Exploring Japan's Hidden Gems: A Serene Journey through Kanazawa, Takayama, and Matsumoto

Day 1: Historic Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Riz

Enjoy a cozy Japanese-style breakfast with locally sourced ingredients to start your day in Kanazawa.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Kenrokuen Garden Visit

Stroll through Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s top three gardens, famous for its seasonal beauty and tranquil ponds; open 7 am – 6 pm.
JPY320, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Omicho Market

Relish fresh seafood and local delicacies at this lively market, perfect for trying Kanazawa's famed sushi and crab dishes.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore innovative exhibits and installations in this modern museum, open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

3:30pm

Higashi Chaya District Walk

Wander the charming streets of this historic geisha district, featuring traditional teahouses and artisan shops.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hashibiro

Dine on seasonal kaiseki cuisine in a quiet setting, savoring refined flavors from Ishikawa prefecture.
JPY6000, 2h
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Day 2: Traditional Takayama

Takayama, Japan on May 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Miyagawa Morning Market

Sample fresh local produce and street snacks at this morning market, open from 7 am to noon.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Takayama Old Town Exploration

Stroll through beautifully preserved Edo-period streets with traditional wooden houses and sake breweries.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Heianraku

Enjoy hearty Hida beef dishes including steak and grilled meat, a regional specialty.
JPY3000, 1h

1:00pm

Takayama Jinya

Visit this historic government building dating back to the Edo period, open 8:45 am to 5:00 pm.
JPY430, 1h

2:30pm

Hida Folk Village

Explore an open-air museum of traditional farmhouses, showcasing rural life and crafts; open 8 am to 5 pm.
JPY700, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Suzuya

Indulge in local Hida cuisine with a cozy ambiance, especially their grilled Hida beef set menus.
JPY5500, 2h
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Day 3: Cultural Matsumoto

Matsumoto, Japan on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kobayashi Coffee

Start your day with artisan coffee and fresh baked goods in a quaint café loved by locals.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Matsumoto Castle Tour

Tour one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles, open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, noted for its striking black exterior.
JPY700, 1h30m

11:30am

Nakamachi Street Walk

Browse historic merchant streets lined with traditional shops and cafes offering handmade crafts and sweets.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Indigo

Enjoy contemporary Japanese cuisine with seasonal ingredients in a stylish yet welcoming setting.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Discover modern Japanese art including works by Yayoi Kusama; museum hours 9 am to 5 pm.
JPY500, 1h

4:00pm

Agatanomori Park

Relax in this peaceful park featuring scenic walking paths and Japanese garden elements.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Yorimichi

Wrap up your trip with authentic Matsumoto soba and local dishes served in a cozy, traditional environment.
JPY3000, 2h
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