Set out on a captivating journey from Kanazawa to Takaoka, where you’ll experience a blend of culture and craftsmanship. Visit the historic Zuiryuji Temple and the impressive Takaoka Big Buddha. Then, try your hand at metalworking in the Kanayamachi district, designing your own drinking cup. With scenic Toyama Bay views and an expert guide, this tour connects you to the region’s rich heritage. What awaits in this enriching experience?
Key Points
- Tour from Kanazawa to Takaoka showcases local metalworking traditions through a hands-on workshop and offers scenic views of Toyama Bay.
- The tour is priced from $163.17 per person and is limited to 15 participants, led by an English-speaking guide.
- Highlights include visiting the 350-year-old Zuiryuji Temple, the iconic Takaoka Big Buddha, and participating in a metalworking experience.
- Travelers can design and create their own personalized drinking cup during the metalworking workshop, connecting with Takaoka’s cultural heritage.
- The tour provides transportation via shinkansen and local train, including entry fees and lunch, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The tour from Kanazawa to Takaoka includes a metalworking experience and breathtaking views of Toyama Bay.
Priced from $163.17 per person, the 1-day tour is limited to 15 participants and led by an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include visiting a 350-year-old national treasure temple, exploring the Takaoka Big Buddha, and designing a drinking cup during a metalworking workshop.
Transportation via shinkansen and local train is provided, along with entry fees and lunch.
Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can book now and pay later.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at Kanazawa Station at 8:00 A.M., where you will visit Zuiryuji Temple, a 350-year-old National Treasure showcasing a unique mortuary tablet of Maeda Toshinaga.
Next, the group will explore the Takaoka Big Buddha, rebuilt in the 1930s after a fire, and stroll through the old town featuring Meiji modern-style buildings.
The highlight of the day is the metalworking experience, where you will design and create their own drinking cup.
In the afternoon, the tour visits Shokoji Temple, originally built in 1471 and relocated in 1584, with scenic views of Toyama Bay and the Tateyama mountain range.
Zuiryuji Temple: National Treasure
Although dating back over 350 years, Zuiryuji Temple remains a National Treasure of Japan, showcasing a unique mortuary tablet of Maeda Toshinaga, a prominent historical figure.
The temple’s architecture reflects the Zen Buddhist tradition, with meticulously crafted details and serene gardens. Visitors can explore the temple’s tranquil grounds and learn about its significant role in the region’s history.
The mortuary tablet, a centerpiece of the temple, offers a glimpse into the legacy of the influential Maeda clan that once ruled the area.
Zuiryuji Temple provides a culturally rich experience for those exploring the Kanazawa to Takaoka region.
Takaoka Big Buddha
After exploring the serene Zuiryuji Temple, the tour journeys to the impressive Takaoka Big Buddha.
Standing nearly 16 meters tall, the Takaoka Big Buddha is an iconic landmark rebuilt in the 1930s after a fire.
Visitors can:
- Marvel at the Buddha’s imposing size and tranquil expression.
- Admire the intricate metalwork details and architectural design.
- Ring the temple bell for good luck and prosperity.
The tour provides ample time to wander the grounds, take photos, and contemplate the spiritual significance of this important site before continuing on to the historic Takaoka old town.
More Great Tours NearbyMeiji Era Architecture in Takaoka
Following the Takaoka Big Buddha, the tour group traverses the historic Takaoka old town, where they encounter a delightful array of Meiji-era modern architectural gems.
Featuring a unique blend of traditional Japanese and Western elements, these buildings showcase the country’s rapid modernization during the late 19th century.
The group explores charming streets lined with meticulously restored structures, marveling at their intricate facades and ornate details.
From ornamental tiled roofs to decorative brickwork, each building reflects the progressive spirit of the Meiji period and the fusion of old and new that defined this transformative era in Japanese history.
Metalworking Experience
Having explored the captivating Meiji-era architecture, the tour group now turns its attention to the highlight of the day – the metalworking experience.
The group heads to the Kanayamachi district, known for its centuries-old metalworking tradition. Participants are guided through a hands-on workshop, where they:
- Design their own drinking cup
- Learn techniques to hammer, shape, and finish the metal
- Create a unique, personalized souvenir to take home
The rhythmic clang of metal echoes as the group crafts their custom creations, connecting with Takaoka’s rich cultural heritage through this immersive experience.
Shokoji Temple and Toyama Bay Views
As the group finishes their metalworking creations, they next venture to Shokoji Temple, originally constructed in 1471 and later relocated in 1584. This historic site provides a serene respite before the final leg of the tour. Afterward, the group heads to a small rocky island offering stunning vistas of Toyama Bay and the Tateyama mountain range.
| View | Description |
|---|---|
| Shokoji Temple | A peaceful temple with a rich history, now relocated to its current site. |
| Toyama Bay | A scenic coastal inlet surrounded by the towering Tateyama mountains. |
| Rocky Island | A prime observation point to take in the breathtaking panoramic views. |
Transportation and Inclusions
The tour provides transportation to and from Takaoka as well as between all destinations during the day.
Travelers will take the shinkansen and Himi Line train to reach the various sights.
The tour also includes:
- An English-speaking guide to lead the group.
- Entry fees for Zuiryuji and Shokoji Temples.
- The metalworking experience fee at Kanayamachi.
Plus, a provided lunch is part of the tour package.
This comprehensive transportation and inclusions allow participants to fully enjoy the Takaoka metalworking experience and scenic views of Toyama Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option for Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and gluten-free lunch options. Guests can request these dietary accommodations when booking the tour or by notifying the guide on the day of the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Camera or Is Photography Prohibited?
You’re welcome to bring your own camera on the tour. Photography is allowed and encouraged, as there are plenty of scenic views and cultural sights to capture throughout the day.
Will the Tour Be Canceled in Case of Inclement Weather?
The tour will not be canceled in case of inclement weather. The tour operator provides rain ponchos and umbrellas if needed, allowing the tour to continue as scheduled regardless of the weather conditions.
Is There a Discount Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for children or seniors. The price listed is a per person rate, so the same price applies regardless of age.
Can I Arrive at the Meeting Point on My Own and Join the Group?
Yes, you can arrive at the meeting point on your own and join the group. The tour is open to individual participants who can meet the guide at the designated location to participate in the day’s activities.
The Sum Up
This enriching tour from Kanazawa to Takaoka immerses visitors in the region’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Highlights include exploring the historic Zuiryuji Temple, the impressive Takaoka Big Buddha, and a hands-on metalworking workshop. With scenic views of Toyama Bay and expert guidance, this experience beautifully connects travelers to the area’s captivating blend of tradition and innovation for just $163.17 per person.
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