Kanazawa Market and Oldtown Food and Culture Walking Tour

4.9
(23 reviews)
Kanazawa, Japan

3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Unveil the cultural charm and culinary wonders of Kanazawa on this 3-hour small-group tour. Start your journey in the enchanting Kazue-machi Chaya District and Higashi Chaya District, known for its preserved architecture and vibrant geisha culture. Stroll through the historic streets as your expert local guide shares insights into its rich history.

The tour culminates at lunchtime at the historic Omicho-Market. Here, you'll explore the 300-year-old food hub, renowned for its fresh seafood and seasonal delicacies. Your guide will lead you through an array of stalls, sharing insights into Kanazawa's rich culinary heritage while you savor local treats for your midday meal, concluding the tour with an unforgettable taste of Kanazawa.

- 3-hour small-group walking tour in Kanazawa
- Explore the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District, a geisha neighborhood
- Visit the famous Omicho-Market and taste local delicacies
- Learn about Kanazawa's rich culinary history from an expert guide

What's Included

Professional guide
Local tastings for example, seafood, local snacks

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide at in front of the monument at Hashibacho Ryokuchi (Hashibacho Green Space). Your guide will have a green signboard saying "Japan Wonder Travel".

End point

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Higashi Chaya District

    We will take you to the Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa's largest and most famous teahouse quarter, where the preserved world of the Edo Period awaits. It is characterized by its beautifully uniform wooden architecture and atmospheric cobbled streets. This district is one of the very few places in Japan where the chaya (teahouses)—where geisha traditionally entertained wealthy merchants and samurai with music, dance, and song—are still preserved and actively used. As you walk the meticulously maintained main street and peer down the narrow side alleys, your English-speaking guide will illuminate the district’s rich history.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Omicho Market

    Omicho Market. Known across Japan as "Kanazawa's Kitchen," this bustling, 300-year-old market is more than just a place to buy groceries—it's a high-energy spectacle of local culture and the freshest seafood imaginable. Unlike larger, more touristy fish markets, Omicho maintains its authentic local soul, operating daily for the chefs and families of Kanazawa. Dive into the Buzz: Start your journey in the vibrant Omicho Market, the city's 300-year-old food hub. See why Kanazawa is famous for its seafood, often considered even fresher than Tokyo's due to its proximity to the Sea of Japan. Taste Local Delicacies: Your guide will navigate the labyrinth of stalls, pointing out seasonal produce, exotic Kaga vegetables, and the freshest catch of the day. Enjoy local tastings (e.g., street seafood or local snacks) that you might hesitate to try on your own. Learn the secrets behind Kanazawa's rich culinary history.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 3

    A Whisper of Old Kanazawa. Nestled along the banks of the tranquil Asano River, Kazue-machi feels like a town frozen in time. Unlike its busier neighbor, this district offers a quiet, poetic beauty. The long, narrow row of dark wooden chaya (teahouses) reflects perfectly on the river's surface, creating an unforgettable, picturesque scene, especially as dusk approaches.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • If you plan to purchase souvenirs or other items at Omicho Market, please note that many stalls only accept cash and may not accept credit cards. We highly recommend bringing some Japanese Yen (cash) with you for a smoother shopping experience.
  • This is a group tour.
Supplied by Japan Wonder Travel
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Tags

Half-day Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Small Group
Food & Drink
Excellent Quality
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.9 Based on 23 23 reviews
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