Chūbu is the centre of the island between the Kantō and Kansai regions. Rugged mountains define its central part, dividing it into sunny Pacific and snowy Sea of Japan side. The region is home to Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak, standing at 12,388 feet (3776 metres). Its symmetrical conical shape captivates worldwide and is a must-see for most visitors to Japan.
Where to go in Chubu
Nigata
It is accessible from Tokyo in about 2 hours. Niigata is by the Sea of Japan and home to the well-known rice brand Koshihikari’s production area. 90 sake breweries are in Niigata which produces the famous Kubota, Hakkaisan and Koshi no Kanbai brands. Mountains in Niigata have big snowfalls and many snow resorts offer magnificent winter sport experiences. .
Nagano
The rising popular tourist prefecture only takes few hours to get to from Tokyo. Hakuba is a well-known snow resort area and welcomes many visitors from overseas. Snow monkey park is a unique place where you can observe Japanese macaques bathing in a hot spring when it is cold.
Shizuoka
Sharing Mt fuji with Yamanashi prefecture, Shizuoka offers experiences in the sea and hot springs. Izu peninsula has numerous great hot spring spots where you can enjoy both mountains and the sea. Shuzenji Onsen is located in the hilly centre of the peninsula and is good for enjoying the outstanding foliage. Shimoda Onsen is at the south end of the peninsula with many clean beaches.
Aichi
Nagoya is another gateway to Japan, particularly to the Shirakawago, Hida and Takayama areas. Ghibli Park offers activities in the woods and entertainment for families. If you have a chance to stay in Nagoya, try to visit a café in the morning to order “Morning”. As you order a coffee, some light bites come with it for free such as slices of toast and boiled eggs.
Mie
The most prestigious shrine in Japan, Ise Shrine is located here. It enshrines a so-called an ancestor to the Japanese royal family, Amaterasu Ōmikami. The mythical ambience of the shrine is fascinating, and people sees the shrine as a spiritual spot.
Yamanashi
This inland prefecture is blessed with beautiful Fuji Five Lakes which were formed due to an ancient eruption of Mt. Fuji. Itchiku Kubota Museum at the Lake Kawaguchi exhibits masterpieces created based on the concepts - the trinity of human, nature and art, and the epicentre of new culture and art. Magnificent Mt. Fuji can be seen from the Fuji Five Lakes when the weather is good.
Toyama
This is one of the prefectures facing the Sea of Japan which has heavy snow in winter. Tateyama mountain range displays its immaculate appearance and reaps the benefits from snow falls. The 18 meters high Snow Corridor in the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is breathtaking.
Ishikawa
The Hokuriku Shinkansen provides easy access to this region from Tokyo. Astonishing Kenrokuen is one of Japan’s 3 greatest gardens and a top attraction in Kanazawa city. Many trendy cafes and classy Japanese restaurants stand on the Higashi-chaya district. Immerse yourself in the old atmosphere of the life of a samurai in the Nagamachi district.
Fukui
The top zen temple Eiheiji temple is located in this prefecture. This temple is known as a training temple for monks. You will see many trainee monks working hard to gain enlightenment. Tojinbo is a visual treasure. Rough waves from the Sea of Japan formed its spectacular coastal line.
Gifu
Rich in nature, Gifu prefecture is famous for Hida-Takayama and its festival and the Shirakawago and Nakasendo trail. The 43rd station Magome-juku and the 42nd station Tsumago-juku are popular nostalgic sights. Wood craft shops and Japanese sweets shops on those stations create an ambience reminiscent of the olden days. Thanks must be given to the preservation committee for Shirakawago as it has maintained the impeccable views of the historic Thatched roof style houses.
