All Ishikawa Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Kanazawa is a walkable city but many of its top attractions are spread out. Let the experts lead you along the best route to ensure that you don't miss out on any of Kanazawa's must-see spots—as well as some of the city's lesser-known gems. This small-group walking tour is limited to just 15 guests and immerses you in the history and culture of this fascinating Japanese city.

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route offers a remarkable journey through Japan's Northern Japan Alps, showcasing stunning alpine scenery and unique transportation experiences. Traverse the route via cable cars, ropeways, and buses, while witnessing breathtaking landscapes that change with the seasons. Highlights include the famous Yuki-no-Otani Snow Corridor in spring, vibrant autumn foliage, and the impressive Kurobe Dam. Each season reveals a different side of this natural wonder, making it a year-round destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. -Take comfortable bus from Nagano/Kanazawa, explore Northern Alps. -Spring-limited "Snow Wall Valley", a spectacular snow wall landscape that you must see once. -Visit world-class engineering marvel, the Kurobe Dam, experience firsthand the magnificent grandeur of Japan's largest dam. -Enjoy unique journey using six different mountain transportation in one day. -Special gift: Hokushinetsu specialty and local cuisine "Sasa Sushi".

Seeing Kanazawa's top attractions in a short time can take a lot of planning, so let this small-group tour do the hard work for you. A carefully planned itinerary takes you to Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, the Samurai District, and the Higashi Chaya District, with admission to Kenrokuen Garden and Nomura House included to save time. Also, an included taxi ride between districts helps you cover more ground in less time.

Visit two of Japan’s most picturesque UNESCO World Heritage villages in just one day, without the hassle of navigating rural bus schedules or planning a complex day trip. This guided tour combines round-trip transportation from Kanazawa, a local guide's insight, and free time to explore the historic gassho-style farmhouses (a style of traditional Japanese architecture) of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama at your own pace.

This full-day tour checks off two fascinating locations in one go—a great way to learn more about Japan's history and culture if you're short on time. Spend your morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, a village famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. In the afternoon, head to Kanazawa to visit the Kenrokuen Garden and Higashi Chaya District. Make and taste traditional Japanese sweets, and watch a craftsperson make gold leaf.

The atmospheric geisha districts of Kanazawa make it a magical place to explore at night, and this tour helps you do just that. Led by a guide, so you don’t get lost, enjoy a route through dimly-lit streets lined with ancient tea houses. Then, once you’ve worked up an appetite, a multi-course meal is included.

Beat the crowds that flock to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go by opting for this morning tour from Kanazawa. You'll arrive at the village bright and early, with plenty of time to explore the surrounding area. Snap photos of traditional houses, listen as your guide provides context and insight, and choose whether to try local foods such as ice cream made with sake, or Hida beef (own expense).

Getting to UNESCO World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawa-go and the historic streets of Hida Takayama in one day can be tricky to plan without prior knowledge. Save yourself the hassle of navigating rural transportation on your own, and relax on this handy guided tour from Kanazawa. As you explore, gain local insight into what you see, and take a break to sample an authentic Japanese lunch.

Discover Kanazawa on a private, fully customizable half-day tour tailored to your interests and led by a passionate local host. Explore highlights like Kenrokuen Garden, the Samurai District, and Higashi Chaya, while uncovering hidden gems and hearing personal stories and cultural insights. With flexible start times and a bespoke itinerary, this immersive experience is perfect for first-time visitors or those seeking a deeper connection with the city.

Experience the traditional Japanese metalworking technique known as “Tankin” by creating your own handmade ring. In this workshop, you can choose your preferred material, thickness, shape, and texture, then customize your ring using special hammers and tools to create unique patterns and finishes. The experience takes about one hour, and our staff will carefully guide you through each step of the process. We will also help you take memorable photos during the workshop. Skilled craftsmen will complete the final polishing and cleaning, ensuring your ring is beautifully finished. You can take your handmade ring home on the same day, making it a perfect souvenir or meaningful gift from Japan. Whether you join alone or with someone special, this workshop offers a fun and creative experience where you can craft a one-of-a-kind ring that reflects your personal style. Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own ring and creating unforgettable memories in Japan!

Itinerary Time Table: Kanazawa (Dep. 13:50) → Shirakawago (Arr. 15:10, Dep. 16:40) → Takayama (Arr. 17:40) *Please note that times may vary due to traffic conditions. **Please arrive at the station 10 minutes before the departure time. Please note: This is a transportation service only and not a guided tour. Embark on a captivating journey from Kanazawa to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Japan. Step back in time and marvel at the well-preserved thatched-roof houses, a testament to centuries of traditional craftsmanship and culture. During your 1.5 hour stop, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the village with a self-guided walking tour map given to you by the driver, leading you to a carefully selected viewpoint. Capture stunning photographs, walk along the charming streets, and perhaps visit some of the local shops.

If you only have limited time to discover Japan, then this private sightseeing tour is a smart choice. Maximize your vacation time by checking off multiple dispersed sites in a day in Takayama and Shirakawa-go. Along the way, enjoy plenty of great photo opportunities, with a chance to see Gassho-style houses, Hida Folk Village, and Takayama Betsuin Shorenji Temple.

Explore the beauty of Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens, and witness the majesty of Kanazawa Castle's exterior. This essential walking tour offers an in-depth look at the garden's rich history, its cultural significance, and its deep connection to the adjacent Kanazawa Castle Park. Guided by knowledgeable local experts in small groups, you will discover the historical link between the garden, which served as the outer garden of the feudal lord's residence, and the castle grounds across the street. Guides will explain how these two landmarks, the castle's restored architecture and the garden's exquisite design, tell the story of the powerful Kaga Domain. Participants will uncover hidden gems and insights often missed during solo visits, making it an enriching experience for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking to understand Japan's heritage.

Kanazawa's samurai heritage is one of the city's most interesting features, but you can easily miss the details if exploring on your own. This walking tour takes you through the well-preserved Nagamachi Samurai District, Kanazawa Castle, and Kenrokuen Garden with included admission fees, guided by a local expert who reveals the stories of the samurai who shaped the city.

Explore Omicho Market with a Local Guide Learn about seasonal seafood, local ingredients, and Kanazawa’s everyday market culture. Optional Shopping and Food Purchases Your guide will introduce recommended shops and local specialties. Food, drinks, samples, and tastings are not included and may be purchased at your own expense. Discover the Traditional Geisha District Walk through Higashi Chaya’s wooden teahouses, narrow streets, gold-leaf shops, and historic atmosphere. Find Hidden Details and Photo Spots Discover local stories, viewpoints, and details that are easy to miss when exploring alone. Enjoy a Friendly Small-Group Cultural Walk Ask questions, chat with your guide, and explore Kanazawa at a relaxed pace.

Using pre-cut masking tape stencils in various beautiful designs, you'll apply authentic gold leaf to create your own unique artwork. This beginner-friendly workshop allows you to master this centuries-old Japanese craft technique while surrounded by the traditional architecture and atmosphere of one of Japan's most preserved historic districts.

Explore Omicho Market, known as "Kanazawa’s Kitchen," on an exciting walking food tour with a local guide! Enjoy a variety of local gourmet dishes you can only find here, including fresh seafood rice bowls, seasonal Japanese sweets, and traditional ingredients. Feel the lively atmosphere of the market while learning about Kanazawa’s food culture and history in a fun and engaging way. Whether you're a tourist or a street food lover, this tour is packed with delights. Come experience the delicious flavors of Kanazawa with all five senses! To ensure that guests can enjoy tastings and experiences at many different shops, this tour is generally limited to a maximum of two groups. In some cases, there may be up to three groups, but please rest assured that this does not affect the quality of the tour! If you’re looking for a more relaxed and flexible experience, we recommend booking a private tour. Please feel free to contact us if you’re interested.

Visit Shirakawago in the Japanese Alps to see the historical and beautiful old thatched houses of Japan stand strong. These houses are over 150 years old and still are lived in today. After seeing the natural beauty of Shirakawago, head to Takayama to see the various traditional crafts the area keeps alive. Join one of our tour guides 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 take you to Shirakawago and Takayama 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!

Skip mass-produced souvenirs and create a unique memory to take home from Kanazawa. Join skilled craftspeople in a hands-on workshop to design a ring that reflects your personal style, choosing details such as the material, texture, shape, and thickness. Leave with a custom-made ring crafted by you, which is ready to take home the same day.

Get out of the big city and into the beautiful landscapes of rural Toyama on this tour from Kanazawa. Admire the distinctive thatched-roof houses of the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go and Gokayama villages; admire the artistry of the woodcarvers of Inami; and learn how to make your own piece of *washi* paper.

From ¥9,900 p.p. (min. 2) | Same-day OK — book up to 2 hours before. Fully private, no strangers, just your group. A 19-year tea master guides you through authentic Enshu-ryū ceremony in a 100-year-old machiya in Kanazawa’s Nishi Chaya geisha district. Step inside a 100-year-old machiya in Kanazawa’s Nishi Chaya geisha district for a completely private tea ceremony. Your host Yuta has practiced tea for 19 years in the Enshu-ryū tradition, rooted in samurai culture. This is not a group workshop — it is an intimate ceremony performed exclusively for you, in a tea room with tatami and tokonoma alcove. During the 70-minute session, you will: · Watch a full tea ceremony demonstration · Whisk your own bowl of matcha. · Enjoy traditional dry sweets (higashi) · Ask anything — about tea, aesthetics, or Kanazawa · Take a commemorative photo Completely private. No other guests. No rush. English-guided throughout. Please note: · Socks recommended · Additional guests: ¥9,900/person (max 5)

The only Kutani ceramic kiln in Kanazawa, opened in 1870 (Meiji 3). We make ceranics by manual from clay blending, shaping on the wheel to final coloring. We sell Kutani ware pottery made by our kiln, and also offer studio tours, pottery making and painting workshops. You can try your hand at the potter's wheel using Kutani ware clay. Kutani ware clay is made from a ceramic stone called "porcelain clay," which is very fine and has a unique texture. The clay is very fine and has a unique feel to it. Unlike ordinary pottery clay, it can be difficult to work with, but the potter will guide you through the process until the finished product is ready. The finished product will be sent to you in about five months.

Kanazawa is home to stroll gardens, teahouses, and magnificent architecture that dates back to the Edo Period, but understanding the history behind its most notable sites requires a lot of research. Save yourself time, and learn about Kanazawa from a local’s perspective by going on a customized walking tour. You can select the places you visit—such as Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle—then a private guide provides fascinating commentary and cultural insights along the way.