Discover Kanazawa: 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Exploration of Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan

8:00AM

Kenrokuen Garden

Start your day with a peaceful stroll through one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, Kenrokuen Garden, known for its stunning landscape design.
It's a 20-minute walk from Kanazawa Station or a short taxi ride.
¥310, 2 hours

11:00AM

Higashi Chaya District

Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Higashi Chaya District, filled with traditional tea houses and shops.
A 15-minute taxi ride from Kenrokuen Garden.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Omicho Market

Indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies at Omicho Market, a bustling food market with a wide variety of vendors.
A 10-minute walk from Higashi Chaya District.
¥1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore modern art and innovative exhibitions at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, a unique architectural marvel.
A 20-minute walk or a short bus ride from Omicho Market.
¥410, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

End your day with a traditional Japanese dinner at a local izakaya, enjoying a variety of small dishes and drinks.
A 15-minute walk from the museum.
¥2500, 2 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go, Japan

9:00AM

Shirakawa-go Village

Embark on a scenic drive to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
It's a 2-hour drive from Kanazawa.
¥2000 (estimated fuel cost), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant in Shirakawa-go, savoring regional specialties.
Within walking distance from the village.
¥1800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shirakawa-go Observatory

Visit the observatory for panoramic views of the village and the surrounding mountains, offering a picturesque backdrop for photos.
A short drive or hike from the village.
¥300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner and Stay in a Traditional Ryokan

Experience a night in a traditional ryokan, where you can enjoy a kaiseki dinner and relax in an onsen (hot spring bath).
Check-in at your chosen ryokan in Shirakawa-go.
¥15,000 (includes dinner and accommodation), Overnight
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Day 3: Takayama Day Trip

Takayama, Japan

9:00AM

Morning Drive to Takayama

Take a scenic drive from Shirakawa-go to Takayama, a historic town known for its well-preserved old town and traditional buildings.
It's a 1.5-hour drive from Shirakawa-go.
¥1500 (estimated fuel cost), 2 hours

11:00AM

Sanmachi Suji District

Explore the charming streets of the Sanmachi Suji District, lined with old merchant houses, sake breweries, and craft shops.
Within walking distance from the parking area.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Hida Beef Restaurant

Treat yourself to a delicious lunch featuring Hida beef, a local specialty known for its marbled texture and rich flavor.
Recommended restaurants are located in the old town area.
¥3000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Takayama Jinya

Visit Takayama Jinya, a historic government house that offers insight into the region's history and administrative practices.
A short walk from the Sanmachi Suji District.
¥430, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Kanazawa

Drive back to Kanazawa and relax for the evening, reflecting on the day's adventures.
It's a 2-hour drive from Takayama to Kanazawa.
¥1500 (estimated fuel cost), 2 hours
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Day 4: Noto Peninsula Exploration

Noto Peninsula, Japan

9:00AM

Drive to Wajima Morning Market

Start your day with a visit to the lively Wajima Morning Market, where you can browse fresh seafood, local crafts, and unique souvenirs.
It's a 1.5-hour drive from Kanazawa to Wajima.
¥1200 (estimated fuel cost), 2 hours

11:00AM

Wajima Kiriko Art Museum

Explore the art and craftsmanship of kiriko lanterns at the Wajima Kiriko Art Museum, showcasing intricate designs and cultural significance.
A short walk from the market.
¥500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Seafood Restaurant

Savor the flavors of the sea with a fresh seafood lunch at a local restaurant in Wajima, known for its coastal cuisine.
Recommended restaurants are nearby.
¥2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Senmaida Rice Terraces

Visit the Senmaida Rice Terraces, a picturesque landscape of thousands of small rice paddies cascading down the hillside overlooking the sea.
A short drive from Wajima.
¥300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Kanazawa

Drive back to Kanazawa, enjoying the scenic coastal views along the way.
It's a 2-hour drive from Wajima to Kanazawa.
¥1200 (estimated fuel cost), 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Immersion in Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan

9:00AM

Nagamachi Samurai District

Step back in time as you explore the Nagamachi Samurai District, where samurai residences and traditional tea houses offer a glimpse into Kanazawa's feudal past.
A 20-minute walk from Kanazawa Station or a short bus ride.
¥310, 2 hours

11:00AM

Nomura Samurai House

Visit the Nomura Samurai House, a well-preserved samurai residence with beautiful gardens and historical artifacts.
Located within the Nagamachi District.
¥550, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Traditional Tea House

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a charming tea house in the Nagamachi area, savoring local flavors and hospitality.
Within walking distance from the Nomura Samurai House.
¥2500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Myoryuji Temple (Ninja Temple)

Discover the secrets of the Myoryuji Temple, also known as the Ninja Temple, with its hidden passages, trap doors, and defensive features.
A short walk or bus ride from the Nagamachi District.
¥1000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Kaiseki Restaurant

Indulge in a multi-course kaiseki dinner at a traditional restaurant, showcasing seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry.
Recommended kaiseki restaurants are located in the Higashi Chaya District.
¥5000, 2 hours
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Day 6: Beach Day at Uchinada

Uchinada Beach, Japan

9:00AM

Morning Drive to Uchinada Beach

Head to Uchinada Beach for a relaxing day by the sea, with golden sands and clear waters perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
It's a 30-minute drive from Kanazawa to Uchinada Beach.
¥800 (estimated fuel cost), 1 hour

11:00AM

Beach Activities

Engage in beach activities such as beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or simply lounging under the sun with a good book.
Equipment rental and beach facilities are available on-site.
Varies, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Beachside Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch at a beachside cafe, savoring fresh seafood dishes and refreshing drinks overlooking the ocean.
Cafes and eateries are within walking distance from the beach.
¥1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relaxation and Beach Stroll

Unwind with a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, collecting seashells and taking in the scenic views of the coast.
Explore the beach at your own pace.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Watching

Witness a breathtaking sunset over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and gold for a memorable end to the day.
Find a comfortable spot on the beach to enjoy the sunset.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 7: Departure from Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan

9:00AM

Final Morning in Kanazawa

Spend your final morning in Kanazawa exploring any last-minute sights or shopping for souvenirs to remember your trip.
Choose your preferred activities based on personal interests.
Varies, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check-Out and Departure

Check out from your accommodation and make your way to Kanazawa Station for your onward journey, bidding farewell to the city and its delights.
Take a taxi or public transportation to the station as needed.
Varies, 1 hour
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