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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken in tourist areas)
- Climate: Temperate
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 21 million people
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries including the US, EU, and UK can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Some travelers may require an e-visa or visa on arrival depending on nationality. A valid passport, return ticket, and proof of funds are typically required. It is advised to check the latest Japanese embassy guidelines before travel.
About Chubu
Chubu is a captivating region located in the heart of Japan, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. It stretches from the Japan Sea coast to the Pacific Ocean, encompassing majestic mountains like the Japanese Alps, serene lakes, and traditional towns. This region is famous for its stunning landscapes, including Mount Fuji’s northern foothills and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go with its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Visitors are drawn to Chubu for its diverse attractions ranging from vibrant cities like Nagoya to tranquil hot springs and ski resorts. The region’s mix of modern amenities and preserved traditions provides a compelling experience for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. Whether hiking in the mountains, exploring ancient castles, or savoring local cuisine, Chubu offers something memorable for every visitor.
Top Attractions
1. Shirakawa-go – A UNESCO World Heritage village known for its traditional steep thatched-roof houses. 2. Mount Fuji – Japan’s iconic peak visible from parts of Chubu, popular for climbing and sightseeing. 3. Nagoya Castle – A historic castle with beautiful gardens and samurai heritage. 4. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route – A spectacular mountain route famous for its towering snow walls and panoramic views. 5. Takayama Old Town – A charming area with well-preserved Edo-period streets, shops, and sake breweries.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking and skiing in the Japanese Alps, exploring historic towns on foot, soaking in natural hot springs (onsen), and experiencing traditional festivals. Cultural activities include visiting temples and shrines, attending local craft workshops, and sampling sake brewery tours. Adventure seekers can take scenic train rides through mountainous routes or try river rafting in summer.
Chubu Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Japan
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy hiking and skiing in the Japanese Alps, exploring historic towns on foot, soaking in natural hot springs (onsen), and experiencing traditional festivals. Cultural activities include visiting temples and shrines, attending local craft workshops, and sampling sake brewery tours. Adventure seekers can take scenic train rides through mountainous routes or try river rafting in summer.
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Pack layers for mountain climates and comfortable walking shoes. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Carry cash as some rural areas have limited card acceptance. Stay aware of earthquake safety procedures. Learning basic Japanese greetings enhances interactions.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $220
358 Available Tour Excursions in Chubu
Up to 7 people private tour + PHOTOSHOOT by professional photographer!! Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories in Japan. You will be taken to the Japan's most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!
Price: $526.19
Duration: 8-9 hours
Join a fully hands-on Japanese cooking class at a 56-year-old culinary school just 3 minutes from Kanazawa Station. This is not a demonstration—each participant prepares all dishes with personal guidance from a professional local chef. Learn practical skills you can use at home, including how to shape sushi, make dashi, cook rolled omelets, and prepare Jibuni, a Kanazawa specialty. You’ll also gain insights into the cultural background of each dish. We use fresh, seasonal ingredients, including premium fish from Omicho Market—also supplied to Michelin-starred restaurants. Real-time AI translation via a 65-inch screen ensures smooth communication in English. Note: Vegan diets and those avoiding fish-based dashi cannot be accommodated. Please inform us of any other dietary needs at booking—same-day changes are not accepted.
Price: $95.92
Duration: 2 hours
Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories to our beautiful city of Kanazawa. You will be taken to the city’s most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments in Kanazawa, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!
Price: $132.92
Duration: 3 hours
Delight in views of idyllic villages on this 1-day tour from Kanazawa to World Heritage Shirakawago and Takayama. At Shirakawago, enjoy seeing the seasonal scenery of a quaint village of thatch-roofed houses, and at Takayama, take a walk around the old town where traditional Japanese-style townhouses and traces of the Edo period (1603-1868) still remain. Time will be allotted to explore Shirakawago, allowing customers to enjoy local cuisine, take photos, and spend time as they please. With a private vehicle used for transfers, enjoy efficiently visiting Shirakawago and Takayama in comfort. In addition, drop-off is available at Takayama Station, so those planning to go to Nagoya, Tokyo, or Kyoto after sightseeing in Takayama can feel free to participate.
Price: $217.88
Duration: 10 hours
Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, photoshoot session will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories to our beautiful city of Kanazawa. Regardless of being in Kimono or casual clothes we will capture your beautiful smile! Please choose Kenrokuen garden or Higashichaya for your photoshoot. If you would like to rent Kimono we can guide you to book your Kimono rental at one of kimono shops in Kanazawa. 100 fully professionally edited photos (We select best 100 out of 300-400 photos taken during the session) in 2 hour shoot session. 30 fully professionally edited photos (We select best 30 out of roughly 100 photos taken during the session) in 1 hour shoot session. Photos delivered via Dropbox or Google drive within 3-7days.
Price: $137.03
Duration: 2 hours
Craft your own professional Damascus kitchen knife in the legendary sword town of Seki, Gifu! Guided by a master bladesmith who have experience over 50years, you’ll sharpen, polish, and engrave your own knife — then test its sharpness on fresh vegetables. As a limited-time bonus, you’ll receive a handcrafted mini knife souvenir, a signed certificate, and enjoy a delicious Japanese lunch. ・Personalized Damascus knife-making experience ・Hands-on polishing, sharpening, engraving and assembly ・Test the sharpness of your finished blade ・Free mini knife souvenir (limited availability) ・Signed certificate of completion Delve into the rich history of Japanese Samurai swords and Seki City. Gain a deeper appreciation for the value of traditions. Whether you’re a knife enthusiast, a samurai fan, or simply looking for a unique cultural activity in Japan, this experience offers an unforgettable journey into traditional craftsmanship — and you’ll take home a blade that’s truly one of a kind.
Price: $308.31
Duration: 5 hours
*** The tour starts from either Kanazawa or Toyama, not both on each day *** The stunning Japanese Alps stretch from the Pacific Ocean to the Sea of Japan with beautiful scenery throughout. The Northern Alps in Toyama is the famous Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. This route stretches across a mountain range and goes over magnificent gorges, charming lakes and seemingly endless highlands. During the winter time this area is transformed into a white paradise, with snows walls that can stretch as high as 20 meters(60 feet). On this tour you will ride one of our company buses to get to Murodo, where you can walk along this snow wall and enjoy the other winter sights in the area. On the way there, we will have a brief stop in Ashikuraji, the traditional start of the climb to Mt. Tateyama. Learn about how people viewed heaven and hell and this mountains role in those. Let’s venture together into history and then the “Roof of Japan” and revel in this mountains region’s beauty.
Price: $263.78
Duration: 10 hours
Kanazawa is a city famous for their seafood, and locally grown Kaga vegetables. I will teach you how to make temari-sushi using fresh, local ingredients -- colorful sushi that will impress your family and friends! You can customize your toppings, and choose ingredients that you love, and I will show you tips and tricks for making instagram-worthy sushi! After we make our own (and take as many photos as possible!) we'll sit down for a sushi lunch, and a mini-tea ceremony afterwards. This experience includes all ingredients and cooking utensils.
Price: $68.51
Duration: 1 hours
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way toexplore both of the ancient post towns! You can travel between Magome and Tsumago by infrequent direct bus. Nakasendo was one of the two highways during the Edo period connecting Tokyo with Kyoto, running through the Kiso Valley. Travelers at that time walked along the highway, stopping at "post towns" for rest. Some of those post towns have been well preserved and show tourists today exactly what Japan was like hundreds of years ago. Stunning forests, beautiful villages and traditions, we would love to recommend it to everyone interested in Japanese nature and history. This private tour is a walking day tour. A private vehicle is not included. Public transportation or local taxis may be used. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs.
Price: $150.73
Duration: 6 hours
Explore the world heritage hamlet of Shirakawa-go on our 4-hour package tour with access to a private vehicle exclusively for you and your fellow travelers. Our English-speaking driver will take you to the World UNESCO site of Shirakawa-go. We collect you from your hotel lobby and whisk you off to the UNESCO village of Shirakawago. Our morning or afternoon driving tours are designed for those looking for convenient access to this beautiful but remote mountain village
Price: $233.17
Duration: 4 hours
Discover Kanazawa’s rich cultural heritage on this e-bike tour guided by a local expert. Ride through the city’s most iconic districts and hidden backstreets while learning the stories that shaped them. Explore the atmospheric Higashi Chaya geisha district, the scenic beauty of Kenrokuen Garden, and the historical significance of Kanazawa Castle and Gyokusen’inmaru Garden. Visit Nagamachi, the well-preserved samurai quarter, and gain insights into the lives of Japan’s warrior class. With an electric bike, you'll cover more ground effortlessly, allowing time for detailed explanations, photo stops, and a relaxing tea break with traditional Wagashi. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors and curious travelers who want to understand the deeper layers of Kanazawa's history and culture.
Price: $130.18
Duration: 4 hours
Embark on a 3-4 hour private walking tour through the charming city of Kanazawa, led by a professional English-speaking local guide. Explore a thoughtfully curated itinerary highlighting the city’s cultural treasures, natural beauty, and historical landmarks. You can customize your itinerary by selecting 3 places from the places listed on “What To Expect”, or if you’d like, your guide will be happy to give you some recommendations to customize your itinerary on the day based on your interests. Please write your request in the "Special Requirement" section. ・3-4 hour walking adventure through Kanazawa city ・Professional English-speaking guide ・Enjoy flexible tour – Visit 3 places you choose
Price: $140.55
Duration: 3-4 hours
Our exceptional tour service will transport you in style and comfort from Kanazawa to Takayama. Take in the beautiful UNESCO village of Shirakawago on your way and at your leisure. Our professional English speaking driver guide will take you through the fairytale village on your way to Takayama.
Price: $282.39
Duration: 5 hours
Discover Kanazawa like a Local! Join my private, fully customized walking and bus tour, designed just for you. With over 22 years living in Kanazawa, I know the city’s hidden gems and fascinating stories you won’t find in guidebooks. ✨ After you book, we’ll chat to create your perfect 5–6 hour adventure. Whether you want to explore Kenrokuen Garden, Omicho Market, the historic Higashi Chaya District, Pokémon center Kanazawa, or Kanazawa Castle Park and Station. (The places we visit will depend on the schedule and your preferences. ) We’ll travel mainly by foot and local buses, making it easy and comfortable to see the best of the city. I love meeting new people and sharing conversation, so every tour is a personal experience. Let’s make your Kanazawa visit truly unforgettable-just for you! ☺️ ※Guests are kindly advised that the tour host cannot accept responsibility for any illness to unforeseen accidents occurring during the tour. ※ Childcare is available. Please ask freely!!!
Price: $65.09
Duration: 5-6 hours
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Japan's iconic Mount Fuji with our private tour, expertly guided by an English-speaking driver. This exclusive experience promises breathtaking views, immersive cultural encounters, and cherished memories. Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of Mount Fuji from various angles, including the picturesque Kawaguchi-Ko Lake and the Subashiri 5th Station. Photography Opportunities: Capture the majesty of Japan's highest peak with your camera, guided by your driver's expert knowledge of the best vantage points. Benefit from the expertise and insights of your driver, who will ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Visit ancient shrines and temples, including the revered Kitagawa Village and the Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine.
Price: $470.00
Duration: 10 hours
Often overlooked when travelers head along the Sea of Japan, Fukui is another one of Japan’s prefectures that has as much history and natural beauty as any other. As the entrance to the Hokuriku region, Fukui has served as a crossroads for many important wars and trade routes throughout Japanese history. This tour will have you walk by the castle and also a temple where buildings form the former castle were moved, get stunning views of the modern city skyline from a hill with over a thousand years of history and dive into one of the head temples of Zen Buddhism in an idyllic mountain setting. Let’s dive deep into lesser traveled area of Japan that leave you wanting to come back to Fukui for more.
Price: $165.80
Duration: 9 hours
Experienced, international instructors who have spent many years perfecting their teaching and who love to share their passion for snow sports. Amazing mountain views. Fun in the snow of the Japanese mountains - fresh air and great views.
Price: $452.19
Duration: 7 hours
Please note that the market tour here means a local supermarket tour, which is typically where locals shop. After you meet your host Akiko at the station, she will accompany you to a local supermarket located near the JR station where she will introduce you to the different ingredients used in Japanese cooking. If you like, Akiko can help you purchase local ingredients to take home. After the tour, join Akiko in her kitchen to make classic Nagoya dishes such as red miso stew, shrimp tempura in a rice ball or fried chicken, Nagoya style. You will also learn to make dashi, the foundation of Japanese cooking. Your cooking class will last about an hour before you sit down to share the Nagoyan style Japanese meal you helped prepare. Akiko is thrilled about the opportunity to share specialties from Nagoya as a lot of people don’t know how to cook Nagoya-style food. Because of this, many Nagoyans themselves eat their local specialities at restaurants!
Price: $116.00
Duration: 3 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Chubu.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Chubu’s cuisine is diverse, featuring regional specialties such as Hida beef from Takayama, miso katsu (breaded pork cutlet with miso sauce) in Nagoya, and fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan coast. The region is also known for its hearty noodle dishes like kishimen flat noodles. Dining customs emphasize seasonal ingredients and presentation. Noteworthy restaurants include traditional ryotei and modern izakayas offering local delicacies.
Getting Around
Chubu is accessible by air through airports like Chubu Centrair International Airport near Nagoya. The region is well-connected by Japan’s efficient rail network, including Shinkansen bullet trains. Local buses and taxis serve rural areas. For convenience, purchasing a regional rail pass can save costs. Traveling by train and bus is generally affordable and punctual.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Pack layers for mountain climates and comfortable walking shoes. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Carry cash as some rural areas have limited card acceptance. Stay aware of earthquake safety procedures. Learning basic Japanese greetings enhances interactions.
Culture & Customs
Chubu’s culture blends traditional Japanese values with regional uniqueness. Politeness, respect for elders, and group harmony are important social norms. Festivals like Takayama Matsuri showcase elaborate floats and rituals. Visitors should bow when greeting, avoid loud conversations in public transport, and follow etiquette at temples and shrines. Gift-giving and removing shoes indoors are common practices.
