Best Places to Visit in Ishikawa Prefecture | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat

Food & Drinks To Try In Ishikawa Prefecture

1. Kaga cuisine: Ishikawa Prefecture is known for its unique Kaga cuisine, which is a traditional style of cooking that originated in the Kaga domain during the Edo period. This cuisine focuses on using local ingredients and emphasizes the natural flavors of the food.

2. Kaga vegetables: One of the highlights of Ishikawa's food scene is the abundance of fresh and flavorful vegetables. Kaga vegetables, such as kabura (turnip), kabu (Japanese radish), and kaga negi (long onion), are known for their crisp texture and sweet taste. These vegetables are often used in various dishes, including salads, pickles, and hot pots.

3. Kanazawa seafood: Located near the Sea of Japan, Ishikawa Prefecture is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood. Kanazawa, the capital city of Ishikawa, is particularly famous for its seafood market, Omicho Market. Here, you can find a wide variety of seafood, including snow crab, yellowtail, and sea urchin. Don't miss the opportunity to try these delicacies in sushi, sashimi, or grilled form.

4. Kaga yubeshi: Yubeshi is a traditional Japanese confectionery made from yuzu (a type of citrus fruit) and mochi (glutinous rice cake). In Ishikawa Prefecture, Kaga yubeshi is a local specialty that has been enjoyed for centuries. The yuzu flavor adds a refreshing and tangy taste to the sweet and chewy mochi, making it a delightful treat.

5. Kanazawa gold leaf: Ishikawa Prefecture is famous for its production of gold leaf, and Kanazawa is the center of this craft. Gold leaf is often used to decorate various food and drinks, adding a touch of luxury and elegance. You can find gold leaf on desserts, such as ice cream and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), as well as in beverages like sake and tea.

6. Kaga miso: Kaga miso is a type of fermented soybean paste that is unique to Ishikawa Prefecture. It has a rich and savory flavor, and is often used as a base for soups, marinades, and sauces. Kaga miso is made using a traditional fermentation process, which gives it a distinct taste that is loved by locals and visitors alike.

7. Kanazawa ramen: Ramen lovers should not miss the opportunity to try Kanazawa ramen. This local variation of the popular Japanese noodle dish features a soy-based broth that is rich and flavorful. The noodles are typically thin and curly, and are topped with various ingredients such as chashu (braised pork), green onions, and bamboo shoots.

8. Kaga wagyu: Kaga wagyu is a type of Japanese beef that is raised in Ishikawa Prefecture. It is known for its marbling and tenderness, which makes it incredibly flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Kaga wagyu is often enjoyed as steak or in hot pot dishes like sukiyaki or shabu-shabu.

9. Kanazawa sake: Ishikawa Prefecture is renowned for its sake production, and Kanazawa is home to many sake breweries. Kanazawa sake is characterized by its smooth and clean taste, which is achieved through the use of high-quality rice and pure water from the region. Take the opportunity to visit a sake brewery and sample different varieties of sake to appreciate the craftsmanship and diversity of flavors.

10. Kaga green tea: Ishikawa Prefecture is also known for its production of high-quality green tea. Kaga green tea is grown in the fertile soil of the region, resulting in a tea that is rich in flavor and aroma. You can enjoy Kaga green tea in various forms, including matcha (powdered green tea), sencha (steeped green tea), and hojicha (roasted green tea). Don't forget to try some traditional Japanese sweets, like wagashi, to pair with your tea.

Flight Calendar For Ishikawa Prefecture

Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Ishikawa Prefecture.

Transportation To Ishikawa Prefecture

There are several transportation options to Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan.

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Ishikawa Prefecture is Komatsu Airport, which is located in Komatsu City. It is served by domestic flights from major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to your destination in Ishikawa Prefecture.

2. By Train: Ishikawa Prefecture is well-connected by train. The Hokuriku Shinkansen, a high-speed train, stops at Kanazawa Station, which is the main gateway to the prefecture. From Kanazawa Station, you can take local trains or buses to other cities and towns in Ishikawa Prefecture.

3. By Bus: There are long-distance buses that connect Ishikawa Prefecture with other major cities in Japan. These buses usually have comfortable seating and provide overnight services, making it a convenient option for budget travelers.

4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and travel to Ishikawa Prefecture. The prefecture is well-connected by highways, and there are several rental car companies available at major cities and airports.

Once you arrive in Ishikawa Prefecture, there are local transportation options such as buses and trains to explore the different cities and attractions within the prefecture.