8 Best Things to Do in Ishikawa (Kanazawa) in Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Ishikawa Prefecture is full of charm, blending beautiful natural scenery with rich culture. The vibrant autumn leaves color the town vividly, and numerous special events and festivals captivate visitors. Additionally, the season offers an abundance of autumn flavors, making it an irresistible time for food lovers. Here, we introduce how to enjoy autumn in Ishikawa.

※ The dates for the events introduced may change. Please check the official websites of the venues for the latest information.

About Autumn in Ishikawa

Features and Attractions

Autumn in Ishikawa is brimming with charm, where beautiful natural scenery and rich culture come together. The autumn leaves are particularly stunning, with colorful foliage vividly decorating the town. Moreover, autumn is a season when local ingredients abound, allowing you to enjoy fresh seafood and vegetables. Cultural events are also frequently held, allowing visitors to experience the change of seasons.

Climate and Clothing Tips

In Ishikawa, early September can still have lingering summer heat, but it gradually cools down, and mornings and evenings can feel chilly. From October to November, the weather stabilizes, and the clear air enhances the beautiful scenery. However, by late November, the minimum temperature often drops to single digits, necessitating winter attire. Recommended items to bring include a foldable umbrella (for both sun and rain), outerwear and inner layers for temperature adjustment, a scarf, and disposable hand warmers.

Autumn Foliage Spots

Ishikawa is home to many autumn foliage spots where you can fully enjoy the autumn atmosphere. Here are some particularly recommended spots.

Kenrokuen

“Kenrokuen” is a representative garden of Ishikawa Prefecture and is also known as a famous spot for autumn foliage. The leaves of “Irohamomiji” and ginkgo trees turn colors, and you can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage from early to late November. The illuminated night scenery is also enchanting.

Kanazawa Castle Park

“Kanazawa Castle Park” is a particularly beautiful spot for autumn foliage against the backdrop of stone walls. The autumn leaves of cherry blossoms and maples, combined with the stone walls, enhance the historical landscape. The best time to visit is from early to mid-November, and you can also enjoy the rare sight of beech trees turning yellow in the lowlands.

Iozen

“Iozen,” located on the border with Toyama Prefecture, offers excellent hiking courses for enjoying autumn foliage. The trail from the visitor center to “Ooike” and “Sanjagataki” is at its best from late October to early November. It is a perfect spot to enjoy autumn foliage in nature.

Events and Festivals

In addition to autumn foliage, many events and festivals are held in Ishikawa during autumn. Especially, events related to food, art, and music are plentiful, providing enjoyment for visitors.

Kanazawa JAZZ STREET

This event, held in mid-September, turns tourist attractions in the city into stages, filling the town with jazz. Many artists participate, making it an event not to be missed by music fans.

Sake Marche

Sake Marche, held in early October, is an event where sake breweries and restaurants from Ishikawa gather in one place. This event allows you to enjoy local sake and delicious food, making it a must-visit for sake lovers.

Autumn Gourmet

Autumn in Ishikawa is a treasure trove of food. Fresh seafood and vegetables abound, allowing you to fully enjoy local ingredients.

Kobako-gani

“Kobako-gani” (female snow crab), which is available from November 6, is a representative autumn delicacy of Ishikawa. It can be enjoyed in dishes like oden and sushi and is loved by locals.

Amaebi

“Amaebi,” available from late September, has an irresistible plump texture. It is recommended to buy them at “Omicho Market” and make your own “Amaebi-don” (sweet shrimp bowl).

Gorojima Kintoki

“Gorojima Kintoki,” one of the “Kaga Vegetables,” is characterized by its fluffy and sweet taste. You can enjoy its deliciousness through simple preparations like tempura or baked sweet potatoes.