Keen wind, strong dreams: Kahoku

KAHOKU GUIDE BOOK

Welcome to our city, nestled between green splendor and the sea

Kahoku City Ishikawa Prefecture

CONTENTS

This is Kahoku ・・・ 2

Prominent people from Kahoku ・・・ 4

Facilities and monuments ・・・ 6

Let’s have some fun! Parks & camp grounds ・・・ 14

Festivals & special events: See, feel, participate! ・・・17

Tidings of flowers ・・・ 23

Kahoku regional specialties ・・・ 26

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This is Kahoku City Description of Kahoku The city of Kahoku was formed on May 1, 2004 from the incorporation of three towns formerly known as Takamatsu, Nanatsuka and Unoke. It is currently the ninth largest city in Ishikawa prefecture. Kahoku is located approximately in the center of Ishikawa and lies 20 kilometers north of the capital, Kanazawa. The city is blessed with beautiful nature, such as facing the scenic Sea of Japan, the Hodatsu mountain range, the Kahokudai sand dunes, the Kahokugata Lagoon, and the Omigawa River. Natural Abundance

Sea of Japan: With a shallow coastline spanning 13 kilometers from north to south, many people come to swim in the summer. There are also those who enjoy jet skiing and fishing. The sun setting on the Sea of Japan is stunning and a must-see. Sometimes local fishermen can be spotted setting up their nets. Mt. Hodatsu: The highest peak (637 meters in altitude) in the Noto region. The view from the top includes the brave figures of Mt. Hakusan and Mt. Tateyama, Toyama Bay, and the horizon over the Sea of Japan. Late April is the best time to appreciate Kochidani Forest Road of Cherry Trees that leads up to the top of Mount Hodatsu. Omigawa River: Class B river with a total length of 13.52 kilometers. The source comes from Mt. Hodatsu in Tsubata town, passes through Kahoku, and feeds into the Sea of Japan in Hodatsushimizu town. One can enjoy fishing for ayu (sweetfish) here. Kahokugata Lagoon: Located on the northern part of the Kanazawa plains, this lagoon stretches from Kanazawa, Kahoku, Uchinada, and Tsubata. It was reclaimed a long time ago and is now used as multipurpose farmland to produce agricultural products. Since the reclamation, the previously brackish lake has transformed into a freshwater lake. Kahokudai Sand Dunes: The sand dunes were formed at the beginning of the Meiji Era (around 1868) as a wind deterrent and boast being the second largest in Japan, next to the dunes in Tottori prefecture. A portion of the area has been used as a field for farming daikon radish and sweet potatoes, said to be sweet and delicious.

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From Traditional to High-Tech Industry Various industries serve as the base supporting the city in a large manner: the textiles that have existed since olden times; the ironwork industry that creates products and parts for everyday use, and also the electronics industry which will be responsible for the following generations. Textile Industry: An industry with techniques that have been passed down as tradition. A wide variety of products are made which occupy a large share of the national market. Products include items such as elastic rubber bands and lace. Ironwork: In the city, there are family-run iron factories and ironsmith facilities where things of all shapes and sizes are made. Electronics Industry: There are large firms dedicated to the production and development of computers and those related to the computer industry.

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Prominent people from Kahoku

Kitaro Nishida (1870-1945) Kitaro Nishida was born in what was known as Mori in Kanazu town (now known as Kahoku) to the headman of a group of villages. After graduating from Tokyo Imperial University, he went on to teach in his hometown before heading to Myoshinji Temple in Kyoto to learn zen meditation in his quest for truth. His “Inquiry Into the Good” was published in January, 1911. It drew attention for bringing about the unification of moralism and intuitionism in Eastern philosophy. The book won the Order of Cultural Merit in 1940. His ashes are spread in his hometown of Mori, as well as Kyoto, and Kamakura.

Fumi Takahashi (1901-1945) Born in the former town of Nanatsuka (now known as Kahoku), the niece of Kitaro Nishida majored in logic and philosophy at Tohoku Imperial University and studied logic and philosophy abroad at Berlin University and Freiburg University. After returning to Japan, she received a position as an instructor at Tokyo Women’s University until she became ill and returned home. While undergoing treatment, she conducted lectures in her area about Nishida’s “Problems of Japanese Culture.” She is famous for being a pioneer as the first female student from Ishikawa to attend an imperial university.

Kiyoshi Kubo (1895-1983) Born in what is now known as Sashie in Kahoku, he was the second son of doctor Nariyuki Kubo. Taking over the family-run Kubo Hospital, he administered treatment to local residents. In addition, he was very knowledgeable about archaeology and discovered the Kamiyamada Shell Mound in November 1930, the first shell mound in Ishikawa and a national historic relic site. In 1932, he discovered the Kiya relic. He has made great efforts, such as establishing the Ishikawa Archaeological Research Society, preserving cultural treasures, and serving as a guide for those following in his footsteps.

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Akira Tsuru (1909-1938) Tsuru was born in Takamatsu, a part of Kahoku. At the age of 16, he flourished as a budding poet of senryu (humorous) poetry. He became aware of proletarian senryu and led a workshop concerning the subject. Published in 1937, his work “Mr. Senryu” led him to be arrested by the political police due to its antiwar content. He fainted during a round of police interrogation in August of the following year and was taken to the hospital. He died on September 14 at the young age of 29. He became famous for standing up to authority, his struggle to free the souls of powerless people through his senryu, his efforts to elevate senryu’s reputation as a respected art, and for his staunch opposition to World War II.

Zensaku Azuma (1893-1967) Born in what is now Nakanuma in Kahoku. In his days as a newspaper reporter, he reported about acrobatic aviation and felt drawn to it, so he flew to America by himself in 1916 at the age of 23. He was inspired by Lindbergh’s successful attempt at flying over the Atlantic nonstop by himself in 1927. From June to August, 1930, Azuma flew from Los Angeles to New York, crossed the skies of Europe and Siberia and finally landed in Japan. He became known as the “Lindbergh of Japan,” for crossing three continents in that nonstop flight.

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Facilities and monuments Facilities

Ishikawa Nishida Kitaro Museum of Philosophy Known for his “Inquiry Into the Good,” Kitaro Nishida’s achievements and other related items are on display here. In addition to presenting philosophy in an easy to understand and familiar manner, it’s a facility where one can physically experience philosophical thought. The building was designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando.

Kitaro Nishida’s Study Room “Kossei-kutsu” Kitaro Nishida’s study-room was transported from Kyoto and reconstructed. Officially registered as a nationally recognized cultural treasure, this building from the Taisho era (1912-1926) serves as a good example of a western-style room.

Kamiyamada Shell Mound (national historic site) The shell mound was first discovered in 1930, and is one of the relics found along the Sea of Japan dating back to the middle of the Jomon Era. The earthenware is known as Kamiyamada earthenware and was a basic type of earthenware. Its discovery gives a glimpse into the lifestyle of long ago, where the Kahokugata Lagoon itself was itself a part of the sea.

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Umikkolando Sea and Coastal Museum This is a facility where one can learn about and experience the daily lives of fishermen and their tools. Furthermore, one can also think about the significance of fishing knowledge and practices as they apply to modern life. Additionally, there are campgrounds and barbecue facilities available for use. Located right next to the Sea of Japan.

Kamo Shrine The history of this shrine dates back to about 1500 years. This village shrine protects all areas excluding the Osaki and Shiroo areas, and receives many visitors who come to pray during New Year’s and the festival day for young children.

Takamatsu Roadway Junction and Resthouse This roadway junction is located on the Noto Yuryo Toll Road and is the second largest of its kind in the prefecture. At the restaurants here, one can enjoy a meal while gazing at the sunset over the Sea of Japan. The grape-flavored ice cream, hamaguri (clam) rice bowl and squid ink ramen are especially popular.

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Shiroo Lighthouse A lighthouse built in order to salvage and ensure safety for ships and fishing vessels sailing on the Sea of Japan. It stands out for having been constructed on the shallow seashore. A park has been built under the lighthouse and the view of the sunset from here is spectacular.

“Tennen Yuttari” (Natural Relaxation) Hot Springs One can spend the night in this hot springs resort boasting natural waters with a low amount of alkaline. One can enjoy fresh fish at the fisherman’s depot located next to the sea.

Kanazawa Country Club 10,212 yards spread over three courses (east, middle, west), each with 9 holes and a par of 108. Equipped with nine par 3 holes that beginners can use.

Hokuriku Green Hill Golf Golf course with 18 holes and a par of 72. Distinguished by its abundance of rolling hills. There are plenty of carts that the elderly can use to get around the course with ease.

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Omi Nishiyama Yayoi no Sato Monument Park An archaeological park featuring the reconstruction of a primitive pit dwelling from the Yayoi Era. In the later part of the Yayoi Era amid the tense times of frantic war, people built villages atop high mountains and built deep moats around them. They came to be known as highland settlements and the Omi Nishiyama relic is one such example.

Takamatsu Ground Golf Course There are three courses sanctioned by the Japan Ground Golf Association. Its layout of many rolling hills makes it easy for people of all ages, from young children to seniors, to enjoy the facility. The club house menu offers sanuki udon (wheat noodles), shipped directly from Kagawa prefecture.

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Across Takamatsu An all-weather sports center fully furnished with facilities like an astro-turf playing court, running course, craftwork room, and an area for sumo. There is also a gym (Joy Across) equipped with a training room and pool.

Seven Gods of Good Fortune Center Located right on the Noto Yuryo Toll Road next to the Shiroo IC junction, this building is shaped like the treasure ship of the dragon god. One can touch the jewels laid out in the garden. Tourist products and jewels like crystals and tourmaline are available for sale inside the building.

Ishikawa Prefectural Nursing University This university was built in 2000 as a university aiming to be a, “landmark in nursing education, research, and training,” in the community. The campus is very large and blessed with a natural environment and new facilities. There is also a graduate school.

Hokuriku Dinosaur and Fossil Museum A facility located inside the Seven Gods of Good Fortune Center. About 1,500 different kinds of fossils gathered from all over the world as well as minerals and gemstones are on display.

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Monuments

Birthplace of Azuma Zensaku In 1930, he flew from Los Angeles Airport on the biplane Tokyo and crossed three continents (America, Europe, and Asia) on a non-stop flight by himself. The city hosts a paper airplane competition and a rice porridge festival every year.

Akira Tsuru Stone Tablet This stone tablet engraved with a poem was built to commemorate Akira Tsuru, the senryu poet who expressed his anti-war sentiment during Japan’s militaristic era. The inscription of his famous poem reads, “Oh, dried-up grass; stick together and wait for spring.” The city commemorates his achievements by holding a senryu contest every year.

Birthplace of Fumi Takahashi Birthplace of Kitaro Nishida’s niece and the first female student from Ishikawa to attend an imperial university.

Bronze Statue of Saburozaemon Sakurai Toward the end of the warring states period, when the troops lead by Sassa Narimasa surrounded Suemori Castle and engaged in an exhaustive battle with the Maeda clan, Sakurai guided the Maeda forces under Maeda Toshiie unnoticed by the Sassa forces along the coastline and to victory.

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Birthplace of Kitaro Nishida Birthplace of Kitaro Nishida, famous for his “Inquiry Into the Good.” He was born in 1871 and lived here until he was 13 years old.

Bronze Statue of Kitaro Nishida This bronze statue commemorates the achievements of the Eastern philosopher Kitaro Nishida. Within city limits there are various facilities, monuments, etc. relating to Dr. Nishida. Nishida’s philosophy is kept alive through book clubs and philosophy courses in order to promote a new cultural foundation.

Monument for Grape Origins A monument built to commemorate the achievements of Eijiro Ichimura and the flourishment of grape cultivation on the sandy hills.

Stone Tablet of Kyoshi Takahama’s haiku A haiku has been engraved on this tablet near the wharf of Uchihisumi written by Takahama who visited the prefecture in 1949. The wharf was used since olden times when boats and travelers had to pass through the Kahokugata Lagoon until 1898 when the Nanao Line was opened.

Brief Memo: Change in grape cultivation The cultivation of grapes began in 1919 when Eijiro Ichimura moved from Kanazawa and planted a 70-acre vineyard on the sandy hills. Afterward, as people contributed to technological advancements, it earned a reputation for being a well-known grape-producing area.

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Stone Tablet of Hakusan Asano’s Haiku The stone tablet was built in honor of Asano who was a favorite pupil of Takahama and a leader of haiku enthusiasts in Takamatsu. One of his most famous works is engraved on it.

Stone Tablet of Kenkichi Iwasa’s poem This tablet was built to commemorate the short poem of Kenkichi Iwasa who was not only a poet but also a doctor. His famous work is inscribed on the tablet.

Customs Area Remains This was a post station that flourished in feudal times, located on the road from Kanazawa Castle extending to the Noto region. This was a place where travelers carrying goods would go through customs and pay taxes accordingly. A monument was built under the same name to serve as a memorial.

Nagara Water Reserve System Repair Monument This monument was built to commemorate the canalization of the Nagara Water Reserve System established in 1717.

Brief Memo: Nagara Water Reserve With a total length of 6 kilometers, this water reserve provides moisture to the grounds of the Nagara fields and extends to the Omigawa River basin. It is equipped with the technology to transport water, which weaves toward the foot of the mountain at a steep slope of 1 in 230. The second tunnel known as “Miuchi Tunnel” is where garbage disposal and mud extraction are located. In the valley between the mountains, there is an embankment with a height of 20 meters and length of 90 meters that allows the water to cross. There is no other one like it in Japan, and it is the distinguishing feature of the Nagara water reserve. It is currently used as a water pipe bridge.

Birthplace of Flat Rubber Braids In 1924, a man named Kichiji Takeda worked hard to conduct research with Yamada Ironwork in Kanazawa to design a machine that produced flat rubber braids and so this area became famous for its production. Currently 65 percent of the nation’s supply of rubber textiles are produced here.

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Let’s have some fun! Parks & camp grounds Parks

Nanatsuka Chuo Park A municipal park overlooking the Sea of Japan on a site of 5.6 hectares. The park is very popular, boasting the longest slide in the prefecture (83 meters) and a large playground built in the style of an “underwater city” with seven forts.

Tani Park A park equipped with a softball field, gymnasium, and multipurpose grounds. There are lots of cherry trees planted around the park, and this spot is highly recommended for flower viewing in the spring. Located nearby is Kanazu Elementary School built by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando.

Shiroo Shirayuri Park Municipal park located on a site along National Highway 159. There is an open grass field, a children’s play area, as well as facilities for ground golf.

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Unoke Waterfront Park This park marks the wharf that was needed in previous times for boats to pass from Noto and Oyama (Kanazawa), before the train tracks were laid down. One can enjoy bird watching from the watchtower, and there are reeds and other aquatic plants in the vicinity.

Kizu Park A park located among a neighborhood of houses. The grass field is large and is located in a quiet environment.

Shiomidai Park This park boasts a beautiful view looking onto the Sea of Japan. It is also used for its ground golf area, which is recognized as an official course by the Association of Japanese Ground Golf.

Unoke Sogo Park This general use park is Kahoku’s largest and has facilities for baseball, track & field, archery, tennis courts, a gymnasium, and a children’s playground. The weeping cherry blossoms are particularly known for their beauty and the lit-up view reflecting on the pond at night during blooming season is magical.

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Camp Grounds

Fujigaoka Park A park built on former school grounds. One can play ground golf on a course officially recognized by the Association of Japanese Ground Golf.

Omi Nishiyama Yayoi no Sato Monument Park A park featuring the reconstruction of a primitive pit dwelling from the Yayoi Era. One can experience and see before one’s eyes how people in the Yayoi Era lived on their highland villages.

Takamatsu Exercise Park A park with many facilities such as a baseball field, track & field grounds, archery grounds, tennis courts, a gymnasium, and an open grass field. There are cherry trees all around which are great for flower viewing in the spring.

Takamatsu Historical Park A park built where there was once a checkpoint that served as the customs station along the road heading to the Noto region. The vestiges of the post station of olden times still remain and can be seen in the area.

Umikkolando Sea and Coastal Museum Camp grounds located right off the Noto Yuryo Toll Road Shiroo IC. There’s a barbecue site, event stage, parking lot with 21 spaces, 16 sites to be used freely, and hot water shower facilities.

Osaki Seashore Park A seashore park with camp grounds, barbecue pits, and a grassfield. The Sea of Japan is a short walk away.

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Festivals & special events: See, feel, participate! Seasonal festivals and traditional events In Kahoku, we hold seasonal festivals throughout the year with the Kahoku Four Season Festivals April June

Cherry Blossom Festival (Kahoku Four Seasons Festival) This event is held under the blooming cherry trees, which color the spring season. Paper lanterns line the event grounds, and the atmosphere of the festival is taken up a notch when lights illuminate the trees in the night. There are tenants that line both sides of the cherry trees with tons of people walking through this pedestrian’s paradise. On the passageways and stages, there are open-air tea parties and other such small events. There are various famed places in the city with lined paths of cherry trees and some drooping cherry trees over one hundred years old.

Sunshinki On June 7 every year, a eulogy is read in remembrance of Kitaro Nishida, whose Buddhist name was Sunshin, on this day that the philosopher died. After the Buddhist service is conducted in front of the memorial, there is a speech contest held for schoolchildren each time.

Ayu Fishing Season (Omigawa River) People can fish for ayu (sweetfish) and brook trout in Omigawa River. For more information about fishing licenses and no-fishing days, please contact the Omigawa River Fishermen’s Cooperative or the Agricultural Department of Kahoku City Hall.

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July

Yoimiya Parade (Shiroo District) Festival that takes place once every four years in the Shiroo district. The parade takes place in front of the shrine where people carry a makeshift portable shrine, the ‘Yakko’ (servant) parade, and the ‘Horahoi’ parade.

Brief Memo: Horahoi Parade A parade where people march across the district raising and lowering 8-meter long bamboo posts with streaming flags into the air while chanting in unison to the ‘Horahoi’ chorus. ‘Horahoi’ is a tradition of singing among Hokkaido fishermen. Fishermen in Shiroo once heard and learned it and arranged the melody for the local district.

Torch Procession Villagers gather and conduct this torch procession together to drive away crop-eating insects and their evil spirits. In the evening, people gather around the outskirts of a shrine and bring homemade pine torches. They visit rice paddies in the surrounding area and then gather around a large torch located on a high place overlooking all the paddies. They sound drums and play flutes, light up the large torch, and the harmful insects come to the large light, which colors the night sky red.

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August

Summer Festa in Kahoku (Kahoku Four Seasons Festival) The largest event in Kahoku with lots to do and three gathering places: around the sea, river, and city hall. There is a fireworks display at night.

Beach Festa The shallow shores of the sea extend for about 13 kilometers in Kahoku, and the beach is a great spot for Sillago fishing. Events such as the following take place starting in the morning: competitions to see which amateur fisherman can catch the most white Sillago; a sandal-flinging contest, and beach seine netting.

River Festa Around the riverbed where the Natsuguri Bridge spans the Omigawa River, there is an event held for familiarizing people with the river. Activities include ayu catching and bamboo leaf boat sailing that can be enjoyed by young children and adults alike.

Cat’s Festa This carnival has people dressing up as cats. The festival is inspired by the fact that Kitaro Nishida liked cats and also because our German sister city of Messkirch holds an annual feline costume parade.

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September

Nakanuma Fall Festival - Fireworks Display (Nakanuma District) At the beginning of the Showa Era, a kind of fireworks called “Four-way Blowing Fireworks” unique to the Nakanuma area began to be produced and excited crowds at festivals. The process of making the hand-made fireworks up to the point where they blast off brilliantly has changed, but what has not changed is how people still gather to see and enjoy the traditional fireworks as a fall tradition.

September 23 - Kizu Fall Festival The lion dance of the cudgel wielder controlling two lions, one male and female, through his skillful cudgel-wielding dance as performed by half-naked youths is an unusual sight even in the rest of the country. Furthermore, when done as an offer to the shrine, the handmade fireworks are lit inside the shrine grounds and the “grape-like fireworks” peculiar to Kizu draw much attention.

Brief Memo: Characteristics of the Lion Dance The lion heads in Kizu (the male, black-lacquered and the female, red) are built rather small. This is so that the heads are capable of turning as need in order to meet the strikes of the cudgel as well as the rapid and fierce movements that are akin to vibrant dancing. The tradition is to not spread the mosquito net (the body of the lion) but rather, rest the lion on one’s shoulders as if netted together. *From August to October festivals are held in various districts. For further details, please contact the districts.

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October November

Osaki Fall Festival (Osaka District) The Yakko (servant) Parade takes place as the forerunner to the portable shrine being transported through town. Two columns of 16 people march wearing happi coats and aprons with red and white belts. It is characteristic of the Osaki festivals to have the lion dance start while the portable shrine is offered at the shrine itself. *The Yakko Parade also is part of the festivities in the Uchihisumi area held in August.

Crab Battle - Seafood & Mountain Vegetable Festival (Kahoku Four Seasons Festival) The fish broker in Kahoku deals with the most crabs than the rest of Ishikawa. Although there is no fishing port, it is the “hidden crab town” with fishing boats and fishermen’s associations. This fall event takes place soon after fishing season begins, with locally produced crab and other agricultural and specialty products go on sale. Inside the grounds one can enjoy eating various things including crab rice porridge, crab soup, crab boxed lunches, and grilled crab.

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January February

January 15 – Persimmon Tree Harming The monbei persimmon is a well-known city specialty. This is a strange custom where the tree is harmed and then people pray for it to bear fruit. An elder person chants “Will it bear fruit, will it not? If it doesn’t, we will cut it down!” and the tree trunk is chipped at with a hatchet. Children answer “Yes, it will bear fruit” and circle the tree a number of times, to seal the promise. Afterwards, sweet soft-bean soup is spread on the tree’s wound to finish the ritual.

Mid January ~ Mid February – Winter Taste Test Competition Kahoku’s Famed Rice Porridges Campaign (Kahoku Four Seasons Festival) This event brings together ideas for rice porridge from various restaurants registered in the city. Here you can eat grape porridge, monbei porridge, and philosophy porridge, which are some of the original ideas that the restaurants came up with incorporating the specialty products of the town. Please go around looking for the stands with flags with distinguishing marks confirming their event registry.

February 5 – Fire Extinguishing Festival (Takamatsu District) During feudal fief times, a major fire destroyed a major portion of the town in the Takamatsu area. It was decided to commemorate the anniversary of the fire and distribute festive red rice to all households. However, around 1868, sake was distributed instead of red rice and another large fire broke out the following day. And once again, the town suffered a huge loss due to the fire. Afterward, the original custom was brought back and people were designated to take the day off from work to ensure fire safety. At the present, red rice is still distributed to each household.

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Tidings of flowers Cherry blossom season: April to early May

Kamiyamada Weeping Cherry Blossoms (City Designated Natural Monument) A 13-meter tall drooping cherry tree with cherry blossoms that flow downward like a waterfall. The tree is more than 100 years old and dates back to 1895 when a seed was brought from Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa and planted in the area. The best time for viewing is early April. One can enjoy the fantastical atmosphere in the night when the blossoms are lit up.

Tani Park Cherry trees are planted and integrated into the park’s slanted slope. The trees are located next to the softball field and look very beautiful when lit up for night games.

Unoke Sogo Park The park has cherry trees planted everywhere, boasting different kinds of cherry trees around the pond and other facilities. During the cherry blossom festival, paper lanterns are used to decorate the park.

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Kochidani Forest Road of Cherry Trees This is an avenue of cherry trees along a woodland path of 4 kilometers that leads up to the top of Mount Hodatsu. Mainly double-flowered cherry trees have been planted and the best time to view them is from the last week of April until Golden Week in May. There are two entrances into the mountain: Nodera and Miuchi.

Fujitsu IT Products There are a number of cherry trees of various kinds planted around the company site and close to the parking lot.

Kanazawa Country Club Here is a tunnel of cherry trees that have been planted on both sides of about a 1 kilometer stretch of land between the golf course entrance and the clubhouse.

Takamatsu Exercise Park There is a long avenue of cherry trees along the sidewalk heading from the baseball field in the middle of the park toward Takamatsu Hospital.

Nakamachi Street This is a boulevard of cherry trees planted along the old Noto road and present day Prefectural Takamatsu–Uchinada line. There are trees on both sides of the canal, which are decorated with paper lanterns and lit up at night during cherry blossom festival season.

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Azalea (May) Coastal Plants

Nishida Kitaro Museum of Philosophy Oshima cherry trees have been planted which produce exclusively white blossoms. There is a large variety of flowers that bloom and change with the seasons along the philosophical path leading to the museum, including cherry, plum, elm blossoms and more.

Sashie Community Center Trees planted around the community center located in the Sashie district enclosed in the mountains. The cherry trees viewed amongst the tranquil and pastoral landscape provide for a profound experience.

Azalea Garden in Myokyoji Temple (City Designated Natural Monument) Mostly Snow Azaleas have been planted in this 700 square meters slanted surface on the mountain behind the temple. The size of a single stump is a sight to see. Mid-May is the best time for viewing.

Unoke Sogo Park The azaleas planted on this park’s sloped surface resemble a pink carpet that has been spread out during blooming season.

Beach Sand Dunes Scattered along the seashore within city limits, one can find Rugosa Roses, beach sweet pea flowers, and beach morning glories. Efforts have been mobilized to protect the beach silvertop, which once approached extinction.

Brief Memo: Municipal flower, tree and bird

Municipal flower – Rugosa Rose

Municipal bird – Kentish Plover

Municipal tree – Cherry tree

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Kahoku regional specialties

Monbei Persimmons Ishikawa prefecture’s own type of astringent persimmon. The fruit is about 240-300 grams, and perfectly round when seen from the top. The skin shines, and the flesh is soft and of the highest quality. The bitterness is removed by alcohol and they are shipped ready to eat.

Q&A How can the bitterness of the persimmon be removed? Using dry ice and liquor with a high alcohol percentage are the easiest ways.

Grapes The grapes produced in Kahoku are known for being relatively large and sweet. Delaware is a representative seedless grape popular for being easy to eat, especially due to its early picking time and long availability for delivery. The grape is available at picking farms and produce stands within the city.

Nagaimo (mountain yams) These mountain yams are cultivated on sandy hills and are chock-full of vitamins and fiber, recommended as a healthy food to increase stamina. The yams have been dried in the shade and not bleached, so their color is slightly dark, but they are known for their stickiness.

Q&A How are the mountain yams preserved? The harshness is removed the longer they spend in the refrigerator as the starch will turn into sugar and they will become sweeter. Please wrap each yam in newspaper to preserve it.

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Watermelons These watermelons have a nice, firm texture and are very sweet. It is said that eating watermelon may act as a diuretic and fever reducer in addition to alleviating heart disease, gallstones, and hangovers.

Omi Miso A low-salt miso (soybean paste) made from locally grown soybeans and malt made from locally grown rice. The paste is grainy so it is perfect for spreading it on a cucumber or grilled fish.

Sweet Potatoes These potatoes grown on sandy hills are as popular as they are healthy, have a nice color and shape, and are also very sweet. The smaller ones are particularly full of dietary fiber.

Hamaguri (Clam) Rice Crackers These crackers date back to when the third heir to the Maeda clan, Toshimitsu Maeda visited his territories and offered these clam-shaped crackers in his hometown. They retain their taste and flavor even if they become damp or soft.

Thin Rubber Fabrics Kahoku is a major source of thin rubber fabrics exporting its products all over the country and internationally as well. Such items include elastic waistbands for underwear and shoulder straps on bras for women, and waistbands on men’s underwear, sweatpants, and pajamas.

Omi Turnip Sushi The taste and way to make this turnip sushi has been passed down from early Showa times. This pickled vegetable is made by carefully growing turnips in good soil, with clean air and plenty of sunshine, salted mackerel, malt made from high quality rice, and without the use of chemicals. They are pickled in November and are shipped nationwide in December.

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Daikon radish sushi Pickled vegetable made from taking daikon radish grown on sandy hills, adding sweet vinegar and wrapping them in salted mackerel together with malt made from high quality rice. The way of wrapping the radish in salted mackerel is particular to Kahoku.

Lace Embroidery Embroidery lace is a kind of embroidered fabric used in clothes and women’s underwear. Raschel lace is a type that is woven by machine and can be used for curtains and other things.

Rhythmic Exercise Ring with Sounds “Fun Ring” This can be used by people of all ages, from children to the elderly, in order to build stronger leg muscles, improve balance, and prevent aging by exercising in a fun way. A large marble has been put inside the handle making it easy to hold and also stimulates the reflex points on the hands. (¥ 1500 each)

Snow Crab Fresh crab caught from local boats goes on sale as soon as crab season begins.

Daikon Radish Various types of radish are grown on versatile sandy hills. Shipments of daikon are made to the Kansai (western) area of Japan and are used for daikon sushi and oden (cooked in broth).

Japanese Whiting (Shirogisu) This fish can be caught with a fishing line or a net. Since the whiting live at the bottom of the sea close to the sandy hills, they have a fine color and taste delicious.

Transportation Guide to Kahoku (Estimated Times) Via Airplane: 45 minutes away from Komatsu Airport by car

80 minutes away from Noto Airport Via Car: Along the Hokuriku Expressway:

20 minutes from Kanazawa-East IC 15 minutes from Kanazawa-Morimoto IC

Via JR Train: JR Kanazawa station take Nanao Line to Unoke Station, 25 minutes

Kahoku City Ishikawa Prefecture

Kahoku City Hall 929-1195, Ishikawa-ken, Kahoku-shi, Unoke ni 81 Tel.: 076-283-1111, Fax: 076-283-4644 Website: http://www.city.kahoku.ishikawa.jp/ Information: Trade & Tourism Division Tel: 076-281-3922 Fax: 076-281-0714