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Summary

This 5/6-day itinerary through the Japanese Alps offers a blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and relaxation. From the cultural riches of Kanazawa to the historic charm of Takayama, the serene beauty of Kamikochi, and the historic Matsumoto Castle, travelers will experience the diverse attractions of the region. Highlights include exploring traditional gardens and museums, enjoying light hikes amidst fall foliage, and relaxing in onsen baths.

Day 1 & 2: Exploring Kanazawa

Spend two nights in Kanazawa to explore its rich culture, beautiful gardens, and fascinating museums. Highlights include the renowned garden and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

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Kanazawa Garden

A beautiful and expansive garden in Kanazawa, known for its scenic beauty and traditional landscape design.

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Tips

Visit in late October to catch the beginning of the fall colors transformation.

D.T. Suzuki Museum

A museum dedicated to the works of D.T. Suzuki that introduces visitors to Zen Buddhism through art and architecture.

Tips

Make sure to check out the back garden for a serene experience.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 76-221-8011
🌐   Website: https://www.kanazawa-museum.jp/daisetz/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 3 Chome-4-20 Hondamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0964, Japan

🏞️ Day 3: Takayama's Old Charm

Spend a night in Takayama, visiting the Hida Folk Village for a glimpse into old Japan and enjoying the variety of dining options in the city.

🏠 Hida Folk Village

An open-air museum showcasing traditional houses from the Hida region, offering insights into historical Japanese life. The village is nestled in a serene setting, providing a tranquil atmosphere to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

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Tips

A great alternative to Shirakawago if you're looking for a less crowded experience. Take your time to explore the intricately designed houses and gain a deeper understanding of the traditional lifestyle of the Hida region.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 577-34-4711
🌐   Website: https://www.hidanosato-tpo.jp/top.html
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 1 Chome-590 Kamiokamotomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0055, Japan
🔗   Profiles:

🍁 Day 4 & 5: Kamikochi or Hirayu Onsen

Two nights in either Kamikochi or Hirayu Onsen for light hiking, enjoying the autumn foliage, and relaxing in onsen. Kamikochi offers a chance to see monkeys in their natural habitat.

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🏞️ Kamikochi

Kamikochi, nestled in the Japanese Alps, is a picturesque valley renowned for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear rivers, and panoramic mountain views. The area is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a network of well-maintained hiking trails that lead through lush forests and past serene alpine meadows. Kamikochi is also home to diverse wildlife, including the famous Japanese macaques, providing a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their native habitat.

Tips

To fully immerse in the tranquility of Kamikochi, consider embarking on an early morning hike to witness the enchanting sight of playful monkeys and savor the serene ambiance before the arrival of daytime visitors.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 263-95-2606
🌐   Website: https://www.kamikochi.or.jp/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1516, Japan
🔗   Profiles:

🏨 Hirayu Onsen

Nestled amidst the idyllic landscapes of the Japanese Alps, Hirayu Onsen is a charming hot spring resort renowned for its therapeutic waters and serene ambiance. The area boasts a variety of traditional onsen facilities, allowing visitors to indulge in rejuvenating hot spring baths while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Hirayu Onsen offers a more tranquil and intimate onsen experience, providing a peaceful retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of exploration.

Tips

For a serene and unhurried onsen experience, consider unwinding in the soothing thermal waters of Hirayu Onsen, where you can bask in the tranquil atmosphere and unwind amidst the picturesque mountain scenery.

🏯 Day 6: Matsumoto's Historic Castle

Conclude your trip with a night in Matsumoto, visiting its iconic castle and enjoying the city's historical ambiance.

🏯 Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan's premier historic castles, offering visitors a glimpse into the samurai past and stunning architecture. The castle's black exterior and elegant wooden interiors make it a captivating sight, drawing history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados from around the world.

Tips

A must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike, the castle's surrounding gardens and picturesque moat add to the allure of this cultural gem.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 263-32-2902
🌐   Website: https://www.matsumoto-castle.jp/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1.5 hours
📍   Address: 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-0873, Japan
🔗   Profiles: