Full-Day Tour from Kanazawa: Samurai, Matcha, Gardens and Geisha
5.0
8 Ratings
金沢市
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Kanazawa with our full-day tour. Discover the city's must-see spots, hidden gems, and indulge in matcha and traditional sweets. Join us for an enriching and unforgettable experience!
Duration: 9 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Ashigaru Museum - The tour starts with a visit to the Ashigaru Museum. Ashigaru is a word describing low ranking Samurai, and here you can enter two homes that once belonged to Ashigaru families in the days of the Samurai. Outside, you will find beautiful landscaping, and inside faithfully preserved rooms granting a glimpse into old-school Japanese life.
What's Included
  • Visit the historic Shima Chaya Preserved Geisha House
  • Tour with an English-speaking guide for better understanding
  • Discover the beauty of Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens
  • Enjoy traditional Matcha tea and Wagashi sweets at Gyokusen-an Tea House
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
Additional Information

Our excursion presents an optimal path to visit all of Kanazawa’s top sights, and some hidden treasures, in a single day by foot. Our expert guides make sure you gain a deep appreciation of Kanazawa’s culture. Participants will also get a chance to savor Matcha and traditional sweets at a historic tea house, fostering a bond with Kanazawa and its traditions in a brief period. If you wish to optimize your time in Kanazawa, we recommend this tour that is comprehensive but not tiring.

  • 1 hour short of the posted 9 hours because there is a 1 hour lunch break that is included in the tour. The customers are able to choose their own restaurant to eat at with recommendations from the guide at this time.
Location
Kanazawa Station
The meeting point is outside of the Shinkansen Ticket Gates, across the concourse and in front of the information center. Look for a four large sumo wrestlers under the information center sign. Be sure to look for our guide wearing the SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tag.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(8 Ratings)
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Debpd9910ru
Apr 29, 2024
I was very lucky ! - Garrett was great fun to talk with and very knowledgeable about the history of the area and more. It just so happened that I was the only traveler this day, so Garrett was able to adjust the tour to me- so rather than just having a rote script, he could tell me about things I expressed interest in, and could point out things that he knew I would be interested in. I definitely saw places and got to do things that I never would have found on my own. Especially when you only have a day or so in a place, it is so worth the money to have someone who could show you around like a friend would. Arigato Gozaimaste Garrett!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Francis_w
Apr 19, 2024
Unusually interesting - My wife and I toured this itinerary, and are exceptionally pleased with the tour, and in particular the tour guide, Garrett Weeden. What made it especially interesting was the attention and accommodation he provided our group. It was essentially a walking informative tour of interesting places. The guide was very knowledgeable in the history, culture, geography of Kanazawa and presented his talk which drew an absorbing interest from us. The walk through the Geisha District, as well as the history of the Samurai was typically engaging, as we walked around the streets of old Japan. My favorite was savoring the Matcha (green tea, served in unique Japanese style) in a typical Tea house. In the front view was a delightful pond/garden just adjacent to the Kanazawa castle. The Kenrokuen Garden was a delight; a perfect landscaped garden with ponds, teahouses, variety of trees, and let’s not forget the cherry blossoms which were in early bloom. The sunny weather did enhance our outing, but much credit goes to the gratifying sights, enriching experience and interesting talk by the guide who provided us a good understanding of Kanazawa culture and history. It was quite a walk (about 10 miles), but we (70-year olds) made it through pretty well. I must say we are indeed happy that this tour was a part of our vacation. –Frank Wallis
Review provided by Viator
The_o
Apr 17, 2024
A great and interesting way to see Kanazawa - We had a great day tour with Garret. He is extremely knowledgable regarding Japanese culture and history. The pace of the day was ideal, not too rushed. We toured many areas and Garret gave us great information on each location. We ended the day with sake tasting. It was an awesome day out.
Review provided by Viator
Jane_h
Apr 15, 2024
Loved the day! Garret was such a knowledgeable guide! - Our guide, Garett was very knowledgeable, enjoyable and helpful. Loved the entire tour, samurai housing, geisha historical area, lunch recommendations, gardens, and matcha tea experience!
Review provided by Viator
Kevana_n
Apr 10, 2024
Amazing!! - Garett our guide was exceptional! He was well versed in the culture and history of the landmarks we visited. This experience allowed me to appreciate the tour of Kanazawa in a more meaningful way. I would recommend Garrett for this tour!
Review provided by Viator
Sarahhd8106qf
Apr 6, 2024
Kanazawa visit - The tour hit all the spots in Kanazawa we really wanted to see. Our tour guide, Garrett, kept the group on time and really knew the history of the area and Japan. Fun and informative day.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Francisk_h
Mar 1, 2024
A very enjoyable and educational tour - We had a great time with Garrett, our guide. His knowledge of the history and culture of old (and new) Japan and Kanazawa blended well with the places and things he showed us. We especially liked the Kenrokuen Gardens and the Higashi Chaya district. Recommend this tour everyone. One note: this is totally a walking tour.
Review provided by Viator
Aulsod
Nov 10, 2023
Excellent day spent in Kanazawa - We spent the day with Garret, who was an excellent tour guide. Very knowledgeable and entertaining. Learned a treat deal of Japan’s history, visited beautiful gardens, walked the city throughout. Be prepared to walk at least 10 miles on this tour. Well worth it!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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