursFree Cancellation

$129$123

Visit six of Kanazawa’s most renowned cultural and historical sites, guided by a dedicated private guide who offers clear and engaging explanations of the city’s rich heritage. Discover the essence of Kanazawa during a comprehensive four-hour afternoon tour,covering all the key landmarks. Experience samurai culture at the beautiful Nomura Samurai Residence and garden, learn about the legacy of the Maeda family at Oyama Shrine, Kanazawa Castle, and Kenroku Garden, and conclude your journey with a stroll through the atmospheric Kazue-machi and Higashi Chaya districts, where you can savor the timeless charm of Kanazawa’s historic teahouse quarters.

Kanazawa Essentials Private Tour 4 hours

Kanazawa Essentials Private Tour 4 hours

$97$92

Takayama and Shirakawago/Photoshoot by professional photographer

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Unlike standard sightseeing tours that simply introduce famous spots, this experience explores the hidden meanings, design philosophy, and changing scenery of Kenrokuen Garden with a local guide. Guests will discover how ponds, bridges, islands, stones, and open spaces were carefully arranged to express traditional Japanese aesthetics and ideas of beauty. The tour follows the garden’s classic viewing route while introducing iconic locations such as Kotoji Lantern, Kasumigaike Pond, Karasaki Pine, and Ganko Bridge. Along the way, your guide will explain how Kenrokuen was designed to reveal different scenery step by step, creating a garden meant to be experienced through movement rather than viewed from a single point. Guests are also encouraged to reflect on which location they personally found most beautiful, making the experience more interactive and thoughtful than a typical guided walk. The extended option additionally includes a relaxing tea break inside the garden.

Discover the Hidden Beauty of Kenrokuen Garden

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

$120

$84

Taste your way around Kanazawa and hear stories about its history on this small-group food walking tour. Discover places that many tourists overlook and overcome language barriers with a guide to translates for you. Along the way atmospheric Higashi Chaya and Kazue-machi Chaya districts before visiting Omicho Market, where you can sample local specialties and learn about Kanazawa’s culinary heritage.

Kanazawa Omicho Market and Higashi Chaya Food Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Step inside the studio, located near Kanazawa's famous Higashi Chaya Tea District, and take part in a celebratory family meal, prepared for special guests. Every culture has its own ways of marking moments, recognizing the unique times that punctuate ordinary life. In Japan, these special days are called hare no hi — literally “sunny days” — and food has long been a common way to celebrate special events. Many families still maintain older cultural traditions around home-cooked meals ordinarily reserved for extraordinary days. This workshop is centered around a traditional dish from Ishikawa called sasa-zushi, or “bamboo sushi”, still prepared to celebrate special occasions. Every home cook has their own personal twist on the recipe, as these living traditions continue to evolve. The family prepares it all together as a group: first, line a press molds with a layer of sushi rice, add your own choice of toppings, then press, slice, and wrap each individual piece in a bamboo leaf.

Private Kanazawa Bamboo Sushi Family Cooking Experience

Since the old days, traditional Japanese culture has been very much a part of daily life in Kanazawa. Its profound charm is attracting attention from overseas. Kanazawa is well known for its sophisticated food and tea culture. The secret of the popularity of the Kanazawa's cuisine is that it is not just about its taste, but is packed with many Japanese elements such as the spirit of hospitality, the beauty of tea utensils, and traditional methods. This is the ideal pick for time-tight travelers wanting to discover lots of Kanazawa's dietary highlights in a day. Avoid the potential confusion of public transportation system, and travel comfortably with your private local guide. Note: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide

Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide

6 hoursFree Cancellation

This experience requires a minimum of 2 participants. If the total number of participants does not reach 2, the tour will not operate. In that case, you will receive a full refund. May be cancelled due to the temple's circumstances. In that case, a full refund will be given. The tour is only held on dates with reservations. It is not available on days without bookings. Reservation closes one week before the tour date. Spend your morning at Kanazawa’s historic Myohoji Temple and enjoy experiences that refresh your mind and body. Schedule: 8:00 Gather at Myohoji Temple Uchiwa-Daiko (Japanese drum) Experience – Play the taiko while chanting; energizes mind and body. One-Character Sutra Copying (Shakyo) – Transcribe one character from a Buddhist scripture. Sutra & Incense Experience – Burn incense while the monk prays for your health and safety.

Morning Meditation Activity

1 hourFree Cancellation

Kanazawa Machiya: Private Tea Ceremony with a Local Tea Master

$32$31

...

6 7 8

...

What are people saying about Kanazawa

Hiro_M, Oct 2026

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **A Beautiful and Tranquil Tea Ceremony Experience**

Having a tea ceremony with Master Yuta Takahashi was truly a rewarding and memorable experience. Located in the heart of the tea district, the ceremony took place in a charming house that is 104 years old, adding a wonderful sense of history and authenticity to the entire experience. Master Takahashi introduced us to the rich history, traditions, and significance behind this special Japanese ceremony. Beyond learning how to prepare and enjoy matcha, I gained a deeper appreciation for the mindfulness, precision, and tranquility that make the tea ceremony so unique. The entire experience was calming and meditative, offering a peaceful moment to slow down and appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture. I enjoyed it so much that I’m inspired to get my own matcha and tea set so I can recreate this special ritual at home. **Highly recommended for anyone visiting Japan!** Whether you are a tea lover or simply curious about Japanese culture, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience a beautiful tradition in a truly special setting. An experience I will cherish and carry with me long after my visit.

Kanazawa: Sushi & Japanese Cooking at a 56-Year Cooking School

Hiro_M, Oct 2026

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Fantastic Japanese Cooking Experience!

Chef Nakata was energetic, engaging, and incredibly informative. There was never a dull moment throughout the class! I learned the fundamentals of Japanese cooking and picked up practical tips and techniques that have definitely improved my cooking skills. The class was enjoyable, hands-on, and full of valuable insights into Japanese cuisine. Chef Nakata made everything easy to understand, making it a wonderful experience for both beginners and anyone looking to enhance their cooking skills. Highly recommended and a must-try for all Japanese food lovers who want to learn how to recreate authentic Japanese dishes in their own kitchens back home. A truly rewarding and delicious experience!

One Way Bus from Kanazawa to Takayama with a stop at Shirakawago

Elizabeth_T, Oct 2026

Excellent tour

The bus tour worked exactly as advertised. Left Kanazawa on time and had about one and a half hours at Shirakawago. Being later in the afternoon meant that it wasn’t as crowded as the morning may be. The bus arrived on schedule at Takayama. We were going to take the public buses but this was much better as we could leave our luggage on the bus. Very pleasant driver and immaculately clean bus.

Kanazawa Night Tour with Local Meal and Drinks

Susan_F, Oct 2026

Nozomi Kondo is a perfect walking tour Guide

Nozomi Kondo was a wonderful hostess for an introduction to Kanazawa and Geisha history. We learned a lot from Nozomi. Her personality, enthusiasm and walking tour were perfect for us. A bonus was her photographs of our evening with another lovely Mom/daughter duo from Australia. Thanks, Nozomi! Susan & Ed

Kanazawa Highlights: Garden, Castle, Samurai & Geisha+Taxi

virginiabonar, Oct 2026

Highlights of Kawazawa with Yasushi

Yasushi designed this tour and is a great guide. He speaks English very well and knows alot about the history of Japan and the places we visited. It is a 3 hour tour and we had 15 people in the group. Wear your walking shoes! Highly recommend Yasushi and this tour!

Kanazawa Private Tour with a Local – Highlights & Hidden Gems

Joyce_S, Oct 2026

Wonderful Kanazawa Half Day

Very worthwhile way to get a comprehensive. educational overview of Kanazawa in a short amount of time and tailored to your personal needs/interests. Our guide, Sho, was very responsive immediately after booking (prior to actual activity) to ascertain our goals and create an itinerary that worked for us. He was well-organized, on time, courteous and very prepared with educational information. Our half-day, private guided tour of Kanazawa was one of the best prearranged activities we scheduled for our second trip 10 day trip to Japan. Our highest recommendation is given to this tour and to the tour guide. Kanazawa is such a fantastic city to visit; it's definitely worth it to have a local, experienced professional showing you the highlights.

[One-day bus tour departing from Kanazawa Station] Shirakawa-go and Gokayama - Two World Heritage Villages Enjoyable Bus Tour

Monica_B, Oct 2026

10/10 Experience!

This was a fantastic tour! Our guide was very funny and kind, and gave us a lot of information to and from the villages. It was absolutely stunning and felt like we had entered a different world. So beautiful and very much worth it! Thank you to our amazing guide, the wonderful lunch, and easy bus rides.

World Heritage Shirakawa-go Perfect Guided Tour from Kanazawa

Brandon_G, Oct 2026

Great Tour Experience with Hatsune!

My wife and I really enjoyed this tour experience with our tour guide, Hatsune. One thing we enjoyed this particular tour is because once we arrived to Shirakawa-go, we all got to go off on ourselves and tour the village on our own. Whereas other tours were in a big group and had to go where the tour went. Hatsune provided a bunch of valuable info on the bus ride there about the village which set us up to know for when we arrived. I would highly recommend this tour if you would like to be able to go off on your own and explore the village, eat what you want, etc.

[One-day bus tour departing from Kanazawa Station] Shirakawa-go/Takayama tour platinum route bus tour

Tricia_M, Oct 2026

Wonderful Tour Guides and Beautiful Towns

Excellent tour. The tour guides were informative and communicative. They gave us maps and plenty of helpful information regarding the two towns we visited prior to exiting the bus. We also had plenty of time to visit the towns and see everything we needed to see. Perfect day!

From Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village

Julie_T, Apr 2026

Exploring beautiful old villages outside Kanazawa.

Despite the wind and rain we loved this experience with Liam as a great guide. The wood carvers village was probably our favourite - fascinating and peaceful. Watching skilled carvers at work was amazing. The Gokayama village areas were very old and very intriguing and it was fun making our own piece of washi paper. Shirakawa-go was bigger and definitely more touristy but fascinating to find out about the history of silk making and how the houses were set up to facilitate this. Thanks for a great day exploring, Liam

1 Day Private Charter Tour to Shirakawa-go & Takayama

Erin_M, Oct 2025

Highly Recommended Private Tour to Shirakawa-go & Takayama

We booked the 1 Day Private Charter Tour to Shirakawa-go & Takayama and had a wonderful experience. Our guide, Ali, was friendly and flexible, happily customising the itinerary to suit our interests. He spoke English very well and made communication easy throughout the day. Ali was also a safe and skilled driver, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Highly recommend this tour for a smooth and personalised day trip!