The Pioneering Power-Couple of Ishikawa
- japansan
- Oct 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 23
Kaga Onsen, located in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, is a renowned hot spring area with a history of over 1,300 years. Nestled near Mount Hakusan, it comprises four distinct onsen towns: Yamashiro, Yamanaka, Katayamazu, and Awazu. Famous for therapeutic waters, traditional ryokan, and serene landscapes, it attracts visitors seeking relaxation and cultural experiences.
Although it is still firmly in the hidden gem category, the area has become much more viable to western tourists since it was added on the Hokuriku Shinkansen in March 2024. Situated between Kanazawa and Fukui, it now presents the ideal easy-access "hot spring/ryokan" dimension, typically provided by Hakone. Unlike many other off-the-beaten-track hot spring areas, it is incredibly well developed in terms of English language support, foreigner-friendly ryokan and unique local experiences.
Hanamurasaki: marking a new era of ryokan for western travellers
Hanamurasaki ryokan provides a wonderful illustration of the compelling proposition this area poses to western travellers. Of course, the ryokan itself is next level stunning as well as very trade-friendly. However, what truly sets it apart in the area (and Japan itself) is the oh-so-gorgeous, progressive, earnest, bright, savvy power-couple running Hanamurasaki.
Manami-san very kindly offered us the following insights into the appeal of the area and the accommodation itself.
About Yamanaka Onsen
Yamanaka Onsen is a hot spring and craft town with a history of 1,300 years. About 400 years ago, woodworkers were drawn to the local forests and climate, and they developed a thriving lacquerware culture. Today, there is even a school dedicated to lacquerware techniques, and as a result, many artists and craftspeople have chosen to live here. With the sea and mountains nearby, Yamanaka is a historic town sustained by its rich food culture, hot springs, and craftsmanship.
About the ryokan
Hanamurasaki has been operated by the same owner family for over 120 years. The current sixth-generation owner, Kohei Yamada, studied at an art university in San Francisco, where he realized the profound depth of Japanese culture and decided to inherit the ryokan. About three years ago, Hanamurasaki began a renewal project, not to preserve Japanese culture in its old form, but to reinterpret it through a modern perspective and design. Inside the ryokan, you will find artworks by local artists and even a contemporary tea room where guests can enjoy Japanese tea. Our mission is to share the charm of this region and, more broadly, to pass Japanese culture on to future generations and to the world.
Image credits: Nik van der Giesen, Renée Kemps
Recommended Experiences in the Area
When you visit Hanamurasaki, we highly recommend a walk along the Kakusenkei Gorge promenade, just steps away from the ryokan. The path is home to a rich variety of mosses and plants growing naturally, creating a serene place where you can truly feel Japan’s nature. We also offer a range of local experiences, such as private visits to usually closed pottery studios for painting activities, or kintsugi (gold repair) workshops. We are happy to suggest activities tailored to your interests.
Image credits: Nik van der Giesen, Renée Kemps
Other Information
Last year, we opened a new “Art Suite,” created in collaboration with local contemporary artists. The suite is equipped with a private open-air bath and sauna. In our tea lounge, we also serve an afternoon tea lunch. We hope you will fully immerse yourself in the charm of Yamanaka Onsen.
Image credits: Nik van der Giesen, Renée Kemps
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