Things To Do
in Noto
Nestled on the western edge of Honshu, the Noto Peninsula offers rugged coastlines, terraced rice fields, and traditional fishing villages. The area is renowned for Wajima lacquerware, fresh seafood, and a long history of artisanal crafts. Small towns like Wajima and Suzu preserve a slower, unhurried pace that invites scenic drives and harbor strolls.
Visitors experience a blend of natural beauty, coastal culture, and countryside charm along the peninsula.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Notojima Glass Art Museum, where you can admire intricate glass sculptures and learn about local glassmaking techniques. After soaking in the art, stroll through the charming streets of Wajima, known for its lacquerware and traditional crafts. Stop by a local café to savor a fresh cup of coffee paired with a sweet Wajima dessert.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Wajima Morning Market, where you can browse through an array of fresh seafood, local produce, and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly vendors and sample regional delicacies, including pickled vegetables and seafood snacks. Wrap up your afternoon at the Wajima Kiriko Art Museum, where you can marvel at the stunning festival lanterns that illuminate local celebrations.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya for dinner, enjoying a selection of small plates and regional sake. The lively atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals and experiencing authentic Japanese dining culture. After dinner, take a peaceful stroll along the coast, listening to the gentle waves and reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day by visiting the Noto Peninsula Geopark, where you can explore the stunning natural landscapes and learn about the region's geological significance. Join a guided tour to discover unique rock formations and scenic viewpoints that showcase the beauty of the coastline. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.
After your morning exploration, indulge in a traditional Noto lunch at a local restaurant, featuring seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. Spend the afternoon visiting the picturesque village of Suki, known for its terraced rice fields and traditional thatched-roof houses. Take a leisurely walk through the village, immersing yourself in the serene countryside atmosphere.
In the evening, visit a hot spring ryokan in the area for a relaxing soak in an outdoor onsen. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal showcasing the best of local cuisine, prepared with care and artistry. End your day under the stars, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍣Mid-range dinner for two | $30-50 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night (mid-range) | $90-180 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and snacks | $5-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and preserved traditional crafts
- Delicious, fresh seafood and farm-to-table produce
- Public transit on the peninsula can be limited
- Some sights require a car or guided tours
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "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?
- "おすすめは何ですか？" - What do you recommend?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "クレジットカードは使えますか？" - Can I use a credit card?
- "写真を撮ってもいいですか？" - May I take photos?
- "助けてください" - Please help
Places to Visit in Noto
Visit one of these nice places.
Terraced hillside fields overlooking the sea; dramatic at sunrise or sunset with reflective water and terraced geometry.
Iconic bridge linking Notojima to the mainland, offering sweeping coastal views and blue-water backdrops for wide-angle shots.
Rugged cliffs and waves crashing against rocks; best in early morning light or late afternoon for moody sea portraits.
Colorful stalls and seafood displays provide vibrant street photography opportunities among locals at work.
Food in Noto
Noto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Ishikawa duck-based stew with wheat gluten and vegetables, simmered in a rich broth; a hearty winter specialty.
Must-Try!
A seafood donburi bowl featuring a variety of sashimi over rice, showcasing the day’s freshest catches.
Buckwheat noodles made with locally grown buckwheat; served hot or cold with regional toppings.
Winter crab hot pot featuring Matsuba crab, vegetables, and tofu in a light broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling harbor market offering fresh seafood, pickles, and small seafood bites to sample on the spot.
Coastal market in Nanao with fish stalls, street snacks, and local produce; great for a quick lunch stop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet politely, bow lightly, and use 'sumimasen' to get attention. Speak softly in public and avoid loud conversations.
Wash before entering baths; do not wear swimsuits; keep towels out of the water; follow local rules for mixed-gender or gender-segregated baths.
Dispose of trash in designated bins; many areas have limited public bins; be mindful of quiet, respectful behavior near fishing harbors and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Noto
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally not expected in Noto; excellent service is considered standard.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops and larger restaurants also take credit cards. Some rural spots may be cash-only; carrying yen is advised. IC cards are less common outside major cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with frequent coastal breezes. Expect lush landscapes, seafood festivals, and occasional typhoon advisories; mornings are ideal for markets and coastal walks.
Pleasant, crisp air and clear skies; fall colors appear in hillside lanes and along coastal paths; great season for photography and seafood tastings.
Cold, with snow in inland areas and light coastal snowfall; crab season peaks; cozy onsen experiences and quiet harbors provide a serene atmosphere.
Mild temperatures and flowering landscapes; cherry blossoms and other seasonal blooms enhance scenic drives and temple grounds.
Noto at Night
Hiking in Noto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic long-distance trail along the coastline with sea views, cliffs, and small villages.
Coastal walking route around Ogi with dramatic sea views and seasonal flora.
Airports
How to reach Noto by plane.
The closest major airport with domestic flights to Tokyo and other hubs; rental cars available; drive to the Noto region takes roughly 2-3 hours depending on traffic.
A smaller regional airport with limited routes; provides alternative access to central Hokuriku.
A major international gateway in Nagoya; good for connections to Japan and Asia, followed by rail or road transfer to Hokuriku.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many coastal towns have aging residents, with strong preservation of traditional crafts and steady local life.
Communities centered on fishing, shellfish processing, and agriculture contribute to the peninsula’s culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played school and community sport across the region.
Local clubs and youth leagues; weekend matches are popular community events.
Coastal paddling along the Noto Peninsula’s sheltered bays and cliffs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Noto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seafood-focused region; vegetarian options exist at larger eateries and cafés, but communicate clearly about stock-based broths or dashi. Look for meals centered on vegetables, tofu, and rice.
Some dishes use soy sauce or dashi; ask for rice, grilled fish, and vegetables; request sauces prepared gluten-free when possible.
Clearly communicate shellfish or fish allergies; many Japanese menus list ingredients, but do not rely on English-only signage—bring a translation card if needed.