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The Kanazawa Loop Bus is the simplest and most affordable way to see the city’s major sights, from Kenrokuen Garden to historic geisha districts, without a car.

A sign at a bus station in Kanazawa, Japan, displays route information, schedules, maps, and fares for the Kanzawa Loop Bus. The sign features red, yellow, and green sections with Japanese and English text.

What Is the Kanazawa Loop Bus?

Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most walkable cities, but when you’re short on time or traveling with kids, the Kanazawa Loop Bus makes getting around so much easier. Since the city doesn’t have a subway system, this sightseeing bus is a helpful option for reaching all the major tourist areas without needing to rent a car or worry about local buses.

There are two routes:

• RL (Right Loop)

• LL (Left Loop)

Both routes start from the East Exit of Kanazawa Station and circle around the city’s top attractions. The difference? The LL route passes through the Teramachi Temple District, so if you’re planning to visit that area, make sure to choose the LL bus.

Buses typically run every 15 minutes from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., making it easy to hop on and off throughout the day.

Fares and All-Day Pass

A sign displays the Kanzawa Loop Bus schedule, route map with local attractions, fare details for adults and children, and bus ticket information in both Japanese and some English.

You can pay per ride, but if you’re spending the day sightseeing, the all-day pass is the best value.

  • Adults: 800 yen
  • Children: 400 yen (as of 2025)

We picked ours up at the Hokutetsu Ekimae Center, located right outside the East Gate of Kanazawa Station. You can also purchase your bus ticket digtally.

Major Attractions on the Route

The Loop Bus connects most of Kanazawa’s must-see spots. Some of the highlights include:

  • Kenrokuen Garden – One of the Three Great Gardens of Japan
  • Kanazawa Castle Park – Just next to Kenrokuen, ideal for a combined visit
  • Higashi Chaya District – Historic geisha teahouses and photogenic streets
  • Nishi Chaya District – Smaller and quieter, but full of charm
  • 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art – Famous for its striking architecture and immersive exhibits
  • Kazue-machi Chaya District – A peaceful alley with traditional wooden buildings along the river
  • Oyama Shrine, Korinbo, and Hirokoji – Great for quick cultural stops and local shopping

We loved being able to ride the bus from one attraction to the next without having to constantly check train lines or walk long distances with kids.

Why We Loved the Kanazawa Loop Bus

For us, this bus system made sightseeing feel smooth and stress-free. We didn’t need to navigate local bus stops, decipher schedules, or worry about getting lost. It was especially helpful with kids in tow. We could hop off at any stop, grab a snack or explore, then easily catch the next bus.

How to Get to Kanazawa Loop Bus

Head out the East Gate of Kanazawa Station and look for the Loop Bus sign between Bus Stops 6 and 7. You’ll see two lines on the ground—one for the RL route and one for the LL route.

Pro Tip: Pick up a Loop Bus route map at the Hokutetsu Ekimae Center—it’s clearly marked in English and easy to follow.

Kanazawa Loop Bus: A Smart Way to Get Around

We highly recommend it if you’re visiting Kanazawa and want to cover the main attractions without hassle. The Kanazawa Loop Bus is a smart and budget-friendly option. It’s great for families, solo travelers, or anyone who wants to enjoy the city at their own pace.

With frequent service, clear routes, and easy transfers, it takes the stress out of travel and leaves you free to enjoy everything this elegant city has to offer.

More to Explore Nearby

After arriving at Kanazawa Station, you’re just minutes away from the city’s best cultural and culinary highlights: