Kanazawa originally flourished as the castle town of the Kaga Clan during the Edo era. The city has not only preserved well the traditional architectures and crafts from those times but also successfully incorporated modern design and technology. The rich supply of fresh seafood adds another reason for many visitors to make a trip to this charming town.
Sample Itinerary (8.5-hour tour)
Leave your hotel in central Kanazawa Start the tour by strolling around Nagamachi Bukeyashiki District, known as "samurai district", where former samurai residences can be found. The area preserves the historic atmosphere with narrow alleys, clay walls, and gates to samurai residences. Visit Nomurake, a residence of a former high ranked samurai family, where visitors can learn about the lifestyle of powerful samurais and enjoy a beautiful Japanese garden. Move on to Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum where two simple houses of common foot soldiers house are relocated. It will be interesting to see the comparison of the daily life of a lower class samurai through the various displays. 
Then, visit Kanazawa Castle Park. From 1583 until the end of Edo Period (1867), Kanazawa Castle was seat to the powerful Maeda Clan. The donjon was burned down by lightning in 1602 and was never rebuilt. Other castle buildings were burnt down several times over the centuries, but most central structures have been rebuilt.
Located next to the castle is Kenrokuen Garden, recognized as one of three most beautiful Japanese gardens. Visitors can appreciate scenic seasonal views at this stroll-type garden with ponds, traditional architecture structures, beautifully trimmed pine trees and stone lanterns.
Omicho market is a must visit market for food lovers. Kanazawa's most popular and vibrant market sells fresh seafood and local vegetables. Facing Japan Sea, Kanazawa is famous for its high quality fresh fish and seafood. Enjoy lunch in or around the market.
In the afternoon move to Higashi Chaya District, a former geisha quarter. 
Enjoy strolling around the picturesque street with several tea houses, former geisha house, cafes and craft shops of gold leaf products, Kutani pottery, lacquer wear, Kaga Yuzen (textile) products and more. Join a group Gilding workshop. Gold leaf making was established in Kanazawa about 400 years ago. Small amount gold will be hammered into extremely thin sheets in 0.1 to 0.125 millionths of a meter. At the workshop, choose from decorating chopsticks, a small dish or a small box using gold leaf and take it home as a souvenir from Kanazawa. Nowadays, gold leaf is used not only for craftworks but also for cosmetics, building decorations and even for food.
If you are interested, try soft ice cream covered with gold leaf, which has become Kanazawa's new popular local specialty (at your expense).
17:00 Back at you hotel
Photo credit : Kanazawa City
Options
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Museums
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Traditional Cultural Activities
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Price for this sample itinerary
(price per group)
| 2 persons | 3 persons | 4 persons | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.5 hours | 85,000 yen | 92,000 yen | 106,000 yen |
(10% consumption tax included)
Including: Nationally-licensed English-speaking tour guide, admission fees, public transportations, service charge and consumption tax
Not Including: Lunch
Note:
- Our private tours can be customized to your interests and preferences. Let us know any place you wish to visit. If you would like to include one of the activities/sites among above-mentioned "Options, please let us know.
- The price is for the sample itinerary above. Price may be subject to change depending on the acitivities/sites you choose.
- Private car can be arranged for extra fee.
- Tours can be arranged for a larger group. We will recommend appropriate transportation taking your group size into consideration.
Payment
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Request for a Private Tour
Why tour with us?
- Customized Private Tour
We will customize your own tour depending on your interests and preferences. Since all tours are private tours, you can enjoy your tour thoroughly at your pace.
- Nationally-Licensed Guides
Our locally-based guides who are knowledgeable, friendly and flexible ensure pleasant, comfortable and worry-free tours.
- Authentic Experiences
Our travel consultants from all over Japan with network and knowledge - not just highlights but also off the beaten paths - work passionately to enrich your experiences.
Private Tours in other destinations
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We can also arrange privately-guided tours in other destinations throughout Japan. Also, your tours can be tailored to your specific interests such as culture, food, and nature.
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