Tsukumo Bay 九十九湾
Emerald Bay
The small bay of Tsukumo on the northeast coast of the Noto Peninsula, north of Ishikawa Prefecture, is ideal for observing marine fauna and flora. It also attracts tourists wishing to go sea kayaking, snorkeling or a small cruise on its crystal clear waters.
99 creeks
Tsukumo Bay, ranked among the 100 most beautiful landscapes of the Japanese archipelago since 1927 , is a quite picturesque place, marked by calm waters and lush vegetation . Measuring only one kilometer from east to west and 1.5 kilometers from north to south, it nevertheless has many coves of all sizes. These, 99 in number according to legend, are the origin of the name of the bay. Indeed, the Japanese name of Tsukumo Bay uses the kanjis九十九 meaning 99. The bay is the result of a slow erosion during which the Sea of Japan came to sculpt the travertine rocks (limestone rock) into a coast shredded .
Covered in evergreen shrubs and a forest of red pines, the island shines in all seasons . Home to a rich biodiversity including no less than 80 different species of birds , it is a fabulous observation point for budding ornithologists.
On the waves
On site, we advise you to take one of the cruise ships to explore and take full advantage of the natural riches of the bay, in the heart of the quasi-national park of the Noto Peninsula. For 35 to 40 minutes, the pleasure boat makes you discover the serene beauty of the coves and takes you closer to the island of Horaijima which floats majestically in the center of the bay. Completely symbolic in the Japanese landscape, the Horaijima are inaccessible islands of incredible beauty; A real piece of paradise !
To read: A day on the Noto Peninsula
This white rock-cut coastline offers a stunning contrast to the surrounding verdant mountains and the emerald green of the sea . A wild landscape that one might think was the result of divine intervention.

Stroll along the bay
The underwater fauna is not to be outdone thanks to the glass bottom of the boat allowing you to observe sea creatures in water of exceptional transparency . The ship also offers a short stop to feed the fish; a recreational break much appreciated by children! On a clear day, you will also be able to see the peaks of Toyama prefecture facing the bay.
The sea world
Laid out all around the bay, a coastal observation route allows you to discover sea anemones and other hermit crabs hidden in the sand or between the rocks. Open your eyes! At the back of the bay, the Marine Conservation Center has been raising public awareness of marine biodiversity through extensive research programs and exhibits since 1994. The marine center works to protect the marine diversity of Tsukumo Bay . The visitor can observe and touch many varieties of underwater fauna and even experience diving during the summer period. Tsukumo Bay is precious for those who want to get to know and "feel" the marine world better.
Address, timetable & access
Address
Phone
+81768-72-0495Timetable
40 minutes drive from Noto Airport and 2 hours from Kanazawa.Price
1,000 yen for an adult (7€60), 500 yen for a child (3€80)Access
Cruise from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily between April and November.