Explore Takaoka’s rich history, craft metalwork, and marvel at Toyama Bay’s scenic beauty on this immersive tour from Kanazawa.
Explore Takaoka’s rich history, craft metalwork, and marvel at Toyama Bay’s scenic beauty on this immersive tour from Kanazawa.
-
Zuiryuji Temple - Begin the tour at Kanazawa Station, where the guide will warmly welcome participants. The meeting point is outside the shinkansen ticket gate, in front of the information center sign. The group will then proceed to the shinkansen to catch the 8:26 train to Takaoka.
Arrive at Shin-Takaoka Station, where there will be a brief pause…
-
Zuiryuji Temple - Begin the tour at Kanazawa Station, where the guide will warmly welcome participants. The meeting point is outside the shinkansen ticket gate, in front of the information center sign. The group will then proceed to the shinkansen to catch the 8:26 train to Takaoka.
Arrive at Shin-Takaoka Station, where there will be a brief pause for restroom use before setting off. It is approximately a 15-minute walk to the first temple of the day.
Arrive at Zuiryuji Temple. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of the grand layout, historical decorations, and architecture. Be sure to admire the intricate ceiling of the central Buddhist altar and the statue of the toilet god in the main altar. - Takaoka Daibutsu Buddha - Next, visit the Takaoka Daibutsu or Big Buddha. A large Buddha has stood here for centuries, and after a fire, a bronze version was crafted. This city is renowned for its metalworking, making the redesign a perfect fit.
After viewing the Takaoka Daibutsu, take a stroll through two of the city’s traditional preserved streets. The buildings here date from various periods, primarily the late 1800s and early 1900s. The blend of local construction techniques with “modern” design creates a unique architectural style not well-preserved elsewhere in Japan.
- Takaoka Regional Local Industry Center - It’s time to begin the metalworking experience! Participants will carve a design into a sand mold, pour tin into the mold, and watch as their creation comes to life. It’s truly amazing to work alongside masters of the craft who have passed down their skills for generations. Of course, participants can take their creations home.
-
Shokoji Temple - After lunch (not included), regroup with the tour guide at the designated location and head back to Takaoka Station.
Board the train and arrive in Fushiki. On the way to Shokoji, observe some fascinating historical buildings, such as Japan’s first private meteorological station, founded in 1883. Shokoji was once the center of Buddhism in the old province of Ecchu (modern Toyama), and its stunning golden interior reflects this heritage. - Amaharashi Coast - Board the train again and disembark at Amaharashi to enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding Toyama Bay. If the weather is clear, explore the area to capture various natural landscapes against the mountain backdrop. Observation points are available to enhance the view. If the weather is unfavorable, there is a shrine with a cave underneath and other beautiful natural formations that remain impressive regardless of the scenery.
Return to Takaoka Station by bus or train. If the weather is clear or the mountains are visible, the group may stay longer. If the weather is poor or visibility is low, an earlier return is likely. A transfer at Takaoka Station will occur before boarding the final train of the day.

- Entry fee at Zuiryuji and Shokoji Temple
- English speaking guide
- Kanayamachi Metalworking Experience Fee
- Transportation to and from Takaoka and between all destinations during the tour
- Entry fee at Zuiryuji and Shokoji Temple
- English speaking guide
- Kanayamachi Metalworking Experience Fee
- Transportation to and from Takaoka and between all destinations during the tour
- Lunch
- Lunch
Nestled beside the stunning Toyama Bay, Takaoka boasts a rich history spanning over 350 years. Dubbed the “Kitchen of Kanazawa,” it was a major producer of food, metalwork, and pottery. As the second city of the Kaga Domain, it received significant wealth, primarily invested in constructing magnificent temples. Two of these grand temples, Zuiryuji and…
Nestled beside the stunning Toyama Bay, Takaoka boasts a rich history spanning over 350 years. Dubbed the “Kitchen of Kanazawa,” it was a major producer of food, metalwork, and pottery. As the second city of the Kaga Domain, it received significant wealth, primarily invested in constructing magnificent temples. Two of these grand temples, Zuiryuji and Shokoji, still stand today and are recognized as National Treasures. This tour will take you to these temples, offer a hands-on metalworking experience, and provide a view of the Amaharashi Coast with the snow-capped Tateyama mountains in the background.
- All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.