Kanazawa Β· Nanao Β· Kaga
π Similar to: Florence, Italy β compact, walkable, full of art and history
Kanazawa is a treasure trove of history and culture β Kenrokuen Garden, 21st Century Museum, and Omicho Market all packed into a compact, walkable city. Don't miss the local specialty, nodoguro fish.
Nagano City Β· Matsumoto Β· Karuizawa
π Similar to: Colorado, USA β skiing, mountain retreats, and outdoor paradise
Nagano is one of Japan's top destinations for both summer and winter. Karuizawa and Kamikochi offer cool mountain retreats in summer, while winter brings world-class skiing. Snow monkeys are a must-see.
Takayama Β· Shirakawa-go Β· Gero
π Similar to: Hallstatt, Austria β fairytale villages that foreign visitors love most
Access isn't great, but many of my foreign friends say Gifu was their favorite place in Japan. Takayama and Shirakawa-go are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. In summer, try cormorant fishing (ukai).
Kofu Β· Fujiyoshida Β· Otsuki
π Similar to: Napa Valley, USA β Mt. Fuji views, wineries, and mountain trails
Yamanashi is home to Mount Fuji and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can enjoy hiking, hot springs, and local specialties. The area is also famous for wineries and grape production.
Shizuoka City Β· Atami Β· Izu
π Similar to: Amalfi Coast, Italy β beaches, hot springs, and stunning views
Shizuoka has Mt. Fuji views plus beautiful beaches β unlike Yamanashi. Atami, Izu, and Shimoda are popular hot spring destinations loved by Japanese tourists. Also famous for green tea.
Niigata City Β· Sado Β· Yuzawa
π Champagne, France β Japan's finest rice and sake region
Niigata is famous for producing Japan's best rice and sake. It's also a top destination for winter sports. While great for food and snow lovers, many travelers choose nearby Nagano for similar experiences.
Tip: Japan's best rice comes from here. The sake made from this rice is unbeatable.
Toyama City Β· Tateyama Β· Takaoka
π Austrian Alps β dramatic alpine scenery and traditional villages
Toyama is a hidden gem with breathtaking nature, including the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and traditional Gokayama villages. However, limited transportation makes it challenging without a car.
Tip: Very charming with traditional houses, but plan transportation carefully.
Nagoya Β· Toyota Β· Inuyama
π Dallas, USA β big city hub but not a tourist destination
Aichi is centered around Nagoya, a bustling city but with limited tourist hotspots. Most travelers pass through rather than stay. Inuyama Castle and Atsuta Shrine are highlights.
Tip: Nagoya is a great transit hub but not a destination. Spend your time in surrounding prefectures instead.
Fukui City Β· Tsuruga Β· Echizen
π Nova Scotia, Canada β coastal scenery and famous local crab
Fukui is known for its crab and scenic coastline. While it has interesting attractions like Eiheiji Temple and Tojinbo Cliffs, it's not a top priority for most tourists.
Tip: If you love crab, come in winter β Echizen crab is legendary.