All Ishikawa Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Get more than you would from a solo visit to Kanazawa by booking this Kanazawa Samurai Culture Nighttime Tour. Explore the city with a local who knows the ins and outs of the city, especially at nighttime. Plus, gain a great understanding for samurai culture and the history of samurai in the city and Japan, too.

For travelers looking to explore a more traditional side of Japan, Takayama and Shirakawa-go offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a world that seems far away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. Takayama today has within it a faithfully preserved traditional town composed of three major avenues and a number of alleyways. With crystal clear water flowing on both sides of the streets, and historical wooden buildings, you will be witness to the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. Shirakawa-go, on the other hand, is and has always been a quaint village of thatched roof homes, where agriculture and cottage industries thrived for centuries. Nowadays, it has become well known as one of the few remaining villages in Japan that boasts a high number of preserved homes with thatched roofs. You are free to start your tour from either Takayama or Kanazawa, and also end the tour at either of those destinations.

You can experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony. After a full explanation of the session in English, you will enter the tea room. The host will serve thick Matcha (koicha) followed by light Matcha (usucha). Watching the preparation of thick Matcha is very rare, making this a truly valuable experience. (Approximately 1 hour) After the tea preparation, you can experience grinding matcha with a stone mill and making your own matcha. Detailed instructions are provided in English. (Approximately 20 minutes) Seiza (kneeling) is not required, and chairs can be provided if needed.

Embark on a scenic journey from Kanazawa to Kyoto, enjoying lush landscapes and cultural heritage. We recommend that you explore Kanazawa's historic sites, then visit Kyoto's iconic landmarks. Convenient and Stress Free Travel No Transfers, Luggage Transport Included Immerse yourself in the traditional and modern blend of Kyoto. Experience Japan's scenic beauty and heritage from Kanazawa to Kyoto.

Toyama Bay is famed for its fresh seafood and impressive mountains that overlook it. The Northern Japanese Alps that surround the bay include many great sights, such as the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, the Kurobe Gorge and even Gokayama, but the mountain range itself is amazing to view from afar. This tour includes visiting Amaharashi, one of the most famous spots for seeing the snow covered mountains. It will also head into the city of Takaoka to see the Big Buddha there. There are many excellent options for food in the area, too! Finally, the tour heads into the mountains for a short cruise on the Shokawa River. The valley is stunning and excellent in most seasons: snow in the winter, vivid green and cool in the summer and red leaves in the autumn. If you want to get a taste of both the sea and mountain scenic sights of Japan, this tour is perfect for you!

Abutting the remarkable Toyama Bay, Takaoka is a city with a diverse history of over 350 years. Known as the “Kitchen of Kanazawa”, it produced large amounts of food, metal working and pottery. As the second city of the Kaga Domain, much wealth was poured into the city, mostly in the form of building great temples. Two of those great temples, Zuiryuji and Shokoji, still remain and are considered National Treasures. On this tour you will see those temples, try your hand at metalworking and see the Amaharashi Coast with a view of the snow-capped Tateyama mountains in the background.

Kintsugi is a Japanese traditional repairing method to repair and reuse potteries which was born over 500 years ago. This is the very unique way because you can reuse the repaired pieces! If you have some broken pieces which you want to repair at your home, this is the chance to learn the introduction for Kintsugi. IMPORTANT NOTICE In this workshop, we don't break things on purpose out of respect to potteries and artisans who made it - As we are going to use the sap of *Urushi (related to poison ivy), this workshop is not recommended to people whose skin is very sensitive since it might cause skin rush. We are afraid that we cannot be responsible of your skin reaction caused by materials. - Please wear or bring a long sleeve shirt and trousers which you have no problem with dirt. For your safety, please kindly avoid waring any accessories on your hands and wrists. - Minimum age requirement is 18 years old. (16 y/o if they sign up with their guardian)

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.

Immerse yourself in the traditions of sake at Yachiya Sake Brewery in Kanazawa City through an engaging brewery experience. Discover the craftsmanship behind sake production as you explore the brewery’s historic spaces and learn how local water, rice, climate, and traditional techniques influence each bottle. Follow your guide through the brewery and gain insight into the brewing process and its cultural significance. The experience concludes with a guided tasting, offering the opportunity to sample a selection of Yachiya’s sake and compare their unique flavors and characteristics. Small-group sake experience limited to 15 participants for a more personal experience Explore the brewery’s historic spaces and discover traditional sake-making methods Learn how local ingredients, climate, and brewing techniques influence sake Take part in a guided tasting of a curated selection of Yachiya’s sake

Make the most of your time in Kanazawa with this private half-day tour, tailored to your interests and preferred travel style—by taxi, on foot, or by e-bike. In just a few hours, discover the city’s cultural highlights, historic neighborhoods, and hidden backstreets with the insight of a knowledgeable local guide. Your itinerary is fully flexible—explore the peaceful Kenrokuen Garden, stroll through the cobbled lanes of the Higashi Chaya District, admire traditional crafts at local workshops, or visit the preserved samurai residences of Nagamachi. Whether you’re interested in architecture, cuisine, or culture, this experience is designed to fit your schedule without feeling rushed.

Discover the story behind Kanazawa's iconic Tsuzumi Gate through a unique journey into Japan's taiko culture. Offered only once a month, this exclusive experience takes you to Asano Taiko, a world-renowned drum maker with more than 400 years of history. Enjoy special access to workshop areas normally closed to visitors, learn from skilled artisans, watch a live performance by a professional taiko artist, and experience the power of taiko drumming for yourself. The tour concludes at a beautifully restored sake brewery restaurant, where you will enjoy a 10-course French-style kaiseki dinner paired with locally brewed sake. Transportation, English-speaking guidance, workshop access, taiko performance, drumming experience, dinner, and sake tasting are all included. Return transportation to Kanazawa Station or selected hotels is provided.

Discover Kanazawa through the eyes of a passionate Guide who has lived there for many years. Between samurai districts, refined gardens and craft traditions, this tour invites you to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Kanazawa. Along the way, you will explore iconic places such as the beautiful Kenroku-en Garden, Nagamachi Samurai Quarter or the charming alleyways of Higashi Chaya. In a friendly and accessible atmosphere, this experience is the perfect opportunity to understand what makes Kanazawa so unique.

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.

Make the most of a full day in Kanazawa with this private guided tour, tailored to your interests and preferred travel style—by taxi, on foot, or by e-bike. Explore the city’s landmarks, historic neighborhoods, and hidden spots with the insight of a knowledgeable local guide. Your itinerary is fully flexible—stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, admire Kanazawa Castle, wander the Higashi Chaya District, and enjoy lunch at Omicho Market. In the afternoon, visit the Nagamachi Samurai District and choose optional museums or craft workshops with hands-on activities. Whether your interests are art, history, food, or culture, this full-day private tour gives you time to experience Kanazawa in depth, at your own pace.

Experience Kanazawa through a private photography session designed around the city’s most beautiful and distinctive locations. We’ll explore four carefully selected settings, from the peaceful beauty of Kenrokuen Garden and the historic streets of Higashi Chaya to the atmospheric lanes of Kazue-machi and the impressive exterior of Kanazawa Castle. Rather than simply stopping for snapshots, I’ll guide you throughout the session, choosing the best locations, backgrounds, and light while helping you with natural posing. The result is a relaxed experience and a varied collection of professional photographs that capture both you and the character of Kanazawa. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or solo, this is a personalized way to experience the city and create lasting memories of your time here.

Embark on a unique journey starting with the visit to the charming village of Shirakawago. A magical place designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs evoke a landscape frozen in time. Enjoy free time to explore the village at your own pace and savor a traditional lunch surrounded by a dreamlike setting. Begin your day at the majestic Kenrokuen Garden, a peaceful haven famous for its harmony between nature and Japanese art. Stroll among crystal-clear ponds, stone bridges, and centuries-old trees. Continue the experience in the Nishi Chaya District or Nagamachi, depending on the day, where cobblestone streets and traditional teahouses will transport you to the era of geishas and samurais, offering a unique atmosphere full of history and elegance. This tour offers an immersive experience of Japan’s culture and heritage.

Experience the Samurai spirit through "KENDO," where even beginners can enjoy this traditional martial art in a fun and engaging way. Unlike conventional kendo, this program emphasizes "Kind Enjoy Natural Design Open," making it accessible to all. You’ll not only learn the basics of kendo but also immerse yourself in Japanese culture under the guidance of a skilled instructor who has led his junior high school team to victory in national tournaments. Perfect for adventure seekers, families with children, and those looking to dive deep into Japan's rich traditions, this experience offers an unforgettable cultural encounter that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions.

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 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!

Experience the delicate art of Japanese sweets and the serene ritual of the tea ceremony in Kanazawa. This hands-on workshop blends creativity, culture, and mindfulness as you craft seasonal wagashi and learn authentic matcha preparation. Guided by a local expert, you’ll discover the meaning behind each sweet design and the grace of tea etiquette. Unlike typical tastings, this immersive experience invites you to participate fully, connecting you with Kanazawa’s refined traditions in an intimate, welcoming setting. Perfect for travelers seeking both artistry and cultural depth.

The city of Kanazawa, with its beautiful gardens, historic districts and delicious local foods, is more than just the sights within it. Why not get hands-on experience with Japanese and local cultural activities while exploring some of the lesser visited areas along with some the popular ones. The area is famous for its traditional crafts such as gold leaf, Japanese sweets, pottery, kimono-making, etc. On this tour you can try out using gold leaf, making Japanese sweets and also getting a chance at throwing two different types of ninja stars. If you are someone who wants to dive deeper into the culture of the city while walking around the city, this is the tour for you. Led by one of our local English-speaking tour guides, you will do three different workshops and see some of the sights that don’t normally make it onto the main Kanazawa tours. Experience the other side of this wonderful, beautiful and traditional city.

This tour is designed as an immersive cultural experience rather than a standard sightseeing walk. Instead of simply listing historical facts, we focus on storytelling, context, and human drama to help you understand how samurai culture shaped Kanazawa’s identity. The guides are selected not only for their knowledge but for their ability to engage, adapt, and create memorable moments tailored to each group.

Discover Kanazawa’s history and charm while a professional photographer captures your journey. Choose from 2-, 4-, or 8-hour private tours, each tailored to your interests and pace. Explore iconic sights such as Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, the Samurai District, and Higashi Chaya’s geisha streets, while your guide shares stories of samurai, geisha, and merchants. Whether you focus on history, food, or culture, the experience is fully customisable. After the tour, receive beautifully edited, high-resolution images as a keepsake of your time in Japan: • 2-hour tour – 15 photos • 4-hour tour – 30 photos • 8-hour tour – 60+ photos Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers, this tour blends cultural discovery with lasting memories.

Kanazawa has long been known as the city of traditional crafts to the Japanese people. During the samurai era, the local art scene experienced tremendous growth, as many artists from all over the nation moved and settled here to continue to pursue their arts. This continues to this day, as you can see the city’s strong artistic roots in spots like its timeless historic districts, elegantly curated contemporary museums, and small, off-the-beaten-path spots around every corner. In this tour, our guide will show you the city via its art and famous crafts, while sharing fascinating stories and local insights that will help you not only see, but feel Kanazawa. It is perfect for art lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to explore the city more deeply and at their own pace. You will discover how the city’s creative spirit connects its part, present, and future.