Hidden Gems • 3 hours 5.0
(127)

Secret gems of Kanazawa

Journey through Kanazawa's hidden gems with a local, gaining insider insights on an unforgettable tour.

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

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Ditch the crowds and uncover Kanazawa’s secret side with your savvy local host as your guide.
  • Wander through Utatsuyama Park, a lush city forest bursting with blooms, shrines, and serenity.
  • Step into Nishi Chaya, where geisha and maiko still live, train, and keep centuries-old art alive.
  • Sip and soak up the charm of Kazuemachi, where modern cafés meet riverside tradition.
  • Get more insider tips for unique things to see and do on your trip

What to know before you go

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

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

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

Some of Kanazawa’s most precious districts are overshadowed by more famous areas – but seeing the city through a local’s eyes creates a new perspective. Explore a quiet residential area where pastel-colored Rakugan confections – a Kanazawa specialty – are produced, and learn more about mysterious geisha at the geisha museum and training ground. Visit Utatsuyama Park – an expansive forest in the middle of the city with over 100 types of wildflowers – then forego crowded Higashi Chaya in favor of storybook Kazuemachi, a small riverside district lined with wood-built, feudal-era buildings where ethereal geisha play music and locals move between trendy taprooms and galleries (why not let your host recommend a hidden haunt for a quick coffee?). 

1. Select a date
2. Select start time

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
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Ice Cream Smiles Under a Dappled Gold Screen

Ice Cream Smiles Under a Dappled Gold Screen

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_BR-1237301823

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_BR-1237301823

Serene Stroll by the Lake

Serene Stroll by the Lake

Joyful Stroll Under the Painted Parasol

Joyful Stroll Under the Painted Parasol

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_NSP000890

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_NSP000890

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_NSP000890

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_NSP000890

Journey Through the Majestic Wooden Portal

Journey Through the Majestic Wooden Portal

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_BR-1237301823

Akari_Tsushima_Kanazawa_BR-1237301823

25,772+ 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.

Natalie Nov 2025

I was skeptical at first as I had already walked around and seen a few sights but the inside knowledge of Kanazawa along with many experiences you cannot do yourself. I would not hesitate to book this type of experience in any city I went to. Kanazawa is a favourite after going to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

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Boris Nov 2025

Yuzuki was great!!

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Boris Nov 2025

Yuzuki was a highly knowledgable guide, not just with Kanazawa, but also with Japans history overall. He was able to show me places Off of the beaten path, that I would never have found on my own! I will book again the next time I am back in Kanazawa!

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Kevin Nov 2025

Akari was very personable and spoke excellent English. She gave me a nice lay of the land on my first day here which gave me confidence for my next 2 days exploring Kanazawa. I wanted and received great tips in our 2 hours together.

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Nishita Nov 2025

We had a really wonderful time with Akari, knowledgeable and engaging. She matched her pace to our group, and took time to answer our questions.

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Terry Nov 2025

I definitely recommend this tour guide trip for anyone's first time in Kanazawa! We got to learn a lot from Megumi san, our tour guide. Thank you for a great tour in Kanazawa!

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