The Hokuriku region, comprising the prefectures of Niigata, Ishikawa, Toyama and Fukui, has a plethora of exciting summer activities for visitors. From the communion of art and nature to exciting firework festivals, treats that have been enjoyed for centuries and adorable wildlife, there is so much to experience and explore.
Bright Nights at the Katakai Festival
Colorful shows of pyrotechnics are an intrinsic part of summer in Japan, and the mountain town of Katakai has held a fireworks display since the Edo period (1603-1868), brightening the late summer night with sparkling colors and festive popping sounds. The fireworks are dedicated to Asahara Shrine by individuals and businesses and are thought to carry their hopes and wishes. Join the festivities over two nights, when you can watch some of the largest fireworks in the world including the massive
yonshakudama. This iconic Niigata festival boasts plenty of brilliant pyrotechnics, along with ceremonies at the shrine and a procession of firework launching tubes.
Kuzukiri: A Taste of Summer
Kuzukiri is a traditional Japanese dessert made from kudzu root flour, cut into transparent, jelly-like noodles. In Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, you can enjoy
kuzukiri made using locally grown kudzu root starch. While it is possible to find this dessert in other areas of Japan, the version in Ishikawa is special, as the noodles are made from Hodatsu kudzu, harvested from Mt. Hodatsu. These roots have a history going back 450 years, having been presented to the Tokugawa Shogunate during the Edo period! Try this treat topped with brown sugar syrup, and see why the dessert’s inimitable smooth and refreshing texture makes it a local summer favorite.
Spot a Rock Ptarmigan
The adorable rock ptarmigan, designated as a Special Natural Monument by the Japanese government, can be found on the scenic Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. These medium-sized birds live in alpine environments, and their feathers change camouflage coloring depending on the season: white in winter, black or brown from spring to summer, and gray in autumn. See if you can spot one while hiking around the summer trails of the mountains of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route!
Ma Yansong / MAD Architects,“Tunnel of Light”(Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale artwork)
Dreamy Reflections in Kiyotsu Gorge
Tucked away in the lush mountains of Niigata Prefecture, in 2018 the 750m-long Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel was transformed into an immersive artistic installation. Part of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, one of the world's largest international art festivals, visitors come from all across the world to experience spaces inspired by the five elements of nature. The lookout spot at the end is particularly popular, as the stainless steel-lined tunnel is flooded with spring water that reflects the gorge and the surrounding forest, a fantastic backdrop for dramatic photos.
