

How to best enjoy one of Japan’s most beautiful natural areas, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route? Follow this itinerary to see the autumn foliage and high snow walls in Toyama.

Experience luxury shopping with breathtaking Mount Fuji views at Gotemba Premium Outlets. Discover 200 international and Japanese brands at discounted prices, tax-free shopping, and the perfect combination of retail therapy and natural wonder near Tokyo.

What is Zenkoji Temple? Zenkoji Temple is one of Japan’s most welcoming and inclusive Buddhist temples—famous for accepting all visitors regardless of religious affiliation. Located in the heart of Nagano City, this ancient temple has stood for over 1,400 years and continues to attract pilgrims, history lovers, and spiritual seekers from around the world. What…

What is Shibu Onsen? Tucked away in the Nagano mountains near Yudanaka, Shibu Onsen (渋温泉) is a charming and historic hot spring town known for its cobblestone streets, traditional ryokan inns, and nostalgic atmosphere. With over 1,300 years of history, this small onsen village continues to offer an authentic glimpse into Japan’s bathhouse culture. Though…

What is Jigokudani Monkey Park? Jigokudani Monkey Park, located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is one of the most unique wildlife spots in Japan—and in the world. The park is famous for its wild Japanese macaques (commonly known as snow monkeys) that bathe in natural hot springs during the winter months. Set within the…

What is Nagoya Castle? Nagoya Castle is one of Japan’s most iconic castles, located in the heart of Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. Originally built in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu—the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate—it served as a strategic stronghold to secure control over central Japan. The castle became the seat of the Owari branch of…

Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is one of Japan’s most iconic rural destinations. Famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses—steep thatched roofs designed to shed heavy snow—it’s a place where time slows down and tradition lives on.The village is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and draws visitors year-round for its fairytale-like…

Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is one of Japan’s best-preserved traditional towns. Known for its historic wooden architecture, morning markets, and regional cuisine like Hida beef, Takayama offers a peaceful yet immersive cultural escape. Strolling through the streets of Sanmachi Suji, you’ll find Edo-period homes, sake breweries, and local artisans still…

Next to the extremely popular Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo a new pilgrimage destination for fans of the dreamy Studio Ghibli franchise has been opened in November 2022. The Ghibli Park is even larger and you can truly disappear in a wondrous different world

Kiso-Fukushima was a post town on the Nakasendo trail during feudal times. You can find many attractive preserved historical sites including the old town, magistrate office, checkpoint, and a beautiful Zen garden here.

Shinminato is a town in Imizu City facing Toyama Bay. You can enjoy watching crab auctions and fresh seafood at the fish market, a beautiful sailing boat, and a nostalgic canal cruise.

Gujo Hachiman is a beautiful old town in Gifu Prefecture. It attracts many visitors because of the castle on the hill, beautiful streets with channels, plastic food sample workshops, and a dance festival.

Yatsugatake is a mountain range in central Japan where you can enjoy trekking, skiing, and mountain biking. Learn more about this natural paradise in Nagano!

Takaoka in Toyama prefecture has plenty of attractions; beautiful scenery on the coastline, unique history, metal production, an anime museum, and more!

Izukogen is is a popular resort area for Tokyoites because it is not far from Tokyo. There are many beaches, hot springs, and sightseeing spots. Find out where to go!

Sado island is a popular destination for local tourists because of its unique nature, history and culture. There are plenty of attractions; a gold mine, crested ibis forest, and old towns.

In the Kurobe Gorge in Toyama, you can enjoy breathtaking views from the Kurobe Gorge Railway train. See what there is to discover in this beautiful natural area!

If you are planning to walk a part of the Nakasendo trail to see the pretty old post towns and natural beauty in between, this travel guide will be of use for you.

How to best enjoy one of Japan’s most beautiful natural areas, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route? Follow this itinerary to see the autumn foliage and high snow walls in Toyama.

Toyama city doesn’t get many foreign visitors, but there are several attractions that make the prefectural capital worth a visit. Learn more about Toyama’s attractions!