Ishikawa Travel Guide

On Japan’s west coast, at the magical confluence of the northern and southern currents sits the Ishikawa prefecture. Renowned for its hidden mountain onsen (hot springs), the region represents both culture and relaxation.

Getting There

To reach Ishikawa, travel to Kanazawa Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo. Or, opt for a regional flight to Komatsu Airport.

Luxury Ryokans

Here between the shadows of Mt. Hakusan and the Sea of Japan, serene gardens and forested hill towns like Yamashiro, Yamanaka Onsen, and Kaga reside. Indeed, these intimate destinations house some of the foremost traditional Japanese luxury ryokans.

Guests of these Japanese inns can step into a piece of timeless Western Japan essence. Here, feet are always bare, the food is most always kaiseki, ceramic craftsmanship is always revered, the colors of the leaves and cherry blossom trees are always changing, and the mountain spring waters are always flowing. 

Delicious Cuisine

The Ishikawa Prefecture also boasts bounteous seafood, provided by the converging currents. For the freshest, most diverse selection of sushi and traditional dishes, nothing compares.

Visitors can taste the local offerings in Kanazawa's Omicho Market, which features more than 170 shops and stores.

Additionally, most ryokans serve traditional kaiseki cuisine. This multi-course Japanese meal emphasizes both serenity and seasonality. Kaiseki chefs present the visually appealing dishes around the philosophy of shun, or enjoying ingredients at their peak freshness. 

Indeed, every meal in this region promises wholesome, fresh, and healthy fare that will leave you more energized than stuffed.

Cultural Kanazawa

Far less well-trodden than Kyoto, Kanazawa boasts more gardens, geiko, and samurai culture than any other Japanese city. However, while you may not see not the man-made marvels of Tokyo or the splendor of Mt. Fuji, instead you will encounter a harmonious middle ground.

Indeed, culture and nature constantly shape each other to achieve balance. The surrounding hills feature several charming villages, usually built around a hot spring. And urban gardens draw you outside to enjoy verdant and expertly cultivated public spaces. 

In Kanazawa city, you will see one of the best-preserved Edo-period cities in the country. This applies to its appearance as well as its traditional cultural practices. Icons such as Kanazawa Castle sit near the wonders of Kenrokuen Gardens, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. And the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art challenges most art museum norms.

Part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Crafts and Folk Art, Kanazawa produces traditional handicrafts. In the traditional Higashi Chaya District, visitors will encounter geisha teahouses and shops selling gold leaf crafts.

In addition to gold leaf, Kanazawa is also the leading producer of hand-painted silks and ceramics in Japan. As such, visitors to Kanazawa can enjoy museum quality work, or purchase ceramic ware to grace their homes. 

Relaxing Kaga

Kaga, on the other hand, serves as the centerpiece of wellness in Japan. After an adventurous cultural immersion in Kanazawa, Kaga presents the optimal base for serenity and relaxation.

Indulge in the traditional welcome of a ryokan. Then unwind in the therapeutic hot springs to soothe your body and mind. Pair these dips with refreshing morning strolls in the crisp air along the Kakusenke River.

Also, take in a private geiko performance in a hall -- a masterpiece of traditional artisan craftwork. Finally, explore the wondrous Natadera Temple with its stunning rock formations and sacred centuries-old spiritual significance. 

Ishikawa Travel Guide

Ker & Downey can introduce you to the best ryokan experiences and most authentic expressions of Japanese culture and tradition. Use this Ishikawa Travel Guide and allow Ker & Downey to craft your own Japan luxury tour. 

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