The Chūbu Region of Japan is one of the largest by land area, comprising 9 Prefectures. The region is largely mountainous, home to Japan’s famous mountain, Mt. Fuji, as well as the Japanese Alps found in Nagano Prefecture. The Chūbu region is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with many great natural attractions – from hikes, waterfalls, caves and lakes. You can also find the world famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where Japanese macaque monkeys can often be seen bathing in the relaxing hot spring water.
Chūbu was also a key travel route to Edo (modern-day Tokyo), and as such, there are a plethora of historic post towns, like Narai Juku, and villages of traditional villages, such as Shirakawa-go.
Top Destinations in Chūbu
Nagano Prefecture
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Nagano's Snow Monkey Park
Matsumoto Castle
Unique black castle dating back to the 15th Century
Narai Juku
Historic Post Town in Nagano
Kamikochi
Popular summer hiking area
Aichi Prefecture
Nagoya City Science Museum
Exciting and interactive science museum
Korankei Valley
Valley famous for autumn colours
Inuyama Castle
Feudal Era Castle and famous cherry blossom spot
SCMaglev and Railway Park
Railway Museum in Nagoya City
Yamanashi Prefecture
Arakurayama Sengen Park
Iconic view of Mt.Fuji
Mount Fuji
The most famous icon of Japan
Lake Kawaguchiko
Scenic lake with Mount Fuji views, hot springs, and activities.
Lake Motosu
Serene Lake overlooking Mt. Fuji
Oshino Hakkai
Scenic village with clear spring ponds and views of Fuji.
Fuji Five Lakes
The five lakes surrounding Mt. Fuji
Gifu Prefecture
Tsukechi Gorge
Crystal-clear river, lush forest and scenic hikes
Shirakawa-go
Historic Sightseeing Village
Hida Great Limestone Cave
Vast limestone cave
Magome Juku
Walk through a beautifully restored part of Japanese History in this former...
Gujo Hachiman Castle
Explore the quaint hilltop castle
Otaki Limestone Cave
Massive limestone caverns with waterfalls
Ishikawa Prefecture
Kenroku-en Garden
One of Japan’s most famous gardens
Kanazawa Castle
Restored samurai castle with gardens, historic walls, and scenic grounds.
Kanazawa Higashi Chaya District
Historic geisha district with teahouses, shops, and Edo-era charm.
Omicho Market
Famous market in the heart of Kanazawa
Kanazawa
City with a rich history, pristine gardens, and a love for Gold.
Oyama Shrine
Unique Western-style Shrine building in Central Kanazawa
Fukui Prefecture
Echizen Daibutsu
Temple with enormous Buddha statue
Tojinbo Cliffs
Towering coastal cliffs
Shizuoka Prefecture
Mount Fuji
The most famous icon of Japan
Shirahama Shrine
Scenic Beachfront Shrine
Shiraito Falls
Beautiful Cascading Waterfall
Mishima Skywalk
Bridge spanning over a valley, famous for views of Mt. Fuji
Toyama Prefecture
Kansui Park
Scenic canal park with bridge views, Starbucks, and seasonal beauty.
Toyama Castle
Small castle park dating back to the 1500's
Suganuma Village
Rustic village with Traditional Style Homes
Arakurayama Sengen Park
Iconic view of Mt.Fuji
Mount Fuji
The most famous icon of Japan
Shirahama Shrine
Scenic Beachfront Shrine
Lake Kawaguchiko
Scenic lake with Mount Fuji views, hot springs, and activities.
Tsukechi Gorge
Crystal-clear river, lush forest and scenic hikes
Lake Motosu
Serene Lake overlooking Mt. Fuji
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Nagano's Snow Monkey Park
Echizen Daibutsu
Temple with enormous Buddha statue
Oshino Hakkai
Scenic village with clear spring ponds and views of Fuji.
Shirakawa-go
Historic Sightseeing Village
Nagoya City Science Museum
Exciting and interactive science museum
Fuji Five Lakes
The five lakes surrounding Mt. Fuji
Lake Shoji
The smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes
Explore Chūbu
Popular among readers
Japan Rail Pass
Unlock Japan with the Japan Rail Pass
Iwatayama Monkey Park
See Japanese Macaque Monkey's in Kyoto City
Where to Store Luggage in Japan
Your guide to travelling Japan unincumbered
Dotonbori Ferris Wheel
Unique view of Dotonbori
Dōtonbori
Osaka's Vibrant Canal District
