Japan Alps Travel Guide

Discover beautiful Japan Alps with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out what to see, where to stay and what to taste!


Introduction to Japan Alps

Nestled in Chubu, the heart of Japan, lies the stunning mountain range of Japan Alps. Located in East Asia, Japan Alps offers travelers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With soaring peaks, picturesque mountain villages, and hot springs to relax in, Japan Alps is an ideal destination for hiking, skiing, and sightseeing.

List of Places to Visit in Japan Alps

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Japan Alps offers numerous cultural attractions that showcase the rich history and traditions of the region. Here are the top places to visit in Japan Alps.

  • Matsumoto Castle: This popular tourist attraction is one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles from the 16th century. This museum houses artifacts and historical objects related to the castle’s history.
  • Zenko-ji Temple: This Buddhist temple dates back to the 7th century and is one of Japan’s oldest and most visit-worthy temples.
  • Hida Folk Village: This open-air museum showcases traditional Japanese farmhouses, where visitors can experience the way of life from more than 300 years ago.
  • Takayama Old Town: Takayama is a historical town with charming streets, preserved old buildings, and shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.
  • Hiking Trails: Visitors can also explore Japan Alps’ history by taking a hike on the Nakasendo trail, old postal routes from the Edo period.

Natural Attractions of Japan Alps: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Japan Alps, with its stunning geography, offers a plethora of outdoor activities to suit every traveler’s interests. Here are some of the best outdoor experiences in Japan Alps:

  • Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route: The gorgeous Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which is open from mid-April through mid-November, is a self-guided hiking route where visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the mountains, enjoy scenic boat rides, or access the incredible Midagahara Highlands by bus.
  • Kamikochi: Kamikochi is a natural park that offers an abundance of hiking trails, including the famous Kappa Bridge, which stretches over the Azusa River. Visitors can also take a dip at the hot springs at Hirayu Onsen, a mountainside town nearby.
  • Snowsports: Snowsports enthusiasts can visit Hakuba, a famous ski resort town and host of the 1998 Winter Olympics. The town offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels.
  • Shirakawago: The historical village, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, is a must-visit place known for its unique Gassho-Zukuri style farmhouses. The village is snugly tucked in between the mountains, and its natural beauty is sure to capture every visitor’s heart.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Japan Alps

Japan Alps has an extensive network of trails catering to all levels of hikers and bikers. Discover some of the best options:

  • Daikiretto: A challenging hiking trail, featuring Japan’s three highest peaks, Mt. Tateyama, Mt. Yari, and Mt. Hotaka. Depending on the hiker’s fitness level and conditioning, it can take up to five days to complete the full trail.
  • Kamikochi: Rated as one of the best hiking destinations in Japan, Kamikochi boasts several hiking trails that take you through stunning Alpine landscapes.
  • The Nakasendo Trail: A historical route connecting Kyoto to Tokyo. The trail is about 316 km long and was once used by samurai and daimyo as well as by commoners during the Edo Period.
  • Hida Cycle Path: A 40 km cycling route that runs the Hida River from Takayama to Gero. This bike path is popular for its stunning views of nature, calm roads, and as a way to discover the small towns and hot springs along the way.

Best Things to Do in Japan Alps: Activities and Tours

If you are unsure what to do in Japan Alps or don’t have much time, choose from some of the best things to do in Japan Alps that promises to keep you entertained:

  • Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route: A self-guided hiking route that provides tourists with magnificent views of the regions’ mountains and waterfalls. The route also features cable cars and buses to ensure visitors can explore the area adequately.
  • Snowsports: Skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports are popular in Japan Alps at resorts like Hakuba.
  • Cultural Tours: Guided tours take visitors to Matsumoto Castle, Hida Folk Village, and other popular cultural attractions.
  • Sightseeing: Hire a guide, visit traditional shrines and temples, or explore the historical Old Town of Takayama.
  • Food Tour: Japan Alps provides visitors with a wide variety of Japanese delicacies. Sup on miso-based soups, savor steaming bowls of noodles, and explore traditional Japanese food culture via food tours that can be customized to suit personal preferences.

Week-Long Itinerary for Japan Alps

If you want a complete experience of Japan Alps, it’s recommended to follow this week-long itinerary:

Day Plan
Day 1 Arrival, check-in, and relax
Day 2 Kamikochi Hiking Trail
Day 3 Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Day 4 Visit Matsumoto Castle and Hida Folk Village
Day 5 Explore Shirakawago
Day 6 Takayama Old Town and a traditional Japanese meal
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Japan Alps

Must-Try Dishes

The Japan Alps boasts a rich culinary tradition that is sure to delight any foodie. Here are a few must-try dishes:

  • Hida beef: A top-quality, marbled beef that is locally raised and served in various forms, including shabu-shabu and steak.
  • Soba noodles: Soba is a type of thin, brown noodle made from buckwheat flour that is served hot or cold with dipping sauce.
  • Nagano Apples: Nagano’s apples are world-famous for their juicy texture and sweet taste.

Local Beverages

In addition to the delicious local cuisine, Japan Alps has a plethora of drinks to offer, including:

  • Sake: Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
  • Beer: Japan Alps’ traditional breweries offer award-winning beers with unique ingredients such as mountain water and local hops.

Where to Stay in Japan Alps: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Japan Alps offers various accommodation options that cater to all types of travelers, budgets, and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hakuba: Music Box Guest House, a highly-rated hostel that offers dormitory beds, private rooms, and an inviting common area.
  • Takayama: Oyado Koto No Yume, a traditional ryokan with breathtaking natural scenery.
  • Matsumoto: Dormy Inn Matsumoto Natural Hot Spring, a mid-range hotel with exceptional service and a natural hot spring.
  • Shirakawago: Minshuku Urashima, where visitors can experience living in a traditional Japanese-style guesthouse.

What to Buy in Japan Alps: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Japan Alps offers some unique souvenirs that visitors can bring back home for their loved ones, such as:

  • Hida Beef: Visitors can purchase marbled Hida beef to bring back home or as a gift.
  • Sake: Visitors can purchase bottles of sake as souvenirs or gifts for their loved ones.
  • Japanese Traditional Crafts: Visitors can purchase bamboo crafts, ceramic pottery, and even Japanese knives.

Local Culture and Customs of Japan Alps

Japanese culture is deeply rooted in respect and humility. Here are some things to keep in mind while exploring Japan Alps:

  • Etiquette: Follow Japanese customs, such as removing your shoes before entering a house or temple.
  • Language: Learn some basic Japanese phrases to communicate effectively with the locals.
  • Respect: Respect the local culture and avoid offending others with improper behavior.

Best Time to Visit Japan Alps

Japan Alps can be explored during any season. However, spring and autumn are the best times to visit Japan Alps for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer and winter can be challenging due to the extreme weather conditions, making it difficult to access some places.

Do’s and Don’ts of Japan Alps

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Be polite to the locals and other travelers.
  • Research locations and transportation options well in advance.

Don’t:

  • Avoid talking on cell phones on public transportation.
  • Do not litter.
  • Do not leave tips at restaurants or other service providers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Japan Alps

Traveling in Japan is extremely safe. However, visitors should take precautions and ensure that they have adequate insurance coverage.

Health in Japan Alps

It is recommended to have travel insurance for medical emergencies while traveling in Japan. Japan has quality healthcare facilities across the country, but healthcare costs are expensive.

Getting to Japan Alps: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Japan Alps

The nearest airports to Japan Alps are:

  • Narita International Airport in Tokyo
  • Haneda International Airport in Tokyo

Both airports offer regular domestic flights throughout Japan.

Bus Stations Near Japan Alps

The Japan Alps has an extensive network of regular bus services that connects the various towns and villages in the region.

Other Options

Smooth, efficient rail travel is one of the best ways to travel in Japan. Japan has many different rail service providers such as the Japan Rail Pass and Express Trains.

How to Get Around in Japan Alps

Getting around in Japan Alps is easy with an extensive network of buses, trains, and taxis. The Japan Rail Pass is a convenient option that allows visitors unlimited travel on most JR trains.

Where to Go Next from Japan Alps: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Japan Alps is located in the center of Japan, so there are many other options for exploring nearby destinations. Here are some of the closest:

  • Nagano: Famous for its snow monkeys and the world-class ski resort of Hakuba.
  • Tokyo: Japan’s capital city and home to numerous tourist attractions such as the Tokyo Tower and Shibuya crossing.
  • Kyoto: Japan’s cultural capital known for its traditional gardens, temples, and shrines.

Conclusion

Japan Alps is a destination that is sure to please any traveler, whether they are looking for natural beauty or cultural enrichment. With a range of experiences available, from skiing and hiking to visiting cultural sites, Japan Alps is an ideal travel destination any time of year. Whatever you choose to do in Japan Alps, make sure to delve deep into the local culture and traditions, and respect them during your stay.

View towards the Northern Japan Alps, near Oku-Hida Onsen Villages View towards the Northern Japan Alps, near Oku-Hida Onsen Villages