Understand

Noto is a remarkably secluded area of mainland Japan. It was first chronicled by tomo no Yakamochi, an esteemed poet and government official from the 8th century. Yakamochi is best known for his work in compiling the Man'yoshu, Japan's earliest collection of poems. During his time as governor of Etchu Province, Yakamochi penned heartfelt verses that expressed his longing for the capital's splendors while stationed in the remote wilderness: - "From the Shiwo Road, across the awe-inspiring mountains, to the calm embrace of the sea at Hakuhi, oh, how I yearn for a boat!" (Man'yoshu 17/4025) - "Separated from my beloved wife for so long— the clear rapids of Ishikawa shall decide my destiny." (Man'yoshu 17/4028) To this day, the west coast of Noto remains rugged and sparsely populated, constantly battered by the harsh Sea of Japan. Scattered fishing villages dot the shoreline, while the east coast surrounding Nanao Bay houses the majority of the population. In 2007, Noto experienced a powerful earthquake, causing significant damage to the peninsula's northern region, especially Wajima. Although most operations have resumed, some businesses remain closed for inspections, repairs, or a lack of tourists. It is advisable to confirm accommodation plans in advance.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing