Ishikawa Japan Travel Guide | Why Ishikawa Was Named a Top Destination in 2026
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Ishikawa is a rare blend of refined tradition, artisan mastery, coastal beauty, and resilient communities—qualities that earned it a place on the BBC’s “20 Best Places to Travel in 2026.”
BBC Travel’s editorial team praised Ishikawa Prefecture for offering a deeper, more authentic way to experience Japan—one shaped by centuries of craftsmanship, layered cultural traditions, and landscapes that shift dramatically from Kanazawa’s elegant cityscape to the wild coastline of the Noto Peninsula. Ishikawa is not simply a destination to see; it is a destination to feel.
Travelers on our Takayama & Hideen Village Tours and Private Tours often describe Ishikawa as “Japan in its most balanced form”—where art, food, nature, and heritage coexist in meaningful harmony.
1. A Cultural Capital Rooted in Art & Elegant Craftsmanship
Kanazawa’s cultural identity is inseparable from its artisan traditions. The region is home to 36 official traditional crafts, more than nearly any other prefecture in Japan. From Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing to Wajima lacquerware and Kutani porcelain, Ishikawa stands at the intersection of beauty and technique.
What makes these crafts unique is not only their intricate detail but their continuity. Many workshops have operated for centuries, passing down knowledge through generations. Visitors can watch artisans paint fine gold-leaf accents, apply lacquer in dozens of micro-thin layers, or glaze porcelain with colors distinctive to Ishikawa.
This deep craft heritage is one reason Ishikawa appears on so many curated travel lists—it represents the heart of Japanese aesthetics, accessible in an approachable and immersive way for travelers.
2. Kenroku-en: A Living Expression of Japanese Garden Philosophy
Kenroku-en Garden is more than a celebrated landmark; it is a living expression of Japanese harmony. The garden embodies the six classical elements of ideal landscape design—seclusion, spaciousness, antiquity, artificiality, abundant water, and scenic views.
Seasonally, Kenroku-en transforms dramatically: cherry blossoms arch over ponds in spring, moss glows in the summer rains, fiery maples reflect across the water in autumn, and winter brings the iconic yukitsuri ropes that protect ancient pine branches. These seasonal transitions are part of what makes Ishikawa deeply compelling to repeat Japan travelers.
3. Noto Peninsula: Rural Japan with Strong Community Identity
The Noto Peninsula offers a Japan few international visitors ever encounter—a coastline shaped by dramatic cliffs, terraced rice fields, fishing villages, and centuries-old traditions. The BBC highlighted Noto not only for its beauty but for its community-driven tourism.
Here, travelers can join local families for agricultural experiences, learn fishery practices, or participate in festivals that have been preserved with extraordinary care. Even after the 2024 earthquake, the region's resilience and commitment to cultural continuity have drawn global admiration.
Noto’s uniqueness lies in the way tradition is woven into everyday life. It is not curated for tourists—it is lived. This authenticity resonates deeply with international travelers seeking “the Japan behind the cities.”
4. A Culinary Landscape Shaped by Sea, Snow, and Craft
Ishikawa’s cuisine is another reason it consistently earns spots on global “best places to visit” lists. The region is known for its meticulously prepared seafood from the Sea of Japan, refined Kaga-ryōri, and visually stunning desserts inspired by local craft motifs.
Kanazawa’s Omicho Market showcases this culinary richness, with snow crab, sweet shrimp, and seasonal produce central to Ishikawa’s identity. Dining here often feels like stepping into a living cultural story.
5. Immersive Travel That Balances Modern Comfort with Deep Tradition
One of Ishikawa’s greatest appeals is balance: the preserved teahouses of Higashi Chaya District sit comfortably alongside contemporary art museums; traditional craft studios operate near sleek designer hotels; and quiet coastal towns welcome travelers with warm hospitality.
For guests on our Private Custom Tours, Ishikawa offers a rare combination of authenticity and accessibility—distinctive culture without overwhelming crowds.
Recommended Tours Featuring Ishikawa
Consider exploring Ishikawa through one of our curated routes:
Ishikawa is more than a destination—it is an immersion into the soul of Japanese artistry, community, and resilience.
Travel Desk
When I saw that BBC named Ishikawa as one of the “Best Places to Travel,” I wasn’t surprised at all. Anyone who has spent time here understands why—it’s a destination where Japan’s cultural depth, natural beauty, and craftsmanship come together in a way that feels both timeless and refreshingly authentic. As someone who has spent years guiding travelers across Japan, I can say that Ishikawa offers one of the most well-rounded and genuinely rewarding travel experiences in the country.
One thing I appreciate about Kanazawa, in particular, is how easy it is to explore. The city is compact, the sightseeing routes are intuitive, and the public and tour bus systems are extremely well-organized. It’s the kind of place where first-time visitors feel confident navigating, yet seasoned travelers still find layers of history and creativity to uncover.
And then there’s the craftsmanship. Ishikawa is a treasure chest of traditional arts, but my personal favorite is Kutani ware. Every time I visit, I make a point to step into small galleries and studios—there’s a real joy in discovering a design that speaks to you. The region’s artisans don’t just preserve tradition; they reinterpret it, making each piece feel alive with local character.
No visit to Ishikawa is complete without experiencing its incredible seafood. The coastal waters of Hokuriku produce some of the freshest, cleanest flavors in Japan—snow crab, sweet shrimp, and seasonal fish that taste like they’ve come straight from the morning boats. Guests often tell me they had no idea seafood could taste this vibrant until they tried it here.
Another aspect I love introducing to travelers is the growing number of beautifully restored kominka—traditional houses converted into whole-home accommodations. My family stayed in one during a past visit, and the experience was completely different from a hotel. You wake up to creaking wooden floors, sliding paper doors, and a quiet neighborhood rhythm that makes you feel like you’re living a day of real Japanese life. For travelers who enjoy Airbnbs or immersive stays, this is something I always recommend.
We’ve noticed a significant increase in inquiries about Ishikawa since 2025, and it’s easy to see why. The region strikes that rare balance of being accessible yet deeply meaningful—ideal for both guided tours and private, customizable journeys. If you’re looking for a destination that blends art, heritage, food, and natural beauty in a way only Japan can, Ishikawa is a place you won’t want to miss.