The day begins with independent departure from Shin-Osaka Station to Kanazawa, where travellers will meet the group to start a journey filled with history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes. The first stop is the picturesque village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming village is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri houses, with steep thatched roofs shaped like praying hands, designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Upon arrival, participants can enjoy lunch on their own and stroll through the village’s quiet streets, admiring its historic architecture, artisanal workshops, and serene atmosphere that seems frozen in time.
Next, the tour continues to Kenrokuen, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens and a true haven of nature and art. With ponds reflecting trees and flowers, elegant bridges, stone lanterns, and carefully designed pathways, the garden offers a unique experience of harmony and tranquility in any season.
Later, the itinerary heads to the historic districts of Nishi Chaya or Nagamachi, depending on the day. These areas showcase Kanazawa’s cultural roots: Nishi Chaya, with its traditional teahouses, transports visitors back to the Edo period, while Nagamachi, the former samurai district, features cobblestone streets and residences that preserve the elegance of centuries past. Visitors can stroll leisurely, explore small museums and craft shops, and admire the architecture that tells the city’s storey.
The tour concludes with a return to Kanazawa Station to board the train back to Osaka, completing a day full of discovery that combines stunning landscapes, living history, and the cultural essence of the Hokuriku region. This experience provides a comprehensive glimpse of traditional Japan and its harmonious connection with nature, leaving a lasting impression on all visitors.