Central Japan

Why Travel to Central Japan?

Central Japan offers a rich mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and easy access between east and west. This diverse region is perfect for travellers looking to experience Japan’s mountains, history, and heartland traditions—often without the heavy crowds. In Nagano, you’ll find scenic alpine landscapes, peaceful temples like Zenko-ji, and the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. It’s a haven for outdoor lovers, especially in winter, when ski resorts like Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen come alive with powder snow and après-ski charm.

Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city, is a modern hub with deep historical roots. Explore Nagoya Castle, visit fascinating museums like the Toyota Commemorative Museum, or indulge in the local food scene—don’t miss miso katsu and hitsumabushi (grilled eel). Just south, Nara offers a peaceful step back in time. As Japan’s first permanent capital, it’s home to awe-inspiring temples like Todai-ji, towering Buddha statues, and friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park.

Whether you're soaking in mountain views, wandering ancient streets, or enjoying local cuisine, Central Japan connects you to the soul of the country—with a perfect balance of nature, history, and regional character.

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Nagoya – Japan’s Underrated Powerhouse

Nagoya might just be Japan’s best-kept secret. A dynamic city with rich samurai history, cutting-edge technology (hello, Toyota HQ), and mouth-watering eats like miso katsu and hitsumabushi eel. Visit the impressive Nagoya Castle, explore futuristic museums, or head out to nearby Inuyama for stunning castles and scenic river cruises.

🌸Travel Tips
Best time to visit: March–May and October–November for mild weather.
Don't miss: The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology.
Hidden gem: Osu Shopping District for vintage finds and street eats.

Suggested Areas to Stay

Nagoya Station: Perfect for travelers who want convenience and access.
Sakae: Great for nightlife, shopping, and local vibes.

Nagano – Mountains, Monkeys, and Temples

Nagano is where Japan’s wild alpine beauty meets centuries of spiritual tradition. In winter, the region becomes a snow-draped wonderland. Just a short trip from the city, Hakuba Valley offers world-class skiing and snowboarding with stunning alpine views. A legacy of the 1998 Winter Olympics, Hakuba is beloved for its deep powder, varied terrain, and welcoming mountain villages—perfect for everyone from first-timers to expert skiers.

But Nagano is more than just mountains. In the heart of Nagano City, you’ll find Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s most important and historic temples. Step through its ancient gates and feel the peaceful pull of tradition that has drawn pilgrims for over 1,400 years. Then head out to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild snow monkeys soak in natural hot springs—an unforgettable winter experience. End your day in a cosy onsen town like Yudanaka or Shibu, where hot baths and traditional ryokan stays warm both body and spirit.

🌸Travel Tips

Best time to visit:
– December to March for snow sports, festivals, and hot springs
– October to November for crisp air and colorful autumn foliage

Don’t miss: The snow monkeys at Jigokudani, especially in deep winter snow

Hidden gem: Togakushi Shrine—a peaceful forest trail lined with towering cedars and spiritual charm

Suggested Areas to Stay

Nagano City: Close to Zenko-ji, with easy access to both cultural sites and ski areas
Hakuba: Ideal for mountain lodges, ski resorts, and outdoor winter fun
Yudanaka/Shibu Onsen: Traditional ryokan towns near the monkey park, perfect for relaxing après-ski

Nara – Japan’s Ancient Soul

Temples, Sacred Deer & Timeless Tranquility

Just under an hour from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara offers a peaceful and powerful step back into Japan’s ancient roots. As the country’s first permanent capital, Nara is home to a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, atmospheric temples, and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences. From the moment you step into Nara Park, where sacred deer bow for snacks, to the imposing grandeur of Tōdai-ji Temple’s Great Buddha, there’s an undeniable sense of reverence and serenity in the air.

In spring, cherry blossoms bloom across Nara Park and Mount Yoshino—a spiritual pilgrimage site known for having over 30,000 sakura trees that paint the mountainside in blush pink. Summer brings lush green gardens and traditional festivals like Nara Tōkae, where thousands of lanterns illuminate the city’s temples and streets in August. In autumn, fiery maple leaves line temple paths, and in winter, fewer crowds make it the perfect time for contemplative strolls through quiet shrines and tea gardens. Nara’s pace is slower than its neighboring cities—inviting reflection, deeper connection, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

🌸Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit:

Mid–late March to early April: Sakura at Nara Park and Mount Yoshino
August: Experience the Nara Tōkae Lantern Festival
October to November: Stunning fall colors and crisp walking weather

Don’t Miss:

Tōdai-ji Temple: Home to one of the world’s largest bronze Buddhas
Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Famous for its 3,000 bronze and stone lanterns
Nara Park: Feed the freely roaming deer—messengers of the gods
Mount Yoshino: Arguably Japan’s most dramatic sakura viewing spot in spring

Hidden Gems:

Horyu-ji Temple: One of the oldest wooden buildings in the world
Isuien Garden: A peaceful garden with borrowed scenery of the nearby mountains
Naramachi District: A preserved merchant area full of narrow streets, cafés, and crafts

Suggested Areas to Stay

Nara City (near Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station): Convenient for sightseeing, dining, and shopping
Naramachi: Stay in a traditional machiya townhouse for a heritage-rich experience
Mount Yoshino (seasonal): Great for overnight stays during cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons