Ishikawa Prefecture faces the Sea of Japan and offers beautiful scenery that can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons. In particular, spring is a time when cherry blossoms bloom in abundance, and many tourist spots celebrate the arrival of the season. This article introduces the charms of spring in Ishikawa, including its climate, famous cherry blossom spots, gourmet spots, and spring events.
*Please note that the event schedules mentioned may change. Please check the official websites of the facilities for the latest information.
About Spring in Ishikawa
Characteristics and Attractions
Spring in Ishikawa is a beautiful season with cherry blossoms in full bloom. Especially in Kanazawa City, there is “Kenrokuen,” one of Japan’s three most famous gardens, known nationwide for its beauty. Additionally, Ishikawa is rich in fresh seafood and mountain produce, and in spring, you can enjoy dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Moreover, many events and festivals are held during this season, providing a great opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.
Climate and Clothing Tips
In March, Ishikawa can still be cold, with temperatures often dropping to single digits in the mornings and evenings. Warm clothing such as coats, jackets, and sweaters are necessary. By April, it gets a bit warmer, and a jacket and long-sleeve shirt are suitable, though cardigans or sweaters may still be needed on cold days. In May, a light jacket and long-sleeve shirt should suffice, but it’s a good idea to have an extra layer for outings at night. In addition, the “Hokuriku” region is prone to “Foehn phenomena” in spring, causing both hot and cold days. Therefore, prepare clothing that can handle both warm and cool weather. Ishikawa is also known for its high number of rainy days, so bringing a foldable umbrella or an umbrella for both rain and sun is recommended.
Famous Cherry Blossom Spots
Ishikawa has many beautiful cherry blossom spots. Here are three particularly recommended places.
Kenrokuen
“Kenrokuen” is one of Japan’s three most famous gardens and is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty by the nation. During the cherry blossom season, the garden extends its opening hours and offers free admission, with nighttime illuminations as well. It has also been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, and the sight of the blooming cherry blossoms is truly breathtaking. In spring, about 40 varieties and over 400 cherry trees bloom, making it a must-see attraction.
Kanazawa Castle Park
“Kanazawa Castle Park,” adjacent to “Kenrokuen,” is one of Ishikawa’s iconic landscapes. This spot, where you can enjoy both the castle and cherry blossoms, is perfect for photography. During the cherry blossom season, the park extends its opening hours and offers nighttime illuminations, creating a fantastical scene. Spring at “Kanazawa Castle Park” allows you to enjoy a beautiful landscape that harmonizes history and nature.
Around Asano River
The area around “Asano River” is close to “Higashi Chaya District” and “Kazue-machi Chaya District,” known for their picturesque scenery. The arch-shaped “Asanogawa Ohashi” bridge is popular as a “photogenic spot.” During the cherry blossom season, a beautiful row of cherry trees lines the river, making it perfect for strolling and photography. With the arrival of spring, the area around “Asano River” offers beautiful scenery woven with cherry blossoms and old townscapes.
Gourmet Spots for Cherry Blossom Viewing
Ishikawa has many spots where you can enjoy delicious meals while viewing cherry blossoms. Here are three particularly recommended spots.
Kenjotei
“Kenjotei” is a renowned Japanese restaurant with an excellent location for cherry blossom viewing in “Kenrokuen.” Especially, the counter seats in the restaurant’s second floor offer a prime view of the cherry blossoms, as well as “Ishikawa Gate” and the stone walls of “Kanazawa Castle.” You can spend a special moment viewing the night cherry blossoms, and special menus are offered during the cherry blossom season.
Hoto
“Hoto” is a renowned Japanese restaurant located along the “Sai River.” In front of the restaurant stands a large cherry tree over 90 years old, and from the windows of the large hall on the second floor, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the cherry blossoms. In the “Oosugi” room, known for its blend of Japanese and Western styles, you can enjoy meals while taking in the seasonal scenery.
Jardin Paul Bocuse
“Jardin Paul Bocuse” is a French restaurant located in the “Shiinoki Guest House.” From the glass-walled terrace seats, you can view the cherry blossoms adorning the stone walls of “Kanazawa Castle Park” and the cherry tree rows of “Kenrokuen.” While retaining the elegance of the Taisho era, the main dining room features a modern and sophisticated design where you can enjoy French cuisine that blends the food cultures of France and Kanazawa.
Events and Festivals
Many events and festivals are held in Ishikawa during spring. Here are three especially recommended events.
Ishikawa Kanazawa Wind and Green Music Festival
This music festival, held every year during Golden Week, brings together music from around the world, including classical music, to Kanazawa. World-renowned artists perform, and the entire city overflows with music.
Asano River Koi-Nagashi
“Asano River Koi-Nagashi” is a unique event where many carp streamers are floated in the “Asano River” from “Umenohashi” to “Asanogawa Ohashi.” Held on May 4th, this event resembles the traditional “Yuzen-nagashi” once commonly seen in the “Asano River” and is loved by both locals and tourists.
Omi-cho Market Spring Festival
The “Omi-cho Market Spring Festival” is an annual event held every April at the market. Various events are held, such as tuna cutting shows, special bamboo shoot sales, and fun lotteries. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood and mountain produce from the market and to experience the local food culture.
