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!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this tour to UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go! This historic village was stunning, and a fantastic look at traditional culture. We also got to explore Kanazawa’s gems with our local guide!
Check out the 2,800+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Things to do in Kanazawa
1. Learn how to cook traditional Japanese dishes
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 11:30 am and 6 pm
- Highlights: Hands-on Japanese cooking class in Kanazawa, prepare five authentic dishes, use premium ingredients from Omicho Market, learn from a professional local chef in a small group setting
- Inclusions: Cooking class, five Japanese dishes, chef uniform rental, commemorative photos, AI translation, use of kitchen equipment, one drink, certificate of completion, emailed recipes
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Eating sushi in Japan is unforgettable, but learning how to make it for yoruself 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 prepared 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 gdt 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.
Go beyond tasting—book this hands-on cooking class here!
2. Visit the UNESCO-listed town of Shirakawa-go
- Duration: 9.5 hours
- Time: 7:50 am (not available Tuesdays)
- Highlights: Explore Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa in one day, visit a UNESCO-listed village and Kenrokuen Garden, Japanese sweets or doll painting experience, try a gold leaf craft
- Inclusions: Professional English/Japanese speaking tour guide, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, multilingual audio guidance, admission for Kenrokuen Garden, Japanese sweets or Daruma dolls painting activity, gold leaf experience
- Rating: 5 stars (check 2,900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
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!
Don’t miss out—secure your spot on this unforgettable day trip here!
3. Explore Kanazawa with a local guide
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 8:30 am and 9:30 am (available starting in November)
- Highlights: Discover Kanazawa on a private full-day tour, visit Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle, explore the samurai and geisha districts, learn from an expert local guide
- Inclusions: Professional certified guide, hotel pick up and drop off, custom itinerary
- Rating: 5 stars (check 290+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
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 gave you such 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 the a local’s family history. You’ll end up not only seeing Kanazawa’s highlights, but also understand its spirt, making it one of the most meaningful experiences of your trip!
For a deeper connection to Kanazawa, secure this private tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
4. Take a food tour through the Geisha district
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 6 pm (not available Wednesdays and Thursdays)
- Highlights: Explore Kanazawa’s geisha districts at night, stroll lantern-lit streets with a guide, hear stories of geisha culture, enjoy a seasonal multi-course Japanese dinner
- Inclusions: Professional guide, all taxes, fees, and handling charges, beverages, three-course dinner
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 120+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
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!
Secure your spot on this small-group tour of the geisha district here!
5. Cruise through Kanazawa on an e-bike
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 am and 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore Kanazawa by e-bike, ride through geisha and samurai districts, visit Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle, enjoy matcha with wagashi, learn from an expert local guide
- Inclusions: Local guide, electric bicycle rental, entrance fees, traditional Japanese snacks, matcha
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
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!
Explore Kanazawa the easy way—book this e-bike tour here!
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 – $$$
A stylish pick, Korinkyo offers 4-star comfort in the heart of Kanazawa. Spacious rooms feature city views, mini-bars, and modern touches—some even include private saunas for post-sightseeing relaxation. Guests enjoy Asian cuisine at the on-site restaurant with breakfast included. Just a short walk from Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, and the 21st Century Museum, it’s a favorite for couples.
Rooms range from around $400 to $650 USD, depending on the season and room choice. Book your stay at Korinkyo on Booking.com.
THE HOTEL SANRAKU KANAZAWA – $$
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 $130 to $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 $50 and $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!
Renting a Car in Japan
Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
- Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
- Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
- Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
- A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
- Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
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:
6 Best Things to do in Nagano, Japan
How to Spend ONE Day in Shibuya, Tokyo: 1-Day Itinerary
