Chubu Region in Japan offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. It stands out because of its diverse landscapes—mountains, forests, and alpine valleys—paired with traditional practices like soba making and sake brewing. Among these options, we particularly enjoy tours that combine nature with authentic local traditions. For example, the Togakushi Sacred Forest Walk & Soba Traditions immerses you in ancient woods and historic shrines, offering a peaceful escape from busy city life. Meanwhile, Kamikochi’s autumn foliage and Niigata’s sake fair provide seasonal highlights that deepen your appreciation for Japan’s regional character. Whether you’re into hiking, wine tasting, or learning about local customs, these tours showcase the best of Chubu.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of experiences perfect for different interests and schedules. From a nature-focused shrine hike in Togakushi (more info) to the Kamikochi autumn foliage tour (more info), each offers something unique. We also include an adventure trekking experience at Mt. Mihara (more info), perfect for thrill-seekers, and a Niigata sake fair (more info) for those interested in Japan’s brewing traditions. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Togakushi: Sacred Forest Walk & Soba Traditions
At number one, this tour offers a deep dive into Japan’s spiritual and culinary heritage. Starting from Nagano station, you’ll visit the Togakushi Shrine, a historic Shinto complex surrounded by towering cedars. The guided hike takes you through ancient forests, where the air is filled with quiet reverence and the scent of moss. As you explore the Okusha, Chusha, and Hokosha shrines, you’ll learn about their significance and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The visit also includes Kagamiike Pond and a hidden shrine, Tenmei Inari, adding to the adventure. The highlight for many is the lunch of Togakushi soba, made from locally grown buckwheat, which offers a delicious and authentic taste of regional tradition.
This tour is rated 5 out of 5 with glowing reviews, and it combines nature, history, and gastronomy seamlessly. The experience appeals most to travelers eager to connect with Japan’s spiritual roots while enjoying a hearty, traditional meal. The price of $148 is fair considering the depth of culture, especially with the walk through ancient cedar forests. Expect a peaceful, reflective day that leaves you with a lasting appreciation for Togakushi’s sacred atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in history, nature, and local food, this tour balances spiritual exploration with a memorable soba lunch, making it a top choice in Nagano.
2. Nagano Autumn Special: Kamikochi & Wasabi Farm & Winery
At number two, this 9-hour private tour highlights Nagano’s stunning autumn scenery and seasonal flavors. Starting with a pickup from your hotel, you’ll head to Kamikochi, a famous alpine valley renowned for its crisp fall foliage. The guided visit showcases the landscape’s dramatic mountain vistas and tranquil river scenes, with about two hours to soak in the beauty. Afterward, the tour moves to Azumino, where you’ll explore wasabi fields—an iconic ingredient in Japanese cuisine—and visit a local vineyard for wine tasting. During harvest season, this offers a chance to taste fresh wasabi and seasonal wines while capturing beautiful photos, included as part of the guided experience.
This tour balances scenic beauty with culinary exploration, and your guide will take your photos, so you don’t miss a moment. With only two reviews, both rating it a perfect 5, travelers find it offers excellent value for a comprehensive day out. The flexible pickup and drop-off options, along with the private setting, make it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a personalized experience. The $193 price includes transportation, guiding, and tastings, making it a good deal for a full day of discovery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of mountains, seasonal foods, and wine, this tour offers a scenic, flavorful taste of Nagano in autumn, with the convenience of private transport.
3. Feel the Volcano by Trekking at Mt. Mihara
Number three features an energizing trek up Mt. Mihara, an active volcano on the Izu Islands near Honshu. This tour is less about sightseeing and more about getting close to volcanic activity. You’ll enjoy a guided hike that offers spectacular views of the landscape, with the chance to touch cooled lava flows and experience the raw power of nature firsthand. The trek is suitable for those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and want a memorable adventure on an island with a volcanic past.
The tour stands out because it combines natural beauty with a sense of adventure—climbing a volcano is no small feat. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and enriches the experience with fascinating facts about the volcano’s history and geology. The $61 price makes it an accessible, low-cost option for travelers eager for an active outing. Though reviews are not yet available, the clear focus on volcanic interaction makes it attractive for outdoor enthusiasts and those curious about Japan’s geological landscape.
Bottom Line: A must-do for adventure travelers, this trek offers a hands-on volcanic experience—an unforgettable way to connect with Japan’s fiery side.
$61 per person
4. Niigata Sake Fair 2024
Finally, at number four, the Niigata Sake Fair is a delight for lovers of Japan’s famous rice wine. For $24, you can sample a wide variety of sake, beer, and wine from Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its premium sake production. Held in a lively setting, the fair allows you to purchase a sake ticket and taste multiple local brews, along with regional snacks and delicacies. It’s a casual, fun way to learn about Niigata’s brewing culture without leaving the city.
While this experience doesn’t offer a structured tour of sake production, it provides a genuine taste of local tradition. The fair is best suited for curious travelers who want to learn about sake, try different varieties, and enjoy some relaxed tasting in a vibrant atmosphere. The relatively low price makes it accessible, and many visitors comment on the variety and quality of sake on offer. It’s a good option for an evening activity or a standalone day trip during your stay.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sake enthusiasts or anyone wanting a taste of local Niigata culture, this fair offers a relaxed, flavorful experience without breaking the bank.
$24 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Chubu for You
When deciding among these tours, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend exploring. For a spiritual and culinary introduction, the Togakushi Shrine Walk is perfect. If you prefer scenic mountain views combined with seasonal food, the Kamikochi & Wasabi Farm tour offers a comprehensive day. For adventure lovers, the Mt. Mihara volcano trek provides a hands-on experience with Japan’s volcanic power. And for those who want to indulge in Japan’s famous sake, the Niigata Sake Fair is a relaxed, enjoyable choice.
Think about your travel style—whether you want an active day, a culture, or leisurely tasting—and pick the tour that matches your mood. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the Kamikochi foliage visit or the Sake Fair, which can fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final thoughts
The Chubu region offers a diverse palette of tours that showcase its natural beauty, traditional crafts, and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re after a peaceful forest walk, a mountain hike, or a sake tasting adventure, there’s something for every traveler. We suggest considering your interests and schedule to choose the best fit, and don’t hesitate to book ahead—these experiences tend to fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Dive into Japan’s authentic local flavor and landscapes—your memorable journey in Chubu starts here.