While Kanazawa certainly shines with its polished, cosmopolitan charm, Nanao offers a refreshing change of pace.

Here, visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the slower, more relaxed rhythm of life along the coast. With its mix of coastal beauty, fresh seafood, historic onsen, and rich cultural traditions, Nanao presents a side of Ishikawa that remains largely untouched by mass tourism.

Whether you’re in search of a peaceful onsen retreat, a taste of Japan’s best seafood, or a cultural experience that feels both authentic and intimate, Nanao delivers. This underrated town offers a great balance of food, culture, and natural beauty in a compact destination that’s ripe for discovery.

Nanao's cuisine is a true reflection of its coastal location. The area is known for its abundant, fresh, high-quality seafood, including sweet and tender kani (crab), succulent hirame (flounder), and savory aji (horse mackerel). Locally caught fish are often served as sashimi or grilled to perfection, and you’ll find many restaurants offering an unforgettable dining experience.

Nanao and the area are also home to several sake breweries that have been run for generations, such as Hakuto Sake Brewery (maker of 'Okunoto no Shiragiku') and Harunari Sake Brewery. Savouring the smooth, subtly sweet sake crafted from local rice and pure water adds an extra layer of authenticity to your culinary adventure.

For those seeking relaxation, Nanao’s historic hot spring resort, Wakura Onsen, is the perfect place to unwind. The tranquil town has been a hot spring destination for over a century, known for its therapeutic waters that are believed to heal ailments and rejuvenate the body. Whether you choose to indulge in a luxurious ryokan stay or simply enjoy a day-use bath at one of the public onsens, Wakura Onsen offers a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The scenic coastal views and peaceful atmosphere further enhance the experience, making it a must-visit for those looking to recharge.

No trip to Nanao would be complete without exploring nearby Notojima. This small island, just off the coast, offers breathtaking coastal drives, where the road winds along cliffs and beaches that stretch out into the horizon.

Notojima is also home to the Notojima Aquarium, where visitors can admire a diverse collection of sea creatures, including dolphins and seals, and enjoy hands-on experiences such as feeding sessions. It’s the perfect spot for families or those interested in Japan's marine life.

Whether you are drawn to historic temples, scenic gardens, or local food culture, Nanao offers an array of memorable sites to explore.

Minato Oasis Nanao “Noto Shokusai Market”
Located at the historic Nanao Port, this lively market offers fresh seafood, local specialties, restaurants, and seasonal events. It’s also a convenient base for exploring nearby Wakura Onsen and the scenic Noto Island.

Otokonushi Shrine
First established in 718 as the guardian shrine of Noto Province, Otokonushi Shrine has been rebuilt and revered by successive rulers, from Minamoto no Jun in the 10th century to Toshiie Maeda in the 16th century. The shrine is best known today as the host of the Seihakusai Festival each May, when its centuries-old tradition of parading gigantic dekayama floats, first dedicated in 1473, continues to draw visitors from across Japan.

Former Iida Family Residence “Kaikokan”
Built about 200 years ago in the irimoya-zukuri style with a striking thatched roof, Kaikokan is designated a Tangible Cultural Property. Its moss-covered garden and collection of daily tools and antiques provide an atmospheric look into life during the Edo period.

Amenomiya Kofun Cluster
Dating back to the 4th–5th centuries, the Amenomiya Kofun Cluster features 36 tumuli, including the largest burial mound in Ishikawa Prefecture. These impressive tombs reflect the power of ancient Noto rulers and have been carefully restored for visitors to appreciate.

Great Buddha Head (Daibutsu-san)
Standing three meters tall in Tatsuruhama, the Great Buddha Head was built in memory of lives lost during the Pacific War. Beloved by locals as “Daibutsu-san,” it is also regarded as a symbol of family safety and resilience, having withstood the 2007 earthquake unscathed.

Wakura Showa Museum and Toy Museum
Step back in time at this museum featuring 10,000 nostalgic items, from Showa-era tea rooms and signboards to toys, dolls, and vintage cars. It’s a lively, interactive experience that appeals to both those with memories of the era and those discovering it for the first time.

Gobenden
Built in 1909 as a resting place for the future Emperor Taisho during his visit to Wakura Onsen, Gobenden is crafted entirely from cypress wood. Now a registered National Tangible Cultural Property, it is admired for its elegant design and as a popular reflection photo spot.

For those lucky enough to be in Nanao during the fall, the Okuma Kabuto Matsuri (September 20) is a must-see. This traditional festival presents a rare opportunity to experience a local celebration in its most vibrant and authentic form. Expect lively processions of elaborately decorated floats, accompanied by spirited music and local dancers. The festival is a far cry from the grand-scale events in Kanazawa, with a more intimate, community-driven atmosphere that invites visitors to join in the revelry.

The Okuma Kabuto Matsuri is a window into the heart of Nanao’s local culture. The festival offers a fantastic chance to interact with locals, sample regional foods, and witness unique performances. If you plan to participate, remember to check the timing — arriving early ensures a good spot to watch the floats go by, and you might even be able to join in on the fun by volunteering for a dance or carrying a float!

Nanao City is one of Japan’s most vibrant festival stages. In addition to the Okumakabuto Festival, visitors can enjoy several other spectacular celebrations.

Seihakusai (May 3-5): The largest festival in the Noto region, hosted by Otokonushi Shrine (Sanno Shrine) and recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Its centerpiece is three colossal dekayama floats — towering 12 meters high and weighing around 20 tons each — pulled through the narrow streets. Visitors are encouraged to join in, lending their strength to move these massive floats and share in the excitement.

Mukoda Fire Festival (last Saturday of July): Counted among Japan’s three great fire festivals, this dramatic event lights up the night with blazing torches and fiery rituals.

Ishisaki Kiriko Festival (first Saturday of August): Renowned as the most magnificent of Noto’s lantern festivals, it features dazzling illuminated kiriko floats dedicated to the gods, filling the streets with a powerful, luminous spectacle.

JR Kanazawa Station has several major rental car agencies conveniently located near the East and West exits, such as Toyota Rent-a-Car and Nissan Rent-a-Car, among others. Booking in advance is recommended, and driving gives you the flexibility to explore Nanao and the wider Noto region at your own pace.

We recommend Nippon Rent-a-Car Kanazawa Station, conveniently located just outside the East Gate. Nippon Rent-a-Car offers a 10% discount when booked via Live Japan. Most major firms offer similar vehicle lineups, options, and insurance, with only minor differences in pricing, but Nippon stands out for providing nationwide English customer service, making it especially convenient for international visitors.

You can book online by selecting your rental dates, vehicle type, and any options, with the estimated cost shown at checkout. Keep in mind that some options may not be changeable or refundable after booking.

Reservations can also be made by phone between 8 AM and 8 PM. If visiting a branch in person, allow extra time to complete the contract and receive explanations about the rental.

Nanao is easily reached from Kanazawa, with limited express trains on the Nanao Line taking between 60 and 90 minutes. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering scenic views of the Noto coastline as you travel north into the peninsula.

For even greater convenience, the Hokuriku Arch Pass provides an affordable way to reach Nanao while also connecting you to other key destinations across the region. With this pass, a scenic ride from Kanazawa brings you directly to Nanao — a perfect choice for a day trip or short overnight stay. It’s a simple, seamless way to discover this charming coastal town and explore a side of Ishikawa that many travelers miss.

From seaside hot spring resorts to cozy traditional inns, Nanao offers a range of accommodations that combine comfort with local charm. All of the options below hold ratings of 8.0 or higher on Booking.com, ensuring a quality stay for your visit.

So, if you’ve already enjoyed the sights of Kanazawa, why not step off the beaten path and take a trip to Nanao? It’s a side of Ishikawa you won’t want to miss.

Written by Faith Kitsunezaki