Things To Do
in Nanao

Nanao is a charming city located on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Known for its stunning coastline and rich cultural heritage, it offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions. Visitors can explore beautiful temples, scenic parks, and enjoy the local seafood cuisine.

The city's unique hot springs and vibrant festivals provide an authentic experience of Japanese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Nanao
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Nanao Castle Ruins for a leisurely stroll through the historical site and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to Notojima Aquarium to see diverse marine life, followed by a visit to the nearby Notojima Glass Art Museum.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, experiencing the lively atmosphere and tasting various small dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the scenic Wajima Morning Market to sample fresh seafood and local produce, soaking in the vibrant market atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the Noto Kongo Coast, famous for its dramatic cliffs and stunning sea views, perfect for hiking and photography.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a relaxing soak in one of Nanao's famous onsens (hot springs), followed by a traditional kaiseki dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍺Local Beer$5
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and nature.
  • Rich cultural experiences and festivals.
  • Delicious local seafood and cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier for those not speaking Japanese.
  • "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/Sorry
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Nanao

Visit one of these nice places.

Noto Kongo Coast

Famous for its rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for landscape photography.

Nanao Castle Ruins

Offers a historical backdrop with panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature.

Wajima Morning Market

Captures the vibrant life of local vendors and colorful produce, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nanao

Nanao is a culinary paradise, especially if you enjoy seafood and traditional Japanese cuisine.

Nanao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Noto Beef

A high-quality beef known for its rich flavor and tenderness, often enjoyed grilled or in sukiyaki.

Must-Try!

Nanao Sushi

Fresh sushi made with local fish, particularly delicious during the fishing season.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wajima Morning Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, local vegetables, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nanao experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F). Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F), often accompanied by snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Always show respect at shrines and temples, such as bowing before entering and avoiding loud conversations.

Quietness in Public Transport

Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transport; phone calls should be avoided.

Removing Shoes

Always remove your shoes when entering a home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nanao is considered a very safe city with low crime rates. However, it is essential to remain vigilant in crowded places and follow local guidelines, especially during festivals. Emergency services can be reached easily, with local hospitals and clinics providing accessible healthcare.

Tipping in Nanao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude; excellent service is expected.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is recommended for small vendors and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming cherry blossoms make it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures are perfect for beach activities and exploring coastal attractions.

Autumn

The foliage changes to vibrant colors, offering stunning landscapes for photography and hikes.

Winter

Cold temperatures might bring snow, creating a picturesque winter landscape, ideal for hot spring visits.

Nightlife Guide

Nanao at Night

Nanao's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but visitors can enjoy a variety of izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. The local izakayas offer a friendly atmosphere to sample regional dishes and drinks. Seasonal festivals may also feature evening events with traditional performances.

Hiking in Nanao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Noto Peninsula Hike

A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and opportunities to explore local flora and fauna.

Mount Kongo Hiking Trail

A moderate trail that leads to the summit of Mount Kongo, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach Nanao by plane.

Noto Airport (NTQ)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Nanao, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nanao is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where attractions, shops, and restaurants are in close proximity. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes due to some uneven paths in natural areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of Japanese locals who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations, particularly during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams often playing in nearby towns.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nanao is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation, including buses, connects various attractions and neighboring towns, though schedules may vary, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While traditional Japanese cuisine includes seafood, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nanao is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and many healthcare professionals speak basic English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide