[For Elementary School Students] Ishikawa Prefecture Local Quiz! A Question Collection That Both Kids and Adults Can Enjoy

Noto beef

Among the Japanese Black cattle raised in Ishikawa Prefecture, those that meet particularly strict standards are recognized as “Noto Beef.” Noto Beef is characterized by its high-quality marbling and exceptional tenderness. Its delicious flavor is recognized nationwide, earning a Special Award at the 9th National Competitive Exhibition of Wagyu. As a premium meat that represents Ishikawa Prefecture, it delights those who enjoy it.

mushroom

In Ishikawa Prefecture’s dialect, there is a word “koke.” “Koke” means “mushroom.” For example, if someone says, “If you’re going to the mountains, pick some koke,” it means “If you’re going to the mountains, pick some mushrooms.” It’s a dialect word used to refer to mushrooms, which have long been cherished as mountain food. It’s one of the interesting words connected to the lives and natural surroundings of people in Ishikawa.

Kanazawa City

The capital of Ishikawa Prefecture is Kanazawa City. Located in the center of the prefecture, it is also known as a core city. Because it was not bombed during World War II, many old buildings, temples, and traditional streets remain. There are many places where you can feel the history, making it a popular tourist destination. The city has plenty of schools and shops, and it is loved by residents as an easy place to live.

snow shoveling

In Ishikawa Prefecture, the word “yuki-sukashi” is commonly used. It means “snow shoveling,” that is, removing snow. Since this is a region that gets a lot of snow in winter, clearing snow from homes and roads is important. The expression “yuki-sukashi” is unique to Ishikawa and is a special term you won’t hear much in other prefectures. It reflects the wisdom of living with snow, expressed through language.

pufferfish

In the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, various kinds of pufferfish are caught, including the famous tiger puffer (torafugu). As a result, Ishikawa catches the most pufferfish in all of Japan. Because pufferfish are poisonous, you need a license to prepare or slice them for sashimi. The toxin in pufferfish is extremely potent—said to be about 850 times stronger than potassium cyanide. It’s a fish that requires knowledge and skill to eat safely.

Hyakuma-san

Ishikawa Prefecture’s official mascot character is Hyakuma-san. It’s shaped like a daruma doll, with short arms and legs and a little bit of a mustache. It was created in 2013. Hyakuma-san’s signature pose is the “fall down seven times, get up eight” pose, characterized by its energetic way of popping right back up after a tumble. It’s a character that works hard for Ishikawa, appearing around town and at events.

Number 8

There is a famous ramen restaurant in Ishikawa Prefecture called Hachiban Ramen. It got its name “8ban” because it started near National Route 8 in Kaga City. It’s a popular place that everyone in Ishikawa knows. Their most popular dish is the vegetable ramen, which is loaded with vegetables. With plenty of veggies, it’s gentle on the body and loved throughout the prefecture as a delicious ramen.