Top Chubu How to Get Around in 2026

Learn more about Japanese history and culture and the beautiful UNESCO-listed houses in Shirakawa-go on a small-group walking tour of the village. You can ask your guide questions and get a better insight than you would wandering around by yourself. Meet your guide at the bus station and expect to walk for 2–4 hours.

Itinerary Time Table: Kanazawa (Dep. 13:50) → Shirakawago (Arr. 15:10, Dep. 16:40) → Takayama (Arr. 17:40) *Please note that times may vary due to traffic conditions. **Please arrive at the station 10 minutes before the departure time. Please note: This is a transportation service only and not a guided tour. Embark on a captivating journey from Kanazawa to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Japan. Step back in time and marvel at the well-preserved thatched-roof houses, a testament to centuries of traditional craftsmanship and culture. During your 1.5 hour stop, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the village with a self-guided walking tour map given to you by the driver, leading you to a carefully selected viewpoint. Capture stunning photographs, walk along the charming streets, and perhaps visit some of the local shops.

Discover the charm of traditional Japan on this unforgettable day tour to Shirakawa-go and the cultural highlights of Kanazawa. Begin your journey in the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go, famous for its picturesque Gassho-zukuri farmhouses and breathtaking mountain scenery. Stroll through the peaceful village streets, take stunning photos, and enjoy free time to explore or have lunch at your own pace. Continue to Kanazawa, where you will visit the beautiful Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, known for its seasonal beauty and elegant landscapes. The tour also includes stops at the Ishikawa Local Products Center to experience traditional crafts and the historic Higashi Chaya District, where you can walk through charming geisha streets and try famous gold leaf treats. This guided tour perfectly combines natural scenery, history, and culture, making it an ideal experience for travelers who want to explore the authentic beauty of Japan in one memorable day.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. In the heart of Kanazawa, embark on a 4-hour journey to uncover the city’s most captivating gems. As you explore the exquisite Kenroku-en gardens, you’ll find yourself transported to a realm of tranquility and beauty. Kanazawa Castle Park invites you to step back in time, surrounded by the echoes of samurai legends. The enchanting Higashi Chaya District offers a glimpse into the world of geisha, while Naga-machi and Naga-machi Buke Yashiki Districts reveal the secrets of the samurai. Become the hero of your adventure, and let our tour guide you through these timeless treasures. Don’t miss this chance to explore Kanazawa’s rich history and elegance. Book your journey now!

Visiting Shirakawago and Takayama in one day can be tricky without a car, but this small-group tour from Kanazawa takes care of transportation, leaving you free to focus on two of Japan’s top cultural attractions. Explore a traditional thatched-roof house in UNESCO-listed Shirakawago’s Ogimachi village, before seeing Takayama’s preserved streets at a relaxed pace in a small group.

Discover an efficient one-way journey between Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi with an English‑speaking guide who offers cultural and historical insights into the Fuji‑Hakone region. This tour includes a visit to Owakudani, known for its volcanic landscapes, sulfur steam, and the famous black eggs said to bring good luck. Travel directly between the two areas without transfers, keeping your luggage onboard for a seamless experience. Multiple designated drop-off locations are available throughout the Hakone area. You can disembark at convenient stops such as Sengokuhara, Kojiri Port, Gora, Kowakudani, or Hakone Yumoto, with a schedule that allows you to return to Hakone by evening. Enjoy comfortable transportation, unique scenery, and an engaging guided experience connecting two of Japan’s most iconic destinations.

Embark on a journey through the cultural and natural highlights of the Mt. Fuji region. Ride the exclusive Hokusai Special Train, inspired by Hokusai’s iconic Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, and visit the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, Shiraito Falls, and a traditional wasabi farm. Enjoy a choice of Japanese, vegetarian, Muslim-friendly, or Indian lunch. You can also select an option including the JR Mt. Fuji 2-Day Enjoy Pass, a tour-exclusive ticket offering access to eligible trains, buses, ropeways, and cruises across Shizuoka Prefecture on the tour day and following day. After the tour, choose to return to Mishima Station or be dropped off at Gotemba Premium Outlets for shopping.

Ride the exclusive Hokusai Special Train between Mishima and Fujinomiya Stations on a route not normally accessible to regular passengers. Inspired by Katsushika Hokusai's famous Thirty six Views of Mount Fuji, the train celebrates the artist's legacy through unique designs and onboard stories. Enjoy scenic views with special stops and slower operating speeds for a closer look at the landscapes surrounding Japan's most iconic mountain. You can also choose an option that includes the JR Mt. Fuji 2 Day Enjoy Pass, an excursion ticket exclusive to this tour that allows unlimited travel on eligible trains, buses, ropeways, and cruises throughout Shizuoka Prefecture on the day of the tour and the following day.

Make the most of your time, and only see the sights that interest you, on this private full-day tour from Tokyo. Choose from a walking or driving tour, and customize the itinerary to your interests. Stops can include Mt. Kachikachi Ropeway, Aokigahara Forest, a sake brewery, and Kawaguchi Lake, with a guide to provide insights.

Explore the beauty of Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens, and witness the majesty of Kanazawa Castle's exterior. This essential walking tour offers an in-depth look at the garden's rich history, its cultural significance, and its deep connection to the adjacent Kanazawa Castle Park. Guided by knowledgeable local experts in small groups, you will discover the historical link between the garden, which served as the outer garden of the feudal lord's residence, and the castle grounds across the street. Guides will explain how these two landmarks, the castle's restored architecture and the garden's exquisite design, tell the story of the powerful Kaga Domain. Participants will uncover hidden gems and insights often missed during solo visits, making it an enriching experience for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking to understand Japan's heritage.

Taste your way around Kanazawa and hear stories about its history on this small-group food walking tour. Discover places that many tourists overlook and overcome language barriers with a guide to translates for you. Along the way atmospheric Higashi Chaya and Kazue-machi Chaya districts before visiting Omicho Market, where you can sample local specialties and learn about Kanazawa’s culinary heritage.

Experience Kanazawa’s most iconic highlights—from the pristine landscapes of Kenrokuen Garden and atmospheric wooden teahouses of Higashi Chaya to the bustling Omicho Market and historic Nagamachi Samurai District. On top of the famous sights, we offer so much more. Go deeper into Kanazawa’s rich culture with top spots like the 21st Century Museum, the mysterious Ninja Temple, Oyama Shrine, or the Yasue Gold Leaf Museum. Looking to venture further? Our extended options take you directly to UNESCO World Heritage Shirakawa-go and historic Hida Takayama! Choose the exact duration and travel style that suits your group best: ・4-Hour Tour: Flexible Walking or Private Vehicle option ・6-Hour Tour: Private Vehicle for an in-depth city experience ・8-Hour & 12-Hour Tours: Private Vehicle extended options to explore Shirakawa-go & Takayama Skip the crowded group tours, set your own comfortable pace, and let your expert local guide craft a seamless, 100% personalized itinerary just for you!

Get a taste of the ancient Nakasendo Trail that runs between Kyoto and Tokyo on a guided five-hour walk through the Kiso Valley. Walk between two scenic medieval towns without the risk of getting lost as your guide will keep you on the right path. Learn more about local culture and traditions while enjoying the landscapes along the way and getting some exercise.

Barhop your way around Kanazawa like a local. This small-group tour takes you to some of the city's best (and coziest) izakayas (casual Japanese bars). You'll rub shoulders with locals in some of the friendliest bars in town and get an authentic taste of Kanazawa nightlife, as well as some great local drinks.

Explore Japan’s iconic Mt. Fuji on a scenic full day tour via the Hakone route. Enjoy a photo stop at Lake Ashi, visit the volcanic valley of Owakudani, stroll through the traditional Oshino Hakkai Village, and ascend to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station (weather and road conditions permitting). This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and unforgettable views.

Guided tour around scenic spots where you can see "Mt. Fuji and five-storied pagoda" introduced all over the world! Mt. Fuji, the landscape in the hearts of Japanese people, is also the most attractive sightseeing spots for visitors from all over the world. During the tour, you can also enjoy town walking around Arakurayama Sengen Park with English speaking guide. Good experience to take the local train "Fujikyuko Line" to the nearest station of the scenic spot. *Brochure of Mt. Fuji is comprementary in this tour. *Meeting Point is 2nd floor of Fujisan Plaza (1 min walk from the station). >>>Please come to the 2nd floor of Fujisan Plaza using stairs inside the store

Highlights -Visit Yaotomi Shrine, where Tokugawa Ieyasu is said to have prayed for victory. -Walk across the sea to Takeshima, a nationally protected natural monument. -Weave your own coaster using traditional Mikawa cotton and colorful threads. -Make samurai-style onigiri with local ingredients including rich Hatcho miso. -Cook rice in a traditional pot and learn to roll futomaki sushi. Overview Trace Tokugawa Ieyasu’s connection to Gamagori through its samurai history, craftsmanship, and food culture. Begin at Takeshima Island and visit Yaotomi Shrine, where Ieyasu is said to have prayed for victory before battle. Your professional guide will share stories connecting Ieyasu to the region. Next, discover Mikawa cotton, a traditional textile related with Ieyasu, and weave your own coaster on a loom. Finish with a hands-on cooking experience. Make rice balls with freshly cooked rice and local ingredients, then try making futomaki, classic thick sushi rolls. *Optional add-on available

・Cross the sea to sacred Takeshima Island with a local Gamagori guide. ・Visit five island shrines, including Yaotomi Shrine with its 850-year history. ・Walk around a nationally designated Natural Monument surrounded by Mikawa Bay. ・Take in sweeping views across Mikawa Bay Quasi-National Park from the island. ・On rare low tides, walk the exposed seabed connecting Takeshima to shore. The following options can also be added to your tour. Please inquire when booking. ・Dining at Gamagori Classic Hotel: French cuisine or teppanyaki ・Dining at Hotel Takeshima: Japanese or Western cuisine ・Japanese Cooking Experience in Gamagori | Onigiri & Futomaki Sushi with a Hotel Chef ・Visit to Takeshima Aquarium with a Professional, English-speaking guide ・Mikawa Cotton Weaving Workshop in Gamagori: From Raw Cotton to Handwoven Coaster

- Explore the 120-year history of the Gamagori Classic Hotel with a local guide. - Discover elegant interiors and stories of celebrated writers and distinguished former guests. - Enjoy cake and coffee or tea overlooking Mikawa Bay and Takeshima Island. - Trace Gamagori’s literary connections at a charming museum beside the sea. - Stroll through Shunzei-en Garden while taking in beautiful views of Takeshima Island. Discover the literary charm of Gamagori, a peaceful seaside town overlooking Mikawa Bay. Explore the historic Gamagori Classic Hotel with a local guide, uncovering its distinctive architecture and connections to celebrated writers. Enjoy cake and coffee or tea with panoramic views of Takeshima Island before visiting the Seaside Literary Memorial Museum, where the town’s literary heritage comes to life. Complete your journey with a stroll through Shunzei-en Garden, surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery.

Explore the essence of Japanese culture through an immersive journey that intertwines history, food, fermentation, and nature. Wander through a breathtaking landscape shaped by mountains and forests, discovering how traditional practices in agriculture and craftsmanship developed over time. Engage in hands-on experiences at historical sites and craft workshops, while indulging in local culinary delights, including rice cultivation and sake brewing. This exploration reveals the deep connections between community, spirituality, and the environment, offering a rich understanding of Japan’s cultural evolution.

Discover the rich history of the old Japanese port town of Niigata. This private tour explores the unique blend of Western and Japanese cultures that developed in Niigata in the 1800s when ships arrived from all over the world to trade and the city was flooded with sailors. You'll visit such landmarks as the Old Saito Residence, the former Ozawa Family Estate, and the Minato Inari Shrine.

Experience the ultimate Mount Fuji day tour, perfectly crafted for families, friends, and first-time visitors seeking a scenic and cultural escape from Tokyo or Kawaguchiko. Begin your journey at the picturesque Oshino Hakkai, a charming traditional village famous for its eight crystal-clear ponds fed by the snowmelt of Mount Fuji. Stroll along peaceful pathways, admire traditional houses, and capture postcard-perfect reflections of the iconic mountain in the tranquil waters. Next, soar above breathtaking landscapes on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, where sweeping views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi create unforgettable photo moments. Continue to the famous Lawson photo spot near Lake Kawaguchi, a must-visit location loved by travel photographers for its unique framing of Mt. Fuji and everyday Japanese scenery.

Unleash your inner explorer on Toyama with a personalized journey, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and serene hidden spots. Our custom tours provide a bespoke experience, tailored to your desires, ideal for adventure seekers, families with children, and culture enthusiasts alike. Discover local secrets, savor authentic moments, and create unforgettable memories on Toyama. Enjoy immersive cultural experiences, gain insider knowledge, and have memorable encounters with local traditions, ensuring a truly unique and enriching adventure.

This private and customizable tour for Niigata is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.