Hakusan City Tourist Information Guide

Ushikubi-tsumugi Pongee

A traditional craft that has been woven in the Shiramine region for more than 800 years. Made from precious double cocoons created by silkworms, Ushikubi pongee is characterized by its elegance. The silk products are painstakingly created through all of the production processes from the first to the last step. In addition to silk kimono fabric, there are various items available for purchase, including kinchaku bags, other types of bags, wallets, coasters, folding fans, business card holders, stoles, ties, and pocket-tissue cases.

Mikawa Embroidery

The former Mikawa Town flourished as a commercial port in the Edo Period (1603-1868); the town was so wealthy that it was chosen as the location for the prefectural office of Ishikawa, which opened in 1872. However, Mikawa Port declined rapidly during the following years. Miakawa embroidery was embraced at that time as work that could be done at home to supplement the household income. The industry became so prosperous that by 1928, there were 27 factories and 750 embroiderers. The products were sold across Japan and came to be known as Kaga Embroidery. It was designated as a National Traditional Craft in 1991, and the valuable embroidery skills have been passed down for generations. You can have names or anything you like embroidered on items such as handkerchiefs, and give them as gifts! The words don't have to be in Japanese characters; letters of the alphabet can be embroidered as well.

Japanese cypress handicraft

A traditional craft made by weaving thin cypress sheets. It is said that people began to make this handicraft in this area about 400 years ago when a traveling monk who visited the former Fukase, Oguchi Village taught people how to make a woven cypress hat. Very airy and durable, cypress hats are used regularly when farming and in everyday life. In addition to cypress hats, there is a wide range of products including wickerwork ceilings, various baskets, vases, and other folk craft items. All products are woven by hand and mostly made by older adults.

Kaga Shishigashira (Lion head)

This craft is more than 400 years old. It is said to have originated when a lion dance performance was given to welcome Maeda Toshiie when he moved into Kanazawa Castle to rule the region. Kaga Shishigashira items are popular as lucky charms, and are valued for their power to bring peace and prosperity to the household and remove evil spirits. Even today, there are many festivals where the lion dance is performed.

Asano Japanese Drums

These Japanese drums, which have been created in the Matto region for more than 400 years, are characterized by their beautiful sounds and designs. Each drum is custom-made with great care based on the client's requests. Both large and small drums are available. At the drum shop named Asano Daiko, visitors can experience playing large Japanese drums.