Kanazawa: Samurai and Geisha Culture Walking Tour with Lunch
ID: GYG1156376-1773321
Category:
Country: Japan
Duration:
04:00 hours
Description
Explore Kanazawa’s samurai and geisha culture on a guided walking tour. Visit the Nomura Samurai House, a paper umbrella workshop, and the “Ninja Temple.” Enjoy a local lunch in Nishi Chaya.
Begin your journey at Oyama Shrine, the symbolic gate of Kanazawa’s samurai past. Learn how sacred traditions and local craftsmanship intertwine at Takano Urushi, a historic lacquer studio where artisans still create Japan’s iconic “urushi” works. Watch the process up close and receive your own lacquered chopsticks as a keepsake before strolling through the preserved Nagamachi Samurai District, where stone walls and lattice windows whisper tales of the Edo era.
Step inside the Nomura Samurai Residence, famed for its two-star Michelin Green Guide garden, tea room, and genuine samurai armor. Feel the quiet strength and elegance that defined the warrior class. Then visit Matsuda Wagasa, Kanazawa’s last surviving Japanese umbrella workshop. With your guide’s interpretation, discover how each handmade layer captures the beauty of light, paper, and patience—an art nearly lost to time.
Recharge with a delicious lunch in Nishi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa’s remaining geisha quarters, savoring fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan or local Noto pork in a relaxed, traditional setting. Finally, explore the legendary Myoryuji Temple, nicknamed the “Ninja Temple.” Though unrelated to ninjas, its secret passages and clever defenses once protected samurai lords. Cameras aren’t allowed, but the experience will stay vivid in your memory long after the tour ends.
Highlights
- Discover Kanazawa’s samurai heritage and refined artisan culture in half a day
- Explore samurai homes and the elegant Nomura House garden in Nagamachi
- Learn the beauty of urushi lacquer and handmade umbrellas from local tradition
- Enjoy a relaxing local lunch in historic Nishi Chaya before visiting a “ninja” temple
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The tour starts on time; late arrivals cannot join or receive refunds. Other participants may join.
Preschool children cannot enter Myoryuji Temple; no refunds for this portion.
Not suitable for guests with mobility issues, wheelchairs, or strollers.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing for temples and shrines.
No photography inside Myoryuji Temple; follow guide instructions elsewhere.
Tour runs in light rain—bring rain gear.
Vegetarian options are limited and may contain dashi; contact us in advance.
No gluten-free or allergy-free guarantees; substitutions may be limited.
You do not need to pay for the guide’s food or drinks.
Bring cash for extra snacks or drinks.
Itinerary may change due to weather, traffic, or closures; alternatives will be arranged.
Temple entrance fees and lunch are included.
Severe weather may cause cancellation.
Free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the tour start time.
Meet your guide in front of the main torii gate at Oyama Shrine. Your guide will be waiting with a red/orange sign that says “MagicalTrip.”
INCLUDED
- English-Speaking Local Guide (3.5 hours)
- Guided tour until Myoryuji check-in, then temple guide takes over.
- Two Pairs of Chopsticks
- Gift of Urushi-finished and plain wooden chopsticks from a local Urushi shop.
- Nomura Samurai House Admission
- Wagasa Craft Studio Visit
- Japanese Lunch
- Soft Drink
- Myoryuji Temple Admission & Guided Tour
- Photos
NOT INCLUDED
- Transportation to and from the meeting point
- Personal expenses such as additional drinks or souvenirs
- Offerings or donations at shrines and temples (optional)
- Locker fee at Myoryuji Temple (optional; ¥100 per use, non-refundable.
- There are also open shelves available for items that do not require locking.)
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
