Ishikawa
ISHIKAWAThe castle town of the Kaga domain and the sea of Noto.
Teahouse districts, traditional crafts and local flavors.
A guide to four areas I actually visited.
01What is Ishikawa like?ABOUT
Ishikawa centers on Kanazawa, famous for Kenrokuen — one of Japan’s three great gardens — and its Edo-era teahouse districts, along with Wajima (lacquerware and morning market), Nanao (Notojima and Wakura Onsen) and Hakui (the “UFO town”).
Located in Hokuriku, Ishikawa combines the history of Kanazawa, a prosperous castle town of the Kaga domain, with the seafood and traditions of the Noto Peninsula facing the Sea of Japan, such as the Wajima Morning Market and Kiriko festivals.
02Area GuideAREA GUIDE
Kanazawa
The prefectural capital is the heart of Ishikawa sightseeing, with the Higashi Chaya District of Edo-era teahouses, Kenrokuen garden and Kanazawa Castle Park, the seat of the Maeda clan.
8 Hasunosora Academy Pilgrimage Spots in Kanazawa: Locations, Access & Scene GuideWajima
In the north of the Noto Peninsula, Wajima is known for Wajima-nuri lacquerware. Highlights include the Wajima Kiriko Art Museum, the Wajima Morning Market and the Shiroyone Senmaida rice terraces.
How to Get to Soji-ji Soin Temple: Driving Route from Tokyo, Bus Timetable & FaresNanao
Facing Nanao Bay in central Noto, Nanao is the gateway to the peninsula. The 1,050 m Notojima Bridge is the longest in Ishikawa; Wakura Onsen and retro Ipponsugi Street are also here.
Articles for this area are coming soon.
Hakui
The symbol of Hakui, the “UFO town,” is Cosmo Isle Hakui, a space museum with real spacecraft. Keta Taisha shrine and the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, where you can drive on the beach, are nearby.
Articles for this area are coming soon.
03Local food to try in IshikawaLOCAL FOOD
Kanazawa curry
Thick, rich roux over rice topped with shredded cabbage, served on a steel plate and eaten with a fork.
04Travel TipsTRAVEL TIPS
Driving routes from Tokyo and bus timetables.
Access to Sojiji SoinThe Wajima Kiriko Art Museum has had temporary closures after the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Check the latest status before visiting.
