City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5.0 (12)

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.

What travelers think of this experience

Rae Mar 2025

Akari was easy to talk to as she showed me the sights. She has a great personality and was a pleasure to be with today.

William Feb 2025

Relaxed , flexible approach, allowing us to choose

James Nov 2024

The guide was also extremely knowledgeable on Kanazawa locations and history. She was able to add depth and detail I'd have missed on my own, showing me locations I would have missed and explaining their importance.

Judy Jun 2024

She treated me like a visiting friend. We ate at the fish market, saw some historic local streets, and wore some kimonos. It was a nice time in a laid back town. This is better than being in the crowed cities.

Dianne May 2024

Akari is very knowledgeable about Kanazawa and was able to impart that knowledge very effectively so we learnt a lot about the city.

Michael May 2024

One of the best guides I have ever had. It was a perfect time.

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