Historical Tour From Kanazawa: Beaches, Temples & Aliens in Hakui

A Day in Hakui: Beaches, Temples, and Space Oddities

If you’re visiting Kanazawa and craving a change of scenery, this tour offers an engaging blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and modern quirky attractions. For around $180, you’ll spend about 8 to 9 hours exploring the stunning Chirihama Beach, visiting the early-1600s Myojoji Temple, and ending at the Hakui Cosmo Isle Museum—a space-themed museum featuring UFO sightings and NASA moon landers. The tour is led by an experienced guide, with transportation included, making it a seamless day trip.

What we really appreciate is the diverse itinerary: from relaxing on the sandy shores to walking through a historic temple complex, then marveling at real spacecraft. The highlight for many travelers is the unique blend of traditional and modern Japan, especially the quirky UFO museum that gives Hakui its distinctive character. Plus, the scenic coastal views and the knowledgeable guides make this a well-rounded experience.

However, a potential consideration is that the itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer slow mornings or more time at each site, this might feel a bit hurried. Still, for those eager to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy nature, history, and offbeat attractions—especially those interested in Japan’s modern pop culture and space exploration. It’s perfect for families, curious travelers, or anyone looking for a unique day trip that balances relaxation with discovery.

Key Points

Diverse experiences: Beaches, temples, and a space museum in one trip.
Knowledgeable guide: Expert narration that enhances the sites visited.
Seaside scenery: Stunning views of the Sea of Japan’s rugged coast.
Authentic sites: 1600s Myojoji Temple is a well-preserved national heritage site.
Unique museum: Hakui Cosmo Isle offers a quirky mix of UFO lore and space technology.
Good value: All transportation, guide, and entrance fees included in the price.

Exploring Hakui: Beaches, Temples & Space

Starting the Journey: From Kanazawa to Hakui

Your day begins early at Kanazawa Station, where your guide—possibly a friendly local with a wealth of stories—will greet you. The drive to Hakui is about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic views of Japan’s Noto Peninsula. The highlight of this initial leg is the anticipation of reaching Chirihama Beach, known for its long stretch of sand right along the Sea of Japan coast.

Chirihama Beach: A Coastal Paradise

Arriving at Chirihama, you’re immediately greeted by the sight of wide, golden sands and crashing surf. It’s a popular spot for swimming, relaxing, and walking along the shoreline. The tour includes around 1.5 hours to enjoy the beach at your own pace, which many find ample to soak in the fresh sea air, build sandcastles, or snap photos of the rock formations nearby.

One traveler, Dwayne G., shared, “Our family just returned from an absolutely amazing tour… and we couldn’t be happier with our choice,” highlighting how the relaxed atmosphere at Chirihama makes it a highlight. You might even get a chance to see sand art sculptures or try local snacks from nearby vendors—ask your guide for their top food picks.

Myojo-ji Temple: A Step Back in Time

After a leisurely lunch—either at the Rest House, from local stalls, or with a packed bento—you’ll head to Myojoji Temple, set against the backdrop of traditionally scenic Sea of Japan views. This temple, built in the early 1600s, is a true National Heritage Site. Almost all of its buildings are listed as important cultural assets, making it a real treat for history buffs.

Your guide will likely share stories of its history—how it served as a crossroads during the Sengoku period—and explain the architectural details that have allowed it to survive centuries. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the impressive preservation of the grounds.

Hakui Cosmo Isle Museum: Space and UFOs

The quirky highlight of this tour is the Hakui Cosmo Isle Museum. This space-themed attraction features real NASA moon landers and a trove of UFO sightings reported over the years. The museum has cultivated partnerships with major institutions like the Smithsonian, which means you’ll see authentic artifacts and rare exhibits.

Travelers have described this museum as “weird and very Japanese,” noting the fun mix of facts, folklore, and space technology. It’s a place where local UFO sightings are part of the story, adding an element of mystery and curiosity to your trip.

Returning to Kanazawa

By late afternoon, around 5 pm, you’ll begin your journey back, arriving at Kanazawa Station approximately an hour later. Many travelers reflect positively on the smooth logistics and engaging commentary from guides, making this a well-organized and memorable day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s strength lies in its variety. You get to experience the natural beauty of Chirihama Beach, walk through history at Myojoji Temple, and then indulge in the quirky modernity of the space museum. The expert guidance helps contextualize each site, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful story.

The scenic coastal views are a big plus—perfect for photography or just soaking in Japan’s rugged shoreline. The free time at the beach is especially appreciated, giving you space to relax and enjoy without feeling rushed. The inclusion of all transportation and entry fees means there are no surprises, making the experience straightforward and stress-free.

On the downsides

While the itinerary is well-paced for most, those who prefer more leisurely exploration might find the schedule a bit tight—especially with the quick transitions from beaches to temples to museums. If you love long, unhurried visits, this may feel somewhat rushed. Also, lunch is not included, so budgeting extra time and money for a meal is wise.

Who is this for?

This trip is ideal for curious travelers wanting a blend of culture, history, and fun. Families, space enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see a side of Japan that’s off the beaten path will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also great if you’re looking for a full day’s adventure that requires minimal planning on your part.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Hakui tour offers a rare combination of natural beauty, historic architecture, and modern pop-cultural weirdness—delivered in a way that’s both informative and entertaining. For around $180, you get transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entry to all sites—which makes it a strong value, especially considering the diversity of experiences packed into one day.

If you’re eager to combine stunning coastal views with a touch of history and a splash of space-age fun, this tour provides an excellent option. It’s perfect for those who enjoy authentic sights and quirky attractions, making Hakui a memorable highlight of your trip to Japan.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning around 6 pm.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation between Kanazawa, Hakui, and the sites is covered, making for a hassle-free day.

What is the price?
The tour costs $180.50 per person, which includes guide services, entrance fees at Myojoji Temple, and museum entry at Cosmo Isle Hakui.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should bring their own or plan to purchase food at the site.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, making it a good choice for families interested in beaches, history, and space museums.

This Hakui tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse into Japan’s coastal charm, historic sites, and space-age quirkiness—perfect for those wanting a memorable, diverse day outside of Kanazawa.