Ishikawa Private Tour Guides

Contact a private tour guide to plan your Ishikawa itinerary and Book Online.

Popular Ishikawa Tour Guides

Fujio N.

4.79 / 5
(14 reviews)
Japan

Born and having spent most of my life in Kanazawa, I went into the export business for a major high-speed and automatic loom maker, where I worked for 38 years. When I was a university student in Kyoto, I occasionally worked part time as an English speaking guide. I have guided foreign tourists in Japan especially in my hometown for over 13 years starting soon after my retirement. I joined Kanazawa Good-will Guide Network in 2000 and had been its coordinator for six years from 2002, currently being its senior adviser. Furthermore, I organized Kanazawa Home-visit Association in 2003 that has received over 8,000 visitors from overseas, among whom 1,900 enjoyed experiencing Japanese culture in my own home. In 2012, I established the group for the interpreter guide with my friends and currently I am its coordinator. I am therefore very familiar with historical, cultural and industrial backgrounds of Kanazawa and its surrounding regions. My hobby is golf and my current official golf handicap is 15. Tour Guide Services: Sightseeing tours with explanations of historical and cultural backgrounds of Ishikawa prefecture including Kanazawa city and Noto peninsula, and the surrounding prefectures such as Gifu (with Takayama city and Shirakawa village), Toyama (with Gokayama village) and Fukui (with Eiheiji Zen Temple) Sample Itineraries: Model Plans in Kanazawa: Full-day tour (7~8h) Higashi Chaya (Geisha) District including gold-leaf shops → Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park → 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art → Nagamachi Samurai District → Omicho Market Half -day tour (4~5h) Higashi Chaya (Geisha) District including a gold-leaf shop → Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park → Nagamachi Samurai District Other popular optional spots are also available: Myoryuji (Ninja) Temple, D. T. Suzuki Museum, Oyama Shrine, Kaga Yuzen Traditional Industrial (silk kimono) Center, Nishida Family Garden (Gyokusen-en), Kazuemachi Chaya (Geisha) District, Ohi Pottery Museum, Kutani Porcelain Kiln, etc. Home-visit (2 hours) Visit a local home to enjoy talking with the host family over tea and to learn the distinctive Japanese lifestyle firsthand, where you might experience traditional culture such as a tea ceremony, flower arrangement, kimono dressing, calligraphy and paper- folding. Model Plans of one-day round trips by highway bus from Kanazawa 1. Noto peninsula (world agricultural heritage site with Wajima Morning Market, Wajima Lacquerware Center, Wajima Kiriko (gigantic festival lantern) Art Museum, Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields, Sojiji Zen Temple, Ganmon and Chirihama Beach Driveway), etc. 2. Takayama city (old merchant town), Shirakawa-go and Gokayama villages (world cultural heritage site with thatched-roof farm houses)

Takashi M.

4.71 / 5
(17 reviews)
Japan

I was born and brought up in Kanazawa, and live in Kanazawa. So,I know every corner of this town. I am a national licensed tour guide. I started operating tour guide business in 2004 after retired from the local government office. I enjoyed hobbies when I found my spare time. In my twenties and thirties, I walked along many peaks of Northern Japan Alps during the summer mountain season. I travelled many places domestic and abroad. I also enjoyed skiing while I was in my forties and fifties. I have offered tour guides to over 1,000 tourists since I started tour guiding. I explain local history and culture, religion, traditional arts and crafts, and food, etc. I try my best to have customers' satisfaction, and make your tours enjoyable and memorable.Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet trains started operating between Tokyo and Kanazawa on March 14, 2015. It takes about 2 and half hours. You will be able to make one-day tour to Kanazawa from Tokyo. I look forward to having your application.

Mika S.

4.96 / 5
(26 reviews)
Japan

My interests include art, architecture, food, sake, wine, and sustainability. In the past, I had the opportunity to visit destinations around the world. My passion for traveling and experiencing other cultures helped me recognize the beauty in my own culture, and inspired me to become a tour guide. I’m a fun, energetic, and passionate guide who’s ready to show you an unforgettable time in Japan, whatever your interests may be! Hida is a beautiful region tucked away in the Northern Alps, and its location helped preserve Takayama’s old town constructed by local master carpenters. On your tour, I’ll give you tips on what you should look for to appreciate traditional Japanese architecture. If you’re a sake lover, Hida is the place for you because the cold climate makes it suitable for brewing quality sake. I’m a licensed Sake Sommelier, and I’d love to take you to the breweries in town and give you some recommendations. I’ve also been trained to host art tours. If you’re interested in contemporary Japanese art, I recommend visiting Kanazawa, where you can find inspirational creativity in every corner! My goal is to help you discover the authentic Japanese way of life while feeling comfortable like a local rather than standing out like a tourist. Please let me know what kind of experience you’re looking for, and I will happily tailor a unique experience just for you. Fun facts about me! I was sponsored to travel around the world twice I was a torch runner in the 1998 Nagano Olympics I grew up in nature, eating wild plants and seeing many wild animals

Yoji K.

5.00 / 5
(31 reviews)
Japan

Hello, I'm Yoji, based in Kanazawa. I spent my formative years in Kanazawa and pursued my master's degree in the United States. Having lived in Washington D.C. and California for six years, I then resided and worked in China and various Southeast Asian countries. My passion lies in exploring new destinations and connecting with people worldwide. Now, it's my turn to extend the same hospitality I've received to you. I specialize in crafting personalized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. If you're a food enthusiast, you've come to the right place. For those seeking to delve into Japan's rich history and culture, I highly recommend joining my full-day tour in Kanazawa. Additionally, I offer tours to Shirakawago and Takayama. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey together.

Shoten S.

Japan

Hello, my name is Shoten, please call me Sho. I was born in a local area in Toyama prefecture. I majored in civil engineering at a college and am interested in historical infrastructures. After graduation, I continued to study English at a local English circle. In international activities, I also guided foreign people around Toyama Prefecture, Ishikawa Prefecture, and Gifu Prefecture. After retirement, I work as a guide interpreter and a translator. The Hokuriku region has many sightseeing spots, including beautiful landscapes like Kenrokuen Garden and Tateyama, tasty food like traditional Kaga dishes and fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, and traditional crafts like Takaoka copperware and Inami woodcarving. I introduce these spots and historical infra tourism, such as the Kurobe dam and industrial tourism. I look forward to welcoming you to the Hokuriku region.

Jorge S.

5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)
Japan

Originally born in Mexico City, where I spent the first eight years of my life, I grew up in Montreal, Canada, for 22 years. Fascinated by Japanese popular culture and history—I have a minor in Japanese history and am a history buff—I participated in the JET Program Canada, where I was placed in Shirakawa-go for three years as an ALT. Currently, I live in Kanazawa with my Japanese wife and son. As a tour guide in Kanazawa, I specialize in history, hidden gems, culture, shopping (especially Japanese popular culture products), and food. I strive to provide an excellent customer experience. Fluent in English (Native), French (Native), Spanish (Native), and a good grasping of Japanese. I can communicate effectively with a diverse range of guests. Thanks to my North American background and my extensive experience living in Japan, I offer explanations that are easy to understand for Western guests, enriching their understanding of Japan as a vibrant and unique living space. Additionally, I am currently studying to become an official National guide in Japan, further enhancing my expertise and ability to provide exceptional tours.

Raphaël

5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)
Japan

Motto: "Learn, Move, Share. Daily!" Smily Family Man - Adventure Seeker - Creative Soul (Photo/Music/Cooking) - Polyglot - Globe Trotter - Fitness Enthusiast - Bookworm - Kanazawa Lover. _ Hello Explorers! Are you ready to discover Kanazawa like never before? I'm here to guide you on an exceptional journey through this captivating city. Since settling in Kanazawa in 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, I've deeply integrated local life into the fabric of my tours. For me, this city is not just a place I work—it's my home. My diverse background in the service industry, from hospitality to performing arts, ensures that your experience will be both enriching and seamless. Prepare for picture-perfect moments, delectable local eats, insightful answers to your curiosities, and delightful tips that will enrich your stay beyond measure! Choose to explore Kanazawa with me, and let's create memories as rich and vibrant as the city itself!

Lucy F.

5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
Japan

Hello, everyone! I'm Lucy, and I'm thrilled to share a bit about myself with you. Originally hailing from the picturesque south of France, my life's journey has woven through the landscapes of both France and Germany, primarily within the realm of fashion and costume design. My heart, however, found its home in the enchanting city of Kanazawa when my husband's career led us here in 2019. Since then, this city has not only become my adopted home, but it's a place I've grown to adore. Now, guiding has become a source of immense joy for me. I cherish the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the world, sharing my knowledge about this incredible city and its cultural tapestry. Beyond the guided tours, my free time is often spent in exploration. Whether uncovering hidden gems in the surroundings or immersing myself in the world of pottery, crafts or hiking. I'm here not just to guide but also to connect, learn, and share the beauty I've discovered in Kanazawa. Looking forward to our journeys together!

Day Trips from Ishikawa

Reviews

K

Kirsten H.

5 / 5
Sep 20, 2024

A fun tour for families! Highly recommended

We are a family of travelling from Australia and did a 4 hour tour of Harajuku and Shibuya area with Dan. Dan is a great guide and was very thoughtful to ask about our children’s personalities and interests in advance so he could tailor our tour accordingly. We had a great time with Dan who was terrific with our kids and helped them learn some Japanese and introduced them to Japanese children’s games and treats. We really appreciated his knowledge and insights into Japan culture. I highly recommend Dan’s tour guide services! Thanks for a great tour Dan.

L

Laurel K.

3 / 5
Sep 19, 2024

Fun night out

This was a fun tour but pretty pricy. Tim was an excellent guide very knowledgeable and friendly. We enjoyed the history of the different back alley ways. However the price quickly adds up as no food or beverages are included (we knew this and that we needed to pay for him as well). Tim orders for you so you don’t know the price until settling your bill. I would set a budget next time. It was our last night so we felt it was good fit.

Tim D.

Dear Laurel, Thank you for taking the time to write a review. It was such a pleasure spending the evening with you and Liam. His curiosity about Japan and all the great questions he asked made the tour enjoyable for me as well. Regarding the cost, I wanted to clarify that it was a private tour, and the visits to the two izakaya pubs and the bar were entirely optional. Based on our conversation, we chose places that matched your preferences, and the prices were transparent from the start. We all agreed on the orders, and I hope the authentic, non-touristy spots we visited provided a unique and local experience. If price had been a concern, I would have been happy to adjust the itinerary, perhaps with a stop for a casual bowl of ramen instead. My goal was always for you both to have a great experience, and I felt that you and Liam were enjoying the evening, the food, and the interactions with the locals. I value your feedback and will strive to make my tours an excellent experience for all guests. I would love to know if there’s anything else I could have done to improve your experience. Thank you again for choosing the tour. Best regards, Tim

E

Eric S.

5 / 5
Sep 19, 2024

Toledo: A Cultural Pearl of Spanish History

Laura is a 5 star guide for Toledo who clearly demonstrates a heartfelt enthusiasm for her native city. Her level of expertise is top notch and her command of English is excellent. Toledo is a cultural pearl in Spain and she can lead you through the highlights. Above all, her demeanor is very calm and totally professional. You are in good hands with Laura.

Laura R.

Thanks a lot, dear Eric. I had such an amazing time with you! Come back soon and we will explore more the city! A pleasure and thank you for these beautiful words! I really appreciate and I am so happy to hear all of this. Kind regards, Laura

A

Anderson W.

5 / 5
Sep 19, 2024

Great Tour!

I booked this for my parents who were visiting Tokyo. Nobu was responsive and told me everything I needed to know so I could relay the information to my parents. My parents said he was very knowledgeable about the sites they were at and enjoyed the experience. Would highly recommend this tour to anyone that is interested in experiencing Mt Fuji!

Nobu S.

Thank you very much for your review. I am glad to know that your parents enjoyed my tour. There are several good places in this area, but not so easy to go around in the limited time. Now we, guides, can drive a car during the tour,so we can visit those spots much easier than before. Thank you again for booking me for your parents. Nobu

The best tours and activities

With a real local of your choice

The option to personalize your tour

Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

Local Tour Guides in Ishikawa

Our local guides are ready to help you plan, customize and realize your ideal tour in Ishikawa. All GoWithGuide guides are real locals who know the area on a deep and personal level, and they can’t wait to share their knowledge with you. When traveling, everyone wants to get the most bang out of their buck. How to do that? Ask the right person to be your tour guide, of course! As opposed to fixed itineraries that are too formal and geared towards large groups, arranging a trip with the help of a local guide will mean the trip will be about what YOU want to see and do. Go ahead and send a message to one (or several!) of our local guides. They would love to show you their Ishikawa!