The western coast of the Noto Peninsula facing the open Sea of Japan is known as Kongo Coast — a stretch of cliffs, sea stacks, and wave-carved formations running for several kilometres. The scenery is rougher than the gentler eastern side of the peninsula, with winter storms often making sections impassable. In calmer weather the coast can be explored by boat from Wajima or on foot along sections of the coastal trail.
The road along this stretch rewards driving slowly. Pull-offs appear at intervals with views of the coast below. In summer, squid fishing boats work the waters offshore at night, their bright lights visible from the clifftops. The squid of the Noto Peninsula — particularly the winter firefly squid season — are one of the region's prized seasonal foods.