Shrines and Temples in Alps and Chubu

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go (白川郷) and nearby Gokayama (五箇山) are secluded World Heritage villages known for their vernacular farmhouse-style houses called Gassho-Zukuri. These unique buildings have their style to withstand the heavy snow in the winter. Definitely a place to bring the camera. Budget travel tips If coming from Osaka or Nagoya, the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass is a great wayContinue reading “Shirakawa-go”

Hida Furukawa

Hida Furukawa is a nice little day trip from Takayama. It is a compact town with some nice traditional streets showing off some rather beautiful, very Japanese architecture. It’s quieter and calmer than Takayama. Budget travel tips Download this useful town map or get one from the Tourist Information Center outside of Hidafurukawa Station south exit. It’s bestContinue reading “Hida Furukawa”

Takayama

Takayama is a beautiful town in the Japanese Alps. It is famous for it’s festivals, markets and old-fashioned atmosphere. It makes for a nice trip away from cities such as Kyoto or Nagoya. Budget travel tips Pick up a free map of the area at the Tourist Information Office (see map) opposite the station. CutContinue reading “Takayama”

Obuse

Obuse is a lovely little town near Nagano. The old-fashioned streets and countless interesting temples provide a great one day trip. Obuse is a good place to visit on the way to Yudanaka and the Monkey Park. Budget travel tips See our map below for a recommended walking route (red line). This is the best way toContinue reading “Obuse”

Nagano City

Nagano (長野) is a nice stop-off point, before going off to Habuka or the Monkey Park in Yudanaka. Accommodation is quite cheap here, but there is not too much to do. Budget travel tips Pick up at some tourist maps at the Tourist Information Center in Nagano station. They have free maps for the Nagano side trips of YudanakaContinue reading “Nagano City”