One thing I’ve noticed, after more than a decade exploring Japan, is how much certain cities obscure the rest of their respective regions. For example, Kanazawa tends to be the only place in Ishikawa prefecture that gets any attention from anyone.
This isn’t entirely without merit, of course. The vast majority of worthwhile activities in Ishikawa-ken are located right in the middle of Kanazawa-shi.
On the other hand, there are definitely places within my Ishikawa travel guide that are far outside the center of Kanazawa. And every single one of them is worth visiting.
Where to Base Yourself in Ishikawa
As you might imagine, the majority of Ishikawa hotels are located in Kanazawa, which is also the most practical base in the prefecture for another reason: The city center is within walking distance of the Hokuriku Shinkansen. By staying here, whether in a high-end hotel like Kinjohro or affordable accommodation like the Hotel Pacific, you unlock not only Ishikawa, but the entire Hokuriku region.
On the other hand, there are arguments to be made for staying elsewhere, namely in Kaga Onsen. In particular, picturesque and colorful Yamashiro Onsen makes a compelling base, even if it’s a 20-minute bus ride from the Kagaonsen Shinkansen station. Here, whether or not you splurge on upscale Hatori, you can enjoy a relatively convenient hub for exploring Ishikawa, but one that feels worlds away from the crowds of Kanazawa.
Top Places to Visit in Ishikawa
Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle
Kenroku-en garden is not only the most popular thing to do in Kanazawa, but is probably Japan’s most impressive traditional garden full-stop. But contrast, while nearby Kanazawa Castle is a replica, being so close to Japan’s best garden raises its stock, and make it one of the most powerful one-two punches anywhere in the country.
Kanazawa Geisha and Samurai districts
For the moment, let’s keep out Ishikawa itinerary within Kanazawa City, shall we? Depending upon how long you have, you might visit the Geisha districts of Higashi Chaya and Kazue-machi on the same day as the garden and the castle. On the other hand, you’ll want to dedicate a separate day to Naga-machi Samurai district.
Omicho Seafood Market
If you’re hungry, then on the morning you visit the Nomura-ke Samurai home, you can visit Omicho Seafood Market for some locally-caught crab (kani). Stop en route at the Western-style Oyama Shrine to round-out your morning, or head afterwards to the Myouryu-ji “Ninja” Temple.
Noto Peninsula
Alternatively, pair your morning at the market with another favorite destination on my Ishikawa travel blog: The Noto Peninsula. While you can’t see everywhere on this han-to in a single day from Kanazawa, you can at least appreciate Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces and the Amaharashi Coast.
Kaga Onsen
Conversely, you really do need to stay overnight in order to be able to appreciate Yamashiro Onsen, the best of the many villages that comprise Kaga Onsen. This is true whether you want to watch its Meiji-era bath house light up at night, or come in the morning to have its kaleidoscopic interior all to yourself.
How Long Do You Need in Ishikawa Prefecture?
I’m on record elsewhere on this website as saying that you need at least 2-3 days in Kanazawa City. If you expand outward and explore the rest of Ishikawa prefecture, I think it’s ideal to spend at least 4-7 days here. Obviously, some of this will depend upon whether you take day trips or stay overnight. You can see the Noto Peninsula on a day trip from Kanazawa (if you rent a car); it’s better to spend at least a night in Wajima.
Of course, no matter how many days in Ishikawa you spend, you also have to plan for the contingency that you will return in the future. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you can never grasp the entirety of your journey through any part of Japan in a single trip. The important thing is not to “see it all” on one trip, but to be open about the idea of coming back once or multiple times.
Other FAQ About Visiting Ishikawa
What is Ishikawa, Japan famous for?
Ishikawa, Japan is famous as being the home of Kanazawa City, which is itself notable for Kenroku-en, the most celebrated of Japan’s “three great gardens.” For many travelers, Ishikawa is Kanazawa, which is the only destination in the prefecture they plan to visit.
How far is Ishikawa from Tokyo by train?
Kanazawa City, the hub of Ishikawa prefecture, is about 2-3 hours from Tokyo via train, depending upon whether you ride the super-fast Shinkansen Kagayaki, or the slower Hakutaka train. Another option is to fly from Tokyo-Haneda to Komatsu, which is Ishikawa’s main airport.
How do I get to Ishikawa, Japan?
There are two main ways to get to Ishikawa: Via train and air. If you don’t fly from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) to Komatsu (KMQ), a train (either the Shinkansen Hakutaka or Kagayaki from the east, or Tsurugi from the west) will connect you to most points in Ishikawa.
The Bottom Line
I can’t lie: My Ishikawa travel guide focuses heavily on Kanazawa City, as most trips to this part of Japan do. On the other hand, it would be a pity to come all the way up to the Sea of Japan and not spread your wings a little bit, whether that’s soaking in the hot springs of Kaga Onsen, or admiring the sea from the rice terraces of the Noto Peninsula. This is to say nothing of how much more alluring the Hokuriku region becomes when you also consider Fukui and Toyama prefectures. Need personalized help putting your Japan trip together? Consider commissioning a custom Japan itinerary!
