Kaga, Komatsu (Ishikawa)
Local Guide
Recommended places in Kaga area for parents and children (Katayamazu, Yamashiro, Yamanaka hot springs, Komatsu)

Here are some family-friendly spots around Yamashiro Hot Spring and Yamanaka Hot Spring where you can truly experience the joy of Kaga Hot Spring.After taking in the views of the nature-rich Shibayamagata Lake, cuddle a cute rabbit and climb into the driver’s seat of a giant dump truck. Marveling at beautiful snowflakes, making your own hot spring eggs, and picking ripe fruit will surely create unforgettable memories for the whole family.

<Scenic Spots for Parents and Children in Kaga Area

The lake’s surface, which changes color seven times a day, is a must-see

The lake’s surface, which shifts through various colors, is incredibly photogenic
The lake’s surface, which shifts through various colors, is incredibly photogenic

Since the Edo period, both Ime-gata and Kiba-gata have been counted among the “Three Lakes of Kaga.” Katayamazu Onsen, which draws hot spring water from the lake bottom, flourishes on the lakeshore and forms part of the Kaga Hot Spring Resort.The lake’s surface, said to change color several times a day depending on the sun’s movement, and the view of the sacred Mount Hakusan in the distance are sights you’ll never tire of.

There are many things to see and do along the 7-km lakeshore.

“Shinohara Ancient Battlefield and Kubi-Arai Pond,” where the Heike army and Kiso Yoshinaka’s forces are said to have battled
“Shinohara Ancient Battlefield and Kubi-Arai Pond,” where the Heike army and Kiso Yoshinaka’s forces are said to have battled

In the center of the hot spring resort on the lakeshore, there is a "hot spring bathhouse" with a triangular roof built in the style of a sleeping quarters, as well as a footbath. If you want to take your time and enjoy the hot spring, the modern public bathhouse facing the lake, "Katayamazu Onsen Soyu," is also recommended. After passing through the hot spring resort area, there is a bicycle path with a great view of the rice paddies and Mt. Other points of interest are scattered around the lakeshore, including the Nakaya Ukichiro Snow Science Museum and the Shinohara ancient battlefield and Kusharaike Pond, the site of the Genpei battle.

Shibayama Lagoon
  • Address Katatsuyama Hot Spring, Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture MAP
  • Direction 10 minutes by car from JR Kaga Onsen Station
  • Direction From JR Kaga Onsen Station, take the Kaga Onsen Bus bound for Katayamazu (approx. 12 mins), alight at Katayamazu Onsen Soyu-mae and walk approx. 3 minutes.
  • TEL 0761-74-1123（Katayamazu Hot Spring Tourist Association)
  • Parking Free of charge

See, touch, and even feed the rabbits. A relaxing time to play with rabbits.

Rice and snacks are available for 200 yen and up.
Rice and snacks are available for 200 yen and up.

This rabbit-themed park is said to bring good luck. In the central plaza, more than 50 rabbits roam freely, allowing visitors to observe their natural and adorable behaviors up close.Another attraction is the chance to encounter various breeds, including the “Flemish Giant”—the world’s largest rabbit breed—the black-and-white “Dutch,” and the friendly, floppy-eared “Jersey Wooly.”If you place feed purchased at the park on your gloved hand, many rabbits will come running over, and their friendly demeanor is truly heartwarming. During “Cuddle Time,” you can even have them sit on your lap.

The “Tsukiusagi Shrine,” known for its many blessings

Gasshi-Usagi Shrine is located in the
Gasshi-Usagi Shrine is located in the "Usagi Plaza

According to the “Kaga Moon Rabbit Legend”—which tells of how a kind-hearted official once saved a white rabbit, causing a heavy rain to subside and bringing a bountiful harvest to the village—rabbits have come to be cherished in this region as creatures that bring the moon (tsuki, meaning “luck”).At the far end of the plaza stands the “Tsukiusagi Shrine.” *Currently closed for repairs (scheduled to reopen around August 2026).

Tsuki-Usagi no Sato
  • Address 43-41 Nagai-cho, Kaga, Ishikawa MAP
  • Direction 10 minutes from JR Daishoji Station by car.
  • Direction From JR Kaga Onsen Station, take the Kaga Shuyu Bus Can Bus or Bus Umi-mawari Line (approx. 30 min.), and alight at Tsuki-Usagi no Sato (Moon Rabbit Village).
  • Business Hours 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; “Nakayoshi Lap Time”: Weekdays 11:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m. (200 yen per session)
  • Closed Days Open daily *May be closed temporarily
  • Admission Fee Admission: Adults 300 yen, Children (elementary school age and younger) 200 yen, Toddlers (3 years old and younger) Free
    Experience Fees: Animal feeding (snack fee) 200 yen; Freshly Baked Pie Making and Handmade Manju (steamed buns) 1,500 yen each (excluding tax; duration: approx. 50 minutes each; reservations accepted for groups of 3 or more; must be booked by the day before)
  • TEL 0761-73-8116
  • Parking Free of charge

“Working Vehicles” so huge you’ll have to look up to see them up close

The “930E” stands about 7 meters tall, while the “PC4000” is about 8 meters tall. Children’s hearts race as they reach a height that offers a panoramic view of the entire property
The “930E” stands about 7 meters tall, while the “PC4000” is about 8 meters tall. Children’s hearts race as they reach a height that offers a panoramic view of the entire property

This hands-on property opened at the founding site of Komatsu, a manufacturer of construction and mining machinery. The park features Japan’s only super-large hydraulic excavator, the “PC4000,” and one of the world’s largest dump trucks, the “930E.” Visitors can experience their sheer power up close by climbing into the driver’s seat.“Genki Satoyama,” which recreates the natural landscape of the Kaga region, features a flowing stream where visitors can connect with nature by observing flowers and insects.

Experience scooping balls with a real mini excavator, the “PC09”

The “Future Hall,” where visitors can operate mini excavators, is also popular
The “Future Hall,” where visitors can operate mini excavators, is also popular

The indoor properties include the “Future Hall,” where visitors can operate mini excavators and play simulation games; the “Kids’ Hall,” designed for children; and the “History Hall,” where visitors can learn about Komatsu’s history—ensuring a fun experience even on rainy days. It is a highly recommended tourist spot for families.

Komatsu Forest
  • Address 1 Komatsu-no-mori 1, Komatsu-shi, Ishikawa MAP
  • Direction About a 1-minute walk from Komatsu Station
  • Business Hours Outdoors (Genki Satoyama): 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Indoors (Future Hall, History Hall, Kids’ Hall): 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM) *Please check the website for details on various experiences
  • Closed Days Sundays, Mondays, the 5th Saturday of each month, and year-end/New Year holidays *Please check the website for other closures
  • Admission Fee Free of charge
  • TEL 0761-24-2154
  • Parking Free of charge

Adults and children alike are intrigued by the fantastic world of snow

The exhibit clearly classifies snow crystals into star-shaped flowers, fan-shaped crystals, and tsuzumi snow crystals.
The exhibit clearly classifies snow crystals into star-shaped flowers, fan-shaped crystals, and tsuzumi snow crystals.

Located beside the lakeside park of Shibayamagata Lagoon, this science museum with its eye-catching architectural design exhibits the achievements of Ukichiro Nakaya, a pioneer in snow and ice research who was born in Katayamazu hot spring in Kaga City, in the first floor exhibition room. The science museum also has an experimental corner that draws visitors into the beautiful and fantastic world of snow and ice. The experiment to artificially create sparkling diamond dust is something that both children and adults can enjoy together. Visitors can also experience the art of making snow crystals with origami paper and ice pendants.

The Science Museum has many attractions.

Fog art in the courtyard
Fog art in the courtyard

The building features a modern design with three hexagonal towers arranged to evoke the image of snow. In the center lies a rock courtyard named “Greenland Glacier Source.” These rocks were brought from Greenland by Ukichiro Nakatani during his later years, when he traveled there to conduct research on ice.Designed by the second daughter of Ukichiro Nakatani—an artist known for his work with artificial mist—the courtyard features mist sprayed from nozzles that creates ever-changing effects as it interacts with light and wind. On the lagoon side, there is a tea room offering views of Mount Hakusan across Shibayama Lagoon. Enjoy an elegant tea time while savoring the café’s carefully curated menu and the breathtaking scenery.

Nakaya Ukichiro Snow Science Museum
  • Address 106 A, Ushiotsu-cho, Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture MAP
  • Direction 10 minutes by car from JR Kaga Onsen Station
  • Direction From JR Kaga Onsen Station, take the Kaga Onsen Bus bound for Katayamazu Onsen for about 16 minutes; get off at “Snow Science Museum” and walk about 4 minutes
  • Business hours 9:00-17:00 (last admission at 16:30)
  • Closed Wednesdays (open if Wednesday is a national holiday)
  • Admission Fee 560 yen; free for high school students and younger
  • TEL 0761-75-3323
  • Parking Free of charge

The soft, tender hot spring eggs boiled to your liking have a special taste!

Eggs are reasonably priced at 300 yen for 3 and 500 yen for 5
Eggs are reasonably priced at 300 yen for 3 and 500 yen for 5

Yamanaka Hot Spring is said to have been discovered 1,300 years ago by the high priest Gyoki. Matsuo Basho, a famous haiku poet, called Yamanaka Onsen one of the three best hot springs in Fuso.
The center of the hot spring resort is the "Kiku-no-yu" public bathhouse. The "Kikuno-yu Egg Making Experience" is available at the "boiling area" in front of the building where the spring water flows into the hot spring. First, buy eggs from the vending machine at the entrance of the men's bath. After receiving a special basket at the reception desk, you will put the eggs into the spring water at a temperature of about 63 degrees Celsius. The standard boil time is 40 minutes for the yolk to become thick, 60 minutes for the yolk to become moist, and 90 minutes for the yolk to become firm. The freshly cooked eggs are so delicious that you can't help but smile.

Enjoy strolling around the hot spring resort while waiting for your eggs to finish cooking.

The building in the center is the women's bath of Kiku no Yu, and on the right is Yamanaka-za, where traditional Yamanaka entertainment is held.
The building in the center is the women's bath of Kiku no Yu, and on the right is Yamanaka-za, where traditional Yamanaka entertainment is held.

While waiting for the hot spring eggs to be ready, it is recommended to take a stroll around the area. In front of the women's bath of "Kiku-no-yu", there is a footbath overflowing with luxurious spring water, where you can refresh yourself and take the fatigue out of your feet. Along Yuge Kaido, a main street, you will find Yamanaka lacquerware and Kutani pottery stores, cafes, and other stores, which add to the atmosphere of a hot spring resort. If you take a short walk along the Kakusenkei promenade, you can enjoy the beauty of the valley, said to be the best in Hokuriku, and the time it takes to boil an egg will seem like a blink of an eye.

Kiku no Yu
  • Address Re-1 Yunode-cho, Yamanaka Hot Spring, Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture MAP
  • Direction Approximately 25 minutes from JR Kaga Onsen Station by car
  • Direction From JR Kaga Onsen Station, take the Hokutetsu Kaga Bus bound for Kayano via Yamashiro Hot Spring and Yamanaka Hot Spring; ride for about 35 minutes, get off at “Kiku-no-Yu-mae,” and walk for about 1 minute
  • Business Hours 6:45 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
  • Closed Days Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday
  • TEL 0761-78-4134（Yamanaka Hot Spring Property District)
  • Parking Free of charge

A popular spot where you can enjoy seasonal fruit picking all year round

Strawberry, blueberry, and grape picking is available in all weather, even on rainy days.
Strawberry, blueberry, and grape picking is available in all weather, even on rainy days.

Located about a 20-minute drive west of JR Kaga-Onsen Station, this leisure spot spans a vast 25 10,000 tsubo site near the Sea of Japan, where you can enjoy fruit picking, barbecues, and park golf. You can pick a variety of fruits year-round, including strawberries, blueberries, cherries, grapes, and apples.Every fruit is grown with meticulous care, starting with the soil preparation. We cultivate two varieties of grapes—"Delaware" and "Black Olympia"—as well as a wide variety of apples, including "Akiboshi," "Ohrin," and "Shinano Sweet."

You can also enjoy BBQ with no need to bring your own food.

Choose from a set menu of meat, sausage, assorted vegetables, yakisoba noodles, etc.
Choose from a set menu of meat, sausage, assorted vegetables, yakisoba noodles, etc.

Before or after fruit picking, head to the all-weather barbecue area. Everything you need—from equipment to ingredients—is provided, so you can enjoy a hassle-free experience. The menu features three meat-centered courses, as well as seafood and kids’ courses. Depending on the season, we also offer a fruit buffet with all-you-can-eat seasonal fruits.Chocolate fondue and making parfaits are also very popular with children. Once you’ve had your fill, you can head out to play park golf or purchase original juices and jams as souvenirs at the on-site shop—you can enjoy yourself all day long without getting bored.

Kaga Fruitland
  • Address 59-1 A, Toyo-cho, Kaga, Ishikawa MAP
  • Direction Approximately 20 minutes from JR Kaga Onsen Station by car.
  • Direction From JR Kaga Hot Spring Station, take the Kaga Sightseeing Bus “Can Bus” Coastal Route for about 45 minutes, get off at “Kaga Fruit Land,” and it’s right there
  • Business Hours 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (Fruit picking, park golf, and BBQ: Last admission 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.)
  • Closed Wednesday
  • Admission Fee Admission: Free
    Experience Fees: Fruit Picking from 1,800 yen (varies by fruit); BBQ from 2,500 yen per person *Please check the website for details
  • TEL 0761-72-1800
  • Parking Free of charge

MAP

<Scenic Spots for Parents and Children in Kaga Area
Hoshino Resorts facilities nearby
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The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.