Ishikawa Prefecture: Coast, Hakusan and Traditional Crafts

Ishikawa Prefecture lies on the northern coast of Honshu, between the Sea of Japan and the mountain peaks around Hakusan. Sea views and impressive mountain panoramas reveal two distinct sides of the landscape. The region also features the coastal scenery of Noto Kongo, gardens, and traditional crafts with strong regional roots.

To reach Kanazawa, limousine buses connect Komatsu Airport and Kanazawa Station in about 40 minutes. The prefecture’s March 2025 medium-term vision lists 17 daily departures from the airport and 14 daily arrivals at the airport. Routes and frequencies may change; check the timetable before departure.

Experience the Coast and Mountains

Noto Kongo is a representative landscape of the Noto Hanto Quasi-National Park. The name refers to the coastline from Fukuura Port to Sekinohana. At Noto Kongo, a walking trail along the cliffs leads to Yoshitsune’s Boat Hideaway.

The coast is also the main attraction at Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, where cars can drive along the seashore. Traffic restrictions may apply when sea conditions are unsafe. At Hakusan, hiking trails are officially open from July through October; in good weather, the summits offer panoramic views of the Japanese Alps and the Sea of Japan. Check access conditions before your trip. For planning purposes, it makes a difference whether you want to experience a stretch of coastline by car or visit a mountain during the designated hiking season.

Traditional Crafts, Faith and Local Cuisine

Wajima lacquerware gains its strength and durability from a unique primer made only in Wajima. Kaga Yuzen uses dyeing techniques dating back to the mid-15th century. Its pictorial, realistic designs feature plants, flowers, birds and landscapes, among other subjects. Kutani porcelain dates back to the 17th century, when porcelain clay was discovered locally; it is known for its decorative glazes.

Natadera Temple offers another cultural highlight: it preserves the worship of Hakusan and the nature-revering teachings of Shizenchi. A local Ishikawa dish, Jibu-ni is a simmered dish. Thin slices of duck or chicken are prepared with starch and traditional broth, along with mushrooms, bamboo shoots, wheat gluten and grated wasabi.

Gardens and Historic Sites in Kanazawa

In Kanazawa, Kenrokuen Garden is designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in Japan. Cherry blossoms, irises, autumn leaves and winter snow-protection ropes are among its seasonal landscape features. Kanazawa Castle Park is designated a National Historic Site; its structures have been faithfully reconstructed based on historical sources. The garden landscape and historic buildings thus offer two different ways to explore the site’s history and design.

Higashi Chaya District is a nationally designated Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Visitors can shop and dine amid its historic streetscape; offerings at individual shops and restaurants may change. The prefecture’s cultural attractions also include the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. These sites complement the region’s natural landscapes and crafts with historic streets, garden art and a museum.

Another Perspective on Kaga

In Kaga Onsen City, each of the four villages in the city center has its own public bathhouse. If you plan to visit a particular bathhouse, check its current offerings in advance. Together with the coastal and mountain landscapes, these varied attractions offer several ways to tailor your stay to your interests.

Discover more destinations: Kanazawa, Hakui, Komatsu, Wajima, Nanao, Kaga, Nomi, Nonoichi, Hakusan, Anamizu, Kahoku.

For the main travel overview: Japan.