Beyond Kanazawa
Discover the Unexpected.
It started with a feeling—one you can only get when you step off the well-worn path and into the unknown.
Wandering through Kanazawa’s quiet backstreets, past wooden teahouses glowing under paper lanterns, we realized something: there is another Kanazawa, one most travelers never see. A place where artisans still craft gold leaf by hand, where centuries-old traditions live on in mountain villages, and where the beauty of Japan reveals itself in quiet moments—an early morning in a hidden garden, a shared meal with a local chef, the hush of snowfall over a historic town.
That’s why we created Beyond Kanazawa—to take you beyond the guidebooks, beyond the expected, and into the heart of Japan’s most breathtaking and overlooked treasures.
The Spirit of Omotenashi (おもてなし)
At the core of everything we do is Omotenashi—the Japanese philosophy of hospitality that Kanazawa is known for. More than just great service, Omotenashi is an unspoken art: the ability to anticipate your needs before you even ask, to create an experience that feels effortless and deeply personal.
It’s the tea master preparing each bowl with quiet care. It’s the craftsman who dedicates years to perfecting his art. It’s the feeling of being truly welcomed—not as a visitor, but as an honored guest.
When you travel with Beyond Kanazawa, you’re not just booking a tour—you’re being invited into a world where every detail is crafted with thoughtfulness, sincerity, and a deep love for this region.
Our Story: From Then to Now
In 1970, Sueo Katada founded New Japan Tourist (新日本ツーリスト) with a vision: to connect travelers with the authentic soul of Japan. Decades later, as we explored Kanazawa’s historic streets, the surrounding mountain villages, and the untouched landscapes of Hokuriku, we saw an opportunity to offer something different—an experience that goes beyond sightseeing to create something truly unforgettable.
In 2024, Beyond Kanazawa was born.
Our mission? To take curious travelers deeper into Japan’s history, culture, and hidden gems. From the historic streets of Takayama to the remote thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go, from hands-on crafts with master artisans to once-in-a-lifetime seasonal festivals, we craft journeys that leave a lasting impression.
Why Travel With Us?
There’s Japan, and then there’s the Japan you’ll experience with Beyond Kanazawa.
✔ Beyond the Tourist Trail – We take you where others don’t. Our deep local knowledge opens doors to hidden experiences, secret spots, and intimate cultural encounters.
✔ Authentic Connections – Meet the people who keep Japan’s traditions alive—artisans, chefs, and storytellers who invite you into their world.
✔ Omotenashi at Every Step – Experience the warmth and sincerity of true Japanese hospitality, where every detail is carefully considered to make your journey seamless and special.
✔ Small Groups, Big Impact – Our tours are designed for meaningful, small-group experiences that support local communities and preserve cultural heritage.
