VISIT KANAZAWA, JAPAN - Official Travel Guide

Content

This is a private cultural tour for travellers who want to understand Japan beyond sightseeing.

Guided in English by a Shinto priest, you will explore how Shinto shapes the Japanese mindset, daily customs, and values such as gratitude and harmony with nature.

Through open conversation, the tour answers questions many travellers have, such as why Japanese people pray at shrines and why these traditions remain part of everyday life.

You will also experience the traditional Kaga Hachiman Okiagari, a local Kanazawa talisman that represents resilience and gratitude in everyday life.

Quiet Hours Experience

This experience is offered in the early morning (8:00) or late afternoon (16:00), when the shrine is naturally quieter.

These quieter moments allow guests to experience the shrine in a peaceful atmosphere, offering space to slow down and reconnect.

While these quiet hours are recommended, other times may be possible upon request.

⛩️ Understand the Japanese Mindset

Learn why Japanese people think and act the way they do,

through Shinto beliefs and everyday customs.

⛩ Learn from a Shinto Priest (in English)

Hear real stories and explanations directly from a Shinto priest,

and ask questions in a relaxed, private setting.

⛩️ Experience Local Tradition

Experience the Kaga Hachiman Okiagari,

a symbol of resilience and gratitude rooted in daily life.

Who this tour is for

✔ Travellers who want to understand Japanese culture beyond sightseeing

✔ People curious about why Japanese people think and act the way they do

✔ Visitors looking for a quiet, meaningful, private experience

✔ Those who enjoy asking questions and learning through conversation

Who this tour is NOT for

✖ People looking for a fast-paced or entertainment-focused tour

✖ Large group or mass tourism experiences

✖ Those interested only in taking photos without cultural context

About Your Guide

・Shinto priest based at Yasue Hachiman Shrine (26th generation)  

・Guides shrine tours in English  

・Participant in international religious conferences  

・Has experience guiding foreign diplomats and ambassadors to Ise Grand Shrine and other shrines across Japan  

・Shares Shinto as a living part of Japanese daily life, through dialogue and experience   

About the Experience

This experience is cultural and educational in nature, introducing Shinto as a living part of Japanese daily life.

Guests will also take part in a simple shrine purification ritual after writing their wishes on a Kaga Hachiman Okiagari.

No religious commitment is required. You are welcome to participate in the ritual as a cultural experience, while observing, asking questions, and reflecting in your own way.

FAQ

Duration:   

About 60 minutes  

Language:   

Guided in English  

Group size:   

2–10 guests per group  

Private tour for each group  

Photography:  

Photos are welcome  

(Please be respectful during explanations)

Dress code:   

No special clothing required  

Weather:   

The tour runs rain or shine  

After the Tour:

Many guests say they begin to notice Shinto elements throughout Japan in a new way, in daily customs, festivals, and even in quiet moments of gratitude.