Kaga Unveiled: Luxurique Joins Kaga City in Showcasing a New Vision of Craft, Cuisine and Meaningful Travel

alexandrel1
Nov 27
3 min read

Kaga City in Ishikawa Prefecture has long been known for its more than one thousand three hundred years of hot spring culture and its exceptional legacy of craftsmanship. It is a place where small and intimate ryokan create an atmosphere of quiet exclusivity, where traditional artisans continue to shape objects of remarkable beauty, and where nature, culture and cuisine form a harmony that is unmistakably Kaga.

In early December, this character of Kaga was presented to international guests during the Kaga Onsen Gastronomy Monitoring Tour. It was organised by the Kaga Onsen Koto mono Council, an initiative launched through the cooperation of Kaga City and Takarazuka University, which plans to open a new tourism faculty in the city in 2027. The tour invited guests from the United States and Spain to experience newly developed programs that express the essence of Kaga through its food culture and its craft traditions. Luxurique had the privilege of joining this initiative, offering guidance on how to introduce the region to discerning international travellers.

Celebrating the encounter of ingredients, craft and culture

A central part of the program was a tasting event held at Kurose Town Gallery and Salon Roukoku. Chef Shota Itoi of the French restaurant Auberge eaufeu in Komatsu prepared dishes using seasonal produce from Kaga and seafood freshly landed at Hashidate Fishing Port. Each plate was served on Yamanaka lacquerware created by Eiko Tanaka and on Kutani porcelain designed by ceramic artist Mifuyu Yoshita.

The pairings were completed with sake produced by Matsuura Brewery in Yamanaka Onsen, including its well regarded Shishi no Sato.

Through this setting, visitors were able to appreciate the natural connection between regional ingredients, local craft traditions and the refined hospitality that defines Kaga.

A destination shaped by heritage

Kaga offers a depth of experience that appeals to travellers seeking authenticity rather than spectacle. Its ryokan, many of them recognised by the Michelin Guide, keep the scale intentionally small, creating an environment where attention to detail and guest privacy are central.

The region is also home to some of Japan’s most respected craftspeople. Workshops dedicated to Yamanaka lacquerware and Kutani porcelain welcome visitors who wish to understand the spirit and discipline of these traditions. Hands on experiences range from wood turning at the Kawakita Workshop, led by a family of renowned artisans, to crafting Nerikiri sweets with masters who carry on the aesthetic values of classical Japanese confectionery.

Hashidate Fishing Port further enriches the region’s identity. Known for its evening auction and the remarkable quality of its Kano gani snow crab, the port has shaped the local culinary culture for centuries. Its proximity to the fishing grounds allows boats to return within hours, preserving the freshness that distinguishes its seafood.

A shared conversation about the future

A seminar was also held during the program to encourage dialogue between local stakeholders and specialists familiar with the expectations of international travellers. Naomi Mano took part in this session, drawing on her long experience in global hospitality and cultural communication.

She spoke about the changing profile of high value visitors, the type of depth and authenticity they increasingly seek, and the value of presenting regional culture in a manner that is both faithful to local identity and easy for guests from abroad to understand. Her intention was to offer context that could support future program development while respecting the traditions that define Kaga.

Looking ahead

The monitoring tour served as an opportunity for dialogue, exchange and reflection. It illustrated how Kaga’s traditions can be shared with guests from abroad in a way that remains true to the region’s character.

Luxurique is grateful to have been part of this initiative and looks forward to supporting Kaga as it continues to welcome a growing number of international travellers.