City: Chubu
Top Things to do in Chubu
Top Hotels in Chubu
Top 10 Things to do Good for Big Groups in Chubu, Japan
The Chūbu region (中部地方, Chūbu-chihō), Central region, or Central Japan (中部日本) is a region in the middle of Honshū, Japan's main island. Chūbu has a population of 21,715,822 as of 2010.. It encompasses nine prefectures (ken): Aichi, Fukui, Gifu, Ishikawa, Nagano, Niigata, Shizuoka, Toyama, and Yamanashi.
Restaurants in Chubu
1. Inuyama Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,034 reviews
Reviewed By 661vincet - Makati, Philippines
We visited Inuyama Castle last year. While it is currently undergoing renovations (for the next few months it seems), I decided to share our experiences for readers thinking about adding it to their future trips. And, yes, Inuyama Castle, one of the few original Japanese castles designated as a National Treasure, is definitely worth the visit! It is quite a lovely sight up on the hill. Entering the main keep of wood and stone was a memorable experience that provided insights on the castle's function in Japan's past. The climb around the keep's floors, and up to the very top provided a great view of the castle compound, Kiso River, the city and the mountains in the distance. With the assistance provided by the wonderful local volunteer guides (English was available during our visit, check for their availability at the ticket gate) we certainly got to appreciate this castle all the more.
2. Hida Minzoka Mura Folk Village (Hida no Sato)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,522 reviews
Authentic homes moved from a nearby valley and preserved intact make this attraction a very special "open air museum."
Reviewed By Shodby - Mackay, Australia
Coming from Australia snow is a real treat. When we went to the Folk Village on New Years Day it was thick with powdery snow. We could still walk around as the sky was clear and blue. The water wheel was iced over and the thatched roofs had a foot of white powder. I was glad it was open however some of the areas such as the 500 year old hilltop castle were closed due to safety reasons.
3. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,517 reviews
Reviewed By PeterthePauper - Ulsan, South Korea
Arriving in Nagoya mid-morning by train from Matsumoto, I thought I would abandon my luggage in a locker at Nagoya Station and head to the Toyota Museum before checking-in to my hotel for a 2-night stay. A short hop (1-stop) on a local Meitetsu train to the nearby Sako Station and a few minutes walk down the street brings you to the main entrance. Just entering the attraction, it immediately earned 5-stars for me when I discovered that the normal Y500 entrance fee is waived for Seniors (over 65's) like myself. Audio guides are available if required for Y200, but for me the informative leaflet in English was sufficient to find my way around. I was blissfully unaware of the Textile Machinery Pavilion and Toyota's history of spinning and weaving prior to visiting and found this part of the exhibit surprisingly interesting. Like most people, I had been drawn to the Museum by the "Cars" and the Automotive Pavilion contained a reasonable cross-section of models across the decades since Toyota's first passenger car (Model AA) was produced in 1936. As well as the cars, I particularly enjoyed the Production Line Reconstructions associated with the Model AA and the exhibit where robotic arms assemble a modern car chassis (.... press the button, stand back and video the balletic performance!). Before you leave, make sure you take in a performance of a Toyota robot playing the violin in the South Lobby (see leaflet for times). It's not only the "Cars" that are the "Stars"!
4. Matsumoto Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,584 reviews
Reviewed By phale12017
When l was told we were visiting a a castle, grey blocks of stone came to mind( l clearly wasn’t thinking logically) I was amazed to see this massive, towering wooden structure before me! Yes Japanese castles are made from wood. They have moats and tiny narrow windows for firing weapons out of and other familiar features but l have to say they are quite different from the English versions. They have a hidden extra floor that you cannot see from outside, this is just one unfamiliar feature! We were put into groups of 5 or less and shown round by retirees who were practicing their English, what a wonderful idea! Our guide was very amusing!! A word of warning, there are lots of steps inside, some of them steep! But make the effort, it’s well worth it!!
5. Mount Fuji
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,643 reviews
Four routes, each divided into ten sections by stopping and refueling stations, lead up to Mt. Fuji's snow-covered tip. You don't have to be a die-hard mountaineer to climb Mt. Fuji; the slopes are full of children and adults of all ages, shapes, and sizes. The official climbing season only runs from the beginning of July to the end of August, but you can take the train from Toyko to the fifth station any season.
Reviewed By 148karene - Adelaide, Australia
Since travelling to Japan in my teenage years and seeing Mt Fuji from our bullet train I have had a fascination with it. On my next trip it was in the clouds! On my third trip I did a day tour to 5th station and several other spots which were meant to offer you extensive views but it was again in the clouds. This time I was determined to spend a few days in the area so that I gave myself every opportunity to see it in its full glory. As it was March the snow was too far down the mountain so fifth station was closed. Our Airbnb in Lake Kawaguchi had magnificent views. We sighted the mountain from the train and then travelled by bus to our destination. Clear skies and the most incredible views. It was quite chilly at Lake Kawaguchi but well worth the effort. We hopped on a bus that took us to several spots where you could pay for a day pass and jump on and off as often as you like. Got so many amazing photos, my friends who were with us were blessed as they didn’t realise how elusive it can be. Mt Fuji is very dear to me due to my heritage (my grandma is Japanese and my grandpa met her after the war) and I see it as the symbol of Japan and one to be treasured. I have not finished yet I aim to get back and do the climb! Also when travelling on the train ask for the side with views, I didn’t have to ask when booking all my train travel they just automatically put us on the best side every time to experience the best views.
6. Fuji-Q Highland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,283 reviews
Do you like more scream? Free entry to Fuji-Q Highland from July 14 ! If you come to travel near by Mt. Fuji, without any money that you can get inside the park and enjoy the fantastic view. Fuji-Q is best known for its thrilling, record-breaking roller coasters and elaborate, anime- themed rides and attractions. There are numerous “Guiness-level” attractions, including “EEJANAIKA,” the roller coasting boasting the highest total number of spins in the world, “FUJIYAMA” “DODODONPA”, and famous of “ Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear” and “Ultimate Fort3” that can challenge your courage and intelligence. There are also popular character theme-parks such as “Thomas Land” and “Lisa and Gaspard Town”. Fuji-Q Highland is bound to amuse all ranges of visitors, from youths to families. 5-6-1 Shin-nishihara, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Website (http://www.fujiq.jp/en)
Reviewed By boobee123 - Jakarta, Indonesia
First of all it was really nice to travel during winter because the park is empty and the Q was fast (5-10 mins per ride), the extreme rides was marvelous and super fun! And at some high points on the coaster rides, I could see clearly the beautiful Mt Fuji, the snow at the park made my trip to Fuji Q highland park more memorable <3
7. Kenrokuen Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,780 reviews
This beautiful park contains one of the top three celebrated gardens in Japan. The name Kenrokuen literally translates to “garden combining six”, referring to the six attributes all gardens should have: seclusion, antiquity, spaciousness, human ingenuity, water and scenic views.
Reviewed By 400kayl - Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Outside Kanazawa Castle, these magnificent gardens attract visitors near and far to experience the serene, peaceful, zen ambience and the tranquil, calm waters with lots of quiet time amongst the pine trees and cherry blossoms. Located at Kanazawa, this region is famous for its gold leaf industry, which can be sampled as gold-decorated ice-cream. It is now a regional commercial centre and transportation hub for Ishikawa Prefecture. There are multiple outlets, selling gold-themed items, cosmetics and desserts. Choose ice-cream with gold sprinkles, gold (See my HAKUICHI review) sheets or gold tinsel garlands. Besides the lacquer and gold-mix-lacquer-work, the plum and cherry blossoms are also a major attraction here. There are some engineering feats, designs and techniques in the garden, such as the natural water fountain without any pressure system, or the bamboo supports which form the backbone for juvenile and senile trees. Many famous pictures show snow on the supporting ropes and bamboo, which illuminated at night appear as Christmas tree props. There is an earthy tone throughout the park, emphasizing the wonders and powers of nature interspersed with the gentle, soft colors and texture of the flora. Walk to Kasumigaike Pond and see the karasaki pine tree with its horizontal branch propped up by sticks. There are many bridges and footpaths traversing ponds and streams. The kotoji lantern at the lake is another photogenic site. The 6 Confucian virtues and elements; seclusion, antiquity, spaciousness, human ingenuity, water and scenic views are embodied in the design, character and layout of this traditional Japanese garden. Our group visited on a sunny morning, then continued our journey to snowy SHIRAKAWAGO (see my review) in the afternoon!
8. Ise Jingu
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,777 reviews
Reviewed By soxfan1975 - Needham, United States
We visited this shrine while on a cruise ship excursion from Toba. It is not very far from the port, and definitely worth visiting. Our five-hour excursion from Toba included the Grand Shrine and Okage Yokocho shopping area at Ise, the Futami Okitama shrine, Meotoiwa, and Pearl Island at Toba. This is a very spiritually meaningful and interesting place.
9. Zenko-ji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,931 reviews
Reviewed By hfot2 - Vermont, United States
We have visited Zenko-ji on three different sakura trips and each time the blossoms did not disappoint. The weeping tree on the side of the main hall is spectacular when in full bloom - not to be missed. Bridal shoots occur throughout the temple compound in this season, but especially at this tree. The grounds are lovely throughout. Don’t miss the trees behind the main hall and the many stone lanterns there and elsewhere. There are several small gardens with more flowering trees. If you stand near the photogenic bell tower long enough, you will be there when the ringer arrives, bows to the bell and using the beam suspended on ropes strikes the bell which resonates for a very long time. Statues abound, especially the seven Jizo Bodhisattva at the Sanmon Gate. Many side buildings are more peaceful and less crowded than the main hall area and they too contain statues, bells and lanterns. If you walk behind the main hall and up a bit you arrive at the pagoda which contains the Zenkoji History Museum. It can take several hours to walk around, view, and photograph all that is here. Take your time to enjoy the whole temple compound. There is a city bus that runs to the temple from the station, or you can walk up the hill to the temple from the station - it takes about 30 minutes. The road immediately in front of the gate is full of shops selling souvenirs, religious items, and food. Good soft ice cream can be had here. The streets running parallel to this one are very interesting and worth a stroll. Even if the cherry trees are not a peak, and even if it is not sakura season at all, Zenko-ji is definitely worth a visit.
10. Hamamatsu Air Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 515 reviews
Reviewed By Tokugawa_Ieyasu - Fujieda, Japan
This facility is widely open for many people in free of charge. Both of kids and adults should have great times there. I bet those who are interested in aircraft, defensing activities can enjoy a lot. The exhibitions are great to see. Weapons such as missiles are displayed together with reasonable explanations. You can get into the cockpits of exhibited airplanes which had flied in the air before. This may bring you the memorial photos. Souvenir store offers great variety of air force goods, towels, shirts and so forth.
