Charming Small Towns in Honshu

As the largest island in Japan, Honshu offers so many small towns to be explored! Tokyo often steals the spotlight when it comes to visiting Japan; however, there are numerous small towns scattered across Honshu, each offering its own unique allure. Whether you’re drawn to ancient shrines, stunning gardens, or simply the tranquility of rural life, Honshu’s small towns offer a delightful escape from the bustling cities. While the list of charming towns to explore in Honshu is endless, you’ll find plenty of favorites to discover and savor for your adventure!

Odate, Akita Prefecture

This charming town is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and connection to the beloved Akita dog breed. If you want to learn more about these adorable dogs, there is free admission to the Akita Dog Visitor Centre, only three minutes away from the JR Odate Station. Or pick up a small souvenir at the Akita Dog Station operated by ONE FOR AKITA, an organization that works to raise awareness for the dog breed and improve their environment. For a fully immersive experience, visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and even winemaking with the assistance of Akitas by their side! Sponsored by Odate City, these activities are complete with a knowledgeable tour guide. To reserve a tour with one of these loveable pups, visit the website to apply.

Odate Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qhztCMCbc1wtc1m59

Website: https://www.pref.akita.lg.jp/pages/en

Akita Dog Station Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pGo2fr83MyaorBsV7

Akita Experience: https://visitakita.com/with-akita/guided-trekking/

Explore the culinary delights of Akita Prefecture with these must-try foods!

Chofu, Tokyo

Welcome to Chofu, where history meets beauty! This lively city in western Tokyo is home to Jindaiji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo. Dating back to 733 AD, this ancient temple is full of culture and tradition, with picturesque gardens and ponds. After soaking in the sights, treat yourself to local delicacies like the famous Jindaji soba and traditional crafts at the temple’s shops and restaurants. Not too far from Jindaiji Temple, the Jindai Botanical Gardens is a paradise for nature lovers! With over 100,000 plants from approximately 4,800 species, it is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Chofu is also home to the GeGeGe no Kitaro, one of the most popular horror manga from the 1960s, and is celebrated with themed shops and cafes. Check out this balanced blend of old-world charm and modern allure!

Chofu Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X511KiRfqseiLtVu5

Website: https://www.gotokyo.org/en/index.html

Jindaiji Temple Website: https://www.jindaiji.or.jp/en/

Jindaiji Temple Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dgoSb3F3eZJ2cb7M9

Jindai Botanical Gardens Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/jindai/

Jindai Botanical Gardens Address: 5 Chome-31-10 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu, Tokyo 182-0017, Japan

Kusatsu, Gunma Prefecture

Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu is known for its picturesque landscapes and natural hot springs, making it the perfect destination for relaxation! The town has some of Japan’s most acidic hot springs, renowned for their therapeutic properties. Yubatake, the main hot spring source, is a mesmerizing sight where steaming hot water flows through wooden channels, creating a captivatingly steamy atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in various traditional onsens scattered throughout the town, such as Kusatsu Onsen, each offering unique mineral compositions and health benefits. A must-see attraction is the daily Yumomi performance, a traditional method of cooling hot spring water by stirring it with large wooden paddles, accompanied by singing and dancing. Beyond hot springs, Kusatsu offers charming streets lined with shops and local restaurants serving regional delicacies like manju (sweet buns) or onsen tamago (hot spring eggs).

Kusatsu Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tPw5owDgUvNjiGA36

Website: https://www.visit-gunma.jp/en/discover/destinations/kusatsu/

Kusatsu Onsen: https://www.kusatsu-onsen.ne.jp/guide/en/

Here are thebest things to eat in Gunma Prefecture!

Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture

Learn more about the history of tea in this charming city! Kakegawa, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, has lush tea plantations with experiences for all those fascinated by tea. The rolling hills of this city are adorned with tea fields that produce some of the finest green tea in Japan. Visitors can tour these plantations, participate in tea-picking experiences, and savor freshly brewed tea while learning about its rich history and production process. Kiwi Fruit Country Japan hosts a tea experience where guests can make green tea they freshly picked themselves! For foodies, they offer kiwi cake making and jam making. The city’s historical sites include Kakegawa Castle, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. With its perfect blend of agriculture and culture, Kakegawa is the best place for those looking to find a refreshing escape!

Kakegawa Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tbfzMB4PfUrsyqAo8

Website: https://en.kiwicountry.jp/

Kiwi Fruit Country Japan: https://en.kiwicountry.jp/rsv/

Kiwi Fruit Country Japan Address: 2040 Kamiuchida, Kakegawa, Shizuoka 436-0012, Japan

Interested in Shizuoka tea? Check out this blog about Shizuoka in our Major Tea Regions Series!

Gujō-Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture

Interested in Edo-period charm and vibrant cultural traditions? Gujō-Hachiman is the place for you! Dominating the town’s skyline is Gujō-Hachiman Castle, a stunning reconstruction of the original structure that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The castle was originally built in the 16th century and stands as a symbol of the town’s rich history. Gujō-Hachiman is also famous for its pristine waterways, earning the nickname “the water city.” Visitors can enjoy walks along the crystal-clear rivers and explore the town’s many traditional water mills and springs. The town really comes alive during the Gujō Odori festival, one of Japan’s longest dance festivals, where locals and visitors dance through the night in the streets. With its blend of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and cultural festivities, Gujō-Hachiman is an immersive experience of traditional Japan.

Gujō-Hachiman Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5TjK4eQ2Wrmav7Yj6

Gujō-Hachiman Castle Address: Japan, 〒501-4214 Gifu, Gujo, Hachimancho Yanagimachi, 一の平 ６５９

Website: http://www.gujohachiman.com/kanko/index_e.php

Find out more about the best dishes to eat in Gifu!

Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture

Animal lovers, this city in Nagano Prefecture is the place for you! Yamanouchi is a delightful town that is home to Jigokudani Yaen-Koen, a monkey park where you can witness the famous snow monkeys relaxing in hot springs all year round. For an immersive cultural experience, staying at a traditional ryokan offers unparalleled relaxation with tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and kaiseki meals. The town is known for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics and, in the winter, is a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Additionally, Yamanouchi offers numerous day onsens and foot baths, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. With its unique blend of wildlife encounters and winter sports, this destination promises unforgettable memories.

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5TzfBVJym3hPALFDA

Website: https://www.info-yamanouchi.net/english/?hl=en

Jigokudani Yaen-Koen: http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/

Jigokudani Yaen-Koen Address: 6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan

Directions to visiting the snow monkeys: https://www.jrailpass.com/blog/jigokudani-monkey-park

Five Must-Eat Foods in Nagano!

Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture

The highlight of Nachikatsuura, located in Wakayama Prefecture, is Nachi Falls, one of Japan’s tallest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls. The waterfall is part of a sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, and nearby, the ancient Nachi Taisha Shrine stands as a testament to the area’s culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the quiet ambiance, exploring the shrine’s beautiful architecture and the surrounding forested mountains. Nachikatsuura is also famous for its hot springs and fresh seafood, especially its tuna, making it the place to be for foodies. Be sure to check out the Katsuura Fish Market if you’re interested in seeing tuna auctions! Another amazing experience is partaking in a traditional boat tour to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, another important shrine with stunning scenery.

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6QHxWJGr9Yg7DZTZA

Website: https://nachikan.jp/en/

Nachi Falls Address: Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5301, Japan

Katsuura Fish Market: 7 Chome-12 Tsukiji, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5335, Japan

Kumano Hayatama Taisha Address: 1番地 Shingu, Wakayama 647-0081, Japan

Must-try dishes in Wakayama!

As we conclude our journey through the charming small towns of Honshu, it’s clear that each destination gives something unique! From the therapeutic hot springs of Kusatsu to seeing snow monkeys up close in Yamanouchi, these towns encapsulate the heart of Japan’s heritage and serene landscapes. If you are seeking a new adventure with traditional onsens, historic castles, or local celebrations, Honshu’s small towns promise unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection to Japan’s timeless charm. So pack your bags, set out on a journey, and discover the enchanting treasures that await in Honshu’s hidden gems.

Featured Photo Credit: fukez84

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