All Chubu Tours & Excursions in 2026

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.

Visit the authentic washi making factory of RYOZO Yanase Paper Mill and get a deeper look into the world of washi making. The owners, Mr. and Ms. Yanase have years of experience and will give you knowledgeable instructions. Guests will get to tour the washi factory where they make paper fit for commercials products such as packaging for Japanese sweets. It is a rare opportunity to see such a factory. Afterwards with the instructions of Ms. Yanase, a traditional craftsman, guests will make a washi piece that is perfect as a tapestry. It is made using traditional techniques so it is a chance to experience authentic washi making.

I have provided one of the most popular samurai experience at Japan. Over 5,000 people have enjoyed with rating 4.99 stars during 8 years!! Also appearing on the official Olympic channel You will gain more awareness about your body and mind, through practicing swordsmanship, physical exercises from ancient Japanese tradition, meditation. It will be held in the most beautiful natural setting in Japan. Sounds play a critical role in this program. All things, including humans and objects, are said to emit vibrations and sounds. We will shower you with healing sounds. The healing sounds will purify you, while the sounds of flute and energizes you. There also will be playing music improvised on the spot for you along with authentic sword dance, that will reach your soul and ignite your heart.

【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.

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.

Please note that even if you select “Tour Language: English(written),” the driver speaks Japanese only. Communication will be supported using a translation app, and English tour information will be provided in advance. Discover the charm of Niigata with this private shore excursion tailored for cruise passengers. Enjoy a flexible itinerary that showcases historic landmarks, traditional architecture, and local culture while traveling in a comfortable private vehicle. With dedicated round-trip transport from Niigata Port, this experience allows you to explore at your leisure without the constraints of larger group tours. Perfect for couples, families, and small groups, this tour ensures comfort and efficiency, with a timely return to the port for your cruise. - Private vehicle for a relaxed and personalized tour experience - Explore Niigata's historic sites and local culture at your own pace - Ideal for couples, families, and small groups seeking comfort

A coastal town long famed for its many hot springs, Atami has recently reinvented itself as a destination for museum lovers, Japanese culture fans and ocean sports enthusiasts. Atami located at the root of Izu Peninsula and facing Sagami Bay, is area with modern hotels, Japanese inns with historical backgrounds. In Atami, there are plenty of places where you can appreciate the arts and traditional cultural experiences, not only Onsen spots. Your guide will fully support your Atami day trip. We assure you will spend plenty of time at one of the best-known hot spring havens, Atami. Please select 2 to 3 spots to visit from the Must-see or itinerary list.

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

Getting to UNESCO World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawa-go and the historic streets of Hida Takayama in one day can be tricky to plan without prior knowledge. Save yourself the hassle of navigating rural transportation on your own, and relax on this handy guided tour from Kanazawa. As you explore, gain local insight into what you see, and take a break to sample an authentic Japanese lunch.

Visit Ghibli Park with an O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium ticket and enjoy a smooth arrival with assistance from our local staff. Meet our staff at the designated meeting point, where they will explain the park layout, entry procedures, and useful information for your visit. After the brief orientation, explore Ghibli Park independently at your own pace, including Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse and other themed areas included with your ticket. Enjoy the world of Studio Ghibli with the convenience of a premium park ticket and local assistance.

• 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 Lake Kawaguchi at your own pace with our convenient bicycle rental service. Our shop is located right on the lakeside, offering the closest access to popular spots such as Oishi Park and Kawaguchiko Bridge. With our unique restaurant-reception, you can also enjoy a delicious meal or grab a refreshing drink to take with you on your ride. A fun, flexible, and eco-friendly way to explore Mt. Fuji’s most iconic lake and its charming surroundings!

Sumo, a revered Japanese martial art and combat sport, boasts a rich tradition dating back to ancient times. You can sit in a chair and observe. (Usually, visitors sit on the ground.) Embark on a unique tour that grants you exclusive access to witness sumo wrestlers engaged in rigorous practice, offering a rare chance to capture the moment with them. An English-speaking guide will be available at the meeting place, the temple “Ryushoin”. You will be able to see the techniques of sumo wrestlers up close. Delve into the intensity of daily training for professional Sumo wrestlers, providing a rare and intimate glimpse into their dedication and discipline. Explore the renowned Takasago stable, distinguished for producing six yokozuna (the highest rank in sumo, often referred to as grand champions) and eight ozeki (the second-highest rank, signifying accomplished sumo wrestlers). This solidifies its status as one of the most prestigious sumo stables globally.

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.

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.

Discover Kanazawa with a friendly local guide who has lived here for more than 25 years. This private and flexible tour is tailored to your interests whether you want to explore famous landmarks like Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and the Higashi Chaya District, or dive into hidden neighborhoods and local culture. My goal is to make you feel at home in Kanazawa, offering a warm welcome and personal touch throughout the day. Along the way, I’ll share insider tips, stories, and local recommendations so you can experience the city in a way that feels both authentic and memorable. With me as your guide, Kanazawa becomes more than sightseeing. It feels like visiting a friend.

Simplify your visit to Sado Island from Niigata City on a guided day tour. After catching the ferry over from the mainland (extra cost), you can choose 3–4 different attractions that you most want to visit. Depending on your interests, you could check out the Sado Gold Mine, the Museum of History and Folklore, the island’s lovely parks, and more. Get away from the crowds at this less-visited destination.

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.

Enjoy a private, full day walking tour of Niigata with a government-licensed and multilingual guide. Niigata is a beautiful city located on Japan's northwest coast, facing the Sea of Japan. Its perfect climate and verdant landscape helped to make it an agricultural powerhouse, known for its long heritage of rice and sake production. Lets us know your interests and your guide will customize a tour that is made specifically for you.

Go off the beaten track to parts of Hida missed by most travelers on this guided biking tour. Pedal at a relaxed pace through a historic tow and past farming villages and rice fields, and get a taste of local daily life in the Japanese countryside as your guide shares insights into the history and culture for the area. This small-group tour is limited to eight people to ensure a personal experience.

Get out of the big city and into the beautiful landscapes of rural Toyama on this tour from Kanazawa. Admire the distinctive thatched-roof houses of the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go and Gokayama villages; admire the artistry of the woodcarvers of Inami; and learn how to make your own piece of *washi* paper.

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.

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.

This tour is a small-group tour led by a guide who was born and raised at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Depending on the participants' preferences and physical condition, we will ride high-performance pedal assist e-bikes that are less tiring and explore the spots around the lake. Unlike typical group tours where you just visit tourist spots, our tour is designed for the guide to provide detailed explanations of the history and background of each spot, so that participants can feel and experience the local culture and environment at the foot of Mt. Fuji.