Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Komatsu's location between the mountains and coasts of Ishikawa provides travelers with plenty of opportunities not only for cultural enrichment but also for outdoor adventures. Awazu Onsen, where Houshi Ryokan is situated, is famous for its hot springs and conveniently close to many natural landmarks and neighboring villages. The village of Hiyo is famous for its Moss Garden, which is maintained and developed by the locals. Yusenji, on the other hand, was a former mining town and now features a local museum and a memorial park. Another site close to Yusenji is Hanibe Caves, a former stone mine now filled with stone sculptures related to Buddhism.

Komatsu is also known for its Heritage of Stone, tied to its history of mining industries, and now boasts many museums and historical landmarks worth checking out. Rojo Park, Komatsu's lovely garden park, isn't just a wonderful spot for dates and picnics, it's also home to the Komatsu City Museum and the Honjin Memorial Art Museum. There's also the Science Hills, a sprawling science museum meant to imitate rolling hills and features exhibits as well as a planetarium.

Bowing (ojigi): It's advisable to bow to show respect when greeting someone. It can also be done to show gratitude or convey an apology.
Shoe etiquette: You must remove your outside footwear before stepping on the elevated area of the genkan (entrance) and entering a house. You should also ensure not to step on the lower area of the genkan without your shoes on. Shoes must be kept facing the entrance. If you wear socks, they should be clean and without any holes.
Slipper etiquette: It's usually better to wear fresh socks or slippers inside the house, especially for formal situations. Make sure to remove your slippers before stepping into a room with tatami mats on the floor. There should also be a separate set of slippers for the washroom.
Dining etiquette: How you hold and place your chopsticks while dining is crucial. For example, they shouldn't be held upright when eating rice. You must also place them on a holder when you're not using them. It's good to say "Itadakimasu" before starting a meal and "Gochisousama deshita" after completing it.
Tipping etiquette: Tipping isn't a common practice in Japan and may be considered rude.
Luggage etiquette: Luggage, especially those with wheels, should be carried instead of being dragged across the floor as it might damage the tatami mats or wooden flooring.
Photography etiquette: Photography rules can change from place to place, so make sure to check for signs or ask the staff before taking pictures anywhere.
Queueing etiquette: Make sure to maintain queues and never cut in line.
Onsen etiquette: Some onsens don't allow tattoos, so check with the staff before getting into one. You must also shower and be clean before entering a shared onsen bath.
Bathing etiquette: Japanese baths include separate areas for washing while the tub itself is meant only for soaking. This means bathers must first wash, scrub, and rinse themselves before entering the bath tub.