Winter Food and Culture in Fukui Prefecture

Discover a World of Tiles at the Mosaic Tile Museum in Tajimi

The city of Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture is famous for its pottery industry and tile production. For over 1,300 years the area has been home to pottery and ceramics referred to as Minoyaki (Mino ceramic ware). The best place in town to dive in and learn all about Tajimi’s ceramics heritage is the Mosaic Tile Museum, which is home to decorative art displays, showcasing the beauty and history of mosaic tiles in Tajimi.

Winter Fun at Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort

Looking for some winter fun before spring starts? Hirugano Kogen Ski Resort is a fun, family-friendly ski resort in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. Located in the northern region of Gujo City close to Takayama, it is the perfect place for families to enjoy the snow with wide, gentle slopes for children, beginner-friendly slopes for skiing and snowboarding, and a kids area for the little ones to enjoy.

A Winter Trip Around Lake Suwa: Snowshoes and Sake

Lake Suwa is in the center of Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by high mountains. When several climatic conditions coincide in the winter, the mysterious lake presents a spectacular sight known as Omiwatari or The Crossing of the Gods. Around the lake are many activities, such as snowshoeing, sake brewery tours, and hot springs, perfect for a winter trip to Japan. Below are some of the highlights and recommended activities around Lake Suwa.

Experience the Thrills of Winter: Take the Komagatake Ropeway to Senjojiki Cirque, Japan's Highest Station, for Snow Play with Your Kids

The Japanese Alps, AKA the Roof of Japan, is a majestic mountain range featuring towering peaks over 3,000 meters high. The Komagatake Ropeway takes you directly under the mighty Mt. Hōken in the Central Alps, offering a thrilling journey to Senjojiki Cirque, Japan's highest station perched at 2,612 meters. What's more, the 950-meter vertical ascent from the ropeway's starting point at Shirabidaira is the highest in Japan.

Matsumoto: Snow-draped Castle, Ice Sculptures, and Snowshoeing

To begin your Matsumoto city winter sightseeing, start with the city's symbol, Matsumoto Castle. It is one of a few famous castles designated as a national treasure in Japan; the contrast between the white and black castle walls provides a breathtaking sight. In winter, the mountains of the Northern Alps serve as a perfect backdrop for the castle, creating a truly remarkable scene.

Winter in Gifu: Skiing and Enjoying the World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go

Gifu Prefecture is located roughly in the center of Japan. The northern part of the prefecture is covered with winter snow and is known for some of the heaviest snowfall in Japan. Below we introduce some of the attractive winter sightseeing spots unique to this region.

Takayama's Shin Hotaka Ropeway: A Journey into Breathtaking Winter Beauty

Are you looking for a trip to experience the authentic atmosphere of Japan and escape the busy city life? Look no further than Takayama, where you can enjoy the great outdoors and the beauty of each season. In winter, the snow adds an extra layer of charm to the town and creates a magical world. Plus, you can venture further out and witness the spectacular panorama of the Northern Alps and indulge in winter-only activities like snow-viewing baths.

The Captivating World of Samurai and Ninja in Central Japan

The Central Japan region was the heart of the samurai and ninja era, and today, there are numerous castles where the samurai were based and facilities where you can immerse yourself in the world of the ninja. This article highlights various ways to enjoy a "Samurai Ninja Journey" starting from Central Japan International Airport and Nagoya.

Walking The Tokaido Highway: The Other Samurai Trail

For overseas tourists interested in Japan's samurai ninja culture, the Nakasendo Highway may be more familiar than the Tokaido Highway, a route that even bears the name Tokaido on the Shinkansen bullet train. The Nakasendo, especially the mountainous route known as Kisoji, was introduced by the BBC as a walking route where visitors can enjoy the scenery of old Japanese roads and historic post towns, and has attracted many international tourists.

Tour 13 Famous Castles around Central Japan from Nagoya

The Central Japan region centered on Nagoya was the birthplace of the three great military commanders who contributed to ending the Warring States period and unifying the country: Nobunaga Oda, Hideyoshi Toyotomi, and Ieyasu Tokugawa. In addition to being home to three of Japan's five national treasures, the Central Japan region has countless unique castles with engaging stories.

Kanazawa Jam-Packed with Winter Goodness

Kanazawa, a historic castle town in the north of Central Japan, is an attractive tourist destination with locations all within a stone's throw of each other. It is excellent for a quick one-day trip or a relaxing two-day trip. Conveniently located in both Tokyo and Central Japan, Kanazawa throngs with tourists all year round, and winter is Kanazawa's most attractive season. In midwinter, the temperature rarely drops below freezing, but when it does get cold, get ready to enjoy Kanazawa's unique winter sights.

Central Japan's Top 7 Cherry Blossoms Spots in 2023

Sakura, the image of spring in Japan! Imagine the natural beauty of Japan, accented with delicate pink petals of cherry blossoms dancing on a gentle breeze. You too can enjoy this magnificent scene here, in Central Japan!