ISHIKAWA HIGHLIGHTS

KANAZAWA THE CAPITAL OF

Ishikawa prefecture sits on the northwest coast of Honshu Island. During the Edo period, it was developed into a town thriving with trade and art – which continues to this day. The name Kanazawa translates as ‘gold marsh’, and today it produces 99 per cent of the country’s gold leaf. With hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, spring and autumn are the best times to visit.

Kanazawa castle (1)

Originally built in the 16th century, this castle was the seat for the Maeda clan during the Edo period. The original structure burnt down several times, though the Shikawa Gate and Sanjikken Nagaya (samurai warehouse) have survived. Located in the centre of town, it lies opposite another great attraction: the Kenroku- en garden.

Kenroku-en garden (2) Hailed as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan, this 11-hectare site of manicured lawns, sparkling ponds, elegant bridges and teahouses is one of Kanazawa’s top sites. The scenery changes year round thanks to a variety of flowering trees – pink cherry blossoms in March give way to verdant summer leaves and the burnt oranges of maples in autumn.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (3)

A celebration of art produced since the 1980s, with a focus on installations, video and mixed-media. It’s purposefully designed without a main entrance, discouraging patrons from approaching the circular building – and its art – from one single direction. kanazawa21.jp/en

Omicho Market

This bustling network of covered streets has been Kanazawa’s largest food market for almost 300 years.

Nagamachi district (4)

This scenic area dotted with canals, winding lanes and heritage architecture is the well-preserved former samurai district. Check out Nomura Samurai House, a restored samurai residence with heirlooms, antiques and artefacts.

Tsuba Jin

A well- established ryotei restaurant with a history spanning more than 260 years. tsubajin.co.jp/en

Yamasan Sushi Honten

A 40-seater restaurant close to Kanazawa station, with good prices and excellent plates of sushi and sashimi.

68 Shimoōmichō, Kanazawa-shi, +81-76-221-0055

ELSEWHERE IN ISHIKAWA

Noto Winery

The vineyard and winery in Anamizu offers tastings of wines made from locally grown grapes – including the yama sauvignon, as well as white wines and rosé. notowine.com

Wajima Museum of Urushi Art

An interesting account of the history of

lacquerware which has been practised here for centuries. city.wajima.ishikawa.jp/art