Wajima, Traditional market city in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
Wajima sits on the northwestern coast of Noto Peninsula where the Sea of Japan forms its northern and western borders. The city spreads across hilly terrain with fishing ports, workshops, and residential areas nestled along the shoreline.
The region served as an important seaport for trade with the Asian continent from ancient times. During the Sengoku period, multiple clans fought to control this strategic trading city.
Locals and visitors gather at the morning market, where fishers sell their fresh catch daily and artisans display gleaming lacquerware created in workshops throughout town. The market reflects how fishing and craft traditions remain woven into daily routines here.
Visitors reach the city by bus from Kanazawa in roughly two hours or from Anamizu station in about 30 minutes. Since there is no direct train service, bus travel is the main way to arrive here.
The Shiroyone Senmaida consists of roughly 1000 rice terraces maintained by local residents and lit by solar LED lanterns during special events. This nighttime illumination creates an unusual sight against the otherwise dark hillside landscape.
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