City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5.0

(60)

Kickstart your trip to Kanazawa

Begin your Kanazawa journey with this essential tour; see key sights and get insider tips to enrich your stay in this historic city.

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 some of central Kanazawa’s most famous attractions (and a couple reserved for in-the-know locals)
Explore beautiful nature, bustling city and historical sites in just three hours
Take the opportunity to try some of Kanazawa’s most popular cuisine at Omicho Market
Set yourself up for a successful trip by learning how to navigate the city like a local
Have a helpful host to share expert 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.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Private and personalized experience

3 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

Your hotel/apartment or any other central location

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

Buckle up for a practical crash course in getting around Kanazawa like a pro – and a golden opportunity to check out a couple of the city’s must-sees along the way. With your sensei – er, local host – leading the way, you’ll get a feel for the city center, starting at the 120-year-old Kanazawa Station and its surrounding hub of stores, restaurants, and, of course, the exquisite Tsuzumi Gate, an unofficial symbol of the city. At Omicho Market, the “Kitchen of Kanazawa”, join locals browsing stalls packed with mouthwatering food (and get plenty of delicious recommendations from your local insider), then head to Kenroku-en Garden, a famous Japanese landscaped garden that’s conveniently situated right by the bustling downtown Katamachi shopping district.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

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Ice Cream Smiles Under a Dappled Gold Screen

Serene Stroll by the Lake

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

25,647+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google

recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor

We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

Liam Nov 2025

Megumi was a fantastic and kind guide! She went above and beyond making sure we got to see what we wanted to see. Learnt so much about the history and culture of her beautiful city. Would highly recommend to anyone visiting!

Liam Nov 2025

Megumi was a fantastic and kind tour guide! She went above and beyond making sure we saw what we wanted to see. She gave us great insights and knowledge of history and culture of her home of Kanazawa. Would highly recommend to anyone visiting this beautiful city.

Tania Nov 2025

Megu was friendly and informative. An excellent way to learn about Kanazawa city!

Jennifer Nov 2025

Akari was very patient, engaging, knowledgeable, friendly and fun. We loved shopping and seeing the beautiful Samurai houses. We learned a lot of history. She allowed us to ask as many questions as we wanted and also gave us recommendation. Akari was perfect for us.

Joseph Nov 2025

Megumi is a friendly, organized and knowleageable guide who is very responsive to her guest’s interests and preferences. She also provided great local insights and tips. Highly recommended.

Paul Nov 2025

The walking was a great pace, we actually went inside of a Geisha’s performance property. Over heard Geishas practicing their instruments which we could hear them from the street. Actually saw x2 Geisha’s Went into a. Samari’s property lower and higher ranking and was able to ask any question to our fabulous guide Selda. .

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