A thumb-like peninsula jutting out into the Sea of Japan, Noto-hanto is known for its slow-paced, rural environs. Sitting to the north of Kanazawa in Ishikawa-ken, the peninsula consists largely of rolling hills and rugged coastlines, dotted with small towns. Its main tourist center is the old fishing port of Wajima, a town famous for lacquerware and fresh seafood. Public transportation has been significantly curtailed in recent years, so exploration is best made via a car or bicycle. Due to the lack of development relative to many areas of Japan, the peninsula is often considered one of the country's best cycling locations.