After our amazing experience in the heart of Japan in 2019, we decided to embark on a trip to Central Japan with our elderly parents and toddler! This trip we set off from Nagoya instead of Tokyo. We covers cities we did not visit previously as well as those we wanted to revisit, each offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Perfect for travellers looking to explore Japan at a relaxed pace.
Read Self Drive Central Japan from Tokyo here
Central Japan Travel Trip Summary
Day 1: Arrival in Nagoya to Kuwana
Day 2: Kuwana to Tsuruga
Day 3: Tsuruga and Fukui
Day 4: Fukui to Gujo
Day 5: Gujo to Shirakawago
Day 6: Shirakawago to Takayama
Day 7: Takayama to Gero
Day 8: Gero to Ena
Day 9: Ena to Toyota
Day 10: Toyota to Nagoya
Days 11-13: Exploring Nagoya
Day 1: Nagoya to Kuwana
After collecting our car at Chubu Airport, we set off to Tokoname Manekineko Street, just a 10-minute drive from the airport. This charming street is filled with cute cat statues and various shops and cafes, perfect for a quick exploration.
Next, we stopped by several local farmers' markets en route to Kuwana to enjoy fresh produce and local delicacies. We also visited Wangan Berry Farm to pick and enjoy fresh strawberries. In the evening, we visited Nabana no Sato and experienced one of Japan's most spectacular illumination shows. The vast garden is transformed with millions of LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for evening strolls.
Day 2: Kuwana to Tsuruga
Our first stop was Kurokabe Square in Nagahama, known for its historical glass craft shops and black-walled (kurokabe) buildings. This area is filled with galleries, cafes, and craft shops. We had an amazing meal at Yokaro, a restaurant famous for its traditional Japanese cuisine, including fresh seafood and seasonal dishes.
Then, we visited Hō Park, a beautiful park featuring a large pond, lush greenery, and various walking trails. It’s a great spot for a morning jog or a relaxing walk. Sadly, there were no flowers in season when we visited, but we still had a good time letting our toddler run around.
Finally, after a long drive, we reached Tsuruga, a city well known for its fresh seafood.
Day 3: Tsuruga and Fukui
In the morning, we visited Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse, now home to museums, shops, and restaurants. The warehouse district offers a charming blend of old and new, with preserved architecture and modern amenities.
We had lunch at Nihonkai Sakana Machi (Sea of Japan Fish Market), where one can find fresh seafood, local produce, and various food stalls offering delicious street food. Unfortunately, this place did not live up to our expectations.
In the afternoon, we visited Nishiyama Park. As the cherry blossoms were over, the trees were bare. In the end, we visited Sabae City Nishiyama Zoo, which features red pandas, located in a corner of the park.
Before sunset, we headed over to Tojinbo Cliffs, a popular spot to enjoy sea views and unique rock formations. Since this area is known for its seafood, we had sushi at a local conveyor belt restaurant, Seafood Atom Wakaba Tsuruga Shop, known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
Day 4: Fukui to Gujo
We set off to Daihonzan Eiheiji Temple in the morning. The buddhist temple founded in 1244. It is a major training monastery and offers a peaceful environment with its beautiful gardens and ancient structures.
Afterwards, we visited the grand Echizen Daibutsu Temple. The temple features a grand statue of the Buddha and was indeed breathtaking! The temple grounds are expansive, with various halls, pagodas, and serene walking paths. Then, we stopped by Yumesuke Dango, a popular spot for enjoying traditional dango with a variety of toppings.
After a long day, we rested overnight in Gujo.
Day 5: Gujo to Shirakawago
In the morning, we visited Igawa Lane in Gujo Hachiman. The street is known for its picturesque canals and traditional houses. The clear water canals are lined with old houses, creating a scenic and tranquil setting. Unfortunately, it rained while we were there, so we didn’t see any koi swimming in the canal. Nonetheless, we had a nice morning walk!
Then we set off to Shirakawago, the UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These unique thatched-roof houses offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life.
Day 6: Shirakawago to Takayama
We set off to Takayama and visited Miyagawa Morning Market and Takayama Street. These vibrant markets offer fresh produce, local crafts, and various street food. It’s a great place to start your day with some shopping and snacking. Also, do not miss the sake breweries. We took a stroll by Takayama Betsuin Shorenji Temple after lunch as most places were closed.
(Note: Avoid visiting on Tuesday as some shops may be closed.)
In the evening, we explored the izakaya street along Asahimachi in Takayama and had a relaxing night. We visited Hida Takayama Gyoza Sohonzan, which was a fun experience!
Day 7: Takayama to Gero
We continued exploring the charming streets of Takayama in the morning, visiting local shops and cafes, and soaking in the historical atmosphere. Afterward, we set off to Gero - Gassho Village of Gero Onsen, known for its unique thatched-roof houses and hot springs. In the evening, we checked into our ryokan in Gero, where we enjoyed a relaxing soak.
Day 8: Gero to Ena
We set off to Tsukechi Gorge and had lunch with a scenic view of the gorge. The area offers beautiful hiking trails and stunning natural scenery, perfect for a leisurely outdoor lunch.
Then, we headed to Magomejuku and explored this post town on the Nakasendo Trail, which historically connected Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). The town is well-preserved with traditional houses, shops, and inns.
In the evening, we checked into a hotel in Ena and took a stroll by a lake, enjoying the serene surroundings and beautiful views.
Day 9: Ena to Toyota
After lunch, we stopped by Senmi Shikizakura no Sato, one of the best sakura viewing spots in the region. Since it was not in season, we took a walk to Rurikozanyakushi Temple, experiencing the tranquility and spiritual atmosphere.
Before checking into the hotel in Toyota, we made a stop at Strawberry Park Mifune to buy fresh strawberries and had dessert at the café. One can also opt for strawberry picking!
Day 10: Toyota to Nagoya
We couldn't miss a trip to the Toyota Museum as my dad is a fan of cars. The visit was fun because not only did we get to see the evolution of automobiles, but we also got to see different types of beautiful cars!
One cannot miss the local grilled eel in Toyota. We visited Unagiya, where the eel was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Thankfully, we ordered the big bowl! After lunch, we set off to Nagoya.
Days 11-13: Exploring Nagoya
In the morning, we visited Nagoya Castle, the iconic castle filled with Nagoya’s history and offering stunning views of the city. We spent the last few days in Nagoya visiting local cafes and doing some last-minute shopping before heading back to Singapore!
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