{"id":15504,"date":"2021-07-16T11:10:16","date_gmt":"2021-07-16T09:10:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog?page_id=15504"},"modified":"2021-09-10T08:23:43","modified_gmt":"2021-09-10T06:23:43","slug":"chubu","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu","title":{"rendered":"Chubu region: Japan travel guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The <strong>Ch\u016bbu region<\/strong><strong>, also known as the Central region<\/strong>, encompasses a large area in the middle of Japan\u2019s main island of Honsh\u016b. The region is aptly named (Ch\u016bbu literally means \u201cmiddle part\u201d in Japanese) and contains several major Japanese cities including Nagoya and Nagano.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Divided by the rugged mountains of the <\/strong><strong>Japanese Alps<\/strong>, the region experiences two dramatic climates in winter; sunny and mild on the side of the Pacific Ocean, and cold and snowy on the side of the Sea of Japan coast.<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p>This extensive guide to the region helps travelers to plan what they should include on an <strong>itinerary for Ch\u016bbu<\/strong>, from a stay in some of Japan&#8217;s best winter sports resorts to a day trip to the iconic Mount Fuji. It will also help you understand which train lines you can use in the region using your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/the-japan-rail-pass\">JR Pass<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"toc_container\" class=\"toc_white no_bullets\"><p class=\"toc_title\">Table of Contents<\/p><ul class=\"toc_list\"><li><a href=\"#Chubu_prefectures\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">1<\/span> Chubu prefectures<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Top_destinations_in_Chubu\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">2<\/span> Top destinations in Chubu<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Best_things_to_do_in_Chubu\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">3<\/span> Best things to do in Chubu<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Main_train_lines_and_transportation\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">4<\/span> Main train lines and transportation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Other_regions_of_Japan\"><span class=\"toc_number toc_depth_1\">5<\/span> Other regions of Japan<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n<h2><span id=\"Chubu_prefectures\">Chubu prefectures<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Chubu is usually divided into<strong> 3 separate subregions<\/strong>: T\u014dkai, K\u014dshin&#8217;etsu, and Hokuriku. \u00a0Some business circles also add another subregion, Ch\u016bky\u014d.<\/p>\n<p>These subregions are further <strong>divided into 9 prefectures:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Aichi <\/strong>&#8211; This prefecture on Japan&#8217;s Pacific Ocean coast forms part of the T\u014dkai region and is <strong>home to Nagoya, Japan&#8217;s third-largest city.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Fukui <\/strong>&#8211; Located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, Fukui Prefecture is<strong> part of the Hokuriku region<\/strong>. Major cities include the capital, also named Fukui, as well as Sakai, Echizen, and Sabae.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Gifu<\/strong> &#8211; Situated in the center of Japan, Gifu is <strong>one of only 8 <\/strong><strong>eight landlocked prefectures<\/strong> in the country. Historically, it served as a major crossroads for routes connecting the east and west of Japan. Home to the capital, Gifu City.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ishikawa<\/strong> &#8211; This prefecture on the Sea of Japan coast is located around Toyama Bay, one of the largest bays in Japan. <strong>Contains the capital, <\/strong><strong>Kanazawa<\/strong>, and other major cities include Hakusan, Komatsu, and Kaga.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Nagano<\/strong> &#8211; Another landlocked prefecture, Nagano encompasses a large area of the Japanese Alps, and induces areas belonging to the Hida Mountains, Kiso Mountains, and Akaishi Mountains. The capital city, Nagano, is<strong> a popular destination for winter sports <\/strong>enthusiasts in Japan.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Niigata<\/strong> &#8211; Home to Niigata City, the largest metropolitan area on the Sea of Japan coast. The prefecture also includes Sado Island, the sixth-largest island in Japan.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Shizuoka<\/strong> &#8211; Contains the capital city of Shizuoka, Suruga Bay, and Lake Hamana, one of the largest lakes in Japan. The iconic <strong>Mount Fuji is partially located in this prefecture<\/strong>, on the border with Yamanashi.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Toyama <\/strong>&#8211; Major cities in Toyama include the capital of the same name, as well as Takaoka, Imizu, and Nanto. <strong>Roughly 30% of the prefecture is designated as Japanese national parks <\/strong>and it is also home to the only known glaciers in East Asia outside of Russia.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Yamanashi <\/strong>&#8211; Another prefecture with a large area designated to national parks, the majority of Yamanashi\u2019s population lives in the central K\u014dfu Basin, which is home to the capital city of the same name and<strong> surrounded by the Akaishi Mountains.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span id=\"Top_destinations_in_Chubu\">Top destinations in Chubu<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The region of Ch\u016bbu covers much of central Honshu, and, as a result, contains<strong> some of the most notable prefectures and cities<\/strong> on the island.<\/p>\n<p>Some of the most popular destinations in Ch\u016bbu include:<\/p>\n<div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio--wrap\">\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-5414\"\n            class=\"post-5414 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kanazawa-travel-guide\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Kanazawa                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kanazawa-travel-guide\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"545\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/kanazawa-station.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/kanazawa-station.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/kanazawa-station-300x204.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/kanazawa-station-768x523.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/itineraries\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Itineraries                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p>Kanazawa is known as \u2018Little Kyoto\u2019, though it is a unique destination in its own right. The <strong>capital of Ishikawa Prefecture<\/strong>, it offers a huge number of historical attractions, Buddhist temples, and interesting museums, as well as fascinating samurai and geisha districts.<\/p>\n<p>Kanazawa\u2019s best-known attraction is the <strong>17th-century Kenrokuen Castle<\/strong>. This impressive piece of historic architecture boasts one of the country\u2019s very best landscape gardens and it draws visitors from both across Japan and abroad.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kanazawa-travel-guide\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-1825\"\n            class=\"post-1825 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagano-travel-guide\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Nagano                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagano-travel-guide\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/nagano-zenkoji-e1504867562571.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"Zenkoji shrine in Nagano\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p>Nagano is a prefecture <strong>full of breath-taking mountain scenery and rich history<\/strong>. Its capital, Nagano City, originated as a humble \u201ctemple town,\u201d centered on the popular Zenkoji temple.<\/p>\n<p>The <strong>rugged forests north of Nagano City<\/strong> still resonate with the legends and realities of the ninja, skilled warriors of the past. In modern times, Nagano again invited \u201cwarriors\u201d of great skill when it hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. In fact, the Hokuriku Shinkansen opened in October 1997, just in time for the games.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagano-travel-guide\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-1481\"\n            class=\"post-1481 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagoya-travel-guide\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Nagoya                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagoya-travel-guide\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/nagoya-city-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"Nagoya city\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/nagoya-city-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/nagoya-city-1-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/nagoya-city-1-768x480.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p>Nagoya is Japan\u2019s fourth most populous city. Easy to access on a day trip from either Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, <strong>the capital of the prefecture of the same name has something to offer everyone<\/strong>, from ample shopping opportunities to kid-friendly amusement parks.<\/p>\n<p>Nagoya originated as a castle town known as Owari during the Edo Period (1603 to 1867 C.E.) However, much of its historic architecture was destroyed during the bombing raids of World War II. Today, it is <strong>a city of boundless technology<\/strong>, including the Toyota Motor Corporation headquarters just outside the city limits.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagoya-travel-guide\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-4048\"\n            class=\"post-4048 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/niigata-travel-guide\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Niigata                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/niigata-travel-guide\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/cherry-blossom-niigata.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"Niigata prefecture\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/cherry-blossom-niigata.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/cherry-blossom-niigata-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/cherry-blossom-niigata-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p><strong>Niigata Prefecture<\/strong> is well known for its quality rice, summer fireworks, winter skiing, and year-round onsen. The prefecture\u2019s capital, <strong>Niigata City<\/strong>, represents the largest port on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu\">Chubu Region<\/a>\u2019s Japan Sea coast and is home to more than 800 thousand people.<\/p>\n<p>One of Niigata\u2019s most famous landmarks is the <strong>six arches of the Bandai Bridge<\/strong>. The bridge was completed in 1929, is illuminated at night, and supports 20,000 dancers during the annual daiminyonagashi, or Folk Dancing Parade. However, the bridge represents just one of the many appealing attractions that Niigata has to offer.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/niigata-travel-guide\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-1165\"\n            class=\"post-1165 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Takayama                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\">\n                        <img width=\"790\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-houses.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"shirakawago houses\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-houses.jpg 790w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-houses-300x231.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-houses-768x591.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 790px) 100vw, 790px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/itineraries\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Itineraries                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p>When many international travelers think of Japan, they call to mind visions of crowded \u201cneon cities\u201d such as Tokyo. Japan, however, has a much gentler side, complete with rolling hills and rustic charm. The town of Takayama and the Japanese Alps mountain range in the Hokuriku region represent one such rural destination.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n    <\/div>\n\n<h2><span id=\"Best_things_to_do_in_Chubu\">Best things to do in Chubu<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The major attractions for visitors to the Ch\u016bbu region include <strong>natural wonders such as high mountains and deep gorges<\/strong>, as well as historic monuments, and modern theme parks.<\/p>\n<p>Some of the <strong>must-visit attractions in Ch\u016bbu<\/strong> include:<\/p>\n<div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio--wrap\">\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-257\"\n            class=\"post-257 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/mount-fuji\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Mount Fuji                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/mount-fuji\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/tokaido-shinkansen-fuji.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"A Shinkansen In the Tokaido Shinkansen Line passing near Mount fuji\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/tokaido-shinkansen-fuji.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/tokaido-shinkansen-fuji-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/tokaido-shinkansen-fuji-768x480.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/itineraries\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Itineraries                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p><strong>Mount Fuji, Japan\u2019s iconic peak, is a must-visit destination<\/strong> for travelers in Tokyo. Just a short trip from the capital, this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-japan\">UNESCO World Heritage site<\/a> offers breathtaking views and countless activities.<\/p>\n<p>A day-trip from Tokyo to Mt Fuji and the lesser known <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hakone-travel-guide\">Hakone<\/a> five lakes area is <strong>among the favorite experiences of many travelers <\/strong>to Japan.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/mount-fuji\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-6973\"\n            class=\"post-6973 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/chureito-pagoda-travel-guide\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Chureito Pagoda                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/chureito-pagoda-travel-guide\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/chureito-pagoda.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"Chureito Pagoda with the Mount Fuji in the background\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/chureito-pagoda.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/chureito-pagoda-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/chureito-pagoda-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/itineraries\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Itineraries                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p><strong>What is a pagoda?<\/strong> It is a towerlike, tiered structure traditionally associated with Buddhist temple complexes. Pagodas are common sights throughout eastern and southeast Asia, including Japan. Pagodas are meant to <strong>symbolize sacred mountains and often shelter religious relics<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The Chureito Pagoda, also called the <em>Chastain Tower<\/em> and officially named the <strong>Fujiyoshida Cenotaph Monument<\/strong>, is a <strong>shrine located in the Fuji Five Lakes<\/strong> region at Mount Fuji\u2019s northern base. The Pagoda has <strong>five stories<\/strong>; it is situated on a mountainside overlooking Fuji Yoshida City, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/mount-fuji\">Mount Fuji<\/a> itself visible in the distance.\u00a0You have probably seen pictures of a beautiful <strong>pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background<\/strong>, this is the Chureito Pagoda.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/chureito-pagoda-travel-guide\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-10720\"\n            class=\"post-10720 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kurobe-gorge-travel-guide\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Kurobe Gorge                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kurobe-gorge-travel-guide\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/kurobe-gorge-japanese.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"Kurobe Gorge\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/kurobe-gorge-japanese.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/kurobe-gorge-japanese-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/kurobe-gorge-japanese-768x480.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p>The <strong>Northern <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\">Japan Alps<\/a><\/strong> is a scenic volcanic mountain range spanning parts of Toyama, Nagano, and Gifu Prefectures. This range is home to the <strong>Kurobe River<\/strong> and one of the deepest and most beautiful <strong>forested ravines<\/strong> in the country.<\/p>\n<p>The Kurobe Gorge is a famous destination for enjoying natural beauty. Visitors flock to this site to view <strong>stunning <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-autumn-leaves-forecast\">autumn colors<\/a><\/strong> and relax in <strong>natural hot springs<\/strong>. The Gorge makes an ideal <strong>day trip for hiking or viewing autumn leaves<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kurobe-gorge-travel-guide\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-9797\"\n            class=\"post-9797 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shirakawago-travel-guide\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Shirakawa-go                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shirakawago-travel-guide\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"532\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-e1491566928959.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"Panoramic view of Shirakawago village\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-e1491566928959.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-e1491566928959-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/destinations\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Destinations                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p>Picture a quaint village embanked in snow. Icy whiteness covers the ground and clings to the roofs of the traditional Japanese farmhouses like icing on a gingerbread house. Streets and windows become golden torches as the sun begins to set.<\/p>\n<p>The Historic Villages of Shirakawago and its neighboring village, Gokayama are one of central <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-japan\">Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites<\/a>.\u00a0 They hold a serene natural beauty as well as a unique architecture.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shirakawago-travel-guide\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n        <!-- HTML Content -->\n    <div class=\"paginas-recopilatorio\">\n        <article id=\"post-12432\"\n            class=\"post-12432 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n            <header class=\"entry-header\">\n                <H3 class=\"entry-title\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/studio-ghibli-theme-park\" rel=\"bookmark\">\n                        Ghible Theme Park (coming soon)                    <\/a>\n                <\/H3>\n            <\/header>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-5 image-pad\">\n                <div aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                    <a class=\"post-thumbnail lazy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/studio-ghibli-theme-park\">\n                        <img width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/witches-valley-area-concept-art.jpg\" class=\"attachment- size- wp-post-image\" alt=\"Witches Valley area concept art\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/witches-valley-area-concept-art.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/witches-valley-area-concept-art-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/witches-valley-area-concept-art-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                <div>\n                    <footer class=\"entry-footer\">\n                        <span class=\"cat-links\">\n                                                        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/travel-guides\" rel=\"category tag\">\n                                Travel Guides                            <\/a>\n                                                    <\/span>\n                    <\/footer>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"col-sm-7 image-pad\">\n                <div class=\"entry-content\">\n                    <p>Children around the world have grown up with beloved animated films from <strong>Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli<\/strong>. Since 1984, Studio Ghibli films have often served as an introduction to the wider world of anime and have obtained a cult following all their own.<\/p>\n<p>Many Ghibli fans have already made a pilgrimage to the popular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/studio-ghibli-museum\">Studio Ghibli museum in Tokyo<\/a>. Others eagerly anticipate the release of the upcoming Ghibli film, <em>How do you Live?<\/em> But fans will be thrilled to learn that <strong>the Ghibli theme park opened on November 1, 2022<\/strong>, and is now bringing the films to life in Nagoya!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/studio-ghibli-theme-park\" class=\"more-link\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read more...<\/a>                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/article>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- HTML Content END -->\n    <\/div>\n\n<h2><span id=\"Main_train_lines_and_transportation\">Main train lines and transportation<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Some of the <strong>train and Shinkansen lines in the <\/strong><strong>Ch\u016bbu region<\/strong> ou can expect to use while in the area include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Tokaido Shinkansen<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/joetsu-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Joetsu Shinkansen<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hokuriku-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Hokuriku Shinkansen<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Tokaido Main Line<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hida-limited-express\">Wide View Hida Limited Express<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span id=\"Other_regions_of_Japan\">Other regions of Japan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Although Okinawa is sometimes regarded as a 9th region, <strong>Japan is traditionally considered to contain 8 regions.<\/strong> These are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/tohoku\">Tohoku<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Hokkaido<\/li>\n<li>Shikoku<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/kyushu\">Kyuhshu<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/kansai\">Kansai<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chugoku\">Chugoku<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/kanto\">Kanto<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Ch\u016bbu region, also known as the Central region, encompasses a large area in the middle of Japan\u2019s main island of Honsh\u016b. The region is aptly named (Ch\u016bbu literally means \u201cmiddle part\u201d in Japanese) and contains several major Japanese cities including Nagoya and Nagano. Divided by the rugged mountains of the Japanese Alps, the region experiences two dramatic climates in winter; sunny and mild on the side of the Pacific Ocean, and cold and snowy on the side of the Sea of Japan coast.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":260,"parent":1909,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"acf":{"bread_1":false,"bread_2":false,"bread_3":false,"bread_4":false,"bread_5":false,"bread_6":false,"bread_7":false,"bread_last":false,"custom_guide":"","shortcodes":[{"post_id":"destinations","tag_h":"H3","post_selector":[{"ID":5414,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2018-11-02 09:00:13","post_date_gmt":"2018-11-02 07:00:13","post_content":"Kanazawa is known as \u2018Little Kyoto\u2019, though it is a unique destination in its own right. The <strong>capital of Ishikawa Prefecture<\/strong>, it offers a huge number of historical attractions, Buddhist temples, and interesting museums, as well as fascinating samurai and geisha districts.\r\n\r\nKanazawa\u2019s best-known attraction is the <strong>17th-century Kenrokuen Castle<\/strong>. This impressive piece of historic architecture boasts one of the country\u2019s very best landscape gardens and it draws visitors from both across Japan and abroad.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\nThe castle was built during the<b> Edo Period (1603-1868) <\/b>when Kanazawa was home to Japan\u2019s second most powerful clan (the Maeda). During this feudal era, the clan\u2019s <b>rice yield and fief size <\/b>were enormous. The city boomed as a result to become a <b>political and cultural powerhouse<\/b>.\r\n\r\nUnlike many Japanese cities, Kanazawa <b>escaped destruction<\/b> during World War II. The old town survived and been well-preserved since. The<b> Nagamachi Samurai District <\/b>and the <b>Higashi Chaya District <\/b>are particularly charming and are very popular with visitors.\r\n<h2>From Tokyo to Kanazawa<\/h2>\r\nKanazawa is <b>well-connected <\/b>so it\u2019s easy to get there with your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/\">JR Pass<\/a> or your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/regional-passes\/hokuriku-arch-pass\">Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/a>. There\u2019s a Tourist Information Center at <b>Kanazawa Station<\/b> where you can find useful information such as bus timetables and event information.\r\n\r\nYou can travel from<b> Tokyo to Kanazawa<\/b> directly by bullet\u00a0train on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hokuriku-shinkansen-jr-pass\"><b>JR Hokuriku Shinkansen<\/b><\/a> line. The journey takes between 2.5 and 3 hours. This ride is <strong>fully covered with your JR Pass<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nThere are two train services running from Tokyo to Kanazawa by the Hokuriku Shinkansen:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The <strong>Kagayaki Shinkansen<\/strong> (the fastest service, covering the distance between Tokyo and Kanazawa in\u00a0<strong>2 hours and 30 minutes<\/strong>, as it makes fewer stops). The cost of a round trip without the JR Pass is around 14.680 yens.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The\u00a0<strong>Hakutaka Shinkansen<\/strong> (it makes more stops and the journey takes <strong>3h<\/strong>). A ticket fare without JR Pass on this service is 13,600 yen.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_4085\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"705\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-4085\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/hokuriku-shinkansen-line-map.png\" alt=\"Hokuriku Shinkansen Line Map\" width=\"705\" height=\"525\" \/> The Hokuriku Shinkansen Line Map between Tokyo and Kanazawa[\/caption]\r\n<h2>From Kyoto to Kanazawa<\/h2>\r\nThe <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/thunderbird-express-train\"><strong>JR Thunderbird limited express<\/strong><\/a> trains travel directly and take around <strong>an hour<\/strong>. There are<b> connections every hour<\/b>. Alternatively, you can catch local trains but they take<b> 4-5 hours<\/b>.\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"fasc-button fasc-size-large fasc-type-flat fasc-rounded-medium ico-fa fasc-ico-after fa-chevron-circle-right fasc-style-bold\" style=\"background-color: #f43755; color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/regional-passes\/hokuriku-arch-pass\">Order your Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2>Top things to do in Kanazawa<\/h2>\r\nThere are so many <b>things to see in Kanazawa<\/b> that it\u2019s impossible to fit it all in over a couple of days. Here\u2019s a handful of the highlights which you must see if you visit Kanazawa.\r\n<h3>Kenrokuen Garden<\/h3>\r\nKenrokuen is the <b>heart of Kanazawa<\/b>. It\u2019s ranked in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/best-gardens-japan#The_Three_Great_Gardens_of_Japan\">top three gardens<\/a> in the country and it's arguably <b>the most beautiful<\/b>. The gardens are the perfect place to go for a long walk, enjoy the perfect views, and discover the many secrets it has to offer. Kenrokuen means \"<b>Garden of the 6 Sublimities<\/b>\", a reference to a Chinese landscape theory which inspired its design.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_228\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-228\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/kenrokuen-garden-kanazawa.jpg\" alt=\"Kenrokuen Garden at Kanazawa\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" \/> Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa - Photo by @Daderot (Wikimedia)[\/caption]\r\n<h3>21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art<\/h3>\r\nThe gallery showcases<b> art produced since 1980<\/b> in a highly-engaging range of mediums including installations, mixed-media, and short films. The circular, well-lit museum has<b> various display spaces<\/b> and function rooms. It\u2019s very popular but is able to absorb large crowds due to its size. However, at peak season it\u2019s <b>best to go as early as possible<\/b>.\r\n<h3>My\u014dry\u016b-ji Temple<\/h3>\r\nMy\u014dry\u016b-ji is known as the <b>Ninjadera <\/b>(Ninja temple) as it was as a <b>disguised military outpost<\/b> which served as a hiding place for the shogun in case of attack. The 4-story building was <b>built in 1643 <\/b>and contains many<b> defensive features <\/b>such as hidden stairways, trick doors, secret rooms, and escape routes. A trip to My\u014dry\u016b-ji <b>captures the imagination<\/b> of both adults and children.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_5440\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-5440\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/ninjadera-myoryuji-temple-kanazawa.jpg\" alt=\"Ninjadera \/ Myoryuji Temple\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" \/> Ninjadera \/ Myoryuji Temple - Photo by Kentaro Ohno @Flickr[\/caption]\r\n<h3>Omicho Market<\/h3>\r\nIf you\u2019re a fan of <b>Japanese food<\/b> then you\u2019ll love<b> Omicho Market<\/b>. There\u2019s an incredible range of<b> locally-caught seafood<\/b> as well as fresh fruit and vegetables. It\u2019s also a great place to go for a meal as there are plenty of <b>delicious restaurants<\/b> which use the market\u2019s produce.\r\n<h3>DT Suzuki Museum<\/h3>\r\n<b>Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki<\/b> is one of the most influential <b>Buddhist philosophers<\/b> of all time. He wrote numerous books and articles about Buddhism and is credited with <strong>introducing Zen and Shin to the West<\/strong>. \u00a0The spiritual museum is a tribute to his life and accomplishments. The building itself is a stunning complex and visitors can learn and practice some of his teachings by the<b> water mirror garden<\/b>.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h2>Best times to go to Kanazawa<\/h2>\r\nYou can<b> visit Kanazawa<\/b> at any time as it has a<b> temperate climate<\/b>. However, the <b>best times of year to visit Kanazawa<\/b> are March to May and September to November. The winter can be cold and damp and summer can be uncomfortably hot and humid so <b>the times in between are ideal<\/b>. Weather aside, the summer is an exciting time to go as you witness the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japanese-fireworks-hanabi-festivals\"><b>amazing firework displays<\/b><\/a> and enjoy a host of festivals.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_229\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"700\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-229\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/kanazawa-castle-e1509710578665.jpg\" alt=\"Kanazawa Castle\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" \/> Kanazawa Castle by @lensonjapan (Flickr)[\/caption]\r\n<h2>Day trip from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go<\/h2>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shirakawago-travel-guide\">Shirakawa-go<\/a> is a scenic mountain village with fascinating <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-japan\"><b>UNESCO World Heritage Sites<\/b><\/a>. It\u2019s close to Kanazawa so many visitors take advantage of this and<b> travel there from Kanazawa<\/b>.\r\n\r\nThe Hokutetsu Bus company runs regular highway bus services which <strong>take an hour<\/strong>.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-1170 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-houses.jpg\" alt=\"Shirakawa-go Village\" width=\"790\" height=\"608\" \/>\r\n\r\n<em>Cover Photo: Kanazawa Station by Yoshihide Urushihara @Flickr<\/em>","post_title":"Kanazawa travel guide: Access and things to do","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kanazawa-travel-guide","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-26 13:17:16","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-26 11:17:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog?p=5414","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1825,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2017-09-08 12:56:34","post_date_gmt":"2017-09-08 10:56:34","post_content":"Nagano is a prefecture <strong>full of breath-taking mountain scenery and rich history<\/strong>. Its capital, Nagano City, originated as a humble \u201ctemple town,\u201d centered on the popular Zenkoji temple.\r\n\r\nThe <strong>rugged forests north of Nagano City<\/strong> still resonate with the legends and realities of the ninja, skilled warriors of the past. In modern times, Nagano again invited \u201cwarriors\u201d of great skill when it hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. In fact, the Hokuriku Shinkansen opened in October 1997, just in time for the games.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\nIn modern times, Nagano again invited \u201cwarriors\u201d of great skill when it hosted the 1998 Winter <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokyo-2020-olympics\">Olympics<\/a>. In fact, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hokuriku-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Hokuriku Shinkansen<\/a> opened in October 1997, just in time for the games. <strong>Would you like to experience all that Nagano has to offer? Consider this handy travel guide<\/strong>, and start planning your next Japanese vacation today.\r\n<h2>Tokyo to Nagano<\/h2>\r\nYou can use your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a> to easily travel to Nagano from Japan\u2019s major cities. <strong>From <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/getting-around-tokyo-metro\">Tokyo Station<\/a>, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station or Ueno Station.<\/strong> The fastest train is called Kagayaki and operates at 260 km\/h and the trip lasts approximately one and half hours.\r\n\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" tabindex=\"0\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d1649305.960720162!2d137.8340040494507!3d36.15923655476082!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e3!4m5!1s0x60188b857628235d%3A0xcdd8aef709a2b520!2sTokyo%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d35.680399699999995!2d139.7690174!4m5!1s0x601d805de6344499%3A0xf128a974072892c8!2sNagano%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d36.6485258!2d138.1950371!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1605771490164!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" aria-hidden=\"false\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n<h2>Kyoto to Nagano<\/h2>\r\nFrom <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/getting-around-kyoto\">Kyoto Station<\/a>, take the Hikari train <strong>using the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line to Nagoya.<\/strong> In Nagoya, you will transfer to the <strong>JR Shinano limited express train to Nagano<\/strong>. This train runs hourly, and the entire trip takes about four hours.\r\n\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d1654820.8777417284!2d136.6424851533644!3d35.89625158470896!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e3!4m5!1s0x6001a8d6cd3cc3f1%3A0xc0961d366bbb1d3d!2sKyoto%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d35.011564!2d135.7681489!4m5!1s0x601d805de6344499%3A0xf128a974072892c8!2sNagano%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d36.6485258!2d138.1950371!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ses!4v1673958097926!5m2!1sen!2ses\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"fasc-button fasc-size-large fasc-type-flat fasc-rounded-medium ico-fa fasc-ico-after fa-chevron-circle-right fasc-style-bold\" style=\"background-color: #f43755; color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/regional-passes\/hokuriku-arch-pass\">Order your Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2>Osaka to Nagano<\/h2>\r\nFrom <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/osaka-city-loop-line\">Shin-Osaka Station<\/a>, take the Hikari train on the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">JR Tokaido Shinkansen line<\/a> to Nagoya.<\/strong> In Nagoya, transfer to the hourly <strong>JR Shinano limited express<\/strong> to Nagano. This trip also requires around four hours to complete.\r\n\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" tabindex=\"0\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d1654820.8771031797!2d136.51852808273543!3d35.896251615255316!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e3!4m5!1s0x6000e6553406e2e1%3A0xc55bc16ee46a2fe7!2sOsaka%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d34.6937249!2d135.5022535!4m5!1s0x601d805de6344499%3A0xf128a974072892c8!2sNagano%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d36.6485258!2d138.1950371!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1605772886986!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" aria-hidden=\"false\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h2><strong>Getting around Nagano<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<strong>When traveling by train, you will arrive at Nagano Station.<\/strong> From the station, you have a number of options for traveling to nearby attractions. Rental cars are available, as well as buses that run frequent routes to the Zenkoji Temple and former Olympic facilities. Other sites are within walking distance of these.\r\n\r\n<strong>The Togakushi area is located about an hour by bus from Nagano Station<\/strong>. Once there, able walkers can use hiking trails to visit the area\u2019s attractions, which are spread across several kilometers.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n<h2><strong>Things to do in Nagano<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<strong>Nagano\u2019s main temple, Zenkoji, is one of the most popular temples in Japan.<\/strong> Buddhism entered Japan during the 500s, and the Zenkoji temple was founded within its first 100 years. It contains the first statue of Buddha ever brought to Japan. While the original statue remains hidden, a replica is placed on display once every six years. <strong>The next showing of the statue will take place in 2021.<\/strong> The temple also contains an underground passage, through which visitors can pass in complete darkness, seeking to touch the \u201ckey to paradise.\u201d A pagoda behind the main hall contains the Zenkoji History Museum.\r\n\r\n<strong>The Togakushi Shrine is located in the mountains north of the city.<\/strong> The term <em>Togakushi<\/em> means \u201chiding door,\u201d referring to the stone door behind which the sun goddess was said to have hidden. The shrine consists of an upper, middle, and lower portion, connected by hiking trails and stone steps. The shrines feature interesting architecture, beautiful ponds and waterfalls, and sacred trees that are thought to be over 800 years old.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n<h3>Art and museums<\/h3>\r\n<strong>Families will enjoy the ninja-themed attractions of Togakushi.<\/strong> Beginning in the 1100s, this area was home to the Togakure Ninja School. Mount Togakushi hosts the Kids <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/koka-ninja-village\">Ninja Village<\/a>, where children and adults alike can experience ninja training. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/theme-parks-japan\">theme park<\/a> features obstacle courses, hands-on blow dart and ninja star activities, and optical illusion rooms.\r\n\r\nThe Togakure Ninpo Museum, Museum of Togakushi Folklore, and the Ninja House are located near the Upper Togakushi Shrine. <strong>These museums illustrate the life of the ninja<\/strong> through photographs, exhibits of tools and weapons, trap doors, and secret passages.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nArt enthusiasts should make time for a visit to the <strong>Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum and Higashiyama Kaii Gallery<\/strong>, which feature rotating exhibits of art related to the prefecture and its artists.\r\n<h3>Nagano Olympic Games venues<\/h3>\r\nOlympics enthusiasts will be pleased to see remnants of the <strong>1998 Olympic Winter Games<\/strong> scattered about Nagano City, used today as venues for concerts and sporting events. The M-Wave building houses the Nagano Olympic Museum and an arena. Other facilities include the Olympic Stadium, White Ring, and Big Hat, all of which hosted events during the Games.\r\n<h3>Other attractions<\/h3>\r\nThe <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/jigokudani-monkey-park\">Jigokudani Monkey Park<\/a><\/strong>, 36 km to the east of Nagano, is also a popular day or half-day trip. Here, you will be able to see the bathing snow monkeys and how they live and enjoy their own onsen.\r\n\r\nFinally, <strong>Matsumoto Castle is a popular day trip from Nagano<\/strong>, as it is less than two hours by train on the JR Shinonoi Line. Also known as \"Crow Castle\" for its black exterior, it is one of Japan's historic castles along with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/himeji-castle-travel-guide\">Himeji<\/a> and Kumamoto ones and listed as a National Treasure. And don't forget that Nagano is excellent launching point to the Japanese Alps\u00a0and nearby <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/all-about-onsens-the-japanese-hot-springs\">onsen<\/a>\u00a0and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/skiing-snowboarding-japan\">ski resorts<\/a>!\r\n\r\nWhat legendary sights will you experience in Nagano? With a JR Pass in hand, the adventure is yours.","post_title":"Nagano travel guide: Access and things to do","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nagano-travel-guide","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-06-26 13:20:03","post_modified_gmt":"2024-06-26 11:20:03","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/?p=1825","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1481,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2017-06-09 11:38:08","post_date_gmt":"2017-06-09 09:38:08","post_content":"Nagoya is Japan\u2019s fourth most populous city. Easy to access on a day trip from either Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, <strong>the capital of the prefecture of the same name has something to offer everyone<\/strong>, from ample shopping opportunities to kid-friendly amusement parks.\r\n\r\nNagoya originated as a castle town known as Owari during the Edo Period (1603 to 1867 C.E.) However, much of its historic architecture was destroyed during the bombing raids of World War II. Today, it is <strong>a city of boundless technology<\/strong>, including the Toyota Motor Corporation headquarters just outside the city limits.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<h2>Tokyo to Nagoya<\/h2>\r\nWhen traveling from Tokyo to Nagoya, the quickest option is to use the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">JR Tokaido Shinkansen,\u00a0<\/a>accessible using your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">JR Pass<\/a>. You can start from Tokyo or Shinagawa Stations.\r\n\r\n<strong>Taking the Hikari train, you will reach Nagoya in less than two hours<\/strong>, and if taking the Kodama train, your trip will last about three hours. Likewise, you can make the return trip from Nagoya to Tokyo using these same train lines.<strong><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>\r\n<h2>Kyoto to Nagoya<\/h2>\r\nBegin your journey from Kyoto at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/getting-around-kyoto\">Kyoto Station<\/a>. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen lines eastbound (towards Tokyo) \u2013 using your JR Pass for passage on the Hikari or Kodama trains \u2013 to Nagoya Station. <strong>The trip lasts between 40 and 60 minutes<\/strong>.<strong><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>\r\n<h2>Osaka to Nagoya<\/h2>\r\nIn Osaka, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/osaka-city-loop-line\">begin your journey at Shin-Osaka Station<\/a>. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Kodama or Hikari trains\u00a0eastbound (towards Tokyo) to Nagoya Station. The trip will last <strong>between 55 and 70 minutes.<\/strong>\r\n<h2><strong>Nagoya<\/strong><strong>\u00a0Station\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nNagoya Station, sometimes called Meieki,<strong>\u00a0is the world\u2019s largest train station<\/strong>, encompassing over 400,000 square meters of floor space. It is also home of the headquarters of the\u00a0Central Japan Railway Company\u00a0(JR Central).\r\n\r\nIn addition to train platforms, <strong>this twin-towered station includes a shopping center<\/strong> with many attractions and excellent places to eat.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h2>Nagoya train and subway lines<\/h2>\r\nNagoya Station connects several major train lines on which you can use your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a>, as well as other local lines. These include:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Tokaido Shinkansen Line<\/a> (to Tokyo or Osaka \/ Kyoto)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Tokaido Main Line (to Tokyo or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kobe-travel-guide\">Kobe<\/a>)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/chuo-sobu-line\">Chuo Main Line<\/a> (to Tokyo)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\">Takayama Line<\/a>\u00a0(to Takayama and Toyama)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Kansai Line (to Kameyama, including connections to Osaka)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nThe private, <strong>non-JR lines available<\/strong> at Nagoya Station include the Aonami Line, Kintetsu Railways, Meitetsu Railways, and two subway lines. The subway lines include English signage and have been designed for easy navigation by foreign visitors, providing access to many attractions across the city.\r\n<h2>How to get to Chubu Airport<\/h2>\r\n<strong>The Chubu International Airport can be reached by using the Meitetsu Railway line.\u00a0<\/strong><strong><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>The main service Airport Rapid Limited Express service is called \"\u03bc-SKY\".\r\n\r\nA one-way journey between Nagoya Station and the airport\u00a0takes <strong>30 minutes<\/strong>. Prices are 870 yen with a non-reserved seat and 1230 yen by reserved seat.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n<h2><strong>Things to do<\/strong><strong>\u00a0in Nagoya<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_2413\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"700\"]<img class=\"wp-image-2413 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/nagoya-castle-e1509710544976.jpg\" alt=\"Nagoya castle\" width=\"700\" height=\"469\" \/> Nagoya castle was the heart of the city during the Edo period[\/caption]\r\n\r\nNagoya\u2019s bus network can be confusing for tourists, but there is one bus line that is ideal for such purposes. <strong>The Meguru Loop Bus is available from Nagoya Station, and it provides transportation to many of the city\u2019s must-see attractions.<\/strong> Fares for the Meguru Loop Bus are \u00a5210 per trip or \u00a5500 for an unlimited day pass. The buses do not run on Mondays.\r\n\r\nTo what attractions will the Meguru Bus take you? The route includes the<strong> Nagoya Castle, Noritake Garden, Toyota Techno Museum, Tokugawa Art Museum<\/strong>, and the downtown district known as <strong>Sakae<\/strong>, where you will find malls, department stores, and restaurants galore.\r\n\r\nThe downtown area is also home to the <strong>Nagoya TV Tower landmark<\/strong>, the first of its kind in Japan, and the futuristic <strong>Oasis 21 shopping complex<\/strong>, complete with its Water Spaceship roof attraction and Milky Way Square event center. The Sunshine Sakae entertainment and shopping center houses a 52 meter Ferris wheel called the Sky Boat.\r\n\r\nOther attractions in Nagoya include the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/theme-parks-japan#Legoland_Park_Nagoya\">Legoland Japan theme park<\/a><\/strong>, the Central <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-railway-museums\">Japan Railway Museum<\/a>, and one of the largest planetariums in the world.\r\n<h2>Day trips from Nagoya<\/h2>\r\n<strong>You may want to use your JR Pass to take additional side-trips while visiting Nagoya.<\/strong> For example, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\">take the Takayama Line to Takayama<\/a>, a mountain city in the Gifu Prefecture. The trip will last around two hours. Takayama is a beautiful and well preserved historic town, retaining many aspects of Japanese tradition.\r\n\r\n<strong>Shizuoka is another interesting stop located at the halfway point between Nagoya and Tokyo.<\/strong> The city is known for access to breathtaking views of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/mount-fuji\">Mount Fuji<\/a>, as well as its sublime tea leaves. From Nagoya Station, Shizuoka is about a one hour ride on the Hikari train or one hour and 20 minutes on the Kodama train of the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line.\r\n\r\n<strong>Whatever attractions you choose to visit while in Nagoya, you are sure to enjoy your travels there.<\/strong> Be sure to make ample use of your JR Pass to get the best value on your travels throughout Japan.","post_title":"Nagoya Travel Guide: Access and things to do","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nagoya-travel-guide","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2021-07-16 11:46:10","post_modified_gmt":"2021-07-16 09:46:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/?p=1481","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":4048,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2018-08-10 14:48:23","post_date_gmt":"2018-08-10 12:48:23","post_content":"<strong>Niigata Prefecture<\/strong> is well known for its quality rice, summer fireworks, winter skiing, and year-round onsen. The prefecture\u2019s capital, <strong>Niigata City<\/strong>, represents the largest port on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu\">Chubu Region<\/a>\u2019s Japan Sea coast and is home to more than 800 thousand people.\r\n\r\nOne of Niigata\u2019s most famous landmarks is the <strong>six arches of the Bandai Bridge<\/strong>. The bridge was completed in 1929, is illuminated at night, and supports 20,000 dancers during the annual daiminyonagashi, or Folk Dancing Parade. However, the bridge represents just one of the many appealing attractions that Niigata has to offer.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\nWhat adventures await you in Niigata? Grab your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a>, and let this handy travel guide lead the way.\r\n<h2><b>Tokyo to Niigata by train<\/b><\/h2>\r\nNiigata Prefecture is located in <strong>west-central Japan<\/strong>. It can be easily accessed by train from almost any part of the country, as well as from abroad. Consider some of the most common routes.\r\n\r\nThe most rapid means of travel between <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/cities\/tokyo-travel-guide\">Tokyo<\/a> and Niigata is the <strong>Joetsu Shinkansen<\/strong>, which departs Tokyo from either <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokyo-train-station\">Tokyo Station<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/ueno-station\">Ueno Station<\/a>. You will also pass through Takasaki, Echigo-Yuzawa, Urasa, and Nagaoka Stations before reaching Niigata. If you travel from Kyoto, Osaka or Nagoya, you should first travel to Tokyo.\r\n\r\n<strong>The trip takes less than two hours and is fully covered by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">JR Pass<\/a><\/strong>. Alternatively, you may take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tohoku-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Tohoku Shinkansen<\/a> line to Koriyama, then transfer to the local Banetsu-sei line to Niigata. Local trains may not be covered by your JR Pass.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h2><strong>Getting around Niigata<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nWhen traveling<strong> from other <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/cities\"><strong>Japanese cities<\/strong><\/a>, you may <strong>travel through Tokyo<\/strong> or connect directly to the stations en route, like Takasaki station.<i> <\/i>Sea connections to Niigata from Korea, China, and Russia are also available.\r\n\r\n<strong>Many attractions are located near the train station<\/strong> and the <strong>city <\/strong>center and can be reached on foot. Buses are available for longer trips, and ferries troll the waters between the mainland and the islands.\r\n<h2>Things to do in Niigata<\/h2>\r\nWithin the city itself, the traditional <strong>Hon-cho Market<\/strong> is not to be missed. It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Nature lovers will enjoy the <strong>Marinepia Nihon-Kai Aquarium<\/strong>, complete with over <strong>450 species and performing dolphins<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nFor the history buff, a visit to the <strong>Niigata City History Museum<\/strong>, as well as the Shibata Castle and gardens, is certain to delight. When you get hungry and need a break, consider dining at the Bandai City Rainbow Tower. There, you can view the cityscape from the revolving restaurant and observation deck. This tower is part of Bandai city, which has something for every traveler \u2013 shopping, restaurants, hotels, movie theater, and a convenient bus station.\r\n\r\nIn winter, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/skiing-snowboarding-japan#Gala_Yuzawa_ski_resort\"><strong>Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort<\/strong><\/a> is one of the most easily accessible from Niigata and Tokyo \u2013 in fact, the mountain gondola departs directly from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Tokaido Shinkansen<\/a> station. There are about twenty resorts in the area, and tickets are available that offer access to the slopes at multiple locations. For example, a three resort Gala Yuzawa Pass <strong>costs just over \u00a55,000<\/strong>. The resorts are located close together, so you may be able to ski between them.\r\n\r\nDuring the warmer months, <strong>Niigata\u2019s beaches attract many visitors<\/strong>. <strong>Sado Island<\/strong>, one of the largest in Japan, is one such location, accessible by ferry ride from Niigata City. The island has a long history. Due to its remote location, it once served to detain political exiles.\r\n\r\nDuring the Edo period, it was home to the country\u2019s most productive gold mine, which today is open to tourists. There, you can view animatronic miners \u201cworking\u2019 in the mine, and try to lift the weight of a real gold bar in the museum. Each year, the <strong>Earth Celebration music festival<\/strong> takes place there, featuring a home-grown band that has gained international acclaim. The island is also home to the extremely rare <i>toki<\/i>, or Japanese ibis.\r\n\r\nIn addition to beaches and slopes, seasonal activities abound. In the spring, tulip festivals are held in Niigata City. The Hakusan Koen Park and Shrine are <strong>prime locations for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-cherry-blossom-forecast\">cherry blossom<\/a> viewing<\/strong>. In August, a huge fireworks display is the highlight of the Niigata Festival.\r\n\r\nRelaxation, natural beauty, and interesting sights await you in Niigata Prefecture. Are you ready? Start planning your next Japanese vacation today!","post_title":"Niigata Travel Guide: Access and what to do","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"niigata-travel-guide","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2021-07-16 11:50:21","post_modified_gmt":"2021-07-16 09:50:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog?p=4048","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1165,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2017-03-24 08:00:34","post_date_gmt":"2017-03-24 06:00:34","post_content":"When many international travelers think of Japan, they call to mind visions of crowded \u201cneon cities\u201d such as Tokyo. Japan, however, has a much gentler side, complete with rolling hills and rustic charm. The town of Takayama and the Japanese Alps mountain range in the Hokuriku region represent one such rural destination.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<strong>The Japanese Alps are the highest mountains in the Honshu island and all of Japan<\/strong>. The three ranges (Hida mountains, Kiso Mountains, Akaishi Mountains) also house the longest and deepest gorge in the country, six volcanoes, and two lava plateaus. The <strong>natural beauty<\/strong> of the range has earned it the title of the \u201csacred highland.\u201d\r\n\r\nWhy not make Takayama a stop on your next Japanese vacation? If you would like to discover the unique destinations in and around the town of <strong>Takayama and Kanazawa<\/strong>, consider the following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/travel-guides\">travel tips<\/a>.\r\n<h2><strong>Getting to Takayama\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nBelow is a table that illustrates the best ways to get to Takayama from some of Japan\u2019s most popular cities among tourists: Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.\r\n<table>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #3793F4; color: #fff;\">\r\n<td><strong>Departure city<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Mode of transport<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Approx. journey time<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Approx. cost (\u00a5)<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Covered by the JR Pass?<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td rowspan=\"2\">Tokyo<\/td>\r\n<td>Train via Nagoya or Toyama<\/td>\r\n<td>4.5 hours<\/td>\r\n<td>\u00a516,000<\/td>\r\n<td>\u2705 Yes<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Highway Bus (Keio\/Nohi)<\/td>\r\n<td>5.5 hours<\/td>\r\n<td>\u00a58,000<\/td>\r\n<td>\u274c No<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td rowspan=\"2\">Osaka<\/td>\r\n<td>Train via Nagoya<\/td>\r\n<td>3.5 hours<\/td>\r\n<td>\u00a511,500<\/td>\r\n<td>\u2705 Yes<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Highway Bus (Kintetsu\/Nohi)<\/td>\r\n<td>5.5 hours<\/td>\r\n<td>\u00a57,000<\/td>\r\n<td>\u274c No<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td rowspan=\"2\">Kyoto<\/td>\r\n<td>Train via Nagoya<\/td>\r\n<td>3 hours<\/td>\r\n<td>\u00a510,500<\/td>\r\n<td>\u2705 Yes<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Highway Bus (Kintetsu\/Nohi)<\/td>\r\n<td>4.5 hours<\/td>\r\n<td>\u00a56,500<\/td>\r\n<td>\u274c No<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<h2>Tokyo to Takayama b<strong>y train\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nTakayama is easy to access using your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a>. If traveling <strong>from Tokyo to Takayama<\/strong>, first take the JR <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/shinkansen-bullet-trains#TokaidoShinkansen\">Tokaido Shinkansen<\/a> to Nagoya with the JR Pass.\r\n\r\nAlternatively, you may take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/shinkansen-bullet-trains#Hokuriku_Shinkansen\">Hokuriku Shinkansen<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/cities\/tokyo-travel-guide\">Tokyo <\/a>to Toyama.\r\n\r\nFrom either Nagoya or Toyama, you should take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hida-limited-express\"><strong>JR Hida Limited Express<\/strong><\/a> to Takayama. The journey from Tokyo to Takayama takes about <strong>4.5 hours<\/strong> in total, during which you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Japanese countryside.\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d813389.7276859757!2d137.86386820835034!3d36.230974742120985!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e3!4m5!1s0x60188bfbd89f700b%3A0x277c49ba34ed38!2sTokyo%20Station%2C%201%20Chome-9%20Marunouchi%2C%20Chiyoda%20City%2C%20Tokyo%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d35.6812362!2d139.7671248!4m5!1s0x6002a342a14fc349%3A0xd4f2fb84f0b8e3dc!2sTakayama%2C%20Gifu%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d36.1461317!2d137.252159!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ses!4v1718624171491!5m2!1sen!2ses\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n<h3><strong>By bus<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nThere are several <strong>daytime highway bus round trips<\/strong> per day between Tokyo (Busta Shinjuku) and Takayama. These services are offered by both Keio and Nohi Bus.\r\n\r\nThe one-way journey takes around <strong>5.5 hours<\/strong> and costs approximately 8,000 yen. Some services offer overnight buses during select periods of the year. This a convenient option if you\u2019re a more budget-conscious traveler.\r\n\r\nOnline reservations can be made through Willer.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h2>Osaka and Kyoto to Takayama by train<\/h2>\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d833501.1725512346!2d136.18021090037286!3d35.30936172555051!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e3!4m5!1s0x6000e439b079197f%3A0x4d6e1f25906742ca!2sShin-Osaka%20Station%2C%20Yodogawa%20Ward%2C%20Osaka%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d34.7335716!2d135.4985691!4m5!1s0x6002a342a14fc349%3A0xd4f2fb84f0b8e3dc!2sTakayama%2C%20Gifu%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d36.1461317!2d137.252159!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ses!4v1718624314824!5m2!1sen!2ses\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n\r\nIf traveling <strong>from Kyoto or Osaka to Takayama<\/strong>, your journey will be very similar. From Shin-Osaka Station or Kyoto Station, take the Hikari or Kodama trains on the Tokaido Line to Nagoya.\r\n\r\nThen take the<strong> JR Hida Limited Express<\/strong> (also known as Wide View) from Nagoya to Takayama. The journey from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/cities\/osaka-travel-guide\">Osaka <\/a>takes about three and a half hours or about <strong>three hours<\/strong> from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/things-to-do-in-kyoto\">Kyoto<\/a>.\r\n<h3><strong>By bus<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nBuses operated by Kintetsu and Nohi Bus run <strong>several times daily<\/strong> between Osaka (departing from Higashi-Umeda and Namba OCAT) and Takayama. The journey takes about 5.5 hours and costs around 7,000 yen one way.\r\n\r\nIf traveling from Kyoto, buses depart from Kyoto Station (Hachijo side) and reach Takayama in <strong>approximately 4.5 hours<\/strong>. The one-way fare is around 6,500 yen. Online reservations are also available through Willer\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1167\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-1167 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/hida-limited-express-e1490282543628-800x516.jpg\" alt=\"The Hida Limited Express runs from Nagoya to Takayama\" width=\"800\" height=\"516\" \/> The Hida Limited Express runs from Nagoya to Takayama[\/caption]\r\n\r\nMost attractions are within walking distance of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-train-stations\">train station<\/a>, but if you plan on taking a sightseeing tour or visiting the Hida no Sato or Matsuri no Mori museums, the Takayama Hida Bus Center is a mere 10-minute walk from the town center.\r\n<h2><strong>Things to do around Takayama\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<strong>Takayama offers a taste of the Japanese culture of yesterday and today<\/strong>. The area holds plenty of indulgences for the avid sightseer \u2013 green fields dotted with rustic farmhouses, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/best-gardens-japan\">Japanese gardens<\/a>, shrines, temples, castle ruins, and well <strong>preserved historic buildings<\/strong>, such as Edo period houses and samurai dwellings. The old town can be toured by rickshaws called <em>jinrikisha.<\/em>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_226\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-226 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/takayama-old-town-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Downtown Takayama\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" \/> Downtown Takayama is a great place for walk among historical houses - Photo by @gaijinbiker (Flickr)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThere are also <strong>numerous <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/all-about-onsens-the-japanese-hot-springs\"><em>onsen<\/em><\/a><\/strong>, or hot springs, available to provide rest and relaxation. Many of the <em>onsen <\/em>are of the traditional outdoor type. <strong>Locally made <\/strong>handcrafts and goods are available in the town\u2019s morning market. If in need of refreshment, you can visit a traditional teahouse or a sake brewery.\r\n<h3>Hida Folk Village<\/h3>\r\nBesides, you can take a local bus to Hida Folk Village: a nearly 100,000 square meter park including over 30 buildings (mostly traditional sloped-and thatched-roof houses), gardens and a beautiful lake. <strong>This model of a folk village holds recreates Hida\u2019s historical look<\/strong> and traditions, and is the home to several National Cultural Treasures.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_227\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-227\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/hida-folk-village.jpg\" alt=\"Hida Folk Village\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" \/> Hida Folk Village is accesible from Takayama by a local bus[\/caption]\r\n<h3>Japanese Alps National Park<\/h3>\r\nThe nearby Japanese Alps National Park, also called Chubu Sangaku Kokuritsu Koen, is a delight to nature lovers. There, bird watchers may catch a glimpse of the golden eagle or rock ptarmigan. <strong>Available activities include skiing, hiking, and picnicking<\/strong>, as well as riding the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway and relaxing at the Oku-Hida Spa Village.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n<h3>Takayama Festival<\/h3>\r\n<strong>The Takayama Festival takes place each spring and fall, celebrating the city\u2019s history<\/strong> from the fifteenth to nineteenth centuries. The festival is held at the Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, and begins with a parade of one thousand people in full costume followed by ten floats called <em>yatai<\/em>. The festivities include traditional dances, marionette puppet displays, and other performances.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n<h3>Shirakawa-go village<\/h3>\r\nDuring your stay in Takayama, you may wish to embark on a day trip to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shirakawago-travel-guide\">Shirakawa-go<\/a>. <strong>This area, complete with thatched roof farmhouses used for the cultivation of silkworms, has been declared a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-japan\">UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/a><\/strong>. You can even lodge in one of the historic buildings overnight.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1169\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-1169 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-800x532.jpg\" alt=\"Panoramic view of Shirakawago village\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" \/> The Historic Villages of Shirakawa-g\u014d and Gokayama are one of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThere are no train services to Shirakawa-go, but <strong>the Nohi Bus is available from Takayama. The trip lasts approximately one hour.<\/strong> An information center, lockers, shops, and restaurants can be found in the historic buildings near the Shirakawa-go bus stop.\r\n\r\nMany travelers also seize the opportunity to visit the neighboring village of Gokayama (30 minutes by bus) and the valley of the Shogawa River.\r\n<h3>Kanazawa<\/h3>\r\n<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kanazawa-travel-guide\">Kanazawa<\/a>, nestled between the mountains and the Sea of Japan, is often the next stop for many tourists to Takayama<\/strong>. In Kanazawa, you will find one of Japan\u2019s most beautiful gardens, the Kenrokuen.\r\n\r\nThe nearby Kanazawa Castle Park, built in 1583, was once the home of the feudal Maeda family who founded the <strong>Kenrokuen garden<\/strong>. Because it has not experienced wars or natural disasters, the historical structures of Kanazawa are well-preserved.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_228\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-228 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/kenrokuen-garden-kanazawa.jpg\" alt=\"Kenrokuen Garden at Kanazawa\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" \/> Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa - Photo by @Daderot (Wikimedia)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe city is also home to the Twenty-first Century <strong>Museum of Contemporary Art<\/strong>, the Kanazawa Noh Museum, the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, and the Shiinoki Cultural Complex. The mild weather of this area makes it a sublime destination all year round.\r\n<h3><strong>Kamikochi<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nNestled in the Northern Alps within Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is a<strong> pristine highland valley offering mountain views<\/strong>, rivers, and seasonal alpine colors.\r\n\r\nIt\u2019s a <strong>car-free zone<\/strong>, reachable from Takayama via Hirayu Onsen by bus. It offers treks for a variety of tastes, ranging from peaceful riverside strolls to ambitious climbs like Mt. Yarigatake.\r\n\r\nThe area is open from mid-April to mid-November.\r\n<h3><strong>Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nThe Shinhotaka Ropeway is one of Japan\u2019s most impressive cable cars. It will take you <strong>2,156 meters above sea level<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nFrom the upper observation deck, you\u2019ll enjoy <strong>panoramic views across snow-capped peaks<\/strong>, including Mt. Hotaka and Mt. Yake. It\u2019s a great year-round excursion and easily accessible by bus from Takayama in under two hours.","post_title":"Takayama and the Japanese Alps: Access and attractions","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"takayama-japanese-alps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-08-21 12:51:01","post_modified_gmt":"2025-08-21 10:51:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/?p=1165","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}]},{"post_id":"attractions","tag_h":"H3","post_selector":[{"ID":257,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2018-08-01 16:54:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-08-01 14:54:36","post_content":"<strong>Mount Fuji, Japan\u2019s iconic peak, is a must-visit destination<\/strong> for travelers in Tokyo. Just a short trip from the capital, this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-japan\">UNESCO World Heritage site<\/a> offers breathtaking views and countless activities.\r\n\r\nA day-trip from Tokyo to Mt Fuji and the lesser known <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hakone-travel-guide\">Hakone<\/a> five lakes area is <strong>among the favorite experiences of many travelers <\/strong>to Japan.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\nAnd getting <strong>from<\/strong><strong> Tokyo to Mount Fuji <\/strong><strong>is simple<\/strong> and convenient with multiple transport options available with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/\">JR Pass<\/a>.\r\n\r\nOn this page, we cover <strong>the best ways <\/strong><strong>to get to Mt Fuji from Tokyo<\/strong>, including trains, buses, and car rentals, helping you plan the perfect journey.\r\n<h2>Tokyo to Mt. Fuji by train<\/h2>\r\nOne of the most popular and fastest ways to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is by train.\r\n\r\nJapan\u2019s efficient and reliable rail network offers several options, each catering to different budgets and schedules.\r\n<h3><strong>Taking the Shinkansen bullet train<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_376\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-376\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/mount-fuji-shinkansen.jpg\" alt=\"Mount Fuji and Shinkansen\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" \/> Photo by Alpsdake @ Wikimedia[\/caption]\r\n\r\nTo take a bullet train from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji use the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Tokaido Shinkansen<\/a> line from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokyo-train-station\">Tokyo Station<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shinagawa-station\">Shinagawa Station<\/a><strong> to <\/strong><strong>Shin-Fuji Station<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nThis option also provides you with <strong>stunning views of Mount Fuji <\/strong>around 40-45 minutes into the journey. For the best views, take a seat in the right-hand window-side seat F (or D in Green Cars).\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14645\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-14645 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/chureito-pagoda-sunset.jpg\" alt=\"Chureito Pagoda at Sunset\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Sunset photo of Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji - Photo by Giuseppe Milo under CC[\/caption]\r\n\r\nKodama trains stop at all stations and are suitable for this route. Use your Japan Rail Pass for free <strong>travel on Kodama trains.<\/strong>\r\n\r\nTrains depart frequently, approximately <strong>every 15-30 minutes<\/strong>. It\u2019s approximately 6,000 yen for a one-way ticket without a JR Pass, but JR Pass holders travel free.\r\n\r\nIt\u2019s worth noting that none of the JR regional passes include rides on the Tokaido Shinkansen, so the nationwide <strong>Japan Rail Pass is your best option<\/strong> in this case. Plus, it\u2019s valid for other trips around the country and is great value for money.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n\r\nTo complete the trip to Mount Fuji from Shin-Fuji station, <strong>transfer to a local bus <\/strong>operated by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fujikyu.co.jp\/en\/\">Fujikyu<\/a> to reach Mount Fuji station. A one-way bus journey is about 2h 15 minutes long, at the cost of around 2,136 yen (round trips are 4,273 yen).\r\n\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d834712.7561137212!2d138.0884326467887!3d35.191603096356076!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e3!4m5!1s0x60188bfbd89f700b%3A0x277c49ba34ed38!2sTokyo%20Station%2C%201%20Chome%20Marunouchi%2C%20Chiyoda%20City%2C%20Tokyo%20100-0005%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d35.6812362!2d139.7671248!4m5!1s0x601a2b14319b1bcd%3A0xbb4f3e98160afbe4!2sShin-Fuji%20Station%2C%20Kawanarijima%2C%20Fuji%2C%20Shizuoka%20416-0939%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d35.141965299999995!2d138.6636031!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sie!4v1737123518760!5m2!1sen!2sie\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n<p class=\"note\">Please note that Fujikyu is not part of the Japan Rail Group, which means the Japan Rail Pass does not cover buses ran by this company<strong>, and no seat reservations are available<\/strong>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3><strong>Fuji Excursion Limited Express<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter wp-image-7606 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/fuji-excursion-train.jpg\" alt=\"Fuji excursion train\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" \/>\r\n\r\nThis direct train connects <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shinjuku-station\">Shinjuku Station<\/a> in Tokyo <strong>to Kawaguchiko Station<\/strong>, a gateway to Mount Fuji.\r\n\r\nFuji Excursion Limited Express trains<strong> operate directly, with 3 daily departures<\/strong>. The full current timetable is as follows:\r\n<table>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td colspan=\"7\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Fuji Excursion timetable from Tokyo<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td rowspan=\"2\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Station<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td colspan=\"3\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Weekdays<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td colspan=\"3\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Saturdays and holidays<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Fuji Excursion No. 3<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Fuji Excursion No. 7<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Fuji Excursion No. 11<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Fuji Excursion 93<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Fuji Excursion No. 7<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Fuji Excursion No. 11<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Shinjuku<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>7:30<\/td>\r\n<td>8:30<\/td>\r\n<td>9:30<\/td>\r\n<td>7:30<\/td>\r\n<td>8:30<\/td>\r\n<td>9:30<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Tachikawa<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>7:52<\/td>\r\n<td>9:00<\/td>\r\n<td>10:00<\/td>\r\n<td>7:53<\/td>\r\n<td>8:58<\/td>\r\n<td>9:58<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Hachioji<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>8:02<\/td>\r\n<td>9:09<\/td>\r\n<td>10:09<\/td>\r\n<td>8:02<\/td>\r\n<td>9:07<\/td>\r\n<td>10:07<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Otsuki<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>8:37<\/td>\r\n<td>9:42<\/td>\r\n<td>10:42<\/td>\r\n<td>8:37<\/td>\r\n<td>9:42<\/td>\r\n<td>10:42<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Tsuru Bunka University<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>8:54<\/td>\r\n<td>9:57<\/td>\r\n<td>10:57<\/td>\r\n<td>8:54<\/td>\r\n<td>9:57<\/td>\r\n<td>10:57<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Mount Fuji (Fujisan)<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>9:15<\/td>\r\n<td>10:17<\/td>\r\n<td>11:17<\/td>\r\n<td>9:15<\/td>\r\n<td>10:17<\/td>\r\n<td>11:17<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Fuji-Q Highland<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>9:20<\/td>\r\n<td>10:22<\/td>\r\n<td>11:22<\/td>\r\n<td>9:20<\/td>\r\n<td>10:22<\/td>\r\n<td>11:22<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Kawaguchiko<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td>9:23<\/td>\r\n<td>10:25<\/td>\r\n<td>11:25<\/td>\r\n<td>9:23<\/td>\r\n<td>10:25<\/td>\r\n<td>11:25<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\nThe price is 4,130 yen one way without a JR Pass. Note that <strong>JR Pass<\/strong><strong> holders need to buy a ticket for Otsuki \u2013 Kawaguchiko section<\/strong> of the route as it\u2019s not covered by the Pass: the price is 1740 yen for adults.\r\n\r\n[custom-element title=\"Unlimited train travel in Japan\" image=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/jr-pass-cta-1.png\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" text=\"\r\n\r\nUnlimited access to transportation across Japan for 7, 14, or 21 days on:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>All Shinkansen trains<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Rapid and Local JR trains<\/li>\r\n \t<li>JR bus and ferry services<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Airport Transfers<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nA single ticket, huge savings.\r\n\r\n\" button_text=\"Buy your JR Pass\" button_url=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/the-japan-rail-pass\" image_position=\"right\" alt_image=\"Buy the JR Pass\"]\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kawaguchiko-station\">Kawaguchiko Station<\/a> offers easy access to nearby attractions, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/chureito-pagoda-travel-guide\">Chureito Pagoda <\/a>and Mount Fuji Station: <strong>direct buses operated by Fujikyu are available<\/strong>. The bus costs around 210-290 yen and only takes around 12 minutes.\r\n<blockquote>Check out our guide to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/fuji-excursion-train\">Fuji Excursion Limited Express<\/a> for more information.<\/blockquote>\r\n<h2>Riding a bus<\/h2>\r\nBuses are <strong>a budget-friendly and straightforward option<\/strong> to reach Mount Fuji from Tokyo. Multiple operators provide direct services to key locations near the mountain.\r\n\r\n<strong>Highway Buses depart from major stations such as Shinjuku<\/strong>, Tokyo, and Shibuya, arriving at Kawaguchiko Station or Fuji-Q Highland.\r\n\r\n<strong>The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours<\/strong>, depending on the departure point and traffic. The price is around 2,000-2,600 yen one way.\r\n\r\nThere are also<strong> Limited Express buses<\/strong> available from these stations which have fewer departures and shorter journey times, under 2 hours.\r\n\r\nThese buses have extra features such as ample legroom, large windows, and occasional refreshments, so <strong>are slightly more expensive<\/strong>, from around 4,000 yen.\r\n\r\nIf you\u2019re <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/climbing-mount-fuji\">planning on climbing Mt. Fuji<\/a>, special buses that give you <strong>direct access to the trailheads<\/strong> operate during climbing season, from July to September. They run from Shinjuku Station and go directly to Mt. Fuji\u2019s 5th station, with prices ranging from 2,800 yen.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, <strong>some bus companies offer guided tours<\/strong>, including transport and itinerary packages.\r\n<h2>Renting a car<\/h2>\r\nFor maximum flexibility, renting a car is an excellent choice for traveling to Mount Fuji. This option is particularly convenient for groups or families: <strong>rental locations are available throughout Tokyo,<\/strong> including major train stations and airports.\r\n\r\nRental <strong>fees start around 6,000 yen per day<\/strong>, excluding fuel and toll charges.\r\n\r\nNote that <strong>International Driving Permits (IDP) are required <\/strong>for foreign drivers and that winter months may require snow tires or chains.\r\n\r\nCheck out our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/renting-a-car-in-japan\">renting a car in Japan<\/a> for more information.\r\n<h3>How far is Mount Fuji from Tokyo by car<\/h3>\r\nThe driving distance from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is<strong> approximately 100-120 km<\/strong>, taking 2-3 hours depending on traffic and the route.\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m26!1m12!1m3!1d415800.611670018!2d138.90093517992452!3d35.49334057598452!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m11!3e0!4m3!3m2!1d35.6789097!2d139.7680553!4m5!1s0x601bd8e9a1297d25%3A0x4a6e31c6f528b9db!2zT3Nhd2EgVmlldyBQb2ludCAtIDR0aCBTdGF0aW9uIOWkp-ayouWxleacm-WPsA!3m2!1d35.3741488!2d138.69250259999998!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sie!4v1737123197489!5m2!1sen!2sie\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\nThe Chuo Expressway offers direct access to the Mount Fuji area, and <strong>parking is available at major tourist spots <\/strong>around the mountain, including the 5th Station.\r\n<h2>What to see in the Mount Fuji area<\/h2>\r\nAs we have already mentioned, Mount Fuji forms part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. <b>Hakone <\/b><strong>is one of the most popular destinations<\/strong> for tourists, located less than 100 km. from the capital city of Japan.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_269\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-269 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/LakeAshi_and_MtFuji_Hakone-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"LakeAshi and Mt Fuji Hakone\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" \/> Lake Ashi - Hakone by @\u6728\u66f4\u6d25\u4e43\u98a8 (Wikipedia)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nFamous for its scenic area,<strong> Ashi lake<\/strong>, <strong>hot springs<\/strong> <strong>and<\/strong> <strong>breathtaking views<\/strong> of Mount Fuji, Hakone is more than worth the visit.\r\n<p class=\"note\">Please check our new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hakone-travel-guide\">Hakone<\/a> guide for more information on visiting the area.<\/p>","post_title":"How to go from Tokyo to Mount Fuji by train and alternative options","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"mount-fuji","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-28 12:19:52","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-28 10:19:52","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/?p=257","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":6973,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2019-02-22 09:00:18","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-22 08:00:18","post_content":"<strong>What is a pagoda?<\/strong> It is a towerlike, tiered structure traditionally associated with Buddhist temple complexes. Pagodas are common sights throughout eastern and southeast Asia, including Japan. Pagodas are meant to <strong>symbolize sacred mountains and often shelter religious relics<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nThe Chureito Pagoda, also called the <em>Chastain Tower<\/em> and officially named the <strong>Fujiyoshida Cenotaph Monument<\/strong>, is a <strong>shrine located in the Fuji Five Lakes<\/strong> region at Mount Fuji\u2019s northern base. The Pagoda has <strong>five stories<\/strong>; it is situated on a mountainside overlooking Fuji Yoshida City, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/mount-fuji\">Mount Fuji<\/a> itself visible in the distance.\u00a0You have probably seen pictures of a beautiful <strong>pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background<\/strong>, this is the Chureito Pagoda.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\nThe Chureito Pagoda was built in 1963, a recent addition to the <strong>Arakura Sengen Shrine<\/strong>. It serves specifically as a <strong>peace memorial<\/strong> commemorating the citizens of Fujiyoshida who died in wars from the mid-1800s until World War II.\r\n\r\nAt a higher altitude than the rest of the Shrine, Chureito Pagoda is famous for its steps. How many steps lead from the Shrine to the Pagoda? The answer is a stunning 400; visitors agree that <strong>the view from the top is worth the effort<\/strong>.\r\n<h2>A Worthy Day Trip from Tokyo<\/h2>\r\nWhether for its historical significance or natural beauty, the Chureito Pagoda and surrounding area make for an <strong>excellent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/day-trips-tokyo\">day trip from Tokyo<\/a><\/strong>. Get away from the frantic hustle of the city and experience the grand <strong>Mount Fuji<\/strong>. During the spring <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-cherry-blossom-forecast\">cherry blossom season<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-autumn-leaves-forecast\">autumn <em>koyo<\/em> season<\/a>, the view from the Pagoda becomes even more spectacular.\r\n\r\nIf traveling from Tokyo, allow yourself a <strong>full day<\/strong> for travel and for exploring the area.\r\n<h2>How to get to Chureito Pagoda<\/h2>\r\nYou can easily reach the Arakura Sengen Shrine area <strong>by train or bus<\/strong>, but remember - the climb to the Pagoda must be made on foot. In case of rain or snow, be sure to bring outerwear suitable for the weather.\r\n\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" title=\"Location of the Chureito Pagoda and Arakura Sengen Shrine\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d247073.97375835778!2d139.05631783799063!3d35.54613074831037!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x6019674cfd52a073%3A0xda57e34920aee799!2sChureito+Pagoda!5e0!3m2!1ses!2ses!4v1550652076693\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n<h3>From Tokyo<\/h3>\r\nThe easiest access from Tokyo will take you <strong>from Shinjuku to Chureito<\/strong>. Use your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a> to take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/chuo-sobu-line\"><strong>JR Chuo Line<\/strong><\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/shinjuku-station\"><strong>Shinjuku Station<\/strong><\/a> to <strong>Otsuki Station<\/strong>. From there, take the <strong>Fujikyuko Line<\/strong>\u00a0(since it's operated by Fuji Kyuko, is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass) to <strong>Shimoyoshida<\/strong><strong>\u00a0Station<\/strong>. From there, you have a 20 minutes walk to the Chureito Pagoda. The full traject wil take you about <strong>2 hours and 40 minutes<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nAlternatively, you can take a <strong>bus to Kawaguchiko Station from Tokyo<\/strong>, Shinjuku, or Shibuya Stations.\r\n<h3>From Kawaguchiko<\/h3>\r\nOnce you reach Fuji Five Lakes region, you can take the <strong>Fujikyu Railway Line<\/strong> to <strong>Shimoyoshida Station\u00a0From Kawaguchiko Station:\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0The JR Pass is not valid on this journey. Alternatively, you can take the <strong>Mount Fuji World Heritage Loop Bus<\/strong>, with runs every 90 minutes, to the <strong>Chureito Iriguchi bus stop<\/strong>. The Shrine and Pagoda are a short walk from either the station or the bus stop.\r\n<h3>From Hakone<\/h3>\r\nTo travel from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hakone-travel-guide\">Hakone<\/a> to Chureito<\/strong>, board the <strong>Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus<\/strong> from either Togendai or Sengoku. Travel to <strong>Gotemba Station<\/strong>, then take the <strong>Fujikyu Bus to Kawaguchiko Station<\/strong>.\r\n<h2>Entrances Fees and Opening Hours<\/h2>\r\nThe Chureito Pagoda is <strong>open 24 hours<\/strong> a day - its grounds are never closed to the public. <strong>Parking and admission are free<\/strong> of charge.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h2>Cherry Blossoms at Chureito Pagoda<\/h2>\r\nCherry blossom or sakura season <strong>reaches the Mount Fuji area in mid-April<\/strong>. Just picture it - the red and white segments of the pagoda emerge from a <strong>sea of pink blossoms<\/strong>, each segment capped with an ornate green roof. Majestic <strong>Mount\u00a0<\/strong><strong>Fuji\u2019s white peak is visible in the distance<\/strong>. Check out our yearly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-cherry-blossom-forecast\">cherry blossom forecasts<\/a> for the latest information.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4201\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/floraison-cerisiers-sakura.jpg\" alt=\"Cherry Blossom in Chureito Pagoda\" width=\"800\" height=\"516\" \/>\r\n<h2>The Best Views of Mount Fuji<\/h2>\r\nMount Fuji is one of the <strong>most memorable symbols of Japan<\/strong>. Each year, photographers flock to the Chureito Pagoda and the surrounding area to capture the mountain\u2019s glory. These \u201cstereotypical\u201d photos of Japan make a welcome addition to a travel album or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/best-spots-tokyo-for-instagram\">Instagram pictures<\/a>.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-4252 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/kaguaguchi-lake-fuji-5-lakes.jpg\" alt=\"Kawaguchi lake - Fuji 5 Lakes\" width=\"800\" height=\"536\" \/>\r\n\r\nDuring the first half of November, visitors can experience views of Mount Fuji while the earth is blanketed in the rich, warm colors of the <em>koyo<\/em>, or leaf-viewing season. As <strong>the grounds are not closed at night<\/strong>, they also offer views of sunrise and sunset.\r\n\r\nMount Fuji and the Chureito Pagoda highlight the ephemeral beauty of Japan\u2019s changing seasons. Spring blossoms, red maple leaves in autumn, or winter snows - no matter when you visit, <strong>the view from the Pagoda will not disappoint<\/strong>.","post_title":"Visiting Chureito Pagoda: Access and travel guide","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"chureito-pagoda-travel-guide","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-02-26 16:19:29","post_modified_gmt":"2019-02-26 15:19:29","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog?p=6973","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":10720,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2019-10-25 07:00:51","post_date_gmt":"2019-10-25 05:00:51","post_content":"The <strong>Northern <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\">Japan Alps<\/a><\/strong> is a scenic volcanic mountain range spanning parts of Toyama, Nagano, and Gifu Prefectures. This range is home to the <strong>Kurobe River<\/strong> and one of the deepest and most beautiful <strong>forested ravines<\/strong> in the country.\r\n\r\nThe Kurobe Gorge is a famous destination for enjoying natural beauty. Visitors flock to this site to view <strong>stunning <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-autumn-leaves-forecast\">autumn colors<\/a><\/strong> and relax in <strong>natural hot springs<\/strong>. The Gorge makes an ideal <strong>day trip for hiking or viewing autumn leaves<\/strong>.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<h2>How to get to Kurobe Gorge<\/h2>\r\nYou can use your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a> to travel to and from Kurobe Gorge and these major cities. Please note that some trains or routes may not be covered by the JR Pass.\r\n\r\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=1iOhvMC4GsSt-SZOPWRB2Tkc2pkJkJyaN\" width=\"800\" height=\"480\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n<h3>From Tokyo to Kurobe Gorge<\/h3>\r\nTake the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hokuriku-shinkansen-jr-pass\">JR Hokuriku Shinkansen<\/a> to <strong>Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station<\/strong>, a trip of about <strong>2.5 hours<\/strong>. From there, <strong>transfer\u00a0to Shin-Kurobe Sation<\/strong> (next door) and take <strong>Toyama Chiho Railway to Unazuki Onsen Station<\/strong>, but this last portion of the route is not covered by the JR Pass.\r\n\r\n<strong>Unazuki Station<\/strong>, from which the sightseeing trains depart, is a short walk from Unazuki Onsen Station.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h3>From Kyoto or Osaka to Kurobe Gorge<\/h3>\r\nTake the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/thunderbird-express-train\">JR Thunderbird Limited Express<\/a><\/strong> to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kanazawa-travel-guide\">Kanazawa<\/a> Station<\/strong>. Then <strong>transfer to the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen headed to Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station<\/strong>. This portion of the journey takes about <strong>three hours<\/strong> and is covered by the JR Pass.\r\n\r\nYou can then take the Toyama Chiho Railway from nearby Shin-Kurobe Station to Unazuki Onsen Station. Then, walk to Unazuki Station.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10738\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-large wp-image-10738\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/unazuki-onsen-sation-800x500.jpg\" alt=\"Unazuki Onsen Sation\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" \/> Unazuki Onsen Sation[\/caption]\r\n<h2>Kurobe Gorge Railway<\/h2>\r\n<strong>The Kurobe Gorge Railway is one of the Gorge\u2019s main attractions<\/strong>. Originally built to assist in the construction of the <strong>Kurobe Dam<\/strong>, the railway is now a <strong>sightseeing train<\/strong>. Most of the train cars are open-sided with four-person bench seats. Enclosed cars are also available.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h3>Route and Stops<\/h3>\r\nThe route of the Kurobe Gorge Railway winds <strong>through 20 kilometers<\/strong> of scenery between Unazuki Station and Keyakidaira Station. The route encompasses passage through <strong>more than 40 tunnels and 20 bridges<\/strong>. The trip takes approximately <strong>80 minutes<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nThe train also <strong>makes stops at stations along the route<\/strong>, giving visitors the option to <strong>depart and explore<\/strong>. Small stations along the way include <strong>Kuronagi Station<\/strong> and <strong>Kanetsuri Station<\/strong>.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-10743\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/kurobe-gorge-railway-800x500.jpg\" alt=\"Kurobe Gorge Railway\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" \/>\r\n\r\n<strong>Stops along the route<\/strong>:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Unazuki Station<\/strong> (departure station)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Kuronagi Station<\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Kanetsuri Station<\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Keyakidaira Station<\/strong> (terminal station)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nCheck out the best things to do and see at each stop, below.\r\n<h3>Timetable and Fares<\/h3>\r\nYou can use the timetable below to plan your trip. Please note that the trains are operated seasonally <strong>from April to November<\/strong>. Trains and many activities shut down during the winter season.\r\n\r\n<strong>Timetable departing Unazuki Station<\/strong>:\r\n<table>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #3793F4; color: #fff;\">\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Unazuki Station<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Kuronagi Station<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Kanetsuri Station<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Keyakidaira Station<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">7:57<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">8:20<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">8:52<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:12<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #FFFF99;\">\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">8:17*<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">8:41<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:13<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:33<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:00<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:24<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:57<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:18<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:21<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:45<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:19<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:39<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #FFFF99;\">\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:42*<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:06<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:40<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:00<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:03<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:27<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:01<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:21<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:44<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:09<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:43<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:03<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #D5F1ED;\">\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:06**<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:30<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:04<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:24<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:27<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:51<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:25<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:45<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #FFFF99;\">\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:48*<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:12<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:46<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:06<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:50<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:14<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:50<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:12<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:11<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:35<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:12<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:33<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:32<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:56<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:34<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:54<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:14<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:38<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:16<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:36<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:56<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:22<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:58<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:18<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<em>* Rows marked in yellow operate only from October 1 to November 15.<\/em>\r\n<em>** Rows marked in green operate only from November 16 to 30.<\/em>\r\n\r\n<strong>Timetable departing Keiyakidaira Station<\/strong>:\r\n<table>\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #3793F4; color: #fff;\">\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Keyakidaira Station<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Kanetsuri Station<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Kuronagi Station<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: center;\">Unazuki Station<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:37<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">9:59<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:36<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:59<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #FFFF99;\">\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:01*<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:21<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:55<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:20<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">10:43<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:03<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:37<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:02<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:04<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:24<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:58<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:23<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #FFFF99;\">\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:25*<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:45<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:19<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:43<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">11:46<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:06<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:39<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:04<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:28<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:48<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:21<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:46<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background: #D5F1ED;\">\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">12:49**<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:09<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13.42<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:06<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:10<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:30<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:04<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:28<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:31<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">13:52<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:24<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:48<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:37<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:57<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:29<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:54<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">14:58<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:18<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:50<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:14<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:19<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">15:39<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:12<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:35<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:01<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:21<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:52<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">17:16<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">16:43<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">17:03<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">17:34<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: center;\">17:58<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<em>* Rows marked in yellow operate only from October 1 to November 15.<\/em>\r\n<em>** Rows marked in green operate only from November 16 to 30.<\/em>\r\n<h2>What to See<\/h2>\r\n<strong>Unazuki Onsen<\/strong> is a small <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/best-onsen-in-japan\">hot spring town<\/a> located at the departure point into the gorge. You can view the <strong>Shin Yamabiko Bridge<\/strong> at the gorge entrance, utilizing the nearly identical pedestrian bridge beside it.\r\n\r\nThen, explore the <strong>natural beauty of the gorge<\/strong> in a new way at the <strong>Selene Museum of Art<\/strong>. You can learn about the history of the river\u2019s dams and power plants at the <strong>Kurobe River Electric Memorial Hall<\/strong>. Complete your day in Unazuki with a dip in the <strong>Tochinoyu<\/strong>, a small gender-separated public hot spring bath from which you can view the gorge and passing trains.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10733\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-large wp-image-10733\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/kuronagi-sonsen-hot-springs-800x500.jpg\" alt=\"Kuronagi Onsen hot springs\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" \/> Kuronagi Onsen hot springs[\/caption]\r\n\r\nAt the tiny <strong>Kuronagi Station<\/strong>, the first stop along the route, you can view the blue <strong>Atobiki Bridge<\/strong> or relax in the <strong>Kuronagi Onsen<\/strong>. The onsen is a twenty-minute walk from the station. Outdoor women-only and mixed-gender baths are available, as well as indoor baths.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n\r\nAt <strong>Kanetsuri Station<\/strong>, you\u2019ll find food stands and the <strong>Riverside Bath<\/strong>, which is completely exposed to sightseers. A unique feature of this station is the <strong>Mannen Yuki<\/strong> or \u201c<strong>ten thousand year old snow<\/strong>.\u201d This <strong>semi-permanent snowbank<\/strong> is piled so deep that it often lasts through much of the summer or even into the following winter. The Mannen Yuki can be seen from an <strong>observation deck near the station<\/strong>.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_10728\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-large wp-image-10728\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/hitokui-iwa-people-eating-rock-800x500.jpg\" alt=\"Hitokui Iwa, people-eating rock\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" \/> Hitokui Iwa, the \"people-eating\" rock[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe terminal station of <strong>Keyakidaira<\/strong> also offers amazing sights. Take a 15-minute walk down the riverside trail to the <strong>Sarutobikyo<\/strong> or \u201c<strong>jumping monkey<\/strong>\u201d Gorge, and cross the river near the station using the <strong>Okukane Bridge<\/strong>. Below the bridge is the <strong>Foot Bath<\/strong>, which seats a dozen people and offers views of the river. End your journey with a stroll on the <strong>Hitokui Iwa<\/strong> or \u201cpeople-eating rock.\u201d This path is carved into the cliff and the rock curves in such a way as to suggest a \u201chuge stone mouth... swallowing up the trail.\u201d","post_title":"The Kurobe Gorge railway: Full itinerary","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kurobe-gorge-travel-guide","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-11-18 15:35:39","post_modified_gmt":"2019-11-18 14:35:39","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog?p=10720","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":9797,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2019-09-06 06:46:25","post_date_gmt":"2019-09-06 04:46:25","post_content":"Picture a quaint village embanked in snow. Icy whiteness covers the ground and clings to the roofs of the traditional Japanese farmhouses like icing on a gingerbread house. Streets and windows become golden torches as the sun begins to set.\r\n\r\nThe Historic Villages of Shirakawago and its neighboring village, Gokayama are one of central <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-japan\">Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites<\/a>.\u00a0 They hold a serene natural beauty as well as a unique architecture.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\nThe homes have uniquely steep thatched roofs known as <em>gassho-zukuri<\/em> in Japanese, meaning \u201cconstructed like hands in prayer.\u201d Many of the houses were built in the late 1600s and were designed to withstand heavy snow, and the large attic space provides an area for silkworm cultivation.\r\n<h2>How to get to Shirakawago<\/h2>\r\nShirakawago and Gokayama are situated in a valley in Gifu prefecture, 50 km northwest of Takayama. These villages are surrounded by high and rugged mountains which receive particularly high snowfall in winter.\r\n\r\nUsing your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a>, you can reach the Shirakawago area from Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya. Buses are available from many other popular locations.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h3>From Tokyo to Shirakawago<\/h3>\r\nFrom <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokyo-train-station\">Tokyo Station<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/ueno-station\">Ueno Station<\/a>, take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hokuriku-shinkansen-jr-pass\"><strong>Hokuriku Shinkansen<\/strong><\/a> to Toyama Station. Then take the bus to Shirakawago (90 minutes, 1700 yen one way). You can check the timetables and make your bus seat reservation at <a href=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/en\/CourseSearch\/11900040002\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Japanbusonline.com<\/a>.\r\n<h3>From Kanazawa to Shirakawago<\/h3>\r\nThe <strong>Nohi Bus and Hokutetsu Bus<\/strong> lines operate hourly between <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kanazawa-travel-guide\">Kanazawa<\/a> and Shirakawago. Seat reservations are required, and the JR Pass is not valid. However, other tourist passes may be accepted.\r\n<h3>From Takayama to Shirakawago<\/h3>\r\n<strong>Hourly buses<\/strong> operate between <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\">Takayama<\/a> and Shirakawago. The JR Pass is not valid on these buses, and some require seating reservations.\r\n<h3>From Nagoya to Shirakawago<\/h3>\r\nFrom <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagoya-travel-guide\">Nagoya<\/a> Station, you can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/hida-limited-express\"><strong>Hida Limited Express<\/strong><\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/takayama-japanese-alps\">Takayama<\/a>, and then proceed as explained above.\r\n\r\nBesides, several <strong>Gi<\/strong><strong>fu Buses<\/strong> operate daily between Nagoya and Shirakawago. The JR Pass is not valid on this bus, and online reservations can be made.\r\n<h3>From Osaka to Shirakawago<\/h3>\r\nFrom <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/cities\/osaka-travel-guide\">Osaka<\/a>, you can take the JR <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/thunderbird-express-train\"><strong>ThunderBird Limited Express<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/kanazawa-travel-guide\">Kanazawa<\/a>. From Kanazawa, take the Nohi or Hokutetsu Bus to Shirakawago.\r\n\r\nAlternatively, you can take the JR <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\"><strong>Tokaido Shinkansen<\/strong><\/a> from Shin-Osaka Station to Nagoya Station. Then, take the Gifu Bus from Nagoya to Shirakawago.\r\n<h2>Shirakawago village<\/h2>\r\n<strong>Shirakawago is divided into two area<\/strong>s. In Gifu, it is known only as <strong>Shirakawago<\/strong>. In Toyama Prefecture, it is called <strong>Gokayama<\/strong>. Villages in both areas have been listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1995.\r\n\r\nThe village of Shirakawago is the <strong>most famous in the Shirakawago region<\/strong>, as it is home to most of the traditional <strong><em>gassho-zukuri<\/em> houses<\/strong>, which are based on their own building structures according to their regions characteristics.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1170\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"700\"]<img class=\"wp-image-1170\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/shirakawago-houses.jpg\" alt=\"shirakawago houses\" width=\"700\" height=\"539\" \/> These three Gassho style thatched roof houses are among the most photographied in Shirakawago[\/caption]\r\n<h2>Gokayama village<\/h2>\r\n<strong>Gokayama is located 10 kilometers north of the village of Shirakawago<\/strong>. Its name means \u201cfive valleys\u201d in Japanese, describing its position between mountains. Gokayama is famous for gunpowder production. Today, it offers a <strong>pristine and untouched environment<\/strong> to travelers lucky enough to find it.\r\n\r\nGokayama is <strong>home to two <em>gassho-zukuri<\/em> style villages<\/strong>. About 60 people still live in the 23 houses of Ainokura Village. There, you can eat a meal and learn to make paper. The <strong>Suganuma Village<\/strong> is home to nine gassho-zukuri houses, the Ensho-no-Yakata gunpowder production museum, and the Shinmeisha Shrine.\r\n\r\nBetween these villages, you will find the largest gassho-zukuri house, the <strong>Murakami House<\/strong>. You can enter the house and view over a thousand artifacts. Catch a meal at the nearby Jippensha, where you can sample Gokayama\u2019s famous soba noodles and tofu bean curd.\r\n<h2>Best times to visit Shirakawago<\/h2>\r\nShirakawago is a beautiful destination <strong>any time of the year<\/strong> and no matter the weather. In the spring, the area is crowned with clouds of sakura <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/japan-cherry-blossom-forecast\">cherry blossoms<\/a>.\r\n\r\nIn summer, the rice fields paint the terrain bright green. In autumn, its mountains and hills create a stunning backdrop for koyo autumn leaf viewing. And in winter, the area is thickly blanketed with snow, as described at the outset.\r\n<h2>Best things to do in Shirakawago<\/h2>\r\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1zaVP5LU6PJfAH5uPgntqLc4ScvU9hxFJ\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\nThe <strong>Ogimachi Village<\/strong> is popular as it houses many gassho-zukuri structures. The <strong>Wada House<\/strong> is well preserved, and enables visitors to take a peek inside. This house was constructed during the Edo Period, between 1603 and 1868. It is listed as an Important Cultural Property. Shuttle buses to local attractions can be accessed in front of the Wada House.\r\n\r\n<strong>Shirakawa Kaido Street<\/strong> features souvenir shops and snack stalls. On one end of the street is a hot spring facility known as Shirakawago no Yu. Beyond the river that runs parallel to the street, you will find a Tourist Information Center that also inhabits a gassho-zukuri house.\r\n\r\nAlso, if you are looking for an excellent view, check out the <strong>Ogimachi-jo Castle Ruins<\/strong> Observation Deck or the Tenshukaku Observation Deck.\r\n<h3>Winter Light-up Festival<\/h3>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_5538\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"700\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-5538\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/shirakawa-go-winter-light-up.jpg\" alt=\"Shirakawa-go Winter Light-up\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" \/> The Shirakawa-go Light up festival is a must-see in the winter[\/caption]\r\n\r\nEach year, during the months of January and February, Shirakawago\u2019s gassho-zukuri houses are illuminated at night. This event is so popular that advance reservations are required. Please check the <a href=\"https:\/\/shirakawa-go.gr.jp\/en\/events\/lighup-2020\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">official website<\/a> for schedules and lates information.","post_title":"Shirakawago and Gokayama villages: Travel Guide","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"shirakawago-travel-guide","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2021-10-01 10:17:30","post_modified_gmt":"2021-10-01 08:17:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog?p=9797","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12432,"post_author":"2","post_date":"2020-04-30 10:00:33","post_date_gmt":"2020-04-30 08:00:33","post_content":"Children around the world have grown up with beloved animated films from <strong>Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli<\/strong>. Since 1984, Studio Ghibli films have often served as an introduction to the wider world of anime and have obtained a cult following all their own.\r\n\r\nMany Ghibli fans have already made a pilgrimage to the popular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/studio-ghibli-museum\">Studio Ghibli museum in Tokyo<\/a>. Others eagerly anticipate the release of the upcoming Ghibli film, <em>How do you Live?<\/em> But fans will be thrilled to learn that <strong>the Ghibli theme park opened on November 1, 2022<\/strong>, and is now bringing the films to life in Nagoya!\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n<h2>How to get to Studio Ghibli Theme Park<\/h2>\r\nThe park is <strong>located in the Expo 2005 Aichi Earth Memorial Park, also known as Moricoro Park<\/strong>. Expo Park has long been an attraction for Ghibli fans, as it had already featured a full-scale replica of the home of Mei and Satsuki from the film <em>My Neighbor Totoro<\/em>.\r\n\r\nNestled in the countryside east of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/nagoya-travel-guide\">Nagoya<\/a>, the park will be about a three-hour journey from Tokyo, one made easy by the use of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/the-japan-rail-pass\">Japan Rail Pass<\/a>. You can also get to Nagoya easily from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/cities\/osaka-travel-guide\">Osaka<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/cities\/kyoto-travel-guide\">Kyoto<\/a> by Shinkansen train (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/tokaido-shinkansen-jr-pass\">Tokaido Shinkansen<\/a>).\r\n\r\n<iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d104323.34356394163!2d136.92489594389187!3d35.20386625416458!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e3!4m5!1s0x600376e794d78b89%3A0x81f7204bf8261663!2sNagoya%20Station%2C%201%20Chome-1%20Meieki%2C%20Nakamura%20Ward%2C%20Nagoya%2C%20Aichi%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d35.170915!2d136.8815369!4m5!1s0x600366f75f4ae64f%3A0xae0465f5ef82d094!2sIbaragabasama%2C%20Nagakute%2C%20Aichi%20480-1342%2C%20Japan!3m2!1d35.1773938!2d137.0872928!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1667982679186!5m2!1sen!2sus\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe>\r\n\r\nFrom Nagoya, you can easily take a short ride on a shuttle bus from Meitetsu Bus Center at Nagoya Station directly to the park gates. Alternatively, you can take the <strong>Higashiyama Subway line to Fujigaoka<\/strong> Station, then transfer to Linimo line to<strong> Aichiky\u016bhaku-kinen-k\u014den Station<\/strong>, which is right next to the park entrance.\r\n\r\n[banner-en]\r\n<h2>Park features and attractions<\/h2>\r\nThe Ghibli Park <strong>spans 17 acres<\/strong> out of the almost 200 hectares that make up the wooded hills of Moricoro Park. Interestingly, <strong>Miyazaki insisted that no trees be cut down<\/strong> in the formation of the park to celebrate the natural beauty that inspired Ghibli\u2019s lush animation.\r\n\r\nThere are rides, but the massive rollercoasters that dominate many theme parks are avoided in favor of nature trails that will feel as if they are taken right from the movies. It is meant to be \"<strong>a hybrid place, between a park and a museum<\/strong>,\" said Goro Miyazaki, the son of the studio\u2019s main creative force.\r\n\r\nThose arriving at the park\u2019s entrance gate are greeted by the sight of the grinning \u2018Catbus\u2019 from <em>My Neighbour Totoro<\/em>. From there, and true to form for Ghibli, <strong>it\u2019s almost like walking into the past<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nVintage candy shops sell sweets that are hard to find in Tokyo. Capsule toys are sold in old-school \"gacha-gacha\" vending machines. Dessert stands sell combo bottled milk and pastries.\r\n\r\nThroughout the park, <strong>themed play areas, galleries, and cinemas<\/strong> exist side-by-side with impressive statues of Ghibli creatures. Each area is described in detail below.\r\n<h3>Youth Hill<\/h3>\r\nAlso known as Hill of Youth, this section is <strong>based partially on <em>Howl\u2019s Moving Castle<\/em><\/strong>. Located at the <strong>park\u2019s north entrance<\/strong>, you\u2019ll find a yellow gate and an observation tower, complete with nineteenth-century objects from <em>Howl\u2019s Moving Castle<\/em>.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12433\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-12433 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/youth-hill-ghibli-theme-park-concept-art.jpg\" alt=\"Youth hill concept art: Ghibli theme park\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12438\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-12438\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/howls-moving-castle.jpg\" alt=\"Howl\u2019s Moving Castle\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Youth Hill is based partially on Howl\u2019s Moving Castle - Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThis section also features European-style brick buildings and buildings reminiscent of the Seiseki-Sakuragaoka Tokyo neighborhood antique shop from <em>Whisper of the Heart<\/em>.\r\n<h3>Great Ghibli Warehouse<\/h3>\r\nAlso called Ghibli\u2019s Large Warehouse or Big Ghibli Warehouse, the Warehouse is be situated on the former site of a large swimming pool. It is an <strong>indoor attraction<\/strong> that can be enjoyed at any time of the year, regardless of the weather.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12443\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-12443\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/ghibli-warehouse.jpg\" alt=\"Ghinli Warehouse\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12448\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-12448\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/ghibli-warehouse-concept-art.jpg\" alt=\"Ghinli warehouse concept art\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n\r\nInside, you\u2019ll find 13 <strong>life-size replicas that recreate key moments<\/strong> from the studio\u2019s classic films, including scenes from <em>Spirited Away<\/em>, <em>From Up on Poppy Hill<\/em>, and <em>Porco Rosso<\/em>.\r\n\r\nThe Warehouse also features a <strong>children\u2019s playground based on <em>My Neighbor Totoro<\/em><\/strong> as well as the sky garden from <em>Laputa: Castle in the Sky<\/em>. There is also an area that resembles the setting for the 2010 movie \u2018<em>Arrietty<\/em>\u2019.\r\n\r\nOther highlights include an <strong>exhibition room, a cinema, shops, restaurants, and a literal warehouse<\/strong> in which revolving temporary exhibits will be stored, including a display on the foods that appear in Studio Ghibli films.\r\n<h3>Mononoke\u2019s Village<\/h3>\r\nMononoke Village, <strong>based on the film <em>Princess Mononoke<\/em><\/strong>, will transport visitors back to the Muromachi period (1336 to 1573) in which the film is set. It recreates Tatara-ba, or Irontown, named for a traditional Japanese metal smelting furnace.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12453\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-12453 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/princess-mononoke-village.jpg\" alt=\"Mononoke\u2019s Village\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12458\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-12458\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/princess-mononoke-village-concept-art.jpg\" alt=\"Princess Mononoke concept art\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe area will be inhabited by figures of the spider-like tatari gami, the god of destruction; the boar god, Lord Okkoto; and other mystical creatures.\r\n\r\nThere will also be a free area next door to the village which will house a playground based on <em>The Cat Returns<\/em> that anyone can play in without charge.\r\n<h3>Witch Valley<\/h3>\r\nAlso called the Valley of Witches, this colorful area will feature <strong>attractions themed after <em>Kiki\u2019s Delivery Service<\/em> and <em>Howl\u2019s Moving Castle<\/em><\/strong>, including the castle itself, the hat shop from the film, and Kiki\u2019s family home.\r\n\r\nThe bakery where Kiki lives and works will also be recreated and visitors will be able to buy bread just like that shown in the movie. The area is also expected to house a teacup ride decorated with Kiki's cat Jiji.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12463\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-12463\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/witches-valley-area.jpg\" alt=\"Witches Valley area\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12468\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-12468\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/witches-valley-area-concept-art.jpg\" alt=\"Witches Valley area concept art\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n<h3>Dondoko Forest<\/h3>\r\nBased on <em>My Neighbor Totoro<\/em>, this area resembles the Show period (1926 to 1989). The area expands on the existing structure of the Kusakabe's house from the film, originally constructed for Expo 2005.\r\n\r\nIt is also home to a giant Totoro statue, and a large wooden playground on the hill behind the house that blends into the surrounding countryside.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_12473\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-12473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/dondoko-forest.jpg\" alt=\"Dondoko Forest\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" \/> Credits: Studio Ghibli[\/caption]\r\n<h2>Opening hours and tickets<\/h2>\r\nExcept for major school holidays, Ghibli Park is <strong>open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays<\/strong> (although it\u2019s closed on Tuesdays unless it is a holiday). On public holidays and weekends, it\u2019s open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.\r\n\r\nVisitors have to <strong>buy a ticket in advance online for each individual area<\/strong> of the park, as there is no ticket for general admission currently available. Prices vary from JPY1,000 ($6.70) for Dondoko Forest and Hill of Youth to JPY2,500 ($16.90) for Ghibli's Grand Warehouse (on weekends and holidays).\r\n<h2>Planning Your Trip<\/h2>\r\nBefore planning to visit Ghibli Park, you should be aware that the number of visitors is currently limited to 5,000 people per day, and that <strong>tickets are already sold out through the end of 2022<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nHowever, online reservations from abroad are <strong>expected to open again in early 2023<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nIn the meantime, you can feast your senses on Studio Ghibli\u2019s extensive film roster:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><em>Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind<\/em> (1984)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Castle in the Sky<\/em> (1986)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Grave of the Fireflies<\/em> (1988)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>My Neighbor Totoro<\/em> (1988)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Kiki\u2019s Delivery Service<\/em> (1989)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Only Yesterday<\/em> (1991)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Porco Rosso<\/em> (1992)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Pom Poko<\/em> (1994)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Whisper of the Heart<\/em> (1995)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Princess Mononoke<\/em> (1997)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>My Neighbors the Yamadas<\/em> (1999)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Spirited Away<\/em> (2001)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>The Cat Returns<\/em> (2002)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Howl\u2019s Moving Castle<\/em> (2004)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Tales from Earthsea<\/em> (2006)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Ponyo<\/em> (2008)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Arrietty<\/em> (2010)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>From Up on Poppy Hill<\/em> (2011)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>The Wind Rises<\/em> (2013)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>The Tale of the Princess Kaguya<\/em> (2013)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>When Marnie Was There<\/em> (2014)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>Earwig and the witch<\/em> (2020)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><em>How Do You Live?<\/em> (expected 2026)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nWhen you do visit Ghibli Park, you should be aware that the signs, exhibit descriptions, and directions are almost completely in Japanese. So you may want to bring a dictionary or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/best-apps-travel-japan\">translation app<\/a> with you!","post_title":"Studio Ghibli Theme Park is now open: what to expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"studio-ghibli-theme-park","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2022-11-09 09:44:49","post_modified_gmt":"2022-11-09 08:44:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog?p=12432","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}]}]},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.10 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Chubu Region: Central Japan Travel Guide | JRailPass<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover a travel guide to the Chubu region, the central area of Japan\u2019s Honsh\u016b island, home to Mount Fuji and major cities such as Nagano and Nagoya.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15504\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Chubu Region: Central Japan Travel Guide | JRailPass\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover a travel guide to the Chubu region, the central area of Japan\u2019s Honsh\u016b island, home to Mount Fuji and major cities such as Nagano and Nagoya.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2021-09-10T06:23:43+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/mt-fuji-477832_960_720.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"960\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"635\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu\",\"name\":\"Chubu Region: Central Japan Travel Guide | JRailPass\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2021-07-16T09:10:16+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2021-09-10T06:23:43+00:00\",\"description\":\"Discover a travel guide to the Chubu region, the central area of Japan\u2019s Honsh\u016b island, home to Mount Fuji and major cities such as Nagano and Nagoya.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\/chubu#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Japan Travel Blog\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Regions of Japan\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/regions-of-japan\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Chubu region: Japan travel guide\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"Japan Rail Pass Travel Blog | JRailPass\",\"description\":\"Discover Japan by train with the Japan Rail Pass\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.jrailpass.com\/blog\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Japan Rail Pass S.L. - 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