Felicia’s Experience in Traditional Hokuriku

Last month, Felicia was invited to visit Japan – specifically the lesser known mid-west part of Honshu. Just two hours from Tokyo by bullet train, she was transported to a bygone era, where culinary delights, traditional customs, and precision artistry are celebrated.

Last week, I was invited by the Hokuriku Tourism Committee to visit lesser known mid-west part of Honshu, consisting of Kanazawa, Toyama and Fukui. Just two hours from Tokyo by shinkansen bullet train, I was transported to a bygone era, where culinary delights, traditional customs and precision artistry are celebrated.

In recent times, where Japan is on the verge of over-tourism and international dilution along the well trodden path, it was a breath of fresh air to experience a peaceful landscape, where English is still seldom spoken and Western travellers were less frequently seen.

You can feel the depth of Japanese spirituality at Otaki Shrine, dedicated to the Goddess of Paper, secluded in the forest and surrounded by giant cedar trees, or engage in silent meditation at the orderly Eiheiji Temple, an active Zen monastery.

You might dine and be entertained by geisha in Kanazawa in a restored teahouse, appreciate the steady hands at kaga yuzen – kimono silk dying, earn your lunch making sushi or soba noodles or observe the traditional hand forging and design of a traditional Japanese kitchen knife – definitely one of my favourite travel purchases!

After you’ve learned your crafts and marvelled at the precision of these wonderful craftsmen and women, perhaps spend some time just gazing – at Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most celebrated 17th century landscape gardens, to the modern marvel of the Toyama Glass Art Museum.

Not to mention the opportunities for onsen-bathing and incredible food, this is a hidden region of Japan to be enjoyed by those who welcome the unfamiliar, celebrate contrast and respect tradition. In just a short visit, you will absorb and see so much.

As always, a trip to Japan is more richly appreciated when accompanied by an English speaking guide and we can curate a tour, designed with your preferences in mind.

If Felicia’s experience has inspired you to consider a trip to Japan, feel free to check out our adjacent itinerary (The Art of Hokuriku) or view our destination page to view other itineraries and read our intriguing features!