Cycling around the Noto Peninsula offers a unique and scenic experience, showcasing Japan’s rugged coastline, traditional villages, and rich cultural heritage. Located in Ishikawa Prefecture, this peninsula is a hidden gem for cyclists, with routes that take you through a mix of coastal roads, rolling hills, and quiet countryside paths.
Is It Worth Cycling the Noto Peninsula?
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The Noto Peninsula is less crowded than many other cycling destinations in Japan, allowing for a more peaceful ride. The routes often hug the coastline, offering stunning views of the Sea of Japan, and pass through charming fishing villages where you can experience local hospitality and cuisine. Key highlights include the Noto Kongo Coast, known for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations, and the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, a unique beach you can ride along.
Cyclists can also explore the historic Wajima city, famous for its morning market and lacquerware, and visit various temples and shrines scattered throughout the peninsula. The area is also known for its onsen (hot springs), providing a perfect way to relax after a long day of cycling.
The Noto Peninsula is relatively flat, making this route accessible for cyclists of all levels, with daily distances ranging from 40 to 70 kilometers per day.
Weather in the Noto Peninsula
The best seasons to cycle the Noto peninsula are spring and autumn.
Spring is mild, with temperatures between 10°C to 20°C, making it a pleasant time for cherry blossoms. Summer is warm and humid, ranging from 25°C to 30°C, and often feature rain showers. Autumn is cool and comfortable, with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C, and showcases beautiful foliage, especially in October and November. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 0°C, and snow is common in inland areas, while coastal regions often experience strong winds.
Noto Peninsula Cycling Courses
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The Noto Peninsula offers several cycling routes that showcase its beautiful landscapes, cultural landmarks, and serene coastal views. Here are some of the most popular routes.
Oku Noto Route
The Oku Noto Route is ideal for cyclists seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility. The route features a combination of flat stretches along the coastline and more challenging hills as you venture inland. The roads are generally quiet and well-maintained, making for a comfortable ride even in the more remote areas. The journey through Oku Noto allows cyclists to experience the authentic, untouched charm of rural Japan, where traditional lifestyles continue amidst breathtaking natural scenery.
Noto Satohama Route
This inland route takes you through the heart of the Noto Peninsula, passing through scenic countryside, forests, and small villages. It offers a more intimate view of Noto’s traditional satoyama (village) landscapes, with opportunities to explore local farms, temples, and cultural sites. The route is less challenging than coastal routes and provides a peaceful ride away from the busier roads.
Hakui Ganmon Satoyama Route
The Hakui Ganmon Satoyama route begins near Hakui, a small coastal town known for its serene beaches. Then it leads cyclists along the stunning coastline towards Ganmon Sea Cave a famous sea cave that has inspired Japanese poetry for centuries. From there, the route continues inland through the lush satoyama, a traditional Japanese countryside setting, where rice fields, forests, and small villages create a peaceful atmosphere.
Nanao Bay Route
The Nanao Bay route circles around the beautiful Nanao Bay, offering both coastal and mountainous scenery. The route includes a mix of flat stretches along the bay and more challenging climbs through the surrounding hills. Cyclists can enjoy views of the bay, explore the Notojima Island, and visit hot springs in the area.
Noto Peninsula Full Loop (Ishikawa Satoumi Route)
For experienced cyclists looking for a longer challenge, the Noto Peninsula full loop offers a comprehensive tour around the entire peninsula. This route covers a little less than 400 km and takes cyclists through diverse landscapes, including rugged coastlines, peaceful countryside, and historic towns. It can be completed over several days, with stops in key locations like Tsukumo Bay, Mitsukejima Island, and Wakura Onsen.
A Different Way of Travelling: Cycling Noto Peninsula
With well-maintained roads and various routes to choose from, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, cycling in Noto Peninsula is ideal for those looking to combine cycling with cultural exploration.
The cycling routes in Noto Peninsula offer a mix of coastal and inland experiences, providing cyclists with a chance to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Noto Peninsula at their own pace.
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