Ishikawa Prefecture is located on the Sea of Japan side in the Chubu region of Japan, specifically within the Hokuriku area. The prefectural capital is Kanazawa City. It encompasses the historical provinces of Kaga and Noto, blending history, culture, and abundant natural beauty into a captivating region. Ishikawa has a long and narrow shape—about 200 km from north to south and 100 km from east to west—with the Noto Peninsula prominently jutting into the Sea of Japan in the north.
Geography and Topography
Ishikawa Prefecture is broadly divided into two regions: the southern Kaga area and the northern Noto area, each with its own distinct geographical features.
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Kaga Area: This region includes the Kaga Plain, which stretches out from the mountainous areas centered around Mt. Hakusan (elevation 2,702 meters), shaped by rivers such as the Tedori River. Cities like Hakusan, Komatsu, and Kaga are located here. Along the coast, there are sand dunes like the Uchinada Dunes and several lagoons.
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Noto Area: This region forms the Noto Peninsula, projecting into the Sea of Japan. It features hilly terrain, marine terraces, and a rugged ria coastline. The western coast (Sotoura) is marked by steep cliffs, while the eastern coast (Uchiura) offers calm bay views. Noto Island floats in Nanao Bay and is a well-known tourist destination.
The coastline stretches approximately 580 km, offering diverse natural landscapes. The mountainous areas include steep valleys and gorges, with rivers such as the Tedori, Sai, and Kakehashi flowing into the Sea of Japan.
Climate Features
Ishikawa Prefecture has a Sea of Japan coastal climate, characterized by abundant precipitation throughout the year. In particular, winters bring heavy snowfall due to seasonal winds from the northwest, and the mountainous areas are designated heavy snowfall zones.
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Kaga Region (Plains): Although relatively mild, the region receives significant snowfall. In Kanazawa, annual snowfall can exceed 200 cm in some years. Winter snow often comes with thunder—a phenomenon known as "buri-okoshi", which is rare in Japan.
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Noto Region: The climate is milder compared to other parts of Hokuriku, with relatively less snowfall. However, it is more affected by sea winds and seasonal gusts, leading to many cloudy days in winter.
Annual precipitation is high, ranging from 2,100 to 3,100 mm in the Kaga region and 1,700 to 2,100 mm in the Noto region. The amount of sunshine in winter is very limited, embodying the typical climate of the Hokuriku area.
History and Culture
In the Edo period, Ishikawa was part of the Kaga Domain, a powerful domain with a wealth of one million koku. The region, centered on Kanazawa, nurtured a unique and refined culture.
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Traditional Crafts: The region is home to exquisite and finely crafted works such as Kaga Yuzen (dyed textiles), Kanazawa lacquerware, Ohi pottery, Wajima lacquerware, and Kutani porcelain, all of which continue to be produced using traditional techniques.
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Performing Arts and Culture: Kaga Hosho-style Noh theater and tea ceremony are prominent. The number of awardees in national exhibitions such as the Nitten and Traditional Crafts Exhibition ranks among the highest in Japan, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural appreciation among residents.
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Tourist Attractions: Ishikawa offers many destinations where history and nature blend—Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Higashi Chaya District, Wajima Morning Market, Wakura Onsen, and Yamashiro Onsen. In 2021, about 12.3 million people visited the prefecture.
Economy and Industry
Ishikawa has developed as part of the Hokuriku Industrial Region. As of 2020, around 60% of the workforce was in the tertiary sector (services), while about 30% was in the secondary sector (mainly manufacturing), with machinery industries particularly thriving.
In the Kaga area centered on Kanazawa, economic, administrative, and cultural functions are concentrated, making it the economic core of the Hokuriku region. The area features many local enterprises and small to medium manufacturers, promoting regional economic growth through integration with traditional crafts and tourism.
Summary
Ishikawa Prefecture is a historically rich region defined by the natural splendor of the Noto Peninsula and the cultural legacy of the Kaga Domain. With snowy winters, a stunning coastline, renowned traditional crafts, and the cultural heart of Kanazawa, the prefecture offers diverse attractions throughout the seasons. It is an especially appealing destination for those seeking to experience the lifestyle and culture of Japan’s Sea of Japan coast.