Located on Honshu’s northern coast between the Sea of Japan and the cluster of peaks surrounding Mt. Hakusan, Ishikawa offers sublime ocean views and stunning mountain vistas. Once ruled by the wealthy Kaga clan, the area became a thriving center for Japanese fine arts, including ceramics and lacquerware in the 17th century, and it remains one of the country’s most important traditional hubs. Today, traditional Japanese culture coexists with the modern art museum, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art For a taste of Japan as it once was, stroll through the historical center of Kanazawa or relax in the hot springs of Kaga Onsen.