FIND YOUR ISHIKAWA
Get Active in the Great Outdoors
Ishikawa's location between towering mountains and the Sea of Japan provides ample opportunity for a range of outdoor activities. Make Ishikawa your base for adventure tourism in Japan, or take a break from exploring the area's cultural heritage to get active among the rich natural scenery. From scenic strolls to long, technical hikes, the prefecture has active options for all ages, fitness levels, and interests. Four distinct seasons give visitors options throughout the year: skiing and snowboarding in winter, trekking and cycling in spring and autumn, or watersports in summer.
Hiking and walking
A diverse terrain of mountains, coastlines, and gorges provides beautiful hiking and walking trails for all skill levels. The prefecture's most prominent mountain and flagship hike is Mt. Hakusan. Pilgrims have climbed Mt. Hakusan, a focus of local esoteric mountain worship, for over a millennium. This volcano's three peaks top out at around 2,700 meters, meaning there is often snow on the summit well into summer. There are ten main routes to the top, and the most popular route takes about 8–10 hours. Mt. Hakusan is designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its lakes, forests, and diversity of alpine plants and flowers. For a much shorter hike with mountaintop views, try the three-hour round trip up Mt. Sanpoiwa.
Take a mellow walk along one of Ishikawa's nature trails to relax in the lush scenery. The Kaga Coast Nature Trail runs about 4 kilometers along the Sea of Japan, passing dunes and cliffs eroded by the wind and waves. In the hot spring village of Yamanaka Onsen, a walking trail lines the densely forested, 1.3-kilometer-long Kakusenkei Gorge. The Suzu Point Nature Trail weaves past forests, rocky reefs, and sandy beaches along its 8-kilometer route at the tip of the Noto Peninsula. Walk the trails of Mt. Utatsu for a taste of nature near downtown Kanazawa, punctuated with a small shrine, a cozy cafe, and views over the city.
Cycling
Rent a bicycle to explore Ishikawa's cultural sites and natural scenery at your own pace. Cycle in Hakusan along the Tedori Canyon Road, a wide bike path that weaves through serene rice paddies, to reach waterfalls and canyons. Rides around Nanao Bay and Notojima Island provide views of rural life and landmarks like the Notojima Bridge. Join a bicycle tour with the Noto Note organization to chat with residents and learn more about local farming, designated by the United Nations as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.
Get around Kanazawa quickly with Machi-Nori, the city's public bicycle service. Cycle rentals are also available in Wajima and Komatsu. Some of the bicycle rental locations around the prefecture offer electric-assisted bicycles for an easier ride.
More seasonal activities
Visitors in winter can take to Ishikawa's snow-covered slopes. Hakusan Ichirino Ski Resort is the prefecture's largest ski area, with slopes for all skill levels and a kids' park featuring sledding and snow tubing. The gondola ride to the top offers panoramic views. Nearby Hakusan Seymour Ski Resort has a few more expert courses and longer runs. Take the gondola up to Shishiku Highland for sledding with mountaintop views. In warmer months, Sky Shishiku offers a paragliding experience and lessons (limited English support).
Beat the summer heat by taking to the water. Various locations along the shore, including Tsukumo Bay, offer canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), fishing, and other activities on the Sea of Japan. For a more relaxing option, mingle with the locals at swimming beaches such as the Uchinada Coast.
