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Cycle Through Centuries of Culture and Scenic Splendor
Explore the rich history, hidden alleys, and stunning landmarks of Kanazawa by electric bike. This guided half-day tour takes you on a smooth and immersive ride through the city’s most iconic attractions—including Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and preserved samurai districts—all with the ease and comfort of an e-bike.
Highlights
- Discover Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens
- Cycle through historic geisha and samurai districts, including Higashi Chaya and Nagamachi
- Visit Kanazawa Castle and enjoy sweeping city views
- Enjoy a traditional matcha tea ceremony in a serene garden setting
- Experience local life and culture with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide
- Use your e-bike freely for the rest of the day after the tour ends
Full Description
Uncover the beauty of Kanazawa in a fun, eco-friendly way with this half-day guided e-bike tour. After meeting at Machi-Nori Bike Rental No.19 near Kanazawa Station, you’ll be fitted for your electric bicycle and briefed on the day’s route by your local guide.
1. Kazuemachi and Higashi Chaya Districts
Begin your ride through the scenic backstreets of Kazuemachi, a historic neighborhood lined with traditional wooden buildings along the Asano River. Continue to the adjacent Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa’s most famous geisha quarter, where cobblestone streets and preserved teahouses evoke the elegance of Edo-period Japan.
2. Kenrokuen Garden
Your next stop is the world-renowned Kenrokuen Garden, famed for its perfect harmony of water features, seasonal flowers, stone lanterns, and walking paths. Your guide will introduce the garden’s design principles and historical significance as you explore its peaceful grounds.
3. Kanazawa Castle
Just a short ride away, you’ll arrive at Kanazawa Castle, once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan. Learn about the castle’s construction, strategic defenses, and its role in local governance, then enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding cityscape.
4. Gyokusen-an Garden – Tea Ceremony Experience
Within the castle grounds lies Gyokusen-an Garden, a hidden oasis where you’ll pause for a relaxing traditional tea ceremony. Enjoy a cup of matcha green tea accompanied by seasonal Japanese sweets while overlooking this exquisite landscape garden—a moment of calm and cultural immersion.
5. 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (pass-by)
As you ride toward your next destination, you’ll pass the 21st Century Museum, known for its circular architecture and groundbreaking exhibitions. While there’s no time for a full visit on this tour, your guide will highlight its significance and recommend visiting later if interested.
6. Nagamachi Samurai District
The tour concludes with a ride through Nagamachi, once home to high-ranking samurai families. Explore preserved residences, earthen walls, and narrow lanes that reflect the quiet dignity of feudal Japan.
After the guided portion ends, you’re free to continue using the e-bike until midnight, giving you time to revisit your favorite spots or explore more of Kanazawa at your leisure.
Itinerary
- Start: Machi-Nori Bike Rental No.19 (near Kanazawa Station)
- Kazuemachi Chaya District – Guided cycling and photo stop
- Higashi Chaya District – Guided walk and sightseeing
- Kenrokuen Garden – Guided garden tour (approx. 1 hour)
- Kanazawa Castle – Exterior visit and history overview
- Gyokusen-an Garden – Tea ceremony and break (approx. 30 minutes)
- Nagamachi Samurai District – Final cycling route and sightseeing
- End: Nagamachi district (bikes remain with guests until midnight)
Pricing
From ¥21,374 per person
Includes:
- E-bike rental (available until midnight after tour)
- English-speaking local guide
- Entrance fees to Kenrokuen and Gyokusen-an
- Traditional Japanese snacks and matcha
- Helmet and insurance
Meeting Point
Machi-Nori Bike Rental No.19
Near Kanazawa Station, under the train overpass where green electric bicycles are parked. Your guide will be holding a blue flag marked with the company name: New Japan Tourist.
Address:
1, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0000, Japan
Reviews
“Our guide Rina was fantastic from start to finish. She shared fascinating historical stories, helped us with kanji practice, and gave wonderful local recommendations. A truly memorable experience.”
“This was one of the best parts of our trip! Liam brought Kanazawa’s history to life. Riding e-bikes made it easy to see so much in a short time. Highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting the city.”
“We loved every moment—Maria, our guide, was knowledgeable and kind. The matcha ceremony was a highlight, and the entire route was beautiful and engaging. Excellent way to see Kanazawa!”
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