All Chubu Tours & Excursions in 2026

This private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories of Japan. You will be taken to the city’s most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

Explore Kanazawa your way on a private, fully customizable family tour designed entirely around your interests. This isn’t a rigid itinerary—it’s a flexible, immersive experience led by a passionate local who brings the city to life through personal stories and insider knowledge. Visit iconic landmarks and discover hidden corners. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests and preferences. Based on your responses, we’ll match you with a like-minded local host who will reach out directly to help plan your perfect family adventure in Kanazawa. Private, 100% personalized family experience – no fixed itinerary Visit both iconic sights & hidden gems: geisha districts, markets, gardens & more Pre-tour questionnaire ensures every experience is truly one-of-a-kind Hands-on cultural immersion – discover, taste, engage like a local Designed around your pace with room for spontaneous moments

Step into the peaceful world of Daijoji Temple, one of Kanazawa’s most important Soto Zen temples, and experience Zen through the guidance of a Buddhist monk. This private experience offers a rare opportunity to explore the temple, learn about Zen and practice Zazen meditation directly under the guidance of a resident monk, with an English-speaking interpreter throughout the experience. Away from the usual tourist sites, discover a quieter and more authentic side of Kanazawa through its living Zen tradition.

Learn about the history of Kanazawa on this guided private tour with a government-licensed and English-speaking guide. Rest assured knowing that you will not have to worry about transportation during this tour as you will have a private vehicle. Enjoy the flexibility of being able to pick a set itinerary, or customize your own. Potential attractions include all Must-See spots in Kanazawa, so please explore at your own pace and visit sights such as Kenrokuen garden, one of the "Three Great Gardens of Japan"; the expansive Higashi Chaya District, a traditional teahouse district founded in the Edo Period; Omicho Market, Kanazawa's largest fresh food market; Nagamachi Samurai district.

Originating from Kanazawa, Kutani ware is a distinctive style of Japanese porcelain famous for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. As the only Kutani ware kiln in the city, Kutani Kosen Kiln, established in 1870, remains one of the most revered ceramic studios in the region. The kiln produces exquisite handcrafted pottery using time-honored techniques, with skilled craftsmen specializing in the delicate art of painting and glazing. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn the drawing techniques on Kutani ware. During this approx. 1 hour workshop, you will sketch and draw your design on a blank vessel and select your preferable colors from the Japanese pallette for your design before the workshop is concluded. Later, your work will be completed by a skilled craftsmen based on your selected colors by using traditional Kutani pigments. After painting, the piece will be fired in the kiln and shipped to you within about three months (shipping fee is at your expense).

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.

The scenic rural Echizen area is famous for its rich history of traditional Japanese crafts. One of these crafts is washi, or traditional Japanese paper. Come get a rare hands on experience of visiting authentic washi factories and speaking with craftsmen. Guests also get to try their hand at making their very own washi paper. Also as part of the tour, guests get to visit beautiful Otaki Shrine which is dedicated to the god of paper. *Washi factory may change due to availability.

Capture lasting memories with Mount Fuji as your stunning backdrop during a dedicated photoshoot. A vehicle will pick you up from Kawaguchiko Station, whisking you to the perfect location for your session. Over the course of two hours, a professional photographer will snap over 100 unedited photos and provide you with 10 beautifully retouched images to cherish your adventure. - Free private vehicle pickup from Kawaguchiko Station - About 30 minutes round trip by car to reach the destination - Enjoy 1.5hour photoshoot with Mount Fuji views - Receive over 100 unedited photos and 8 retouched images - Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for unique keepsakes

Experience Japan in a Traditional Kimono at WARGO Step into Japanese culture by wearing a beautiful kimono and exploring the streets around any WARGO store nationwide. Capture stunning photos, create unforgettable memories, and fully immerse yourself in the timeless Japanese atmosphere. Choose from a wide range of kimonos, from classic traditional patterns to modern designs. Our experienced staff will assist you with dressing, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience. Plus-size kimonos are available, so everyone can join in! Your package includes the kimono, sash belt (obi), Japanese clutch, sandals, and socks. Hairstyling is also available at an additional cost for those who want the complete look. The dressing process is quick—often under an hour—so you can set off on your adventure right away. Make your visit truly special by stepping out in style, exploring, and creating lasting memories at any WARGO store across Japan!

Emphasize the traditional approach to mochi-making using a mortar and pestle, the festive, communal atmosphere ideal for families and large groups, and the use of high-quality local ingredients like Shin Taisho rice and water from the Tateyama Mountain Range. This experience not only offers a taste of authentic Japanese culture but also the joy of creating and tasting your own mochi.

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.

Discover the intriguing legacy of Seki, a city renowned for its exceptional sword-making craft that has evolved over centuries. This immersive tour delves into the history of Japanese swords, exploring the traditional forging techniques that have shaped both samurai swords and contemporary cutting tools. Participants will gain insight into the artistry behind Seki blades, from their historical significance to their modern adaptations in kitchen knives and other tools. Conclude the tour by browsing a diverse selection of locally crafted items, with expert guidance available for those looking to find the perfect blade for their needs. - Explore the rich history of Japanese sword-making in Seki - Learn about traditional forging techniques and their modern applications - View and compare a variety of Seki-made blades and tools - Receive expert advice on selecting the right knife or tool for your needs

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.

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!

This 4hr private customized walking tour includes a 2hr Geisha (Geigi) performance and dinner experience! Explore the beautiful town of Kanazawa with your English-speaking guide, who will efficiently show you the city, such as Kenrokuen Garden—one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens—Higashi Chaya District, a teahouse area from the Edo period. After the walk, enjoy a rare Geisha experience—typically not open to first-time visitors—in a private setting at a historic machiya. Watch elegant traditional dance and join in ozashiki games. Then savor a beautifully prepared Shokado bento dinner from a long-established ryotei (traditional Japanese fine dining restaurant). Choose 2-3 spots from the list in the tour information to create your itinerary and inform your guide post booking. Note*1:Children age 6 and under are free. Dinner not included, but you may bring food. Note*2:Minimum charge is for two adults, so if your group has one adult and one child, please count the child as an adult.

[10:30] Meet at Mikuni Station & Mikuni Town Walk [11:00] Bonsai Experience at Mikunien [12:00] Tour Ends Guided walking tour through the historic district of Mikuni, a town that once flourished through the Kitamaebune trade. Experience local culture amidst retro streetscapes filled with traditional architecture and the legacy of the Mikuni Festival. Enjoy a hands-on ""apprentice-style"" bonsai workshop, assisting with basic pruning and shaping at a local studio. Watch a live demonstration by a master artisan to discover the aesthetics and cultural depth of Japanese bonsai. A light, inbound-friendly craft experience featuring great photo opportunities and direct interaction with the artisan.

Explore the beautiful mountain settlement of Shirakawa-go via chartered vehicle exclusively for you and your travelmates. Your English-speaking driver will take you to the World Heritage Site of fairy-tale village Shirakawa-go. Shirakawa-go is a remote settlement designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. As the region receives considerable snowfall in the winter, the farmhouses are well-known for their distinctive architecture featuring steep roofs to easily shed snow. Learn more about this unique village on a full-day chartered vehicle tour with English-speaking driver. On this day trip departing from Takayama, leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind to wander around a unique village, stroll through historic streets, take in stunning mountain landscapes, and enjoy a lunch made of authentic local ingredients. Your driver will customize your four-hour tour according to your interests and requests!

Step into the world of sake production like never before at Niigata Ichiryu Sake Brewery, known for its Bairi brand. This unique experience unveils the intricate bottling process, the pivotal moment that shapes how sake arrives in your glass. Witness the active bottling line, where sake is meticulously filtered, filled, sealed, and labeled. A knowledgeable guide will illuminate the importance of temperature control and hygiene, demonstrating how even minor variations can impact aroma and taste. Conclude with a guided tasting of three specially selected sake varieties, highlighting the significance of careful handling in preserving flavor and balance.

Fukui private full day tour + PHOTOSHOOT. Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories in Japan. You will be taken to the Japan's most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

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 ours that offers you a chance to truly experience Kanazawa'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. Our 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 traditional furoshiki that you make yourself!

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 Higashi Chaya district, where cobblestone streets and traditional teahouses will transport you to the era of geishas, offering a unique atmosphere full of history and elegance. This tour offers an immersive experience of Japan’s culture and heritage.

Magome is easy to explore independently, but its stone streets reveal much more when you understand why they were built and how the Nakasendo actually worked. On this private 90-minute tour, look beyond the picturesque townscape and discover Magome as part of the transportation network that once connected Edo and Kyoto. Learn how travelers found food, accommodation, horses, and information while crossing the mountainous interior of Japan. Your guide explains details that are easy to overlook, including the purpose of the masugata bends, the former official notice boards, the organization of the town around the highway, and the rules imposed on people traveling during the Edo period. Unlike a full-day hike between Magome and Tsumago, this compact experience focuses entirely on understanding Magome. It is ideal for travelers who are visiting independently but want historical context without committing to a long-distance walk.

This tour mainly focuses on guiding you through Kenrokuen Garden and the Higashi Chaya District, two of Kanazawa’s most iconic and beautiful areas. While walking at a relaxed pace, you will learn about local history, culture, and daily life, and enjoy the atmosphere of Kanazawa in the morning. Other nearby landmarks may be introduced briefly depending on time and interest, but the main highlights of this tour are Kenrokuen Garden and Higashi Chaya District.

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.