[Direct flight from Komatsu, Japan] Self-driving tour itinerary planning

Japan has many attractions. Besides popular destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and Sendai, many other cities are also worth visiting. A local airline will launch a new direct flight route from Hong Kong to Komatsu Airport in Ishikawa Prefecture, allowing Hong Kong travelers to reach this scenic area more quickly. Today, Kwiksure introduces must-visit spots in Komatsu City, popular cherry blossom viewing locations, and local parking guides to help you plan a convenient self-drive trip.

Natadera Temple

Natadera Temple, once abandoned due to war, was rebuilt in 1642 by Maeda Toshitsune. The main hall is uniquely built leaning against a rock wall without a roof, a rare architectural style. It was designated a National Treasure in 1941, and after dismantling and repairs in 1949, it was re-designated as an Important Cultural Property in 1950.

The temple has many attractions, including the main hall, Kondo Kawo-den, three-storied pagoda, and bell tower. The famous "Iwaya Tainai Pilgrimage" houses the principal image of the Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva, making it well worth a visit.

Address: YU122, Natadera, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Parking Guide: There is a parking lot outside the temple with ample spaces, convenient for self-driving visitors.

Yunokuni no Mori

This Japanese traditional craft village features multiple experience centers and traditional Japanese architecture set amidst a tranquil forest. Each center showcases local artisans' works and offers hands-on guidance for visitors to create their own crafts.

Visitors can try a wide range of crafts such as designing Wajima lacquerware, decorating tableware with gold leaf, painting Kutani ware, or making handmade paper. Besides crafts, there are cooking experience centers offering baking cookies, cakes, and soba noodles. Guests can also leisurely explore the local culture in the on-site restaurant, art museum, and tea ceremony house.

Address: 3-3 Awazu Onsen, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Parking Guide: The park has a parking lot with a capacity of 300 vehicles, so parking is not a concern.

Kegon Falls

Kegon Falls, together with Fukuroda Falls in Ibaraki Prefecture and Nachi Falls in Wakayama Prefecture, are known as Japan's three famous waterfalls. Kegon Falls was designated a National Scenic Spot in 1931 and selected as one of Japan's 100 geological sites in 2007. Water from Lake Chuzenji plunges 97 meters down a cliff, creating a grand spectacle. Combined with numerous smaller waterfalls, it is also called the Twelve Waterfalls, forming a beautiful overlapping waterfall scene.

Visitors can take an elevator to the observation platform for a close-up view of the waterfall's base, experiencing the roaring water and splashing spray. Different seasons offer varying views: lush greenery in May, swallows flying around in June, and from January to February, the Twelve Waterfalls freeze into light blue icicles.

Address: Nakamiya, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture

Parking Guide: Kegon Falls has two parking lots within walking distance of the falls.

Japan Automobile Museum

Founded in 1978 by car collector Akio Tate, the Japan Automobile Museum was Japan's first automobile museum and relocated to its current location from National Route 8 in 1995. The museum houses over 500 cars, with the oldest dating back to 1901. The collection includes many classic cars such as the Toyota 2000GT, Austin A135, and Nissan Skyline, as well as rare models like Soviet-made Likhachev and Chinese Hongqi cars.

Most cars are well-preserved and many are still operational, allowing the museum to hold classic car test drives for enthusiasts. The museum also features a restaurant and shop, making it a full-day destination.

Address: 40 Ikkanzan, Nashimachi, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Parking Guide: The museum's main entrance has ample parking spaces, very convenient.

Kibagata Park

Located just a 10-minute drive from the Japan Automobile Museum, Kibagata Park consists of Central, East, South, West, and North areas, covering a large area. Every April, it is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot with over 1,300 cherry trees. Over 100 cherry trees lining the roads form a "cherry blossom tunnel," a popular photo spot. The park’s official website updates cherry blossom status every other day, so check before visiting.

Outside of cherry blossom season, the park is still worth visiting, featuring a large lake where visitors can enjoy boating and, on clear days, views of Mount Hakusan.

Address: 58 Mitani-cho, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Parking Guide: Each park area has parking lots, with the Central area being the largest, offering over 500 parking spaces across 5 lots.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa

Even if you haven't heard of the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa, you have probably seen photos simulating underwater shots in its famous "Swimming Pool" exhibit designed by Argentine artist Leandro ERLICH. The museum also features permanent exhibits such as "Man Measuring the Clouds" by Belgian artist Jan FABRE and "Green Bridge" by French artist Patrick BLANC.

The museum's architecture is itself a work of art, designed by renowned Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa of SANAA. The museum includes a café where visitors can enjoy coffee while admiring the artistic building.

Address: 1-2-1 Hirosaka, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Parking Guide: The museum has a parking lot with nearby street signs directing visitors.

Awazu Onsen

Awazu Onsen is near Natadera Temple and Yunokuni no Mori, featuring many hot spring inns. Among them, "Hoshi" dates back 1,300 years and is a historic onsen inn. After a full day of sightseeing, soaking in the hot springs can relieve fatigue and is said to rejuvenate skin and aid healing of wounds and burns. Tasting the water reveals a slight salty and sour flavor.

Address: Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Parking Guide: Each onsen inn has its own parking lot; please inquire directly with your chosen inn.

Omicho Market

Founded during the Edo period, Omicho Market has over 300 years of history and houses more than 170 shops, including fresh seafood stalls sourcing from the Sea of Japan. It offers everything from affordable conveyor belt sushi to high-end restaurants with expert sushi chefs. Around November, the market starts selling Sea of Japan crab, yellowtail, and shrimp, attracting many locals and tourists. The market also sells fruits, vegetables, clothing, groceries, and has restaurants, enough to spend half a day exploring. Note that many shops close on Wednesdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Address: Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Parking Guide: Omicho Market has no dedicated parking lot, but many outdoor hourly parking lots are available nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

What attractions are recommended in Komatsu City, Japan?

Popular attractions in Komatsu City include Natadera Temple, Yunokuni no Mori, Kegon Falls, Japan Automobile Museum, Kibagata Park, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art Kanazawa, Awazu Onsen, and Omicho Market.

Where can I view cherry blossoms in Komatsu City, Japan?

Kibagata Park in Komatsu City is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, with over 1,300 cherry trees blooming around April each year. Over 100 cherry trees lining both sides of the road form a "cherry blossom tunnel," a popular photo spot.