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Located in the Hokuriku region of Japan and facing the Sea of Japan, Ishikawa Prefecture is part of the popular Dragon Route and offers convenient access between Tokyo and Kyoto or Osaka. Kanazawa, as its capital city, emerges as a top tourist destination in rural Japan and is celebrated for its exceptional sushi and sake, diverse sightseeing opportunities, and sophisticated local culture. Just an hour south of Kanazawa are the cities of Komatsu and Kaga, known for their rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Kaga is especially famous for luxury ryokan and hot springs that have been cherished for centuries for their therapeutic properties.
Highlights:
- Kanazawa: Iconic Japanese garden (Kenrokuen Garden), samurai, gold leaf, geigi/geisha, modern art museums
- Komatsu: Traditional crafts (Kutani ware), Noguchi Naohiko Sake Institute
- Kaga: Premium hot spring, ryokan (traditional Japanese accommodation)
DAY 1 : TOKYO → KANAZAWA
After arriving in Kanazawa, start your visit with Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s “Top 3 Famous Gardens”. Stroll through the garden’s winding paths, admire the seasonal flowers, and relax by the ponds. Follow the path that leads you to the Kanazawa Castle Park and later Gyokusen-an tea house for a traditional tea ceremony and sweets while gazing at the mesmorizing view of the Japanese garden.
After the tea ceremony, taking a short ride to visit the samurai history at Nagamachi, also known as the samurai district. Walk through the narrow streets surrounded by well-preserved samurai houses, and make a quick stop at the museum of Nomura-ke Samurai Residence. The residence belonged to the Nomura family, who were high-ranking samurai serving the local Maeda clan. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of the samurai class during the Edo period. In the evening, you have the option to join a bar hopping tour in the Shintenchi area, exploring local bars and eateries. Alternatively, weather permitting, you can opt for an evening fish audit tour guided by a local expert, offering a fascinating insight into Kanazawa’s seafood culture.
Next, take a short walk to the popular Higashichaya, the geigi (geisha) district, where many iconic photos of Kanazawa are taken. It’s a perfect spot for souvenir shopping, sake tastings at the historical brewery “Fukumitsuya”, or capturing mesmerizing Instagram photos. Nearby, join a private gold leaf experience hosted by a local company specialized in gold leaf products, and create one-of-the-kind craft using locally made gold leaf.
DAY ２: KANAZAWA → KOMATSU → KAGA
In the morning, join the guided Omicho Morning Market Tour and explore the diverse array of fresh seafood, “Kaga Veggie”, and other local produce. As you shop for ingredients for your coming sushi making experience, feel free to try the fresh sea urchin served in the shell and other fresh seafood. The sushi making experience will be held in a beautifully renovated old house, offering a rich immersion into Japanese culture and history.
After savoring the delicious sushi of your own creation, journey south to Komatsu City to visit Ginzan-gama Kiln or CERABO. It is a renowned studio for the Kutani ware, originating in Ishikawa Prefecture and known for its vibrant colors and sophisticated designs. Enjoy a guided studio tour and hands-on experience drawing on Japanese porcelain.
Next, stop by the renowned Noguchi Naohiko Sake Institute for a brewery tour and sake tasting experience (3:00PM). The brewery is dedicated to the art and science of sake making, crafting some of Japan’s finest sake. You may even meet the 90-year-old founder, Noguchi Naohiko, who is a legendary toji (master brewer) known for blending traditional techniques with modern innovations.
After the sake tasting concludes, head to Kaga City, renowned for its luxurious ryokan (traditional Japanese hotels) and premium hot springs. Indulge in the traditional hospitality of a ryokan and unwind in the rejuvenating hot springs to soothe your body and mind.
DAY 3 : KAGA → KYOTO / OSAKA
After waking up to fresh air and enjoying a delicious breakfast at the ryokan, take a morning stroll along the Kakusenke River . Then, head to the nearby Yuge-kaido Street for some souvenir shopping or grab a cup of tea or coffee. At the entrance of the Yuge-kaido Street, join us at Yamanaka-za Theatre for a private geigi (geisha) performance. Enjoy traditional singing and dancing in a performance hall that is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, created by 2,000 artisans.
As the final stop of your journey in Ishikawa Prefecture, visit Natadera Temple with over 1300 years of history. Nestled within a lush forest, the temple is renowned for its stunning natural rock formations and sacred significance. Meet with the priest to learn the fascinating story of this temple, providing a perfect conclusion to your journey that blends spiritual significance with natural beauty.