During the Edo period (1603–1867), present-day Ishikawa was part of the richest domain in Japan. The Kaga domain’s yearly income was one million koku, a measurement of rice used to rank the wealth of the lords. Today, visitors will still hear the term “hyakumangoku” (“one million koku”) used to reference quality goods and luxury experiences around Ishikawa.
“Hyakumangoku” evokes much more than an impressive financial figure. It refers to natural wealth—fresh seafood, fertile fields, and abundant mineral hot springs—and to the cultural riches that blossomed.
The Maeda family, who ruled the Kaga domain, invested heavily in art, theater, crafts, cuisine, and hospitality. These values continue to permeate Ishikawa’s culture. From sumptuous dishes and exclusive crafts to luxurious onsen resorts, the heritage of the Kaga domain continues to make the area perfect for a sublime getaway.
Refined accommodation
Ishikawa’s high-end ryokan inns combine the area’s hot springs, cuisine, and culture of hospitality. Steeped in tradition, these inns are sanctuaries of calm, elegance, and class. They are the perfect place to revel in slow-paced relaxation and experience traditional Ishikawa. Wakura Onsen, Yamanaka Onsen, and Yamashiro Onsen are among the hot-spring resort towns that feature particularly luxe ryokan stays.
Visitors staying in Kanazawa can feel the city’s refined air through their accommodation. Luxury ryokan in the city blend its modern elegance and historic charm.
Haute cuisine
The Maeda family loved fine dining, and they encouraged their chefs to make the most of the region’s high-quality seafood, vegetables, and beef. The area’s cuisine, called Kaga-ryori, continues to flourish. The best way to experience it is through kaiseki, a meticulously prepared, multi-course meal. Kaiseki can be enjoyed at ryokan or specialty restaurants around Ishikawa.
The prefecture’s location on the Sea of Japan gives it access to a range of seafood. In addition to kaiseki, catches such as snow crab, amberjack, and abalone feature heavily in Ishikawa’s sushi.
Traditional crafts
Ishikawa’s traditional crafts and artisan spirit are integral to its culture. There are many opportunities to visit master craftspeople’s studios and purchase one-of-a-kind works steeped in history.
One of the most exclusive craft products is Ohi ware, tea ceremony ware made only by heirs of the Ohi family. Buy a piece and see hundreds of years of Ohi history at the Ohi Museum and Ohi Gallery in Kanazawa.
Kaga-yuzen is the local method of high-quality silk dyeing that has been practiced for centuries. This delicate technique is used to create detailed, exclusive kimono. Visit a Kaga-yuzen studio to experience firsthand the attention to detail required to create these stunning works.
Other local crafts to experience and purchase include Wajima lacquerware, Yamanaka lacquerware, Kutani porcelain ware, and gold leaf.
