Chubu

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine was founded upon Ieyasu Tokugawa's instruction before his death to bury his remains in Kunozan and is the oldest of the Toshogu shrines in Japan. The shrine buildings, with their original Gongen-zukuri style and lavish lacquer decorations, were designated as a National Treasure in 2010.

Shimizu boasts the largest catch of frozen tuna in Japan. The Shimizu Fish Market Kashi-no-Ichi, conveniently located from Shimizu Station's East Exit, offers amazing deals on fresh seafood that you can buy and eat on the spot. Shop for quality ingredients carefully selected by professional dealers in the Ichiba-kan building, or if you are ready to eat, head to the seafood restaurants in the Maguro-kan building.

Tokko-no-Yu is the oldest hot spring in the Shuzenji Onsen resort in Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture. Legend has it that in 807, when renowned Buddhist priest Kukai visited the area, he was deeply touched by the deeds of a son caring for his sick father and struck a river rock with his tokko (a Buddhist ritual tool) to produce the famous hot spring. Today, Tokko-no-Yu is only open for observation, and dipping your hand and feet or bathing in the water is not allowed.

Mishima Skywalk in Shizuoka Prefecture is Japan’s longest suspension bridge.There are also facilities for enjoying shopping and lunch, including local cuisine such as Mishima-brand curry and croquettes. This pedestrian-only suspension bridge is easily accessed by car and train. This popular spot is also conveniently located close to some of Japan’s most famous tourist areas, such as Izu and Hakone.

Miho-no-Matsubara, known for its ties to the legend of Hagoromo, is located in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture. A pine known as Hagoromo-no-Matsu is famous for being the site of the legend. Miho-no-Matsubara was designated a World Cultural Heritage site along with Mount Fuji’s designation in June 2013.

The Sekigahara Battlefield became a pivotal setting in Japanese history on September 15, 1600, when the Eastern Army led by Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Western Army led by Ishida Mitsunari battled for political power following the demise of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Today, various historic sites related to the monumental battle still remain in the town of Sekigahara, including nine government-designated historical sites.

Okuhida Hot Springs is a term encompassing five hot springs nestled in the Northern Alps - Hirayu, Fukuji, Shin-Hirayu, Tochio, and Shin-Hotaka. The area attracts many local and international tourists who are seeking out high-quality hot springs surrounded by abundant, changing seasonal nature of the mountains, with fresh greenery in early summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow in winter.

Gero Hot Springs in Yunoshima, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture, is one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs. While you can’t go wrong staying the night in the area, it’s also a great place to enjoy a day trip. There are also free foot baths and public baths, allowing visitors to casually enjoy bathing as they stroll around. The area is well-connected, and easily accessible by train. The silky-smooth, high-quality waters of Gero Hot Springs have long gained its many fans. You could stay over in...

Magome-juku is a former post town where travelers on the Nakasendo Route could rest at night, located in the present-day city of Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture. Wanderlust-evoking cobblestone streets wind along the sloping terrain, lined with old-fashioned cafes and souvenir shops to snack and shop in as you immerse yourself in the Edo-period townscape. A 7 km hiking path to Tsumago-juku is one of the most popular areas along the Nakasendo walking trail.

A culinary tour is one great way to enjoy Hida-Takayama, in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. Dine in various eateries serving local Takayama delicacies that line the streets while looking for a souvenir. You could treat yourself to Hida Beef as part of your lunch and sample sake at local breweries. Take in the traditional atmosphere of the streets of Hida-Takayama as you enjoy its local delicacies, and you’re sure to leave with both your hunger and your mind satisfied.

Mount Norikura stands at the southern tip of the Northern Japan Alps. Although rising at the 3,000-meter level, the mountain range offers fun and easy trekking for beginners and families as well. A bus ride from Hida Takayama to the Tatamidaira bus stop at 2,700 meters takes just 90 minutes, and shuttle bus services are available every day during in-season. There is a bounty of beautiful nature to see, including the snow grouse, designated as a Special Natural Monument, and the exotic...

Nestled deep in the mountains, Tsumago-juku, which was the first preserved old town in Japan, retains the appearance of a historic post town from the Edo Period (1603-1868) as if time stands still. The ancient yet living, traditional Japanese scenery of the town captivates visitors. The local people of Tsumago still live their day-to-day life in the town while maintaining the old townscape from the Edo Period to pass it down to generations.