Ishikawa Travel Recommendations

Ishikawa prefecture is a scenic prefecture situated in the Chubu region of Japan. Located on the western coast of Honshu island, it is a historic region that has influenced Japanese culture and art for centuries. If you’re planning a trip to Ishikawa prefecture, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know.

How to Get to Ishikawa from Tokyo

Ishikawa prefecture is easily accessible from Tokyo by both train and plane. The fastest way to get there is by taking a bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo to Kanazawa city. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and costs around 14,000 yen (130 USD) one way. Alternatively, you can fly to Komatsu airport, which is located near Kanazawa city, from Haneda or Narita airport in Tokyo. The flight takes about one hour and costs around 10,000 yen (90 USD) one way. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to your destination in Ishikawa prefecture.

Best Season to Visit Ishikawa

Ishikawa prefecture has something to offer visitors all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The spring months of March to May are a popular time to visit as the cherry blossoms are in full bloom during this time. The summer months of June to August can be hot and humid but offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and river rafting. The fall months of September to November are a great time to see the autumn leaves, especially in the mountains. Winter months from December to February can be cold and snowy, but offer opportunities for skiing and enjoying warm hot springs.

Must-See Places in Ishikawa

Kenroku-en Garden

This is one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens and is located in Kanazawa city. It is known for its seasonal beauty and features stunning landscapes, ponds, waterfalls, and cherry blossoms in spring.

Kanazawa Castle

This historic castle was built in the 16th century and is located in the heart of Kanazawa city. It was demolished during the Meiji period but has since been reconstructed.

Myoryu-ji Temple (Ninja Temple)

This unique temple located in Kanazawa city was built to defend against invaders and features hidden doors, traps, and secret passages. It is nicknamed the “Ninja Temple” for its many hidden features.

Noto Peninsula

This scenic peninsula is located on the northwestern coast of Ishikawa prefecture and offers stunning coastal views, hot springs, and hiking trails.

Wajima Morning Market

This lively market in Wajima city is held every morning and offers a wide array of fresh seafood, local products, and handmade crafts.

Nanao Castle Ruins

This historic ruin in Nanao city was built in the 16th century and is known for its impressive stone walls and impressive views of the surrounding area.

Awazu Onsen

This hot spring village is located near Kaga city and is known for its healing properties and stunning natural scenery.

Kaga Yuzen Traditional Dyeing Center

This center located in Kaga city offers visitors the chance to experience traditional Japanese dyeing techniques and create their own unique design.

Higashi Chayagai

This historic district in Kanazawa city features beautiful teahouses and traditional wooden buildings. It is a popular spot for photography and traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Ishikawa

Seafood

One of the best things about Ishikawa Prefecture is its proximity to the sea, which means plenty of fresh seafood can be found here. One of the most famous seafood dishes in Ishikawa is the Kaga-boiled crab, which is cooked and served in a large pot with soy sauce and other seasonings. The crab has a delicate and sweet flavor, and it is one of the most popular dishes in Ishikawa. The prefecture is also known for its amaebi (sweet shrimp), yellowtail, and sardines, all of which are delicious.

Noodle Dishes

Ishikawa Prefecture is known for its noodle dishes, and there are several types of them that you can try here. The most famous noodle dish in Ishikawa is the soba, which is made from buckwheat flour and served cold or hot. The texture of the soba in Ishikawa is unique due to the high-quality water used to make it. Another popular noodle dish is the jibuni, which is made from duck meat and wheat gluten stewed in a dashi broth. The dish has a deep flavor and a slightly chewy texture.

Local Sake

Ishikawa Prefecture is famous for its local sake, and there are over 50 breweries in the prefecture. The natural resources and climate of Ishikawa make it an ideal place for sake brewing. The local sake is not only delicious but it also plays an important role in local culture. The sake brewed in Ishikawa has a delicate and refined taste, and it is highly regarded by sake enthusiasts.

Kaga Ryori

Kaga Ryori is a traditional cuisine that originated in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture. It is characterized by its luxurious and extravagant ingredients, which were once served to the feudal lords of the region. Kaga Ryori includes dishes such as kaiseki, which is a multi-course meal that showcases the seasonal ingredients of the region. It also includes dishes such as gold leaf sushi, which is a sushi dish topped with edible gold leaf.

Wagashi

Wagashi is a type of Japanese confectionery that is made from natural ingredients such as vegetables, fruits, and beans. Ishikawa Prefecture is known for its wagashi, which is made using local ingredients such as Kaga-boiled sweet potato, Yamanaka produce, and Noto salt. The wagashi in Ishikawa Prefecture is not only beautiful but it is also delicious, and it is a perfect souvenir to take back home.

Recommended Accommodations in Ishikawa

Hotel Mystays Premier Kanazawa

Hotel Mystays Premier Kanazawa is a hotel that opened in late November 2014, located a 5-minute walk from Kanazawa Station. It offers a fitness room, a restaurant, and spacious rooms. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Hotel Trusty Kanazawa Korinbo

Hotel Trusty Kanazawa Korinbo is a hotel that is located in the center of Kanazawa, near the Korinbo shopping district. It features a French restaurant, a bar, and modern rooms with free internet access. It is a 10-minute drive from Kanazawa Station.

Hotel Nikko Kanazawa

Hotel Nikko Kanazawa is a hotel that is located in front of Kanazawa Station, offering panoramic views of the city from its 30th-floor lobby. It has 6 dining options, a fitness center, and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi. It is a 10-minute bus ride from Kenrokuen Garden.

Hyatt House Kanazawa

Hyatt House Kanazawa is a hotel that is located within Kanazawa Station, offering easy access to various attractions. It has a restaurant, a bar, and a 24-hour convenience store. It also offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Crown Hills Kanazawa

Hotel Crown Hills Kanazawa is a hotel that is located a 3-minute walk from Omicho Market, one of the largest markets in Japan. It offers a Japanese-style breakfast buffet, a massage service, and cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi. It is a 15-minute walk from Kanazawa Castle Park.

Gosho Yono Kanazawa

Gosho Yono Kanazawa is a hotel that is located in the Higashi Chaya District, a historic area with traditional tea houses. It offers a Japanese-style breakfast, a public bath, and elegant rooms with tatami floors and futon bedding. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby.

Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art’s Inn Kanazawa-kan

Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art’s Inn Kanazawa-kan is a hotel that is located next to the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, which showcases local art and crafts. It offers a French restaurant, a tea lounge, and stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi. It is a 5-minute walk from Kenrokuen Garden.

Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Monogatari

Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Monogatari is a hotel that is located in the Nagamachi Samurai District, where samurai residences used to stand. It offers a Japanese-style breakfast, a souvenir shop, and traditional rooms with tatami floors and futon bedding. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Kanazawa Onsen Mikawaya Ryokan

Kanazawa Onsen Mikawaya Ryokan is a ryokan (Japanese inn) that is located in the Kanazawa Onsen area, surrounded by nature. It offers a natural hot spring bath, a Japanese restaurant, and spacious rooms with tatami floors and futon bedding. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby.

Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Yunohana Onsen Ryokan

Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Yunohana Onsen Ryokan is a ryokan that is located in the Yuwaku Onsen area, which has a history of over 1300 years. It offers an open-air hot spring bath, a karaoke room, and traditional rooms with tatami floors and futon bedding. Free Wi-Fi is available in the public areas.

Conclusion

Ishikawa prefecture is a beautiful and historic region of Japan with something to offer visitors all year round. From stunning gardens and historic castles to traditional hot springs and scenic peninsulas, there are endless opportunities to explore Japan’s rich culture and natural beauty in this beautiful prefecture. So why not pack your bags and head out to Ishikawa to experience Japanese history and culture like never before?