Explore the depths of Ishikawa Prefecture! A trip to feel the charm and history from a woman’s perspective
- Digging deep into the charm of Ishikawa Prefecture – its captivating history and culture
- Taste and Shopping in Ishikawa Prefecture – Savor the Local Charm
- Kasumi’s Ishikawa Prefecture Recommended Travel Plan – Memorable Experiences
- Tips for planning your trip
- Together with the future of Ishikawa Prefecture
- Historical building chosen by Kasumi
Digging deep into the charm of Ishikawa Prefecture – its captivating history and culture
About Ishikawa Prefecture – First Encounters
I have traveled to 47 prefectures in Japan, but Ishikawa Prefecture remains in my heart as a special place. It was spring when I visited Ishikawa Prefecture for the first time. From that moment on, my heart was drawn to the beauty and history of this land.
Historical context – a source of timeless charm
Ishikawa Prefecture has a long history, and many historical buildings and ruins still exist today. Kanazawa, in particular, has a strong history as a samurai town. For example, Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle attract many tourists as places where you can feel the history of Japan as well as their beauty.
In addition, special products and traditional crafts of Ishikawa Prefecture are also part of its charm. Kaga Yuzen and Kutani ware are loved by many people as items that allow you to feel the traditional culture unique to Ishikawa Prefecture.
Deep Digging – Hidden Attractions in Ishikawa Prefecture
The real pleasure of traveling is finding hidden sights that are not listed in guidebooks. Ishikawa Prefecture also has many unknown spots. For example, “Noto Railway” in Hakui City is a small local line that runs along the coast. It was a special experience to see the beautiful coastline of Ishikawa Prefecture while riding this train.
In Ishikawa Prefecture, there is a hot spring area called “Kaga Onsenkyo”. There are many lodging facilities and hot spring resorts here, and among them, the hot spring inn called “Kiku no Yu” is my favorite. This hot spring is a natural hot spring that flows directly from the source, and its spring quality is top class in Japan. Once you visit, there is no doubt that you will be captivated by its comfort.
Seeing the charm of Ishikawa Prefecture in numbers
The attractiveness of Ishikawa Prefecture is clear even in numbers. According to tourism statistics for 2019, Ishikawa Prefecture is attracting attention as a spot visited by approximately 4 million tourists annually. This figure shows how many people love Ishikawa Prefecture.
Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa City has data that about 2 million tourists visit annually. This number also shows how attractive the beauty and historical background of Kenrokuen is.
Taste and Shopping in Ishikawa Prefecture – Savor the Local Charm
Savor Ishikawa’s exquisite gourmet food
Speaking of Ishikawa prefecture, fresh seafood is famous. At Noto Market near Wakura Onsen, I enjoyed freshly caught fish by local fishermen. In particular, white shrimp and snow crab are unforgettable dishes with their sweetness and rich taste.
Also, don’t miss the dishes using Kaga vegetables. These unique local vegetables have a unique flavor that cannot be found in other regions of Japan. Savoring kaiseki cuisine made with these vegetables at a long-established restaurant called Kagaya in Kanazawa is the ultimate in luxury.
Shopping paradise – Find souvenirs in Ishikawa
Shopping in Ishikawa Prefecture is mainly for looking for traditional crafts. In particular, Kutani ware is loved by many people for its beauty and functionality. Fukuda, a specialty shop for Kutaniyaki pottery in Kanazawa, offers a wide range of products, from traditional designs to modern ones.
Ishikawa Prefecture boasts the largest production of gold leaf in Japan. Therefore, items and cosmetics using gold leaf are popular souvenirs. I also bought gold leaf lip balms and lotions at Kanazawa Leaf Shop. You will be amazed by its luxury and functionality.
Kasumi’s Ishikawa Prefecture Recommended Travel Plan – Memorable Experiences
Walking around Kanazawa in the morning – Feeling the history and nature
Kenrokuen is the best place to start your morning in Kanazawa. I visited Kenrokuen early in the morning and took a stroll surrounded by vivid greenery and clean air. In particular, the scenery reflected in the pond and the chirping of birds will soothe your soul.
Afterwards, enjoy Kanazawa’s famous gibier cuisine at the nearby Tsujiya. In particular, the stewed venison was an unforgettable dish with its deep flavor.
Relaxing time in Kaga hot spring village
In the afternoon, head to Kaga Onsen Village. There are many hot spring areas here, such as “Yamashiro Onsen” and “Yamanaka Onsen”. I spent a relaxing time at “Kiku no Yu”. Enjoying the seasonal scenery while soaking in the hot springs is truly a blissful time.
For dinner, enjoy kaiseki cuisine using local ingredients at Ryokan Asahiya, one of the oldest inns in the hot spring town. I was especially impressed with the delicate flavors of the fresh seafood sashimi and dishes using wild vegetables from Ishikawa Prefecture.
Most Impressive Experience in Ishikawa Prefecture
My trip to Ishikawa Prefecture has brought me many impressive experiences. Above all, I will never forget the sunset I saw on the coast of Wakura Onsen. The sight of the setting sun sinking into the sea was a beautiful time to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Also, interacting with the locals is the real pleasure of this trip. I felt that the people of Ishikawa Prefecture are friendly and warm-hearted. Through conversations with them, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the charms hidden in the culture, history, and lifestyle of this region.
Take your first step in Ishikawa Prefecture
My adventure in Ishikawa Prefecture was a special one among many destinations in Japan. Kanazawa’s traditional townscape, delicious food, relaxing time in the hot springs, and above all, heartwarming exchanges with the locals. These experiences stand out in my journey.
Tips for planning your trip
When planning your trip, we recommend that you first check Ishikawa Prefecture’s official tourism website and guidebooks. You can also get information on seasonal events and recommended spots by contacting the local tourism association.
When traveling within Ishikawa Prefecture, it is convenient to use the JR Hokuriku Main Line, Hokuriku Shinkansen, and local buses. In particular, the bus route that connects sightseeing spots is recommended for those who want to use their time efficiently.
Together with the future of Ishikawa Prefecture
Due to the effects of the new coronavirus, many areas are concerned about a decrease in tourists. However, Ishikawa Prefecture is taking this opportunity to aim for more sustainable and community-based tourism. Tourism in Ishikawa Prefecture will become even more attractive in the future, such as ecotourism that makes use of local resources and programs that deepen exchanges with local people.
Ishikawa Prefecture is a place where history, nature, and the warmth of its people intersect. Once you visit, you will be drawn in by its charm and will vow to return again. I hope that my article will be the first step in your adventure in Ishikawa Prefecture. Please open your mind and feel the charm of Ishikawa Prefecture.
Historical building chosen by Kasumi
Here are five spots in Ishikawa Prefecture that left a particularly strong impression on me. These places are all wonderful buildings where you can feel the tradition and history of Japan.
Kenrokuen Garden (Kanazawa City)
Kasumi Point:
Kenrokuen is a historic garden known as one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The vast grounds are dotted with ponds, stone bridges, and tea rooms, so you can enjoy the beauty of each season. It is a place where you can fully enjoy the historical atmosphere.
Nomura Family Residence (Kaga City)
Kasumi Point:
The Nomura family is the former family of the Nomura family, who were senior vassals of the Kaga Domain, and is designated as a national important cultural property. It features a splendid gate and a thatched roof, and you can get a glimpse of the life of the samurai at that time.
Shirayama Hime Shrine (Hakusan City)
Kasumi Point:
This shrine has long been popular as the center of Mt. Hakusan worship. The stately wooden architecture and the precincts surrounded by seasonal flowers provide tranquility and peace to visitors.
Ishikawa Gate (Kanazawa City)
Kasumi Point:
Known as the main gate of Kanazawa Castle, the Ishikawa Gate is impressive for its majestic appearance. The shape of the stone wall and roof is unique, and it attracts visitors as a prestigious building that collects the best of the architectural techniques of the time.
Former Maeda Residence Tea Room (Kanazawa City)
Kasumi Point:
A tea room used by the Maeda family, the lords of the Kaga clan, where you can experience Japanese tea culture. Along with the quiet garden, you can experience the spirit of tea ceremony with all five senses.
These historic buildings are perfect spots for experiencing the rich history and culture of Ishikawa Prefecture. Please visit once and experience its charm.
