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Culture, Craft & Cuisine: An Insider’s Guide to Ishikawa’s Finest Places

Jan. 16. 2025

Located 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, Ishikawa Prefecture is a long-beloved destination for Japanese travelers. Renowned for its incredible food scene, exquisite craftsmanship, and rejuvenating hot springs, Ishikawa offers a rare trifecta of cultural significance and delight. In this guide, we’ve rounded up must-visit spots that showcase the best of Ishikawa: from stunning hotels and top-notch restaurants to charming cafes and curated shops.

Photocredit: Masayuki Sakamoto

1. Araya Totoan (Yamashiro Onsen)

A historic ryokan celebrating its 18th generation, featuring a newly renovated suite in a building associated with the Arisugawa Imperial Family. The inn offers exquisite hospitality, premium local snow crab dishes (available until March 31st), and natural hot springs.

Photocredit: Masayuki Sakamoto

2. Hanamurasaki (Yamanaka Onsen)

This 120-year-old ryokan, overlooking Kakusenkei Gorge, has been recently renovated to include modern suites and a tea room. It features a local crafts gallery and contemporary Japanese design, blending traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comfort.

3. Auberge ‘’eaufeu‘’ (Kanagaso)

A former elementary school in a beautiful rural setting, known for its pristine water and fresh air, has been reimagined as an elegant auberge. The standout attraction: a talented young chef crafting one-of-a-kind course meals that capture the essence of the local land.

Photocredit: Shogo Oizumi

4. Kenrokuen Chaya Kenjotei (Kanazawa)

This teahouse designed by architect Kengo Kuma at the entrance of Kenrokuen Garden offers seasonal bento boxes with stunning views of Kanazawa Castle, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.

Photocredit: Masayuki Sakamoto

5. Malga Gelato Noto Main Store (Noto)

An award-winning gelato shop using local ingredients, featuring 12 seasonal flavors, including world championship-winning flavors. Known for its rich flavors and smooth texture.

6. Maruhachi Seicha-jo Misho (Kaga)

Maruhachi Seicha-jo is a proud producer of the historic premium roasted stem tea "Kenjo Kaga Boucha" (Imperial Offering Kaga Stem Tea). Their main store serves Kaga Boucha, carefully roasted from the stems of the first flush tea leaves, which is famous for its unique sweet aroma. Guests can also enjoy the tea paired with elegant desserts.

Photocredit: Masayuki Sakamoto

7. Gato Mikio Shoten (Yamanaka Onsen)

This renowned woodturning workshop in Yamanaka Onsen produces modern interpretations of traditional lacquerware. The workshop features various decorative turning techniques and collaborates with over 10 designers for international markets.

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