Index
- 1 🗻 From Fuji to Historic Villages: Welcome to Central Japan
- 2 ⛩️ Shirakawa-go: A Fairy Tale Village in the Mountains
- 3 🏰 Kanazawa: The “Little Kyoto” of the North
- 4 🗻 Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi: The Classic Japanese View
- 5 🍲 Taste Central Japan: From Hōtō Noodles to Crab Feasts
- 6 🚄 Easy to Reach, Hard to Forget
- 7 📌 Conclusion
- 8 P.S.
🗻 From Fuji to Historic Villages: Welcome to Central Japan
When most people think of Japan, cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka often come to mind.
But between those urban giants lies a region full of natural wonders, timeless traditions, and mouthwatering cuisine.
Welcome to Central Japan, home to Mount Fuji, Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa, and more hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re into mountain hikes, historic towns, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, this area is a must for your next trip.
⛩️ Shirakawa-go: A Fairy Tale Village in the Mountains
Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its “gassho-zukuri” farmhouses.
These thatched-roof homes look like something out of a storybook, especially when covered in snow.
You can even stay overnight in some of these traditional houses for a truly immersive experience.
And don’t miss the local soba noodles and mountain vegetables—simple, hearty, and unforgettable.
Shirakawa-go
🏰 Kanazawa: The “Little Kyoto” of the North
If Kyoto feels too crowded, Kanazawa is your peaceful alternative.
This beautifully preserved city is filled with samurai residences, traditional tea houses, and the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens.
Kanazawa is also a modern hub of art and creativity, with museums like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art blending old and new seamlessly.
And yes—the seafood is phenomenal thanks to its proximity to the Sea of Japan.
Kanazawa Station “Tsudumi-mon”
Higashi-tyayagai
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
🗻 Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi: The Classic Japanese View
Of course, no visit to Central Japan is complete without seeing Mount Fuji.
You can view Japan’s most iconic mountain from Lake Kawaguchi, where reflections of Fuji in the water create postcard-perfect scenery.
Whether you hike, cycle, or just relax at an onsen with a view, the Fuji Five Lakes area offers both adventure and serenity.
Mount Fuji
Oshino-hakkai
🍲 Taste Central Japan: From Hōtō Noodles to Crab Feasts
This region is a hidden gem for food lovers. Try Hōtō, a miso-based noodle stew from Yamanashi, or head to Kanazawa’s Omicho Market for fresh crab and sashimi.
In Nagoya, don’t miss hitsumabushi “grilled eel over rice” or miso katsu, a twist on the usual tonkatsu with a rich, savory miso sauce.
Each prefecture has its own flavor—and you’ll want to try them all.
Hōtō “Yamanashi prefecture’s local food”
Hitsumabushi “Aichi prefecture’s local food”
🚄 Easy to Reach, Hard to Forget
Despite its “hidden” label, Central Japan is surprisingly accessible:
- Shinkansen to Nagoya, Kanazawa, or Toyama
- Buses to Shirakawa-go and Takayama
- Day trips from Tokyo or Osaka possible for Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi
It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond the basics but still enjoy comfort and ease.
📌 Conclusion
Central Japan isn’t flashy—but it’s deeply beautiful.
It’s the kind of place where you slow down, breathe deeply, and experience Japan’s quieter side.
From snowy villages to historic streets and steaming bowls of local food, it’s a side of Japan many travelers miss—but never forget once they’ve seen it.
P.S.
My grandparents’ home is in Aichi Prefecture. Aichi is a place of many famous foods and delicious foods such as Nagoya Cochin “chicken”, Hitsumabushi, Misokatsu, Azuki Toast, etc!
またね “Matane”!
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