Things To Do
in Komatsu

Smaller local markets and fish shops near the station and port sell fresh seafood; perfect for sampling sushi or purchasing snacks — check small retail stalls for seasonal catches.

Street-side confectioners around the onsen area sell traditional sweets and snacks ideal for a short stroll between baths.

Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan, temples and traditional restaurants — follow local cues and wear clean socks or bring slip-ons.

Keep voices low on trains and in public spaces; avoid loud phone conversations and be mindful of personal space.

A small bow and a polite 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) are appreciated. Use both hands when receiving business cards or gifts.

Follow rules at temples (no flash in certain areas) and onsen etiquette (wash before entering baths, no swimsuits, tie up long hair).

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can cause confusion; excellent service is included in the price. For ryokan or exceptional private guides, a small envelope gift is acceptable but not expected.

Cash (JPY) is widely used, especially at small shops, markets, and local restaurants. Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and convenience stores. IC transport cards (e.g., ICOCA, Suica) may be usable for regional trains and buses — keep some cash for smaller merchants.

Late March to May brings cherry blossoms and mild temperatures; expect comfortable days for sightseeing and early-blooming flowers around temples and parks.

June – August is warm and humid with a rainy season in June; July and August can be humid but good for coastal visits and festivals — bring an umbrella and light rain gear.

September to November offers crisp air and vivid autumn foliage, especially in mountain areas like Hakusan — a popular time for hiking and photography.

December to February brings cold temperatures and significant snowfall due to sea-effect snow; ideal for snow landscapes and onsen visits but prepare for winter driving and occasional service delays.

The nearest airport serving domestic flights to Tokyo, Osaka and seasonal international routes; convenient for regional access and a short transfer into the city.

A smaller regional airport on the Noto Peninsula with limited flights; useful for accessing northern parts of Ishikawa but services are infrequent.

Major international hub serving many long-haul routes — about 3–4 hours by train and transfer, an option if flying internationally with more airline choices.

Another regional airport reachable by road or train transfer; can be convenient depending on flight schedules and onward connections.

Vegetarian options are available but less common; try soba, vegetable tempura, tofu dishes and vegetable set meals. Bring a translation card explaining restrictions (no fish stock dashi) as many soups and sauces use fish.

More challenging due to ubiquitous dashi (fish stock). Seek out shojin ryori at temple restaurants if available, or use a translated note to request no fish or bonito stock.

Watch for soy sauce, tempura and wheat in noodles. Sashimi and plain rice are safe choices; confirm ingredients in sauces and dressings.

Dedicated halal restaurants are rare; seafood and vegetarian dishes can be safe choices but confirm cooking methods. Larger hotels in nearby Kanazawa may offer more options.