I was recently invited to Highland Resort Hotel & Spa, which just so happens to be the official hotel (and spa) of Fuji-Q Highland (Japan's premier amusement park that is not completely cartoon and/or movie themed). After scrutinizing my boss to see if she was jerking my chain when she asked me if I wanted to visit Fuji-Q on business, I feigned professionalism and calmly accepted the assignment (while inner me jumped up and down and giggled like a 5 year old). And thus, I was off to Fuji-Q on a somewhat sunny Saturday at the end of April.
Coming and going to Japan doesn't happen just around Tokyo; Kansai Airport near Osaka and Kyoto in Western Japan is also a popular hub for international travelers. Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport is now offering one lucky JAPANiCAN.com customer (and a guest) the chance to win a free night! Keep reading for more info.
Ishikawa Prefecture lies on the west coast of Japan's main island, a part of Hokuriku in the larger Chubu, or "central", region. It is best-known perhaps for its capital city of Kanazawa, an old castle town rich in history and natural beauty and surprisingly compact in size (a good thing -- more on this later). Kanazawa offers a range of sightseeing destinations and cultural experiences -- not to mention the tasty food -- that will delight history buffs and artisans alike.
Although it is certainly not to be missed, Kanazawa is not all that Ishikawa Prefecture has to offer. Travelers to Japan -- both first-timers and repeat visitors alike -- are sure to know of the country's nationwide passion for hot springs; well, Ishikawa is no exception as home to Kaga Onsen (among others) which consists of four smaller hot spring towns including Awazu, Yamashiro, Yamanaka, and Katayamazu. Those looking for a peaceful getaway with a steamy bath to melt away the weariness of travel need look no further than these small, somewhat secluded hot spring villages tucked amongst the verdant mountains and valleys of Ishikawa. Kaga Onsen's soothing hot springs -- and their purported healing powers -- are said to have been discovered more than 1,000 years ago, and in addition to the famous public bath houses here, visitors can find a number of top-class ryokan to choose from. Continue below for some of our top choices.
Ishikawa Prefecture lies on the west coast of Japan's main island, a part of Hokuriku in the larger Chubu, or "central", region. It is best-known perhaps for its capital city of Kanazawa, an old castle town rich in history and natural beauty and surprisingly compact in size (a good thing -- more on this later). Kanazawa offers a range of sightseeing destinations and cultural experiences -- not to mention the tasty food -- that will delight history buffs and artisans alike.
Ishikawa Prefecture is not just rich in history; it is also historically rich. The prosperous Kaga Domain -- led by the Maeda clan -- which occupied this area during the Edo period precipitated the development of an array of fine arts, crafts, and products. On a recent trip to Kanazawa, I experienced a few highlights including Kanazawa gold leaf, Kutaniyaki porcelain and Ohi-style pottery, and locally brewed sake.
Get the lowdown on some of what Ishikawa Prefecture has to offer!