Things To Do
in Hakui

Hakui is a charming coastal city located in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and beautiful natural scenery. It boasts a delightful blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The city is famous for its stunning beaches, historic temples, and the picturesque Noto Peninsula.

Visitors can also enjoy the local seafood and participate in various outdoor activities that showcase the region's natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Hakui's Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the historic Hakui Shrine, where you can admire traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Yutaka Beach to relax and enjoy a picnic. You can also try some water sports like paddleboarding.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can sample a variety of Japanese dishes and local sake.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the Noto Peninsula, visiting scenic spots such as the Wajima Morning Market.

afternoon
:

Visit the Notojima Aquarium to learn about marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a sunset stroll along the beach, followed by a seafood dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
🍺Draft Beer$5
Coffee$3
🚌Local Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage with traditional sites.
  • Delicious local seafood and friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Hakui

Visit one of these nice places.

Hakui Shrine

A serene shrine surrounded by beautiful nature, perfect for capturing traditional architecture.

Yutaka Beach

An ideal spot for sunset photography with its wide sandy shores and picturesque ocean views.

Notojima Peninsula

Offers stunning coastal views and unique rock formations, making it a great place for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hakui

Hakui offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing fresh seafood and local delicacies that reflect the region's coastal heritage.

Hakui Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Noto Beef

A high-quality beef from the Noto Peninsula, known for its rich flavor and tenderness.

Must-Try!

Sashimi

Freshly caught fish served raw, often accompanied by soy sauce and wasabi.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wajima Morning Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and unique handicrafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hakui experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, ranging from -3°C to 10°C (27°F to 50°F). Rainfall is prevalent in June, and the region can see snow during winter months, particularly in January and February. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

It's important to show respect at shrines and temples by bowing and following local customs.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and quiet places to respect the local culture.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hakui is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions like safeguarding personal belongings and staying aware of your surroundings. Natural disasters such as typhoons or earthquakes can occur, so it's wise to familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

Tipping in Hakui

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is typically included in the price.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, many establishments also accept credit cards, especially in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for beach activities, but be prepared for occasional rainstorms.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Chilly weather with occasional snowfall; a good time for indoor activities and enjoying local hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Hakui at Night

Hakui's nightlife is relatively low-key, with several izakayas and bars that offer a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Local establishments often feature live music and provide a taste of traditional Japanese hospitality. While not a bustling metropolis, the laid-back vibe allows for a relaxed evening out with friends or locals, especially after enjoying a day of sightseeing.

Hiking in Hakui

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Kameyama Trail

A moderate hiking trail offering panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding landscapes.

Noto Peninsula Coastal Trail

A scenic coastal trail that allows hikers to explore diverse ecosystems and enjoy stunning ocean vistas.

Airports

How to reach Hakui by plane.

Noto Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from Hakui, Noto Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport serving the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hakui is a compact city, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to explore comfortably on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the city is pedestrian-friendly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population in Hakui consists of Japanese citizens who are deeply connected to their cultural and historical roots.

Tourists

Visitors from both Japan and abroad come to Hakui to enjoy its scenic beauty, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A popular sport in Japan, with many local teams participating in regional leagues.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong following, with local clubs and schools actively promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hakui is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation includes buses that connect different areas of the city, though schedules may not be as frequent as in larger cities. It's advisable to check bus routes ahead of time for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hakui.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes made from local vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hakui is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for both locals and visitors. Most medical facilities have English-speaking staff, but it's advisable to carry travel insurance. Emergency services can be reached easily, and pharmacies are common throughout the city.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide