Noto Full Day Driving Tour (Private Car)

The Noto Full Day Driving Tour offers visitors an immersive journey through the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Noto Peninsula. Guided by a knowledgeable driver, travelers can explore the vibrant Wajima Morning Market, marvel at the breathtaking Shiroyone Senmaida rice paddies, and explore the secrets of traditional salt production at the Okunoto Salt Farm Village. As the tour progresses, the serenity of Myojo-ji Temple and the beauty of Chirihama Beach await, providing a captivating glimpse into the region’s enduring traditions. With its comprehensive itinerary and personalized approach, this driving tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to uncover more.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Full-Day Tours In Kanazawa.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour of Noto Peninsula’s top attractions, including the Wajima Morning Market, Shiroyone Senmaida rice paddies, and Okunoto Salt Farm Village.
• Private air-conditioned vehicle and knowledgeable driver-guide for a personalized and stress-free exploration of the region.
• Opportunity to witness the stunning natural landscapes of the Noto Peninsula, such as the Chirihama Beach and Myojo-ji Temple.
• Immersion in local culture through visits to traditional craft workshops, historical sites, and sampling of regional delicacies.
• Flexible itinerary allowing for exploration at one’s own pace without the hassle of public transportation.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day private driving tour provides a comprehensive itinerary to explore the highlights of Noto Peninsula, a scenic region along the central west coast of Japan.

The tour takes visitors to the Wajima Morning Market, known for its traditional crafts and local produce.

Next, they’ll witness the stunning Shiroyone Senmaida rice paddies, an iconic landscape of over a thousand terraced fields.

The tour then visits the Okunoto Salt Farm Village, where visitors can learn about traditional salt production.

Other highlights include Myojo-ji Temple and Chirihama Beach.

With an air-conditioned private vehicle and a knowledgeable driver-guide, this tour offers a stress-free and comprehensive way to discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of the Noto region.

Key Highlights

The private driving tour avoids the hassle of navigating local public transport, providing a stress-free way for visitors to explore Noto’s highlights.

Travelers enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle as they journey between sites, catered to by a knowledgeable driver-guide.

The tour caters particularly well to nature enthusiasts, showcasing the stunning Shiroyone Senmaida rice paddies and the picturesque Chirihama Beach.

Along the way, guests can enjoy local culture by visiting the Wajima Morning Market, Okunoto Salt Farm Village, and Myojo-ji Temple.

This comprehensive itinerary allows travelers to make the most of their day, exploring Noto’s natural beauty and cultural treasures in a convenient and comfortable manner.

Inclusions

The Noto Full Day Driving Tour (Private Car) includes an air-conditioned vehicle and covers all applicable fees and taxes, providing a seamless and comfortable experience for travelers.

This comprehensive tour offers the following inclusions:

• Air-conditioned vehicle for the duration of the tour
• All entrance fees and taxes to the various attractions
• Lunch stops along the way, though the cost of the meal isn’t included
• Knowledgeable driver-guide who can provide insights and commentary throughout the tour
• Flexibility to explore the highlights at your own pace without the hassle of public transportation

These inclusions ensure that visitors can focus on seeing the beauty and cultural richness of the Noto Peninsula without worrying about logistical details.

Meeting and Pickup

The Noto Full Day Driving Tour (Private Car) offers pickup from hotels in Kanazawa, with the tour starting at 8:00 am. This provides a convenient and stress-free way for travelers to begin their exploration of the Noto Peninsula.

The private car and driver-guide ensure a personalized experience, allowing participants to focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about navigation or transportation logistics.

By starting the tour early, travelers can make the most of the day and see a comprehensive array of the region’s top attractions.

This makes the Noto Full Day Driving Tour an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient and comfortable way to discover the highlights of this beautiful part of Japan.

Wajima Morning Market

One of the first stops on the Noto Full Day Driving Tour is the vibrant Wajima Morning Market, a renowned local institution where visitors can enjoy the rhythm of traditional Japanese commerce.

This bustling marketplace is renowned for its diverse selection of locally sourced goods, including:

• Freshly caught seafood from the nearby Noto Peninsula coast
• Handcrafted lacquerware products, a specialty of the Wajima region
• Seasonal produce grown by local farmers
• Unique crafts and artisanal items made by skilled artisans
• Traditional Japanese delicacies and street food

Wandering through the rows of stalls, visitors can engage with friendly vendors, negotiate prices, and soak in the lively atmosphere that has made the Wajima Morning Market a must-visit destination on the Noto Peninsula.

Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Paddies

Following a scenic drive along the coast, visitors arrive at the breathtaking Shiroyone Senmaida, a series of steeply terraced rice paddies that cascade down the hillside toward the Sea of Japan.

Deemed one of Japan’s most picturesque rural landscapes, these narrow, neatly-tended paddies present a visually stunning spectacle, their reflective surfaces mirroring the sky and surrounding mountains.

Visitors can stroll along the terraces, marveling at the intricate patchwork of fields and the captivating vistas.

The serene atmosphere and timeless beauty of the Shiroyone Senmaida make it a must-see destination for anyone exploring the stunning Noto Peninsula.

With its idyllic setting and rich agricultural heritage, this enchanting landscape offers a peaceful respite from the bustling cities.

Okunoto Salt Farm Village

After marveling at the picturesque Shiroyone Senmaida rice paddies, the tour now heads inland to the historic Okunoto Salt Farm Village, where visitors can learn about the region’s longstanding salt production practices.

This quaint village offers a unique glimpse into the traditional methods used to extract and refine salt from the nearby seawater.

Highlights include:

• Observing the salt-harvesting process, where workers use long-handled shovels to carefully scrape salt crystals from shallow evaporation ponds
• Visiting artisanal salt workshops and learning about the meticulous drying and processing techniques
• Sampling various salt-infused local delicacies and products
• Exploring the charming streets lined with historic salt storehouses and other well-preserved structures
• Engaging with knowledgeable local guides who share the rich history and cultural significance of salt in the Noto Peninsula.

Myojo-ji Temple and Chirihama Beach

The tour then proceeds to the revered Myojo-ji Temple, a striking example of traditional Japanese Buddhist architecture nestled in the Noto region. Visitors can marvel at the temple’s exquisite design, featuring ornate roofs, intricate carvings, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites contemplation. Following the temple visit, the tour concludes at the picturesque Chirihama Beach, where travelers can stroll along the expansive stretch of golden sand and enjoy the serene coastal scenery.

Key Features	Myojo-ji Temple
Architecture	Traditional Japanese Buddhist
Highlights	Ornate roofs, intricate carvings
Atmosphere	Peaceful, contemplative

Key Features	Chirihama Beach
Landscape	Expansive stretch of golden sand
Scenery	Serene coastal environment
Activities	Strolling along the beach

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, the tour can generally be customized to include additional stops. Customers should contact the tour provider to discuss their preferences and see if the itinerary can be tailored to their specific needs.

Is There an Option for a Multi-Day Tour Package?

The tour provider may offer multi-day tour packages that allow visitors to explore the Noto Peninsula more extensively. Travelers should check with the provider to inquire about customizable itineraries and accommodation options for a longer stay in the region.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour has no set maximum group size. It’s a customized experience, with only your group participating. The tour is flexible to accommodate your desired group size, providing a personalized and comfortable sightseeing experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or children. Private tours typically do not offer age-based discounts, as the pricing is per group rather than per person. The inclusions and pricing remain the same regardless of the group’s age composition.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds with sufficient notice, usually 24-48 hours prior to the scheduled tour. However, the specific policy may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date information.

Recap

The Noto Full Day Driving Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Noto Peninsula’s natural and cultural gems. Visitors can enjoy traditional markets, marvel at scenic landscapes, and learn about local heritage, all while enjoying the convenience of a private driver-guide.

This personalized experience allows travelers to discover the region’s treasures at their own pace, making it a must-do for those seeking an in-depth and stress-free discovery of Noto’s captivating wonders.