Beyond Kanazawa – A Journey to Discover the “Invisible Foundations” That Supported the Kaga Domain

Kanazawa’s refined culture and aesthetics did not arise by chance. What truly supported the power and prosperity of the Kaga Domain? Wealth, technology, or the spirit of the samurai?

On this special cultural tour, you will venture beyond central Kanazawa to places that are difficult to reach on your own. With comfortable transportation by a professional driver and clear guidance from a local interpreter, you will learn about the deep historical and cultural connections that shaped Kanazawa’s unique heritage.

A major highlight of the tour is a visit to Asano Taiko, a world-renowned taiko drum brand with over 400 years of history. Observe master craftsmen at work, enjoy a performance by professional taiko drummers, and try drumming yourself. These techniques originate from leatherwork once used in samurai armor, and their cultural significance can still be seen today in Kanazawa Station’s “Tsuzumi Gate,” inspired by the Noh drums cherished by the Kaga lords.

The tour concludes with a meal paired with local sake at a restaurant created from an actual sake brewery. Among the offerings is “Kaga no Kikuzake,” a historic sake once enjoyed by feudal lords during cherry blossom gatherings. Through this combination of food and sake, cultivated in one of the prefecture’s top rice-producing regions, you will gain a deeper understanding of the local resources that supported Kanazawa’s culture and economy.

On the final tour date (March 12, 2026), a celebratory song that has been passed down for over 350 years will also be performed.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Kanazawa’s culture beyond sightseeing. Experience craftsmanship, performance, cuisine, and history woven into a single story, guided by a professional interpreter.