Kaga-Hakusan Tourism, Hot Springs and Sightseeing around Kaga and Hakusan in Ishikawa Prefecture
Tourism in Kaga-Hakusan in Ishikawa Prefecture
The Kaga-Hakusan area of Ishikawa Prefecture, in the Hokuriku region, is blessed with wonderful scenery and natural hot springs. The Kaga Onsen-kyo hot spring resort, which includes Yamashiro, Yamanaka, Katayamazu, and Awazu, is surrounded by picturesque views of the coast and the majestic Mt. Haku (Hakusan).
Kutaniyaki, a Japanese ceramic-ware that flourished in the beginning of the Edo Period (1603-1867) and is still prominent today, has its origins at Yamanaka Onsen. Kutaniyaki glazes incorporate five vibrant colors - greens, yellows, purples, reds and blues - in bold designs that define its unique characteristics. The special techniques used to produce Kutaniyaki ceramic ware and Yamanaka lacquerware were developed in the same era and both are well-known for their historical value.
The area is also famous for it's abundance of fresh produce from both the mountains and the sea, and is a popular tourist destination in Hokuriku.
Official sightseeing information on the region can be found here.
Yamashiro Onsen Soyu
This hot spring facility for day use is in the center of the town. There are two soaking tubs in the main grand bathroom: a deep tub and a shallow tub. the walls of hand-painted Kutaniyaki ceramic tiles are especially beautiful.
Kutaniyaki Kamaato Tenjikan
Yoshidaya kiln is one of the kilns of the renascent Kutani (Saiko Kutani), the origin of the current Kutaniyaki (Gendai Kutaniyaki) and some of the old kiln sites including Yoshidaya kiln have been excavated and are on exhibit. Hands-on experience of using a potter’s wheel and painting on pottery is available at this museum.
Rosanjin Gukyoato Iroha Soan
Kitaoji Rosanjin was a distinctive artist and gourmet in the Taisho era (1912-1926). This is the place where he stayed and is as it was then, with the original atmosphere intact.
Kakusenkei
This is truly the most picturesque place in Yamanaka Onsen. The walking trails are great for a stroll among the awesome spring fresh green or autumn red and gold leaves.
Daishoji
Yamanoshita Jiingun is a place with seven temples and a shrine in the castle town of Daishoji.
Nata Temple (Natadera)
This is a famous temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. The treasure hall exhibiting valuable art works and the garden, especially noted for its autumn leaves, are must-see points.
English-ability: Basic
Reasons to Visit
1. Wonderful nature and rich history
2. Many popular hot spring resorts
3. Famous for Kutaniyaki, a Japanese ceramic
Access
To Kaga Onsen Station
- About 4 hours from Tokyo Station by Shinkansen
- About 2.5 hours from Osaka Station by the Thunderbird Super Express.
To Komatsu Airport
- Just over 1 hour from Haneda (Tokyo), Shin-Chitose (Sapporo), Sendai and Fukuoka Airports
