Flexible Half-Day Discovery • 4 hours 5.0
(198)

Half a day in Kanazawa

Immerse yourself in a half-day private tour, crafted by a local insider, where iconic sights, geisha allure, and samurai history await.

If you have time, consider making the one hour journey to the historic, picturesque villages of Shirakawago

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • See an area of Kanazawa chosen by your knowledgeable host, but visit locations tailored to your interests
  • Explore central Kanazawa’s attractions, or head off the beaten track to hidden gems recommended by your host (or do a bit of both!)
  • Grab a bite at the “Kitchen of Kanazawa”, Omicho Market, the most popular market in the city
  • See some of the must-see sights, like Oyama Shrine and Kanazawa Castle
  • Have your local host share plenty of tips and recommendations for the rest of your trip

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

4 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Private and personalized experience
4 hours with a host
Walking experience (other transport can be arranged at an additional cost)

What’s not included

Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Kanazawa Station Information Center - The host will be waiting in front of it by the main entrance.

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

A rival to Kyoto as the historic jewel of Japan, Kanazawa is a melting pot of Japanese art, culture, and tradition. With your local host to help you squeeze in as many sights as possible, you’ll experience the perfectly preserved history of this gorgeous city. Entertainment district Higashi Chaya is a must-visit for anyone hoping to spot elusive, ethereal geisha, while a tranquil stroll through Kenroku-en, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, should be on every bucket list. You could browse stalls at the 280-year-old “Kitchen of Kanazawa”, Omicho Market, and see the unique Oyama Shrine with its Dutch-style stained glass on the third floor, or maybe you’ll be content to spend hours at the impressive Kanazawa Castle, the historic seat of power of the Maeda samurai clan. 

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
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Zoe Oct 2025

Our guide was fantastic. I would recommend her to others and go on a tour with her again. She was perfect.

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Selena Sep 2025

Wonderful tour! Harumi was very friendly and informative. Very glad we did this tour, thank you Harumi!

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Lena Sep 2025

The tour was perfect for us. We visited Kenrokuen Garden and the Geisha district and learned a great deal about each of them. Karolina was a terrific guide. She is attentive, speaks perfect English, and knows a great deal about Kanazawa and Japanese culture more generally.

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Eddie Sep 2025

Katie was amazing. She was able to take us through Kanazawa and really show us the culture of the city. My family and I enjoyed the knowledge and history of the geisha district, Samurai residences, Omicho Market. Katie shared a croquette location at the market that i will NEVER forget!! Also, don't forget the gold leaf ice cream!

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Eddie Sep 2025

Katie was amazing. Our trip only had time for 24 hours in Kanazawa. Not only did we delay her start time, she waited for us until we finished the check in for our hotel before we were able to begin. Her knowledge allowed us to connect with the city and culture that Kanazawa what to offer. Also. The booking process was nothing short of amazing, Katie was extremely communicative and asked what we wanted to see in Kanazawa 48 hours in advance. This allowed her to work her magic and put together a great itinerary for us and check off every box. Thank you Kati!!

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Alfred Sep 2025

Sho worked hard between helping us plan our day to over 17k steps in the blazing afternoon heat to wisely planned rest stops along the way. We did the castle (where we found the construction techniques interesting), Kenruoken garden and the kimono museum. Don’t miss the small private garden adjacent to Kenruoken.

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