About Wajima

Wajima is located on the end of Noto Peninsula jutting out into the Sea of Japan on the west side of Japan’s main island. Because of it statigic location near to Korea and being located in the middle of Honshu, it has a rich and interesting history as a vital trading port and as a landing stage for Buddhist emissaries from Korea.

Wajima is not only the home to the most famous and durable lacquerware in Japan but has the bounty of both the mountains and the sea. Noto has the oldest living population in Japan which is beholden to its fresh air, clean water and abundant fresh food. People here still have the wisdom of generations handed down from their parents on how to find, pick and preserve wild vegetables and seafood. The seafood in Noto is second to none with the cold, deep water of the Japan Sea bringing seasonal fish, crab and other delicacies of the ocean. Wajima also boasts one of the oldest morning markets in Japan where you can try some homemade produce.

In spring locals enjoy searching for the first wild vegetables which appear from under the snow and when the nightingale sings we know that spring has truly come. In Autumn there are wild mushrooms in a huge variety and a perfect climate for hiking, fishing, camping and cycling on uncongested roads.

The sea is crystal clear and most of the beaches are deserted. Beach combing and beautiful sunsets can be enjoyed all year round. In winter when the sea becomes a fury, amidst the dramatic scenery we can often see nami-no-hana, (flowers of the waves) sea foam whipped up like a giant's bubble bath which is caught on the wind and flies about like butterflies. The fish, rich in oil are particularly good in winter as is the sake which is freshly brewed in the new year. Wajima boosted four of its own sake breweries but there are many more dotted around the peninsula due to the natural spring water and delicious rice.

Because of Noto’s rich heritage there are many unique festivals held all year around, many of which can only be seen in the Noto area. Lastly but not least, the hot springs are a must for those who like to experience the bliss of a hot bath in the open air.

Tours and workshops

For educational purposes I can offer a limited number of local tours for those interested to know more about Wajima-nuri and the local history. A unique maki-e workshop can also be arranged as part of a tour or by itself. As this is an authentic experience, the workshop requires two hours and on completion you will have your own piece of original Wajima-nuri art to take home with you. All materials are provided but advanced booking is necessary.

For details please contact us.

Access

Wajima is less than a two hour drive from Kanazawa, the main city in Ishikawa Prefecture and is well worth a visit. I highly recommend a rent-a-car as public transport is very limited and it is fun to drive around. We have a small airport so you can fly directly from Tokyo in less than an hour, the airport also has rent-a-car facilities.

There is also a direct bus from Kanazawa station to various destinations in Noto which takes around two hours.