* * CANCELLED * * - Due to the Coronavirus pandemic the 32nd Monterey Jazz Festival (2020) has been CANCELLED.
This festival can be combined/customized with various other driving itineraries in Ishikawa. You can conveniently access these sites in Ishikawa from various "gateways," the Kanazawa JR Station (if arriving by train), or either the Komatsu or Noto Satoyama Airports (if arriving by air). All three locations have multiple rental car outlets. Due to crowds, be prepared to park away from the actual festival site. There are normally people directing traffic near the site(s).
Highlights of the festival:
Founded in 1989, this festival is designed to promote international exchange with Nanao’s sister city, Monterey California. The Monterey Jazz Festival (MJF) has given Nanao City sole rights to use the title and join them in one of the world’s three most famous jazz festivals, held every year at the end of July. In addition to the amateurs and professionals that play, there are a variety of musicians to enjoy including the MJF All Star Band selected from Monterey High School Big Band.
The Noto Satoyama Airport is centrally located in the Noto Peninsula. As of early 2019 there were 2 daily round trip flights from Tokyo's Haneda Airport via All Nippon Airways. There are several rental car companies with offices at the airport. Airport code is NTQ.
Held in the Nanao Marine Park. Founded in 1989, this festival is designed to promote international exchange with Nanao’s sister city, Monterey California. The Monterey Jazz Festival (MJF) has given Nanao City sole rights to use the title and join them in one of the world’s three most famous jazz festivals, held every year at the end of July. In addition to the amateurs and professionals that play, there are a variety of musicians to enjoy including the MJF All Star Band selected from Monterey High School Big Band.
Usually held on a Saturday at the end of July each year.