Noto Peninsula
Cycling along the coastline of the Noto Peninsula offers a serene journey with stunning views of the Sea of Japan. The coastal route winds through quiet fishing villages, past rugged cliffs, and alongside pristine beaches, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. With peaceful roads and dramatic seaside landscapes, cyclists can enjoy the tranquility of the peninsula’s less-traveled paths, making it an ideal ride for those seeking a scenic and unhurried coastal experience.
The Route
We recommend starting in Hakui as that gives two good overnight stops at Hakui and Anamizu giving 3 days of roughtly equal distance at about 110km per day
The route around the peninsula starting at Hakui is a total of 330km, while there are some points where there are climbs, they are not particularly significant
Route 160 on the East side of Noto Peninsula offers beautiful views of the Tateyama Mountains.
Along the Route
Amaharashi
Amaharashi (雨晴) is a coastal area in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture, facing Toyama Bay with clear views of the Tateyama Mountain Range on good days.
For cyclists, Amaharashi lies on a flat coastal route between Takaoka and Himi. The roads are mostly level with minimal elevation gain, suitable for road and touring bikes. The main challenge is exposure to wind, especially outside summer. Amaharashi is also the West end of the Toyama Bay Cycling Route.
The shoreline road runs close to the sea with frequent viewpoints. Michi-no-Eki Amaharashi sits directly on the route and provides restrooms, food, water, and a viewing deck. JR Amaharashi Station is adjacent, making it easy to shorten or end a ride.
Traffic is moderate, and while there are no bike lanes, pavement quality is good. A few short tunnels require caution. Overall, Amaharashi is a scenic, low-effort coastal segment well suited to inclusion in a longer Toyama Bay ride.
Noto Island
Noto Island is a small island just south of Anamizu and offers some beautiful sea views and riding.
Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces
Shiroyone Senmaida (Google Maps) is a breathtaking terraced rice field located in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, the site features over a thousand meticulously maintained rice terraces that cascade down toward the Sea of Japan. The fields are particularly picturesque at sunrise and sunset, when the light reflects off the water and creates a mesmerizing scene. In addition to its natural beauty, Shiroyone Senmaida is also a cultural landmark, with a history that dates back centuries. Visitors can enjoy walking trails through the terraces, participate in rice planting experiences, and appreciate the harmony between agriculture and nature in this tranquil setting.
Monzenmachi Kuroshimamachi
Monzenmachi Kuroshimamachi is a historic town located in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture. Nestled near the Noto Peninsula, this charming area features well-preserved merchant houses and narrow streets that reflect the town’s past as a vibrant trading hub. Visitors can explore local shops, cafes, and galleries that showcase traditional crafts and regional specialties. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Monzenmachi Kuroshimamachi also offers scenic views and access to nearby temples, making it a delightful destination for those interested in history, culture, and the serene beauty of rural Japan. (Google Maps)
Getting there and away
Kanazawa / Hakui
Hakui is about a 30 minute ride (limited express) from Kanazawa station making it a convient starting place. (One can ride starting from Kanazawa but the ride between Kanazawa and Hakui isn’t particularly nice or scenic)
Shin-Takaoka
Shin-Takaoka is a station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen giving good access back to both Tokyo and Osaka