Wajima City: The Noto Peninsula's Perfect Escape
Up high on Japan’s Noto Peninsula, Wajima is known for morning markets, summer festivals and local salt farms, Wajima is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.
The Wajima region is located on the north-western side of Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture of Japan. A rocky coastline borders the peninsula, punctuated by fishing villages. Picturesque farming villages nestle at the foot of forest clad mountains. Terraced rice fields, irrigation ponds, fields of buckwheat and vegetables, old farm houses with roofs of thatch or tile and the studios of traditional craftsmen abound. The area is rich in natural beauty, home to farmers, fishermen and craftsmen.
Sustainable fishing methods like ama diving are still practiced, and the natural ecosystem has been maintained since the old days. The biodiversity, abundance and beauty of the area are being preserved for future generations. Heritage technology is also being preserved here. Traditional crafts practised in the area include salt making by a method unique to Noto Peninsula, washi paper-making, wood shaping and Wajima-nuri lacquerware production.
You can also shop for souvenirs at one of the oldest morning markets (dating back to the 11th century) in Japan. The vendors are mostly local female divers and farmers. You will see natural sea salt, lacquer chopsticks and utensils which all make excellent lightweight small gifts. You can also buy fresh vegetables, pickles, and delicious fresh or dried seafood, including blowfish. There is a place to charcoal grill your purchases if you are feeling hungry. Of course the best produce is sold first, so try to arrive early. The market opens daily from 8 am until noon
The Wajima region is located on the north-western side of Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture of Japan. A rocky coastline borders the peninsula, punctuated by fishing villages. Picturesque farming villages nestle at the foot of forest clad mountains. Terraced rice fields, irrigation ponds, fields of buckwheat and vegetables, old farm houses with roofs of thatch or tile and the studios of traditional craftsmen abound. The area is rich in natural beauty, home to farmers, fishermen and craftsmen.
Sustainable fishing methods like ama diving are still practiced, and the natural ecosystem has been maintained since the old days. The biodiversity, abundance and beauty of the area are being preserved for future generations. Heritage technology is also being preserved here. Traditional crafts practised in the area include salt making by a method unique to Noto Peninsula, washi paper-making, wood shaping and Wajima-nuri lacquerware production.
You can also shop for souvenirs at one of the oldest morning markets (dating back to the 11th century) in Japan. The vendors are mostly local female divers and farmers. You will see natural sea salt, lacquer chopsticks and utensils which all make excellent lightweight small gifts. You can also buy fresh vegetables, pickles, and delicious fresh or dried seafood, including blowfish. There is a place to charcoal grill your purchases if you are feeling hungry. Of course the best produce is sold first, so try to arrive early. The market opens daily from 8 am until noon
