All Chubu Tours & Excursions in 2026

It is not just a Tourist Guide, it is an excursion among friends, knowing, laughing, enjoying the places in the Mt. Fuji area, getting closer to history through its inhabitants.

This full-day tour explores the scenery and craft traditions around Niigata with an English-speaking guide, available by public transport or private vehicle, meeting at Niigata Station. Begin at Yahiko Shrine, one of Niigata's most sacred sites, where a cedar forest leads to a main shrine with over 2,400 years of history, then continue nearby to the 634-meter summit of Mt. Yahiko for panoramic views over the Sea of Japan, Sado Island, and rice fields. With a private vehicle, the day continues to Sakana no Ichibadori fish market in Nagaoka for fresh seafood, and on to Tsubame-Sanjo, renowned for metal craftsmanship, where the Regional Industries Center offers Japanese knives, cutlery, and kitchenware. Given the greater distances, the public-transport version instead keeps to a closer loop around Yahiko Shrine and Mt. Yahiko. Lunch can be arranged along the way at your own expense, and the itinerary can be adjusted within the tour's allotted time to suit your interests.

If you are a wine lover, Katsunuma Koshu region wineries are a must. The Koshu region has a lot of great wine makers and we have chosen our top 10 for you to pick from to visit. Your guide and driver can bring you to 3 to 5 wineries on this tour! This is full day tour, so you can relax and enjoy your wine. Have fun "Winery hopping". We hope to guide you soon! Maximum 7 participants per tour. If you are travelling with children ages 0-6, please inform us when you make the reservation. No more than 2 car seats available for each vehicle. Infant child seats may not be available.

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.

Why settle for a crowded bus tour when you can experience Mt. Fuji with the top down? Escape the rigid group schedules and take the wheel of an open-top Mazda MX-5 convertible roadster for an unforgettable self-guided road trip around Lake Kawaguchiko and the Fuji Five Lakes. Enjoy complete freedom to explore hidden lakeside roads, scenic mountain passes, and iconic viewpoints at your own pace. We make your journey effortless with full insurance coverage, complimentary pick-up and drop-off directly at Kawaguchiko Station, and a collection of great CD mixes so you can jam out to awesome tunes while cruising around the mountain. Experience the wind in your hair, pure driving joy, and 360-degree views of Mt. Fuji that generic tour buses simply can’t offer! To drive a rental car in Japan as an international tourist, travelers must bring and present the following physical original documents at pickup: Valid International Driving Permit (IDP), Original Home Country License, Passport

【The pickup service is available only for guests who are already staying in Kawaguchiko or Fujiyoshida area, or for those who can come to the areas on their own.】 Escape the crowds and experience the peaceful side of Mt. Fuji! At 2,305m (7,500ft), the 5th Station offers stunning views and clean mountain air—perfect for a relaxing walk. On this tour, we’ll hike a 2.5 km (1.6 mile) section of the historic Ochudo Trail, once used by pilgrims on spiritual journeys. The path is mostly flat with gentle slopes, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. A certified local English mountain guide will share stories about Mt.Fuji’s unique nature and culture. After the hike, enjoy an authentic local specialty at a local restaurant! This tour is available from May to December, and we provide free rental gear so even outdoor beginners or travelers without hiking equipment can join! Take your time, walk slowly and let Mt.Fuji’s quiet beauty leave a lasting impression.

Blacksmith was brought to Tsubame and Sanjo area in Niigata prefecture in the early 17th century, started producing Japanese nails called Wakugi. This area now became an artisan metalsmiths town. You can visit some of those factories, artisans welcome you. In this tour, you will visit Knife factory, Tadafusa and coppenwear factory, Gyokusendo. Both has a long history and you can see their work very closely. You can also visit more factory, Museum or shopping spots where you can find the Tsubame Sanjo quality products.

If you only have limited time to discover Japan, then this private sightseeing tour is a smart choice. Maximize your vacation time by checking off multiple dispersed sites in a day in Takayama and Shirakawa-go. Along the way, enjoy plenty of great photo opportunities, with a chance to see Gassho-style houses, Hida Folk Village, and Takayama Betsuin Shorenji Temple.

A rare opportunity to see authentic knife making factories in the heart of the scenic Echizen area. Guests will also get to speak with real knife making craftsmen who dedicate their lives to making the world renown Echizen knives. For Japanese knife lovers, this is the perfect tour. For the tour, guests will get to check out amazing knife handles made at Yamaken Woodworks and then see how the blades are made at Ryuzen Hamono. Within the tour guests will also get to experience a part of the knife making process.

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.

See the natural beauty of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area with a full-day private tour. Admire views of lakes, forests, waterfalls, and shrines during this guided tour. Learn about local landmarks including Kawaguchi Asama Shrine and Lake Kawaguchiko. Go off the beaten path to see hidden spots with a peaceful atmosphere and panoramic Mt. Fuji views.

If you’re looking for an overview tour of some of Nagano’s best bits, then this is it. After a hassle-free pickup, set off on an adventure to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, and Shibu Onsen, with admission included to save you time waiting in ticket lines. To keep energy levels high, you can also benefit from having a soba noodle lunch included.

Head deep inside one of the world’s most under-the-radar natural wonders on this small-group guided expedition through a Japanese ice cave. This site is hard to reach for most independent travelers, but special entry permits are included in the tour. Follow the light of a headlamp into the mysterious, ice-cold cavern, carved by lava eruptions from Mt. Fuji over a millennium ago—a thrilling, out-of-the-box adventure.

Seki has been a center for Japanese blacksmithing since the thirteenth century, and this small-group workshop takes you behind the scenes with the master craftsmen. Tour the Knife Museum, then try your hand at forging your own Damascus knife under the guidance of local craftsmen. Learn how to polish, sharpen, and engrave your own blade to take home.

A mysterious forest and lava cave created by Mt. Fuji, a professional guide will explain the nature, history, flora and fauna of the forest. There are many anecdotes about Jukai, several movies and documentaries have been produced, and many books have been published. We will guide you through the attractive forest in an easy-to-understand manner. Guides who are qualified as nature observation instructors will explain in a fun way. Ice caves are very rare as lava caves, and ice can be seen all year round, and cave exploration can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Children, couples, families, clubs, company trips, anyone can enjoy it with peace of mind. The foot of Mt. Fuji is also known as a power spot. Let's make new discoveries together. The tour is operated in a small group, normally individual guests require to obtain a special entry permit from the Tourism Association of the town.The forest and caves are part of a World Heritage Site and a national park.

• Create a personalized souvenir by combining traditional Japanese indigo dyeing with silk screen printing. • Choose between a T-shirt or a traditional Japanese tenugui hand towel and design it yourself. • Learn authentic Japanese dyeing techniques while creating a unique item you can take home. • Conveniently located near Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, making it an ideal cultural activity during your sightseeing trip. • Suitable for beginners, families, couples, solo travelers, and children. • All materials are provided, and our staff will guide you through each step of the process. • Watch the fascinating transformation as the fabric changes into beautiful shades of indigo during the dyeing process. • Each piece is completely unique, ensuring that no two creations are ever exactly the same. • Our facility is also home to a rescue cat café, allowing animal lovers to experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere unique to our workshop.

Discover the sake heritage of Niigata, widely regarded as Japan's premier sake producing region, on this relaxed private walking tour led by a friendly, government licensed local guide. Niigata's cold, snowy winters, pure water and high quality rice create its famously clean, crisp and dry 'tanrei karakuchi' sake. Starting near Niigata Station, visit Ponshukan, a unique tasting hall where you can sample a vast selection of local brews from across the prefecture, then tour a historic working sake brewery to see how premium sake is crafted and enjoy a guided tasting. Throughout the day your guide shares the stories and food pairings behind Niigata's beloved sake. Because this is a private tour, the pace and route are yours: linger where you like, ask all the questions you want, and customize the day to your tastes. Whether you are a curious first-timer or a passionate sake lover, it is a warm, local way to experience Niigata.

Explore Omicho Market, known as "Kanazawa’s Kitchen," on an exciting walking food tour with a local guide! Enjoy a variety of local gourmet dishes you can only find here, including fresh seafood rice bowls, seasonal Japanese sweets, and traditional ingredients. Feel the lively atmosphere of the market while learning about Kanazawa’s food culture and history in a fun and engaging way. Whether you're a tourist or a street food lover, this tour is packed with delights. Come experience the delicious flavors of Kanazawa with all five senses! To ensure that guests can enjoy tastings and experiences at many different shops, this tour is generally limited to a maximum of two groups. In some cases, there may be up to three groups, but please rest assured that this does not affect the quality of the tour! If you’re looking for a more relaxed and flexible experience, we recommend booking a private tour. Please feel free to contact us if you’re interested.

Explore the vibrant Pier Bandai market on a guided culinary walk that delves into the heart of Japanese seafood culture. This tour offers an authentic introduction to how fish and shellfish are selected, prepared, and enjoyed in everyday Japanese life. With a knowledgeable local guide, visit the Bandai-jima Fish Market and specialty shops, learning about local seafood favorites like sweet shrimp and salt-cured salmon. The experience includes a dining allowance for sampling various casual eateries, allowing you to enjoy dishes that reflect Niigata’s unique culinary landscape. - Discover the rich seafood traditions of Niigata at Pier Bandai - Guided exploration of the Bandai-jima Fish Market and specialty shops - Learn about local seafood and everyday eating habits in Japan - Enjoy a dining allowance to sample fresh seafood dishes at your leisure

Go beyond a simple knife-sharpening or engraving workshop. Create your own full-size Damascus Japanese kitchen knife through polishing, hand-drawn blade design, etching, sharpening, and test cutting with guidance from a master craftsman with over 50 years of experience. Your handwritten name, message, symbol, or small artwork becomes part of the finished blade through the etching process. Your design is revealed together with the beautiful Damascus pattern. In Seki, one of Japan’s most historic Sword Town —you will complete your own Damascus kitchen knife, enjoy a local Japanese lunch, and discover the culture behind Japanese blades. Choose from Santoku, Gyuto, Nakiri, or Bunka, depending on availability. Each guest is guided step by step at their own pace, making the experience suitable even for beginners. At the end, test the sharpness of your finished knife on fresh vegetables and take home both your Damascus knife and a deeper appreciation of Seki’s blade-making tradition.

Visit Shirakawago in the Japanese Alps to see the historical and beautiful old thatched houses of Japan stand strong. These houses are over 150 years old and still are lived in today. After seeing the natural beauty of Shirakawago, head to Takayama to see the various traditional crafts the area keeps alive. Join one of our tour guides and learn about history and culture in a way that you would have never been able to on your own! This private and customizable tour will take you to Shirakawago and Takayama at your own pace. Once you place your reservation, a guide will be in touch with you to plan out the details of your tour. Be sure to let your guide know where you would like to visit and your interests so they can plan out an itinerary for you! If you will not have time to visit all the sights on your must-see list, contact us directly regarding extension fees. Learn about this world heritage site with us! We hope to guide you soon!

Experience the highlights of the Fujikawaguchiko area on a convenient private three-hour tour. Instead of wasting time trying to get between sites of interest, simplify the process by going with an English-speaking driver. Visit beautiful and interesting places like the Hahanoshirataki Waterfall, Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine, the Saiko Bat Cave, and more. This is a great way to make the most of a short time around Mount Fuji.

Half day private tour will take you to explore around Mt. Fuji. Most of the places around Lake kawaguchi need car/bus access. Why don't you take our short private tour and save your time for sightseeing. -Private tour for 3-4 hours including pick-up and drop-off -Visit 3-4 spots around Lake Kawaguchi -100% Customizable & Flexible -Guided by local English Speaking guide -Mini Van with luggage storage space. We will pick you up at hotel in the morning or afternoon and head to visit sightseeing places you would like to visit. Recommended places are given by your guide as well. [example of the half day tour] 8:30 : pick you up at your hotel 9:00 : Lake Yamanaka for morning view with swans 10:30 :Visiting Oshinohakkai & Kitaguchi sengen shrine 11:30 : Visiting Lake Kawaguchi at Oishi Park 12:00 : Back to your hotel or Kawaguchiko Station. Pick-up time can be flexible by your request(*sometimes limited). Please contact us before or after booking.

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.