Beginner’s Guide to Ishikawa – Japan’s Golden Prefecture

Steeped in history, art and natural beauty, Ishikawa Prefecture is one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Located on Honshu’s northern coast between the Sea of Japan and the Japan Alps, Ishikawa was once ruled by the wealthy Kaga clan and a thriving centre for Japanese fine arts including gold leaf and ceramics. Today it is one of Japan’s most important artistic hubs and easily accessible by bullet train from Tokyo. With three distinct regions – Kanazawa, Noto Peninsula, and Kaga and Hakusan – discover the best of Japan’s golden prefecture with this guide to Ishikawa.

Kanazawa

A cultural hub that blends traditional and contemporary culture

Ishikawa’s capital is a vibrant and historical city. The centre of the Kaga domain during the Edo period (1603-1867), the city was the seat of power of the ruling Maeda family, among the richest lords in Japan. Similarly to how the Florentine Medici family financed much of the Italian renaissance, the Maeda patronised a great number of craftsmen, encouraging the growth of various art forms. These include Kaga-yuzen, a silk dyeing technique used on kimono and Ohi ware – austere tea ceremony bowls. The most famous of these crafts is gold leaf, and today Kanazawa produces 99% of Japan’s gold leaf, which grace the surface of art, utensils, food and cosmetics.

Must visit: The Gold Leaf Museum Hakukokan

Noto Peninsula

Rugged coastlines, rural views and agricultural heritage

The remote Noto Peninsula in northern Ishikawa extends about 100 kilometres into the Sea of Japan and its secluded location and rustic charm makes it an ideal escape from Japan’s busy cities. The region lends itself to exploration with scenic drives and cycling tours, with coasts defined by dramatic rock formations and cliffs, such as Ganmon Sea Cave, the Sosogi Coast and Mitsukejima rock island. Visit the charming town of Wajima for a glimpse into Noto’s cultural side, as the town is known for over 500 years of lacquerware production and its lively morning market.

Must visit: Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces, terraced rice paddies overlooking the sea

Kaga and Hakusan

Rejuvenating hot springs and seafaring history with a stunning mountain backdrop

Ishikawa’s southern region is defined by its geothermal hot springs and majestic mountains. Kaga Onsen encompasses four hot-spring villages, while the 2,700-metre-high Mt. Hakusan has been a destination for worship since ancient times. Hakusan National Park has a wealth of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, such as summer hiking and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Visit this scenic area of Ishikawa to experience fresh Japanese seafood, unparalleled onsen bathing and unspoiled nature.

Must visit: Kakusenkei Gorge, a scenic gorge and walking trail cutting through Yamanaka Onsen