- Learn ancient techniques using wooden swords
- Explore the former residence of high-level Kaga Clan samurai
- See some samurai artefacts in Maeda Samurai Museum
- Experience a rare opportunity to view authentic samurai swords up close
- Hands-on Kaga Yuzen painting experience
Warrior's Way: A Shogun-Inspired Journey (Add-On)
Explore Kanazawa's vibrant samurai history and culture with engaging activities. Learn the art of kendo in a traditional dojo, uncover the secrets of the Nomura Samurai House and immerse yourself in the Maeda Samurai Museum. Then delve into the world of samurai artifacts and witness authentic swords. Experience the serene beauty of Kenroku-en gardens and try your hand at Kaga Yuzen painting, a traditional craft. Finally, cap off your adventure with a kyudo workshop, mastering the skill of archery with a samurai longbow.
Tour Itinerary
Arrive in Kanazawa by train for an immersive exploration of samurai history. Start at Omicho Market for fresh seafood and sushi samples. Then, visit Higashi Chaya District's preserved tea houses and don't miss Hakuza, a shop offering Kanazawa's specialty – gold leaf products, including gold leaf-covered ice cream. End the day at Kanazawa Castle, delving into castle architecture and samurai warfare. Note: Omicho Market shops may be closed on Wednesday and Saturday.
Meet your guide at the hotel at 9:00am for a full-day exploration of Kanazawa's samurai heritage. Start with a kendo lesson in a real training dojo, delving into the sword techniques dating back to the Edo period. After lunch, visit Nagamachi Samurai district and Nomura Samurai House. Explore Maeda Samurai Museum for samurai artefacts. Conclude your day with a rare, hands-on viewing of authentic samurai swords, offered by a local business owner from a former samurai family. (B,L)
Start your day at 9:30am with a guided walk through Kanazawa's gardens, beginning at the iconic Kenroku-en, renowned for its historical significance and consistently ranked amongst Japan's top three gardens. Explore the vast landscapes with a knowledgeable, local guide who can highlight intricate details often missed by visitors. Next, visit Gyokusen-en, a smaller-scale garden providing a tranquil contrast to Kenroku-en's expansiveness. Enjoy a matcha tea ceremony at the oldest tea house in Kanazawa, led by a dedicated tea master eager to share the ritual's nuances.
Afterwards, engage in a Kaga Yuzen painting experience, a traditional dyeing technique originating in Kanazawa. Under expert guidance, hand-dye a handkerchief, incorporating the intricate designs and rich colours characteristic of Kaga Yuzen. (B)
Meet your guide at the hotel lobby at 9:30am for a kyudo archery experience at Ishikawa Prefectural Budokan, a prestigious martial arts facility. In this 90-minute workshop, don traditional kyudo kimonos and learn samurai longbow techniques. Under expert guidance, beginners can aim for success, targeting a point 28 meters away. Feel the thrill of hitting the mark, reminiscent of samurai battlefields. Afterwards, proceed to Kanazawa Station for your next destination in Japan. (B)
Pricing Information
Price Excludes
- International and domestic flights/trains – please contact us for best available prices
Price Includes
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Activities and excursions as specified
- All entrance fees on sightseeing tours as specified
Price Excludes
- Travel Insurance
- Any meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional excursions
Price Notes
- International and domestic flights/trains are not included – please contact us for the best available prices
- Prices in Japan can vary significantly due to festivals, domestic holidays, and weekends. For precise pricing on specific dates, we recommend consulting with one of our Japan Travel Specialists. Please note that reservations made during weekends, peak seasons, and Japanese public holidays may incur additional charges.
Tour Route Map
- Japan, Kanazawa
Tour Accommodation
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