Chubu

Chubu

A selection of photographs around "Chubu" in Japan.

Eheiji Monastery
Fukui

Eiheiji: Silence in the Ranks

I came to Eiheiji expecting a sleepy mountain temple. I found the opposite: a living Sōtō Zen monastery, taut with discipline, wrapped in cedar, wood and moss.

Vibrant koi fish swims serenely in lush underwater paradise. Photogenic
Chubu

Monet’s Pond: Where Waterlilies and Koi Live Together

Crystal-clear water, waterlilies and koi carp: dive into Monet's Pond, a hidden gem in the heart of Gifu Prefecture.

Waterlily Bloom
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Azalea-covered earthworks and moats at Yamanaka Castle Ruins with Mount Fuji in distance. Vibrant
Shizuoka

The Azalea Paradises of Yamanaka Castle

Each spring the ruins of Yamanaka Castle become a splendid canvas where azaleas paint a colorful landscape at dawn, blending floral beauty with echoes of a fascinating past.

Azalea Bloom
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Enchanting Emerald Forest Haven Easy walk
Chubu

Shirakoma Forest: Magical Moss Wonderland

A mystical virgin woodland with 500 moss species, ancient trees, and the legend of the White Horse Pond.

Some crowds
Half day (3–5 hours) for a loop walk and moss-viewing stops; Full day if combining with nearby Yatsugatake-area sightseeing
Tranquil Buddha Sculpture Garden, Hanibe Caves, Japan Easy walk
Urban Exploration

The Terrifying Hanibe Caves

The Hanibe Caves harbour some mysterious creatures ... enter if you dare!

Quiet
2–3 hours (half day if you linger, take photos, and walk up to the hilltop reclining Buddha)
Weathered Urban Alleys Industrial Remnants Easy walk
Autumn

In the Maze of Kinkotsu Meguri

Stroll through this district of sprawling alleyways ... at your own risk!

Quiet
2–3 hours (up to half day if you want to wander slowly and take photos)
Historic Japanese post town street scene Easy walk
Autumn

Narai: at the Heart of Nakasendo

Nestling in the mountains on the Nakasendo route, the picturesque village of Narai takes you back in time ...

Some crowds
Half day (2–4 hours) to stroll the main street and visit a few historic buildings; full day if combining with other Kiso Valley/Nakasendo spots
Moonlit cherry blossom tree in tranquil landscape Luminous
Spring

The Sakura of Komatsunagi: Petals and Legends

Step away for a moment from the springtime cliché of Tokyo's crowded alleys to come and admire this majestic cherry tree. A solitary guardian, perched on a small hill by the banks of the Mao River, in the Awara region (Nagano Prefecture).

Cherry Blossom Peak
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Kanazawas Cherry Blossom-Lined Geisha District Street Easy walk
Ishikawa

Kanazawa Spring and Winter

A city of heritage and history, Kanazawa offers a charming stroll through the Japan of yesteryear. From sakura to snow, a guided tour in two stages.

Busy
Full day for Kanazawa highlights (about 6–8 hours). Half day (2–4 hours) if focusing on either Higashi Chaya District or Kenroku-en only.
Snowy Magome-juku: Preserved Japanese Post Town Charm Easy walk
Autumn

Magome for All Tastes

Discover the picturesque little village of Magome at all seasons. Whatever the weather, this place isn’t lacking in charm!

Some crowds
Half day (2–4 hours) for the village; full day if pairing with a Nakasendo walk (e.g., toward nearby post towns).