Things To Do
in Noto
Noto is a picturesque region located on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged coastlines, lush forests, and traditional villages. Noto is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly its high-quality crab and squid dishes.
Visitors to Noto can also enjoy cultural activities such as pottery-making, tea ceremonies, and exploring historic temples and shrines.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the scenic Wajima Morning Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local crafts. Stroll through the vibrant stalls and sample some delicious regional delicacies.
Head to Noto Wildlife Conservation Center to learn about local fauna. Enjoy a peaceful walk amidst nature and watch the various species that thrive in the area.
Relax at a traditional ryokan and enjoy a kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal ingredients. Take some time to unwind in an onsen while soaking in the stunning views of the countryside.
Visit a local sushi spot to experience Noto's famous sushi made with the freshest catch from the Sea of Japan. Pair your meal with local sake for a perfect start to your day.
Take part in a sushi-making workshop to learn how to craft these delicious dishes yourself. Enjoy the artistry of sushi while savoring your creations.
Visit a nearby izakaya to experience the local nightlife. Enjoy casual drinks and a variety of small plates while mingling with locals and other travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery with beautiful beaches and cliffs
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including traditional Japanese architecture
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and traditional Japanese dishes
- Access to hot springs and wellness experiences
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports
- Less crowded tourist destination compared to larger cities
- Limited public transportation options, making it harder to get around
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger urban areas
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
- Some areas may be less accessible during off-peak seasons
- Higher likelihood of typhoons and severe weather during certain seasons
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Noto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a scenic drive or bicycle ride along the Noto Peninsula, known for its stunning coastline, traditional fishing villages, and beautiful landscapes.
Experience the local culture by visiting the Wajima Morning Market, where you can find fresh seafood, crafts, and regional specialties.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Noto Park with its hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the lush environment and surrounding sea.
Take a kayaking tour in Noto Bay to explore the tranquil waters and unique coastal features while enjoying the rich marine biodiversity.
Explore the serene Myojoji Temple, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
Engage in traditional fishing experiences with local fishermen to learn about their techniques and enjoy fresh catch.
Drive along Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, a unique sandy beach road where you can enjoy views of the ocean and beach activities.
Participate in local festivals throughout the year, showcasing Noto's rich cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, and food.
Tours
Uncover the best of Noto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Noto
Visit one of these nice places.
Rice terrace with beautiful views of the sea and landscape
Observatory offering panoramic views of the Noto Peninsula
Museum with traditional lanterns and stunning coastal views
Food in Noto
Noto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sasazushi is a traditional dish of Noto, featuring vinegared rice, sashimi, and other local ingredients wrapped in bamboo leaves. It can be found at local sushi restaurants like Kaiten Sushi Oritasushi.
Must-Try!
Noto is renowned for its high-quality, tender beef which can be enjoyed at restaurants such as Chojiro Noto Beef.
Kanijuu is a popular local dish consisting of crab meat, tofu, and locally grown vegetables. It is a must-try and is available at seafood restaurants like Kaniya.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Noto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Wajima Morning Market offers a variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and street food stalls where visitors can sample Noto's regional delicacies like grilled fish skewers and tempura.
Asaichi Market in Nanao City is a bustling marketplace where visitors can explore a wide array of local street foods, including freshly prepared sashimi, grilled seafood, and vegetable tempura.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bowing is a common method of greeting in Japan and is a sign of respect. When meeting someone, it is customary to bow slightly as a form of hello or goodbye.
In traditional Japanese homes and many ryokans (inns), it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. Always be prepared to take off your shoes and wear indoor slippers provided.
Presenting small gifts, especially when visiting someone's home, is a common practice in Japan. This gesture symbolizes appreciation and respect, so consider bringing a small token as a courtesy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Noto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Noto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Noto, Japan, as in other parts of the country, tipping is not a common practice and can even be considered rude. Service staff, such as in restaurants or hotels, typically do not expect tips as a part of their income. Instead, exceptional service is already factored into the pricing, and there is a cultural emphasis on providing good service without expecting additional compensation.
Payment practices in Noto, Japan, are largely cash-based, with yen being the primary currency. However, the use of credit and debit cards is becoming more common, especially in urban areas and tourist spots. Many establishments may still prefer cash, and visitors are advised to carry enough yen for transactions. Electronic payment options like QR codes are also increasingly being adopted, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Noto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Noto, Japan. Cherry blossoms bloom, pleasant weather, and various festivals such as the Wajima Taisai.
Expect warm and humid weather, perfect for beach activities and enjoying seafood festivals.
Beautiful fall foliage, ideal for hiking and exploring the countryside. Noto is also known for its autumn festivals and local cuisine.
Cold temperatures but Noto offers unique winter experiences such as hot spring baths and enjoying snow-covered landscapes.
Noto at Night
Hiking in Noto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring rugged coastlines, scenic viewpoints, and various hiking trails that explore the natural beauty of the Noto Peninsula.
A popular hiking trail that leads to the Great Buddha of Noto, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape along the way.
A picturesque rice terrace area that provides a unique hiking experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the terraces and the coastal scenery.
A scenic hike that takes you from Wakura Onsen to Ojima Island, incorporating coastal views and the serenity of rural Japan.
A breathtaking coastal trail that offers rugged and dramatic views of the coastline, with opportunities to explore the rich marine life and enjoy nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Noto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Noto by plane.
The nearest international airport to Noto, located about 60 kilometers away in Komatsu, Ishikawa Prefecture.
An international airport located approximately 100 kilometers from Noto, serving Toyama Prefecture.
A major international airport located about 250 kilometers from Noto, situated near Osaka.
An international airport located around 250 kilometers from Noto, near Nagoya.
Located approximately 350 kilometers from Noto, near Tokyo, Narita is one of Japan's busiest international airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Noto, Japan, consisting mainly of ethnic Japanese people, including those with ancestry tracing back to historical settlements in the region.
A significant portion of Noto's residents are elderly, reflecting a common demographic trend in rural Japan where younger generations migrate to urban areas.
There are various family units present in Noto, with some families having lived in the area for generations, contributing to the local culture and community.
While not a permanent demographic group, Noto attracts tourists, especially during festivals and peak seasons, contributing to temporary demographic changes.
A small but growing number of foreign residents, including workers and students, have been moving to Noto, adding to the diversity of the demographic landscape.
The Soul of Noto
Discover the essence of Noto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Noto, with many local teams and youth leagues encouraging participation from a young age.
Baseball has a strong following in Noto, with local schools and communities often organizing matches and tournaments.
Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers, drawing interest from both young players and spectators.
Sports such as Sumo and Kyudo (Japanese archery) are also appreciated in Noto, reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
Given Noto's coastal location, fishing is both a recreational activity and a way of life, with many residents participating in fishing events and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Noto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Noto's cuisine primarily revolves around seafood and meat, several restaurants and cafes in the area offer vegetarian dishes, including tempura vegetables, tofu-based meals, and fresh vegetable sushi.
Vegan options may be limited in traditional Noto cuisine, but some establishments do provide vegan-friendly dishes with prior arrangements. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences in advance.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can opt for rice-based dishes, sashimi, and grilled seafood, which are naturally gluten-free. However, it's recommended to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods at restaurants.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Noto with these cultural adventures.
