Things To Do
in Nanao
Nanao is a coastal city on Ishikawa's Noto Peninsula, facing the Sea of Japan and known for its scenic bays and onsen towns. It blends traditional fishing culture with tranquil seaside scenery, offering fresh seafood, hot springs, and easy access to the peninsula's rugged coast. The town center is walkable, with markets and harbor views that bestow a relaxed, maritime atmosphere.
As a gateway to the Noto coastline, Nanao serves as a calm base for exploring the region's natural beauty and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to Nanao's historic center, where you can stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional wooden buildings. Stop by the Nanao City Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture, featuring artifacts from the Noto Peninsula. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and traditional Japanese tea.
In the afternoon, head to the Nanao Castle ruins, where you can explore the remnants of the former fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Afterward, visit the nearby Noto Peninsula Geopark to take in the stunning coastal scenery and unique geological formations. Don’t forget to grab a light lunch at a local eatery, savoring seafood delicacies that Nanao is known for.
As the sun sets, make your way to the waterfront and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Nanao Bay. Consider dining at a traditional izakaya, where you can indulge in local seafood dishes and regional sake. End your day by soaking in an onsen (hot spring) nearby, allowing the warm waters to relax and rejuvenate you.
Start your day by visiting Wakura Onsen, a renowned hot spring area just a short distance from Nanao. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, featuring seasonal ingredients and local specialties. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk around the onsen town, admiring the various ryokans and traditional architecture.
In the afternoon, treat yourself to a soothing onsen experience by soaking in the mineral-rich waters of one of the public baths. Explore the local shops selling handmade crafts and onsen-related products, where you can find unique souvenirs. For lunch, try the local specialty, 'Noto beef,' at one of the nearby restaurants.
As evening approaches, participate in a traditional tea ceremony at a local tea house, where you can learn about this ancient practice and its significance in Japanese culture. Dine at a kaiseki restaurant, savoring a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and local flavors. Wind down your day by enjoying the serene atmosphere of Wakura Onsen, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Sushi or seafood dish | $15-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and scenic coastlines
- Relaxed pace of life and welcoming locals
- Safe, walkable town with hot springs nearby
- Good base for exploring the Noto Peninsula's coast
- Limited nightlife and late-night options
- Some areas are rural and cash-dependent
- Weather can be windy and seafood-dependent seasons vary
- Language barrier in more remote spots
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Nanao
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light reflecting on the calm bay with fishing boats and red posts along the coast.
Active harbor with fishing boats, colorful stalls, and morning light over the water.
Rows of terraced rice fields meeting the sea, especially striking at golden hour.
Food in Nanao
Nanao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bowls of fresh seafood over rice, typically featuring catches from Nanao Bay.
Must-Try!
Seasonal local fish grilled simply with salt, often enjoyed at markets and seaside eateries.
Buckwheat noodles common in Ishikawa, enjoyed with regional toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seaside market near Wakura Onsen offering fresh seafood, snacks and souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly in public spaces and temples; remove shoes where required; bow slightly when greeting.
Safety
Tipping in Nanao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is included in most prices.
Cash is widely accepted; many places take credit cards, especially in towns and markets; some rural spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and mild temperatures; bring light layers.
Warm days with humidity; coastal sea breezes; bring sun protection.
Crisper air and harvest scenery; ideal for coastal hikes and markets.
Cold with occasional snow; onsen towns stay cozy and scenic, though some outdoor sites may be chilly.
Nanao at Night
Hiking in Nanao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate coastal hike with sea views and opportunities to spot seabirds.
Forest and ridge hike with views of terraced fields and the sea.
Airports
How to reach Nanao by plane.
Major regional airport near Kanazawa; about 1.5–2 hours by train/bus from Nanao.
Smaller regional airport on the Noto Peninsula; faster connections to Tokyo and other domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging population common in rural Ishikawa, with a strong sense of community.
Long-standing fishing communities along the coast.
Growing number of domestic travelers exploring the Noto Peninsula.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional coastal activity widely practiced along Nanao Bay.
Common school and community sport in Ishikawa.
Popular in local schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places in Nanao offer vegetarian options, but verify dashi-based soups and broths; opt for vegetable dishes and rice.