Kakusenkei (Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture)

Kakusenkei (Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture) — Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)

Kakusenkei is a scenic valley located in the Yamanaka hot spring area of Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The name is said to have come from the deep V-shaped valley, clear streams, large and small oddly shaped rocks, and cedar forests, which were likened to a "scenery of dancing cranes reminiscent of a fairyland (a place where immortals live)." A well-maintained walking trail allows visitors to enjoy the hot spring town and natural scenery up close, and the charm of the area changes with the seasons (fresh greenery, the refreshing feeling of the mountain stream, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery). It is a popular tourist destination linked to the local hot spring culture and traditional crafts such as Yamanaka lacquerware.

Highlights

• Kakusenkei Promenade: A walking path along the valley. You can get a close-up look at the wooden bridge and the stream, and there are many photo spots. It's a pleasant course even if you walk slowly.
• Cricket Bridge: A typical bridge on the promenade. A popular spot for taking photos of the valley and stream.
• Cat's Cradle Bridge: There are several suspension bridge-style bridges and other unique bridges, and you can enjoy the views from the bridges.
• Valley scenery and the four seasonsThe charm of this area lies in the changing appearance of its scenery with each season: the fresh greenery of spring, the coolness of the mountain streams in summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery in winter.
• Link with the hot spring town: You can enjoy strolling around Yamanaka Onsen's hot spring town, foot baths, and hot spring inns, as well as visiting the hot springs.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: JR Kaga Onsen Station or JR Komatsu Station (major stations in the area). From the station, it is common to take a local bus, local/tourist bus, or taxi.
• Buses and taxis: Take a bus from Kaga Onsen Station bound for Yamanaka Onsen (takes about 20-30 minutes, varies depending on the bus). Take a taxi for about 20 minutes.
• car: Approximately 15-20 minutes from Kaga IC on the Hokuriku Expressway (depending on traffic conditions). Parking available on-site (may be full during peak hours).
• Airplane useIf you are using Komatsu Airport, it takes about 30 to 50 minutes by rental car, airport shuttle bus, or taxi.
• *Timetables and routes are subject to change, so please check the latest bus and train schedules before setting off.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Walking along the Kakusenkei Promenade: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace (including photo opportunities and breaks).
• Including a stop at the hot spring town (for a foot bath and a light meal), the tour will take half a day (2-4 hours).
• We recommend a one-day course that combines sightseeing in the surrounding area (such as Natadera Temple and a Kutani ware experience).

Nearby spots

• Yamanaka Onsen Town: A hot spring town lined with foot baths, traditional hot spring inns, and souvenir shops. You can enjoy bathing in the hot springs and dining together.
• Natadera Temple: Famous for its natural rock formations and historic temples, it is a short drive away.
• Kaga traditional craft facilities and experiencesThere are many places where you can visit Yamanaka lacquerware and Kutani ware workshops and experience making them.
• Katayamazu Onsen and Lake Shibayama area: If you travel by car, you can also enjoy the lakeside and other hot spring resorts.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The trails and parking lots tend to be crowded, especially during the autumn foliage season, long weekends, and public holidays. If you visit early in the morning or in the evening, you can enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
• Feet and clothing: The trail has stone steps, boardwalks, narrow sections, and slippery areas after rain. Please bring comfortable shoes and rain gear.
• Nighttime Safety: Some areas are poorly lit at night, so we recommend walking around before dark.
• Nature Conservation and MannersPlease be considerate of other visitors and the environment by taking your trash with you, not climbing on vegetation or rocks, and not making loud noises.
• Pets: In many places, you can walk with pets, but please be sure to observe proper etiquette, such as keeping them on a leash and cleaning up their droppings.
• Winter precautions: Road closures and dangerous areas may occur due to snow and ice. In winter, please take measures to protect yourself from the cold and slip, and check the latest local information.

Kakusenkei is a great spot for a stroll, with the hot spring town and nature close together. We recommend planning a trip that combines a stroll with a relaxing soak in the hot springs.