Kanazawa, Japan—a city nestled between mountains and the Sea of Japan—is a place of exceptional beauty, rich with tradition and cultural heritage. It’s no wonder National Geographic has ranked it as the 9th most beautiful place on Earth to visit in 2025, the only city in Japan making it onto the list.
Kanazawa offers an immersive experience through Japan’s history, from meticulously preserved Edo-period neighborhoods to exquisite seasonal landscapes. A visit here feels like stepping into a living painting, with each season offering its own palette, from spring’s cherry blossoms to winter’s snow-dusted pines.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or cultural explorer, Kanazawa has something for everyone. And for those wanting to hold onto the magic of their visit, a family photoshoot in these beautiful settings is the perfect way to create lasting memories.
Discover the Sights and Stories of Kanazawa with a Photography Tour. On this tour we will take a stroll through history:
Kenrokuen Garden: A Living Masterpiece
Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens,” is a must-see attraction. Known for its stunning landscapes that change with the seasons, it’s a peaceful haven in the heart of the city. In spring, cherry blossoms create a canopy of pink; in summer, vibrant greens provide a lush, refreshing atmosphere; in autumn, fiery red and gold leaves create a striking contrast; and in winter, the iconic Yukizuri ropes protect the garden’s ancient pines, creating a truly unique sight.
Historic Higashi Chaya District
The Higashi Chaya District, a historic geisha neighborhood with beautiful, wooden teahouses, offers a glimpse into the Kanazawa of centuries past. Walking through these cobblestone streets lined with traditional buildings, you’ll feel transported to another era. Many of the teahouses are open to visitors, where you can experience Japanese tea ceremonies or even don a traditional kimono.
The Samurai District of Nagamachi
For those fascinated by samurai culture, Nagamachi Samurai District is the place to go. This well-preserved area showcases the homes of former samurai families, complete with earthen walls, narrow lanes, and stone-paved paths. The Nomura Samurai House, in particular, is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the rooms and gardens that once belonged to a high-ranking samurai family.
Kanazawa Castle: A Glimpse into Feudal Japan
Kanazawa Castle, with its majestic white walls and distinctive stonework, stands as a powerful reminder of Japan’s feudal era. Originally built in the late 16th century, the castle served as the residence of the Maeda clan, one of Japan’s wealthiest feudal families. Today, the carefully reconstructed castle grounds offer a fascinating look into samurai architecture, complete with imposing gates, watchtowers, and sprawling open spaces that invite exploration. Strolling around the castle grounds, you’ll find panoramic views of the city and a tranquil atmosphere that transports you back in time.
Whether you’re wandering along the iconic Ishikawa-mon Gate or admiring the intricate design of the turrets, Kanazawa Castle provides a captivating glimpse into Kanazawa’s storied past and is a must-see destination for history lovers and photographers alike.
Local Crafts and Artistry
Kanazawa is also famous for its craftsmanship. From gold leaf artistry to Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing, the city is known for preserving traditional arts. You can try your hand at gold leaf decorating or visit galleries and shops showcasing beautiful Kutani pottery. Each of these crafts is a window into Kanazawa’s unique cultural heritage and makes for an unforgettable experience.
Omicho Market: Kanazawa’s Culinary Heartbeat
No visit to Kanazawa would be complete without experiencing Omicho Market, a bustling food haven that has served the community since the Edo period. Known as "Kanazawa’s Kitchen," Omicho is famous for its incredible selection of fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and seasonal delicacies. Strolling through the market, you’ll find an array of vibrant food stalls selling everything from succulent crab and sashimi to handmade sweets and Kanazawa’s signature gold leaf products.
This lively market not only provides a taste of Kanazawa’s culinary scene but also offers a unique opportunity to observe the local culture up close. You can sample freshly prepared dishes, interact with friendly vendors, and even find souvenirs unique to this region. Omicho Market is an ideal stop to capture candid, colorful moments that add a fun and flavorful touch to your Kanazawa journey.
Experience a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
For those looking to delve deeper into Japanese culture, a traditional tea ceremony offers a serene and enlightening experience. In Kanazawa, you can participate in a ceremony at one of the city’s beautiful tea houses, where you’ll learn about the delicate art of tea preparation and the rich history behind this centuries-old tradition. The ceremony is not only a sensory experience but also a moment of mindfulness, where you can enjoy the elegance of Japanese etiquette and the calming atmosphere of the tea house.
This tranquil experience is an excellent way to connect with Kanazawa’s cultural heritage while also providing stunning, intimate photo opportunities. Imagine capturing your family as they share a peaceful moment over matcha tea, surrounded by the beauty and simplicity of a traditional Japanese setting. Including a tea ceremony as part of your tour allows you to embrace the full breadth of Kanazawa’s history, both in its landmarks and cultural practices.
Make Kanazawa’s Beauty a Part of Your Story
Exploring Kanazawa is an experience you’ll cherish, and our guided tours with professional photography included ensure you won’t miss a moment of this stunning city. As you journey through Kanazawa’s historic districts, tranquil gardens, and iconic landmarks, we’ll capture the essence of your visit in beautiful photos that you can take home as a lasting memory of your time here.
Choose between a half-day or full-day tour, each tailored to showcase Kanazawa’s highlights across the seasons. Our tours are designed to let you fully immerse yourself in the experience while we handle the details—and the photos. Minimum group size of 2 people.
Tour Packages:
Half-Day Tour (4 hours): ¥15,000 per person – includes visits to two or three major sites, professional photography throughout, a set of high-quality digital images, and food.
Full-Day Tour (8 hours): ¥26,250 per person – includes a comprehensive tour of Kanazawa’s most iconic locations, a personalised itinerary to match your interests, Food, Tea Ceremony professional photography, and a collection of stunning digital images from the day.
From the cobbled streets of Higashi Chaya to the grandeur of Kenrokuen, this is more than a tour—it’s a complete Kanazawa experience, designed to create and capture memories that you’ll treasure for years to come. This tour is walking-only, allowing you to take in the city’s details at a relaxed pace and access hidden spots that are best explored on foot. We offer flexibility with the meeting location as well, so we can discuss a convenient starting point that fits your itinerary and helps you make the most of your Kanazawa visit. Join us to discover Kanazawa’s beauty, history, and culture, preserved forever in your own unique journey.
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