Nohi and Hokutetsu Bus operate almost hourly highway buses between Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go (see timetable). The one way trip takes 75 minutes and costs 2600 yen. Seat reservations are mandatory. The Japan Rail Pass is not valid on these buses, but the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass is. Reservations can be made via Japan Bus Online.
Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates.
Kanazawa's city center is defined by Kanazawa Castle Park. All of the city's main attractions are located within a two kilometer radius of the castle park, making it possible for good walkers to explore most of the city on foot. Buses and taxis are also readily available.
Kanazawa Station is not located centrally, about two kilometers or a ten minute bus ride northwest of the city center. A dense network of buses, operated by the local Hokutetsu train and bus company, connects the station with the city center and all of Kanazawa's main tourist attractions. Regular city buses cost a flat fare of 200 yen per ride in central Kanazawa.
A useful bus line for tourists is the Kanazawa Loop Bus, which connects Kanazawa Station with most sights of interests. Buses travel the loop every 15 minutes in both directions and cost 200 yen per ride. A 1-day bus pass for 800 yen allows for unlimited use of the loop buses as well as most other local buses in central Kanazawa. In addition, the day pass also provides discounted admission to several designated local tourist attractions.
Furthermore, there are some JR buses which connect Kanazawa Station with Kenrokuen and the Higashi Chaya District. The buses are covered by the Japan Rail Pass, JR Kansai Hokuriku Area Pass and JR Hokuriku Area Pass, as well as by the above-mentioned 1-day bus pass. There are 1-3 buses per hour, and the ride costs 200 yen without a rail pass.
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