Start with fresh sushi or a grilled seafood snack in the Outer Market (many stalls open from early morning). It's lively and a great intro to Japanese flavours.
Historic temple with Nakamise shopping street; wander the approach stalls for souvenirs and street food. Senso-ji grounds are open early (typically 6:00am–5:00pm for main buildings).
Scenic drive or bus to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls; ropeway/elevator viewing points typically open 8:30am–5:00pm — volcanic conditions sometimes affect access, so check locally.
Ropeway provides volcanic valley views and the famous black eggs at Owakudani; ropeway typically operates 9:00am–5:00pm but can close for volcanic activity — check local notices.
Take the limited express or shinkansen from Kanazawa to Kyoto (approx 2–2.5 hours) arriving late morning — an easy transfer down the Sea of Japan side into central Kansai.
Historic wooden temple with views over Kyoto; temple precincts typically open 6:00am–6:00pm. Walk the nearby preserved streets of Ninenzaka for shopping.
Osaka's famous street food hub: sample takoyaki from street vendors and try okonomiyaki in a specialist restaurant such as Mizuno (opens around 11:30am).
Use remaining time for last-minute shopping in Ginza, a short visit to Meiji Shrine (open 5:00am–6:00pm) or a stroll in Shibuya — flexible depending on departure time.
Head to Narita/Haneda or your Tokyo hotel depending on flight timing — allow ample time for airport check-in and travel (1–1.5 hours to Haneda, 1–1.5+ to Narita).