5 Best Things to do in Kanazawa, Japan

Wondering how to make the most of your time in Kanazawa? You found the experts!

Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most underrated gems—a city where samurai streets, geisha districts, and feudal gardens still feel alive. We fell in love with its mix of history, culture, and food, and honestly, it quickly became one of our favorite places in Japan.

To help you experience it the way we did, we’ve hand-picked the very best tours that showcase the city’s highlights while adding depth and local flavor. Each one gave us a richer connection to Kanazawa than we ever could have found on our own. Come along as we share our top five experiences!

Things to do in Kanazawa

1. Learn how to cook traditional Japanese dishes

Eating sushi in Japan is unforgettable, but learning how to make it for yourself in this Japanese cooking class took the experience to another level. Held at a 56-year-old culinary school in Kanazawa, just three minutes from the station, this fully hands-on experience had us truly cooking, not just watching.

With guidance from a professional local chef, you will prepare five authentic dishes: nigiri sushi with fish sourced from Omicho Market, Kanazawa’s signature jibuni chicken stew, a fluffy rolled omelet, traditional miso soup, and seasonal sides. Each recipe is rooted in local flavors and made with premium, seasonal ingredients—the very same suppliers trusted by Michelin-listed restaurants. 

This experience is made easier by using real-time AI translation to ensure smooth communication in English, so you can focus on cooking rather than language barriers. Plus, class sizes are capped at just eight people, which means you get personal attention and the chance to ask questions as you go. 

To round out the experience, you can put on a sushi chef uniform for commemorative photos, sit down to enjoy our creations with a local drink, and leave with recipes, a personalized certificate, and new skills to bring Japanese flavors back home.

2. Visit the UNESCO-listed town of Shirakawa-go

We wanted to see both Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa, but trying to fit them into a short trip felt impossible. This full-day guided tour solved that for us, combining both destinations into one seamless itinerary. With transport, entry fees, and activities all arranged, we were free to just enjoy Japan’s history and culture without stressing about logistics.

The morning took us to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village famous for its thatched-roof gassho-zukuri farmhouses, designed to resemble hands pressed in prayer. 

We strolled through the fairytale-like streets, had time to explore at our own pace, and even headed up to the Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck for sweeping views of the village below. Lunch was flexible—we sampled local specialties right in the village.

In the afternoon, the tour shifted to Kanazawa, where highlights included Kenrokuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, and the charming Higashi Chaya District, known for its historic teahouses and gold-leaf ice cream. Along the way, we also enjoyed interactive experiences like making traditional Japanese sweets and painting Daruma dolls, and even trying our hand at a gold leaf craft.

Our guide, Yashumi, made the day even better with her warmth and deep knowledge—something echoed by THOUSANDS of glowing five-star reviews from other travelers.

We loved this tour because it packed so much culture and beauty into a single day, leaving us with memories that felt like we’d spent a week exploring. For anyone short on time but eager to experience the best of both worlds, this trip is truly a gem!

3. Explore Kanazawa with a local guide

Exploring a city as historic as Kanazawa can feel overwhelming—you want to see the samurai district, the castle, and Kenrokuen Garden, but it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why this private full-day tour can make all the difference! With transport and entry all taken care of, we were free to focus on the city’s incredible history and culture.

The day begins at Kenrokuen Garden, often called the most beautiful in Japan. Walking among ponds, teahouses, and seasonal flowers with the guide explaining their Edo-era origins will give you a deeper appreciation than exploring on your own. From there, explore the grounds of Kanazawa Castle, see the massive Ishikawa Mon gate, and learn about the power of the Maeda clan.

The samurai district of Nagamachi was a highlight, with its mud-and-straw walls and preserved residences that will truly transport you back in time. To finish it off, you will wander the atmospheric lanes of the Higashi Chaya District, where geisha once entertained in wooden teahouses.

Exploring with a local guide will truly make your day in Kanazawa unforgettable. You can discover how the history of the samurai and geisha traditions differ from other regions of Japan, and hear a local’s family history. You’ll end up not only seeing Kanazawa’s highlights, but also understanding its spirit, making it one of the most meaningful experiences of your trip!

4. Take a food tour through the Geisha district

Kanazawa feels completely different after dark—the lantern-lit streets and wooden teahouses take on a magic that’s easy to miss during the day. That’s why we joined this small-group night tour through the city’s geisha districts, and it quickly became one of our favorite ways to experience Kanazawa’s history and culture.

We met our guide along the Asanogawa River before weaving into the narrow alleys of the Higashi Chaya District. Walking past Edo-era teahouses glowing softly under the streetlights, we listened to stories about the lives of geisha and the hidden world of Kanazawa’s entertainment quarters. 

From there, we crossed into the atmospheric Kazuemachi Chayagai, where time seemed to slow. The preserved wooden buildings and silent alleys made us feel like we’d stepped back centuries. Our guide added layers of history, pointing out places we might have walked past without even noticing.

The evening ended perfectly with a multi-course Japanese dinner at a local restaurant. The menu changed seasonally, but we enjoyed beautifully prepared dishes featuring fresh seafood, local beef, and delicate sweets. Sharing this experience with just a handful of others made it feel personal and relaxed.

By the time we left, we knew we’d seen a side of Kanazawa most visitors miss—the quiet beauty, hidden stories, and flavors that come alive at night. It was the perfect mix of history, atmosphere, and dining, and a true highlight of our trip. And we’re not alone—this tour has over a HUNDRED five-star reviews!

5. Cruise through Kanazawa on an e-bike

After a few days, we quickly discovered the best way to see Kanazawa wasn’t on foot—it was by e-bike. This small-group tour let us explore far more than we could have managed alone, and it made the day feel effortless instead of rushed.

We started at Kanazawa Station, cycling past the striking Tsuzumi Gate before heading into the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District. Pedaling quietly through the lantern-lined streets, our guide, Ti, brought the area to life with stories of geisha traditions, teahouse culture, and even tips on where to find the best local restaurants after the tour.

From there, we rode up to Kenrokuen Garden, where our guide explained the six elements of classical garden design as we paused to admire its beauty. The route took us around the imposing walls of Kanazawa Castle, through the restored Gyokusen’inmaru Garden, and finally into Nagamachi, the samurai quarter. 

Rolling down its narrow, stone-paved lanes made us feel like we had stepped back in time, especially as we listened to stories about the warrior class adapting to life in peacetime. Along the way, we stopped for photos, a matcha tea break, and wagashi sweets that gave us a taste of local tradition.

By the end of the day, we’d seen more of Kanazawa than we thought possible and still felt relaxed thanks to the e-bikes. This was by far one of the most enjoyable and effortless ways to explore the city!

Where to Stay in Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a compact city, but choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference. Whether you want to be steps from the castle, close to the samurai district, or near the station, location matters here. To make it easy, we’ve handpicked three great hotels—covering luxury, mid-range, and budget options—so you’ll find something that fits your style and wallet. If these properties are still available, be sure to grab them before they’re gone!

Korinkyo – $$$

A stylish pick, Korinkyo offers 4-star comfort in the heart of Kanazawa. Spacious rooms feature city views, mini-bars, and modern touches—some even include private saunas for post-sightseeing relaxation. Guests enjoy Asian cuisine at the on-site restaurant with breakfast included. Just a short walk from Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, and the 21st Century Museum, it’s a favorite for couples.

Rooms range from around ¥60,000 to ¥97,500 ($400–$650 USD), depending on the season and room choice. Book your stay at Korinkyo on Booking.com.

THE HOTEL SANRAKU KANAZAWA – $$

Another fantastic choice in Kanazawa is THE HOTEL SANRAKU KANAZAWA, which combines elegant design with 5-star comfort at a mid-range price point. Spacious rooms come with modern touches like bathrobes, balconies, and garden or courtyard views. Guests rave about the buffet breakfast, on-site restaurant, bar, and peaceful garden. Its prime location near Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden makes it especially popular with couples.

Rooms start around ¥19,500 to ¥67,500 ($130–$450 USD) per night, with suites and larger rooms available at higher rates. Check availability and reserve your stay on Booking.com.

Hotel Intergate Kanazawa – $

For a budget-friendly stay in Kanazawa, Hotel Intergate Kanazawa is a fantastic option. Rooms are simple but spacious, with air-conditioning, city views, and walk-in showers. Guests especially love the buffet breakfast with fresh, local specialties, and the public bath and lounge are great for relaxing downtime. Plus, the location couldn’t be better, just a short walk from Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, and the station. 

Rates typically fall between ¥7,500 and ¥45,000 ($50–$300 USD) per night, depending on the room and season. Browse options for your travel dates and secure your room on Booking.com.

Related Read: Need more options? See our Where to Stay in Kanazawa guide for the top areas and our recommended hotels so you can find the perfect accommodation for your travel style!

Thanks for reading!

Kanazawa is one of Japan’s best hidden gems, although with how much there is to see here, I don’t think it will be hidden for too long! We loved exploring the historic districts, eating our way through the market, and taking memorable day trips that highlight authentic Japanese culture. I’m sure you’ll love it too!

Before you go pack your bags, check out all of our Japan blogs! We absolutely love exploring this country and have plenty of resources to share with fellow travelers. Here are a few related blogs that will help inspire your next getaway:

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