Events in Ishikawa
How to Use the Map
Click on a destination to see a list of events in the area. Zoom in/out to zoom in/out on the map.
Keyboard shortcut: ← Move Left/→ Move Right/↑ Move Up/↓ Move Down/+ Zoom In/- Zoom Out
Contents
Ishikawa Prefecture is a hidden gem that offers a perfect mix of rich traditions, stunning nature, and incredible food.
In Kanazawa, you’ll find Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most famous gardens, where you can enjoy breathtaking seasonal scenery all year round. Nearby, you can explore Kanazawa Castle, a historic landmark that tells the story of the powerful Kaga domain, and Higashi Chaya District, a beautifully preserved area with traditional teahouses. Don’t forget to try local treats like wagashi (Japanese sweets) and luxurious gold leaf-covered desserts!
For a unique driving experience, head to the Noto Peninsula, where you can cruise right along the water’s edge on the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway—one of the few places in the world where you can drive on the beach! (Be sure to check for any temporary road restrictions before you go.)
In Wajima, the bustling Morning Market is a must-visit, offering fresh seafood, handcrafted souvenirs, and a lively atmosphere that showcases the local culture. Meanwhile, the Kaga Onsen area is home to historic hot spring towns, where you can unwind and soak in rejuvenating thermal waters.
Whether you’re into history, nature, gourmet food, or relaxing hot springs, Ishikawa has it all. Come and experience the best of Japan in this incredible region!
PickUp Ishikawa Events
Abare Festival
The Abare Festival is a thrilling fire festival held every year on the first Friday and Saturday of July in Ushiotsu, Noto Town, Ishikawa Prefecture. With a history spanning over 350 years, this festival is celebrated as part of the Yasaka Shrine’s annual rituals.
The highlight of the festival is an awe-inspiring procession of around 40 massive kiriko (towering festival lanterns) that parade through the town. As the night sky glows with the blazing flames of giant torches, the festival reaches its wildest moment—a sacred mikoshi (portable shrine) is violently shaken by its bearers, and in a dramatic display, even thrown into the river or the sea.
These intense and dynamic rituals are deeply rooted in tradition, symbolizing prayers for good health and bountiful catches. More than just a festival, Abare Festival is a powerful expression of local pride, passed down through generations as a treasured cultural heritage.
🔍Image search for「あばれ祭り」
A musical tour exploring Ishikawa through songs.
Discover and Enjoy Ishikawa! A Guide to Must-Visit Spots & Topics.
Kenrokuen Garden
Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens and a must-visit spot in the city. It’s especially famous for its yukitsuri, a traditional method of protecting trees from heavy snowfall during winter. The garden is dotted with picturesque sights, including Kasumigaike Pond and the iconic Kotoji Lantern, making it a perfect place to experience Japan’s seasonal beauty.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa, located in Ishikawa Prefecture, is a city rich in history and culture. Highlights include Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, and Higashi Chaya District, where you can experience the charm of traditional teahouses. At Omicho Market, you can enjoy fresh seafood, while art lovers will appreciate the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and other modern art spots throughout the city.
Noto Peninsula
The Noto Peninsula is an area known for its stunning coastal views and rich traditional culture. You can enjoy unique experiences like driving along the sandy beaches of the “Chirihama Nagisa Driveway,” or explore activities, food, and hot springs at places like the “Wajima Morning Market” and “Wakura Onsen.”
Wajima Morning Market
The “Wajima Morning Market” is a historic market with over 1,000 years of history. It’s held every morning from 8 a.m. to noon, except for the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month and New Year’s Day. You can find a variety of products here, including fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional crafts like Wajima lacquerware.
Kaga Onsen Resort
Kaga Onsen-kyo in Ishikawa Prefecture is a resort area made up of four hot spring towns: Yamashiro, Yamanaka, Katayamazu, and Awazu. Along with its traditional hot spring culture, visitors can enjoy local dishes made with fresh ingredients and experience traditional crafts. With the opening of the new Shinkansen line, access from Tokyo has improved, making it an increasingly popular destination.
Mount Hakusan
Mount Hakusan, which stretches across Ishikawa, Gifu, and Fukui prefectures, is an active volcano with an elevation of 2,702 meters and a rich ecosystem. At the base of the mountain, you’ll find Shirayamahime Shrine, a place of long-standing religious significance with high historical and cultural value.
Yamanaka Onsen
Yamanaka Onsen in Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a hot spring area with a history of over 1,300 years. From spring to autumn, you can enjoy the unique experience of dining by the riverside, known as “kawadoko,” along the scenic Kakusenkei Gorge. The area is also home to traditional crafts like “Yamanaka lacquerware,” along with a variety of distinctive shops and galleries.
Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces
The ‘Shirakami Senmaida’ in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a beautiful terraced rice field stretching along the Sea of Japan, especially stunning during the fall when it’s illuminated or when the rice ears turn a golden hue. From mid-October to mid-March, the area hosts the illumination event ‘Aze no Kirameki,’ where the rice fields are beautifully lit up, creating a magical atmosphere.
Chirihama Nagisa Driveway
The “Chirihama Nagisa Driveway” is the only driveable sandy beach in Japan. You can drive along the shoreline while enjoying the beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan. Since the road may occasionally be closed, it’s a good idea to check the “Ishikawa Road Information Network” in advance.
Kanazawa Castle Park
Kanazawa Castle Park is a historic park located next to Kenrokuen Garden, built on the site of the former Kanazawa Castle, which was once the residence of the Maeda family, the rulers of the Kaga Domain. Within the park, you’ll find several national important cultural properties, such as the Ishikawa Gate and the Sanjikken Nagaya (a long corridor). The park is also famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a popular spot during spring.
List of Inbound-Friendly Taxi Companies in Ishikawa
View Hire Kanazawa
View Hire Kanazawa offers multilingual guided tour services for international visitors, featuring certified English and Spanish interpreters as well as Chinese-speaking guides. Guests can enjoy informative and comfortable tours of popular destinations such as Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, and Takayama.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・×
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・×
Ishikawa Kintetsu Taxi Co., Ltd.
Ishikawa Kintetsu Taxi is increasing the number of drivers who can serve inbound tourists, including those who speak English. Other drivers also undergo English training with foreign instructors and use communication sheets with key phrases. Additionally, the company offers a service where a staff member fluent in languages other than English can accompany passengers to assist with navigation and guidance.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・◯
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・◯
Naruwataxi Co., Ltd.
Naruwataxi Co., Ltd. employs drivers who can provide sightseeing guidance in English.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・×
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・◯
Fuji Taxi Group
Drivers who can communicate in English and other languages are available, making it possible to provide sightseeing guidance in foreign languages.
- Multilingual Support for the Official Website・・・◯
- Dispatching Standard Taxis via the GO App・・・◯
- This content introduces taxi companies based on inbound-friendly information available online. However, the availability and details of services may vary depending on when the information was released.
- The GO app’s dispatch service may not support special services such as sightseeing taxis. If you are planning to use a taxi for tourism purposes, please contact the respective taxi company in advance.
- This website does not handle taxi reservations or arrangements. For detailed service information and the latest availability, please contact each taxi company directly.