From Kanazawa: Beaches, 400-year old Temples & Aliens

Exploring Hakui: Beaches, Temples, and Alien Encounters — A Practical Review

Traveling from Kanazawa to Hakui offers a chance to experience a side of Japan that many travelers overlook: quiet beaches, centuries-old temples, and a museum dedicated to UFO sightings and space artifacts. This tour, organized by Machinovate Japan Ltd., blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a touch of the cosmic weirdness that makes Hakui a truly unique destination.

What makes this experience stand out? We particularly love the scenic train ride, the opportunity to drive on a Japanese beach, and the quirky space museum—each offering layers of memorable moments. The only potential downside is the long day of travel, which might feel tiring if you prefer relaxing, slower-paced activities. Still, for those with a curiosity for Japan’s lesser-known attractions, this tour offers a rich dose of both nature and novelty.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers, history buffs, and those simply eager to see a different side of Japan. If you’re interested in seeing how rural communities celebrate their local legends, or if you’re curious about space and UFO lore, this tour offers plenty to satisfy.

Good To Know

• Authentic rural experiences away from Japan’s crowded tourist spots
• Unique attractions like driving on a beach and exploring ancient temples
• Quirky museum blending space history and UFO legends
• Beautiful coastal views and scenic countryside
• Flexible free time at Chirihama Beach for swimming and relaxing
• Well-organized transportation including train, bus, and guided tours
• Value for money with detailed guided visits and entry fees included
• Day trip convenience from Kanazawa, perfect for a one-day adventure

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A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Kanazawa Station

The tour kicks off bright and early, with a meeting outside the Shinkansen ticket gates at 8:30 A.M.. The guide, easily identifiable with a Snow Monkey Resorts badge, ensures everyone is comfortable with the plan. If you’re arriving from outside, the designated meeting spot is right inside the East Entrance, near the sumo wrestler statues. The convenience of the location makes it easy to find, and the early start helps maximize your day.

The Scenic Train Journey

From Kanazawa, the tour takes a roughly one-hour train ride heading north along the Noto Peninsula. Expect views of lush countryside, rugged coastlines, and tiny towns dotting the landscape. This part of the trip is a peaceful way to settle into the day while snacking or chatting with fellow travelers. The train ride also offers excellent photo opportunities, especially when the train curves past the sea and mountains.

Chirihama Beach: Japan’s Driveable and Swimmable Beach

Once in Hakui, the first stop is Chirihama Beach, famous for being one of the few beaches in Japan you can both drive on and swim in. The guided tour includes a walk past statues depicting Japanese onomatopoeia, adding a playful touch. Nearby, you’ll find a shrine with shimmering golden lamps and traditional paintings, giving a glimpse into local spiritual practices.

One of the most striking features here is the sand art sculptures—these are regularly refreshed to show Japanese characters and scenes, creating a lively, changing art display. During the free time, you’re free to swim, relax, or take a walk along the expansive beach. Reviewers mention the large sand sculptures, which are a highlight, with one describing them as “impressive enough to make you forget you’re in a remote part of Japan.”

If you’re looking for additional things to do, ask your guide for suggestions—perhaps a quick swim, a walk along the shoreline, or capturing that perfect sunset shot. The beach’s long stretch of golden sand offers plenty of space to unwind, and the experience of driving on the sand itself is something you won’t forget.

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Lunch Options and Scenic Route to Myojoji Temple

Following beach fun, the group reconvenes for lunch around 12:30 PM at the Rest House or nearby vendors. Bringing a bento from a convenience store is also perfectly acceptable, offering flexibility for those with dietary preferences.

Post-lunch, your journey continues by bus to Myojoji Temple, about a 30-minute scenic drive with stunning views of the Sea of Japan. This ancient temple, built in the early 1600s, features a five-story pagoda and is designated as a National Heritage Site. The guide highlights that some historians believe it was constructed not just as a place of worship but possibly as a defensive citadel protecting trade routes—an intriguing detail for history buffs.

Visitors are encouraged to walk through the temple grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Several reviews mention that the temple’s distinctive features and its well-preserved state make it a compelling stop that combines spiritual and historical elements.

The Space and UFO Museum — Cosmo Isle Hakui

The final major stop is the Cosmo Isle Hakui Museum, a place that combines space memorabilia with local UFO legends. Expect to see real spacecraft—including the backup lander for the Apollo program—and learn about the city’s notorious UFO sightings.

The museum’s partnership with renowned institutions like the Smithsonian means exhibits are authentic and fascinating. Visitors often mention the quirkiness of the collection, with some describing it as “weird but fun”, and the chance to see spacecraft close-up as a highlight. The museum’s focus on local UFO lore makes it an unusual cultural experience, blending modern science with rural legends.

The guided tour here lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to explore, take photos, and marvel at the space artifacts. It’s a definite must-see for any space enthusiast or anyone curious about the strange stories from this quiet region.

Return Journey and End of the Day

After the museum, the group boards the train for a 55-minute ride back to Kanazawa, arriving at the station in the late afternoon. The day’s structured yet flexible itinerary allows for reflection on what you’ve seen—be it the natural beauty, the historic temples, or the cosmic curiosities.

The Overall Experience

This tour offers a diverse mix of attractions, making it ideal for travelers who want a full, immersive day outside the usual tourist trail. The transportation logistics are smooth, with organized train, bus, and guided visits, making the day feel seamless. The price of $164 per person provides good value, especially considering the entry fees and guided tours included.

The balance of free time at Chirihama Beach and structured visits allows for both relaxation and exploration. The scenic train rides and stunning coastal views add to the appeal, giving you plenty of photo-worthy moments. The quirky UFO museum adds a modern, playful twist that’s distinctly Japanese in its blend of the serious and the bizarre.

However, keep in mind the day involves a fair amount of travel time, so if you prefer slow-paced or less crowded trips, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, if you’re not particularly interested in space or UFO lore, the museum might be less appealing, but it’s still an unusual cultural stop that offers a glimpse into local legends.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for curious travelers eager to see a side of Japan that’s off the beaten path. It suits history and culture buffs, beach lovers, and space enthusiasts alike. It’s also a good fit for those looking for a full-day adventure packed with variety—nature, history, and the strange.

Travelers who enjoy scenic train rides and guided commentary will appreciate the thorough organization, while those wanting to avoid complex planning will find this tour convenient and well-paced. If you’re visiting Kanazawa and have a day to spare, this trip provides a well-rounded, memorable experience.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical grandeur, and quirky modern culture, all within a manageable day trip from Kanazawa. It’s especially appealing for those who want to see Japan’s rural side while indulging their curiosity about space and UFO stories.

The experience’s strength lies in its diversity—driving on a Japanese beach, exploring ancient temples, and marveling at space artifacts—all wrapped in a well-organized package. The scenic views and unique attractions make it a worthwhile outing for those seeking authentic, memorable moments outside the tourist crowds.

If you’re after a day full of surprises, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights, this tour hits the mark. Keep in mind that the long travel hours might be tiring, but the variety and authenticity of the stops make it a rewarding choice for most adventurous travelers.

FAQ

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 8:30 A.M. outside Kanazawa Station near the Shinkansen ticket gates, so plan to arrive a little earlier to find the guide easily.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour covers train, bus, and guided transfers between all the stops, making it a hassle-free experience.

Can I bring my own lunch?
Absolutely. There’s an option to bring a bento or picnic, and lunch can also be purchased at the Rest House or local vendors.

How long do we spend at Chirihama Beach?
You have about 2.5 hours for free time, which is enough to swim, walk, or just relax on the sand.

What’s special about Myojoji Temple?
Built in the early 1600s, it features a five-story pagoda and is considered a National Heritage Site with some suggesting it was once a trade route citadel.

What can I expect at Cosmo Isle Hakui Museum?
You’ll see real spacecraft, including Apollo program artifacts, and learn about local UFO sightings—an unusual but fascinating stop.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the varied stops and scenic spots make it a good option for families, especially those interested in history, beaches, or space.

How strenuous is the day?
It involves some walking, train and bus rides, and free time at the beach, but overall it’s manageable for most travelers with moderate activity levels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and swimwear if you plan to swim. Bring a camera for all the photo opportunities.

This detailed review aims to help you determine if this day trip from Kanazawa matches your travel style. It’s a chance to see a different side of Japan—one filled with history, natural beauty, and an unexpected splash of extraterrestrial intrigue.

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