Chubu

Chūbu (Central Honshū)

Overview & Character

Chūbu is often called the heart of Honshū, Japan’s main island. It’s a region of dramatic contrast — soaring peaks, deep valleys, powerful rivers, fertile plains, and coasts on both the Pacific and the Sea of Japan sides. The Japanese Alps cut through the centre, making Chūbu one of the most rugged parts of the country. Historically, it’s been a crossroads: trade routes (Tōkaidō, Nakasendō) passed through, warlords contested its passes, and many traditional industries (textiles, pottery, lacquerware) developed here. From the snow resorts of Nagano to Kanazawa’s samurai streets and the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji, Chubu showcases Japan’s natural and cultural richness.

Prefectures of Chubu

Niigata
Known as Japan’s “rice kingdom,” Niigata produces some of the country’s best sake and rice. Visitors enjoy skiing in Echigo-Yuzawa in winter, relaxing in hot spring resorts, or exploring Sado Island — famous for taiko drumming and rugged coastal scenery. Summer brings fireworks festivals and fresh seafood along the Sea of Japan coast.

Nagano
Home of the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. Beyond the slopes, it offers Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples, and the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani, who bathe in hot springs during winter. The Japanese Alps also make Nagano a top hiking destination in summer.

Yamanashi
Best known for its views of Mount Fuji, Yamanashi is home to the Fuji Five Lakes, ideal for hiking, boating, and onsen stays. It’s also Japan’s leading wine region and a producer of juicy peaches and grapes. Kofu, the capital, offers history tied to Takeda Shingen, a famed samurai warlord.

Toyama
Famous for the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Toyama draws nature lovers with dramatic mountain scenery, snow corridors, and the Kurobe Dam. The prefecture is also known for Toyama Bay, where you can taste fresh firefly squid and yellowtail. Gokayama, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features traditional thatched-roof farmhouses.

Ishikawa
Kanazawa, the jewel of Ishikawa, rivals Kyoto with its preserved samurai and geisha districts. Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, is a highlight. Noto Peninsula offers rugged coastlines, fishing villages, and unique festivals. Ishikawa blends elegance and authenticity, appealing to both history lovers and modern travelers.

Fukui
One of Japan’s hidden gems, Fukui is famous for the Fukui Dinosaur Museum — one of the world’s best. Eiheiji Temple, a major Zen Buddhist monastery, offers spiritual retreats. The coastal cliffs of Tojinbo provide stunning views, while Fukui’s seafood, particularly echizen crab, is among the finest in Japan.

Shizuoka
Stretching along Mount Fuji’s southern slopes, Shizuoka offers breathtaking views of Japan’s most iconic peak. The Izu Peninsula is popular for hot springs and coastal scenery, while tea plantations cover rolling hills across the prefecture. Shizuoka is also known for wasabi production and fresh seafood, especially tuna from Shimizu Port.

Aichi
Aichi is Japan’s manufacturing powerhouse, home to Toyota and rich samurai history. Nagoya, its capital, offers Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and hearty local dishes like miso katsu and hitsumabushi (grilled eel on rice). Aichi also hosts the World Cosplay Summit and traditional festivals like the Inuyama Festival.

Gifu
Famous for Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site with gassho-zukuri thatched houses, Gifu is a cultural treasure. Takayama, with its preserved Edo-period streets, is often called “Little Kyoto.” The Nagara River hosts traditional cormorant fishing in summer. Gifu’s mountains also offer outdoor adventures year-round.

Highlights & Experiences in Chubu

See Mount Fuji from both Yamanashi and Shizuoka sides.
Walk through Kanazawa’s samurai districts and Kenrokuen Garden.
Ski or hike in the Japanese Alps (Nagano, Gifu, Toyama).
Visit Shirakawa-go and Gokayama’s traditional farmhouses.
Taste premium sake in Niigata or wine in Yamanashi.
Explore Nagoya’s castles, temples, and vibrant food scene.

Food & Drink

Chubu is a gourmet region: miso-based cuisine in Aichi, fresh crab in Fukui, mountain vegetables in Nagano, seafood from Toyama Bay, and world-class rice and sake from Niigata. Seasonal delicacies — from firefly squid to Fuji-grown fruits — give the region a strong culinary identity.

Why Visit Chubu?

Chubu is Japan in balance: majestic mountains, historic towns, cutting-edge cities, and culinary richness. Whether you seek adventure on the slopes, cultural immersion, or quiet rural beauty, Chubu offers the essence of Japan’s heartland.