{"id":76348,"date":"2021-02-12T19:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-02-12T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?p=76348"},"modified":"2024-11-25T22:18:37","modified_gmt":"2024-11-25T13:18:37","slug":"sightseeing-chubu-hokuriku-arch-pass","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sightseeing-chubu-hokuriku-arch-pass\/","title":{"rendered":"Discovering Japan anew with the Hokuriku Arch Pass, Part 2: sightseeing in Chubu"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>This is Part 2 of a 3 part series of articles about the New Golden Route, a part of Japan conveniently accessed by the Hokuriku Arch Pass. To read the other 2 articles in the series, follow these links:<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"is-style-default wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/kanto-hokuriku-arch-pass\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Part 1: Sightseeing in Kanto with the Hokkuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sightseeing-kansai-hokuriku-arch-pass\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Part 3: Sightseeing in Kansai with the Hokkuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Try to imagine for a moment what a time capsule of traditional Japan may look like. What\u2019s in it? Where do you go to find it? Remote areas outside of Japan\u2019s usual hotspots, places that still haven\u2019t fallen under the effects of mass tourism amid globalization. Open spaces shrouded in nature and history. Small, local craftsmanship places with centuries of traditions. Treasures remaining at the core of traditional Japan. If this is what you&#8217;re imagining, <strong>Hokuriku<\/strong> (\u5317\u9678) may be the word you\u2019re looking for. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hokuriku is the name of the old region comprising the current northern prefectures of <strong>Ishikawa, Fukui, Niigata, and Toyama<\/strong>, all along the western coast of The Sea of Japan. Between the Heian and Edo periods, this coastal location meant the opportunity for the foundation of a rich cultural development that can be still experienced today. Nowadays this area is included in the <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/category\/chubu\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Chubu region<\/a> (\u4e2d\u90e8\u5730\u65b9), literally meaning central area. Besides the already mentioned prefectures, it also includes <strong>Gifu, Nagano<\/strong>, Aichi, Shizuoka, and Yamanashi. As the heartland of central Honshu, this is a great mountainous area often overlooked in favor of Kanto or Kansai and thus, translating into <strong>plenty of hidden jewels<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hokuriku is one of the three areas making up the <strong>New Golden Route,<\/strong> an area of Japan that was opened up to the rest of the country with the completion of the <strong>Hokuriku Shinkansen<\/strong> line. With convenient access to the area and use of the <strong>Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/strong>, it is an area visitors can now easily explore during their trip to Japan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Traveling is still a tricky matter. The challenges brought upon by 2020 also call for a change of pace. It\u2019s been a year for solitude, self-reflection, and a serious reframing of our priorities. But the need for distance and isolation doesn&#8217;t mean there aren\u2019t getaways we can enjoy. The <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/hokuriku-arch-pass.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">golden route of Hokuriku<\/a> marks all the checkboxes of an <strong>escapade full of breathtaking natural sites and a connection with local history and traditions<\/strong>. It spans from Tokyo to Osaka, covering a wide array of places across Kanto, Chubu, and Kansai regions. During <strong>seven days of unlimited travel on JR train lines<\/strong>, users can follow<a aria-label=\" an arch filled with many possible itineraries to suit everyone\u2019s tastes (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/hokuriku-arch-pass.com\/Explore_Japan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\"> an arch filled with many possible itineraries to suit everyone\u2019s tastes<\/a>, with the bonus perks of <strong>avoiding crowds and supporting local communities<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>This is an overview of some of the best places in each of the prefectures:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-normal-font-size wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"#gifu\" class=\"ek-link\">Gifu Prefecture<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#takayama\" class=\"ek-link\">Takayama Jinya<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#shinhotaka\" class=\"ek-link\">Shinhotaka Ropeway<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#fukui\" class=\"ek-link\">Fukui Prefecture<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#yokokan\" class=\"ek-link\">Yokokan Garden<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#takefu\" class=\"ek-link\">Takefu Knife Village<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#ishikawa\" class=\"ek-link\">Ishikawa Prefecture<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#nagamachi\" class=\"ek-link\">Nagamachi Samurai District<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#kenrokuen\" class=\"ek-link\">Kenrokuen Garden<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#higashichaya\" class=\"ek-link\">Higashi Chayagai<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#gold\" class=\"ek-link\">Gold Leaf Workshop<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#shunran\" class=\"ek-link\">Shunran no Sato<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#toyama\" class=\"ek-link\">Toyama Prefecture<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#gokayama\" class=\"ek-link\">Gokayama Village<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#midagahara\" class=\"ek-link\">Midagahara<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#nagano\" class=\"ek-link\">Nagano Prefecture<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#zenkoji\" class=\"ek-link\">Zenkoji Temple<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#karuizawa\" class=\"ek-link\">Karuizawa<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#niigata\" class=\"ek-link\">Niigata Prefecture<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#kanzuri\" class=\"ek-link\">Kanzuri seasoning spice<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#lotte\" class=\"ek-link\">Lotte Arai Resort<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#hokuriku-arch-pass\" class=\"ek-link\">Introducing the Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"gifu\">Gifu Prefecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Gifu Prefecture (\u5c90\u961c\u770c) is one of the few inland regions of the Japanese archipelago. Its central location in Honshu, at the very heart of Japan, has turned this area into a key spot of great historical importance due to several crossroads between the most relevant cross-country routes. A mountainous landscape coupled with rich history makes Gifu one of the best choices to experience timeless heritage and awe-inspiring sights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"takayama\">A Surviving Piece of History at Takayama Jinya<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Takayama city (\u9ad8\u5c71\u5e02) still retains a charming atmosphere in its beautiful and well preserved old town. But its greatest highlight is Takayama Jinya (\u9ad8\u5c71\u9663\u5c4b), the former headquarters of the old Hida Province during the Edo period. As Japan\u2019s sole survivor of Edo-era government buildings, Takayama Jinya is both a National Historic site and an architectural oddity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125647\/Hokuriku_Chubu_01-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Takayama Jinya, a traditional japanese building in gifu prefecture\" class=\"wp-image-76354\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125647\/Hokuriku_Chubu_01-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125647\/Hokuriku_Chubu_01-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125647\/Hokuriku_Chubu_01-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125647\/Hokuriku_Chubu_01-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125647\/Hokuriku_Chubu_01.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125653\/Hokuriku_Chubu_02-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Takayama Jinya entrance\" data-id=\"76355\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125653\/Hokuriku_Chubu_02.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76355\" class=\"wp-image-76355\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125653\/Hokuriku_Chubu_02-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125653\/Hokuriku_Chubu_02-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125653\/Hokuriku_Chubu_02-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125653\/Hokuriku_Chubu_02.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125659\/Hokuriku_Chubu_03-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Takayama Jinya interior\" data-id=\"76356\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125659\/Hokuriku_Chubu_03.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76356\" class=\"wp-image-76356\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125659\/Hokuriku_Chubu_03-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125659\/Hokuriku_Chubu_03-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125659\/Hokuriku_Chubu_03-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125659\/Hokuriku_Chubu_03.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">A remarkable artisanal skill is required for the maintenance of Takayama Jinya&#8217;s wooden architecture<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result of the prosperous timber business of the time, this building showcases a remarkable sample of Japanese craftsmanship through its wooden architecture and, particularly, the roof structure. The restoration works used the same original artisanal techniques to ensure the closest possible resemblance to its former appearance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125704\/Hokuriku_Chubu_04-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Japanese market\" class=\"wp-image-76357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125704\/Hokuriku_Chubu_04-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125704\/Hokuriku_Chubu_04-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125704\/Hokuriku_Chubu_04-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125704\/Hokuriku_Chubu_04-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125704\/Hokuriku_Chubu_04.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>The daily morning market in front of Takayama Jinya<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>A good complement to the visit is the lively Morning Market that is open every day in front of the building from 7:00 to 12:00. It&#8217;s a perfect chance to buy fresh produce and local specialties while at the same time getting a feel of local neighborhood life between animated conversations and children riding their bicycles with friends on their way to school. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"shinhotaka\">Views on top of the world in Shinhotaka Ropeway<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The next recommended location is a natural wonder located in Okuhida Onsen, which is an unmissable place for onsen enthusiasts, particularly during the colder months. We\u2019re talking about Shinhotaka Ropeway (\u65b0\u7a42\u9ad8\u30ed\u30fc\u30d7\u30a6\u30a7\u30a4), an unforgettable journey up the mountains, well above 1,000 meters for an unparalleled view of the Japanese Alps. This location is easily reachable by bus from Takayama Station, approximately 1 hour and 30-minute bus ride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125710\/Hokuriku_Chubu_05-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Shinhodaka ropeway station\" data-id=\"76358\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125710\/Hokuriku_Chubu_05.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76358\" class=\"wp-image-76358\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125710\/Hokuriku_Chubu_05-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125710\/Hokuriku_Chubu_05-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125710\/Hokuriku_Chubu_05-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125710\/Hokuriku_Chubu_05-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125710\/Hokuriku_Chubu_05.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">The ropeway station entrance. The bus stops right in front of it.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A vastly impressive mountain landscape unfolds in front of our eyes as we ride up the cable car. Nishi Hotaka, Mt. Yarigatake, Mt. Kasagatake, and several other mountains can be admired in their full splendor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125715\/Hokuriku_Chubu_06-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Shinhodaka ropeway in gifu prefecture\" class=\"wp-image-76359\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125715\/Hokuriku_Chubu_06-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125715\/Hokuriku_Chubu_06-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125715\/Hokuriku_Chubu_06-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125715\/Hokuriku_Chubu_06-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125715\/Hokuriku_Chubu_06.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hida Mountain Range is a rare example of a cross-section of a volcanic caldera formed after millions of years of continuous lava activity. It\u2019s a truly breathtaking experience. Up in the Nishi Hotakaguchi Station observatory, there is a small and cozy 2-star cafe restaurant in Michelin Green Guide Japan.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125721\/Hokuriku_Chubu_07-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Japanese noodle Lunch in the observatory\" data-id=\"76360\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125721\/Hokuriku_Chubu_07.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76360\" class=\"wp-image-76360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125721\/Hokuriku_Chubu_07-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125721\/Hokuriku_Chubu_07-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125721\/Hokuriku_Chubu_07-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125721\/Hokuriku_Chubu_07.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125725\/Hokuriku_Chubu_08-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Cablecar ascending\" data-id=\"76361\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125725\/Hokuriku_Chubu_08.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76361\" class=\"wp-image-76361\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125725\/Hokuriku_Chubu_08-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125725\/Hokuriku_Chubu_08-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125725\/Hokuriku_Chubu_08-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125725\/Hokuriku_Chubu_08.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">Restaurant views can\u2019t get any more luxurious than this.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After descending, a great complement to the visit is the opportunity to enjoy the open-air onsens in Okuhida. And for those onsen enthusiasts, you can also enjoy <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/kanto-hokuriku-arch-pass\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Kusatsu Onsen in Kanto<\/a>, which is also reachable with this pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fukui\">Fukui Prefecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Fukui Prefecture (\u798f\u4e95\u770c) is a land of hidden charm. Flying under the radar for most international visitors, the happy venturing in it will be delighted to discover its vast and rich landscapes: A blessed Sea of Japan coastline famed for its beaches and rocky cliffs while heavy snowfalls in its northern area grants it a privileged spot among winter sports fans. History and crafts enthusiasts will not be disappointed either. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"yokokan\">Yokokan: A Garden Reborn<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving on to Fukui Prefecture, <a href=\"http:\/\/fukuisan.jp\/ja\/yokokan\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Yokokan Garden<\/a> (\u990a\u6d69\u9928\u5ead\u5712) is definitely a must-see. Consistently ranked among one of Japan&#8217;s best gardens, it was originally built as a villa for the Matsudaira clan, feudal lords during the Edo era. It features various trees surrounding a large pond that creates a mirroring and floating effect with the house. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/7RtMGR7tuVzcS3xNwX2bDtKzVP6qtXMDIkZA9eoJwfNgXpruqpdYKHpb-MjTW9WQBOIChAKbgz0Xxj2IwMxJiD4PM5F-MqdQ6Z8BCkgeHXtlQ1yPeG0NiVkVYYa_2EEHkJrB-qQY\" alt=\"traditional japanese garden \"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125749\/Hokuriku_Chubu_11-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Yokokan garden forest\" data-id=\"76364\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125749\/Hokuriku_Chubu_11.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76364\" class=\"wp-image-76364\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125749\/Hokuriku_Chubu_11-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125749\/Hokuriku_Chubu_11-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125749\/Hokuriku_Chubu_11-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125749\/Hokuriku_Chubu_11.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125741\/Hokuriku_Chubu_10-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Yokokan garden house\" data-id=\"76363\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125741\/Hokuriku_Chubu_10.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76363\" class=\"wp-image-76363\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125741\/Hokuriku_Chubu_10-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125741\/Hokuriku_Chubu_10-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125741\/Hokuriku_Chubu_10-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125741\/Hokuriku_Chubu_10.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">Walking through the small but thick forest surrounding the pond is a relaxing and immersive experience.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019re able to enjoy this incredible place thanks to the skillful craftsmanship of the restoration team who undertook the garden\u2019s rebuilding efforts after it was completely burned in World War II. Thanks to precise blueprints dated from 1823, this beautiful sample of Japanese history and architecture was restored to its former glory.  Gardens of comparable beauty can also be found in <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/the-summer-beauty-of-korakuen-okayamas-premier-japanese-garden\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Tokyo\u2019s Koishikawa Korakuen<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/kanazawa-kenroku-en-garden\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Kanazawa\u2019s Kenrokuen.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125803\/Hokuriku_Chubu_12-1024x680.jpg\" alt=\"A floating japanese house in fukui\" class=\"wp-image-76365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125803\/Hokuriku_Chubu_12-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125803\/Hokuriku_Chubu_12-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125803\/Hokuriku_Chubu_12-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125803\/Hokuriku_Chubu_12-2048x1361.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125803\/Hokuriku_Chubu_12-scaled.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>A floating villa | Photo by Cl\u00e9mentine Cintr\u00e9<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"takefu\">Old School Meets Innovation at Takefu Knife Village <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A cutting edge wonderland lies just a 15-minute taxi ride away from Takefu station. A world-famous location among knife connoisseurs, <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/en.takefu-knifevillage.jp\/story-en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" class=\"ek-link\">Takefu knife village<\/a>, brings to the public over 700 years of tradition of Echizen Uchihamono knife making. But far from remaining stagnant with old techniques, these craftsmen take hold of centuries of experience to bring forth a continuous innovation with regards to cutting tools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125816\/Hokuriku_Chubu_13-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Takefu Knife Village\" class=\"wp-image-76366\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125816\/Hokuriku_Chubu_13-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125816\/Hokuriku_Chubu_13-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125816\/Hokuriku_Chubu_13-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125816\/Hokuriku_Chubu_13-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125816\/Hokuriku_Chubu_13.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>A sharp blend of old and new. The workshop building showcases a small gallery of different types of knives under a Shinto altar and profiles information for each worker, which shows the degree of pride in their own artisans. Visitors can watch them at work inside the full display of impressive machinery from a platform on top of the workshop. <strong>For those looking to get more hands-on, there are several learning experiences available<\/strong>. There is also a shop on the right of the workshop building. Japanese knife enthusiasts will also appreciate a similar experience in <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sightseeing-kansai-hokuriku-arch-pass\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Osaka\u2019s Wada Shoten<\/a>, also accessible with the Hokuriku Arch Pass. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125824\/Hokuriku_Chubu_14-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"traditional japanese Knife gallery\" data-id=\"76367\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125824\/Hokuriku_Chubu_14.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76367\" class=\"wp-image-76367\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125824\/Hokuriku_Chubu_14-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125824\/Hokuriku_Chubu_14-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125824\/Hokuriku_Chubu_14-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125824\/Hokuriku_Chubu_14.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125829\/Hokuriku_Chubu_15-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Japanese Knife artisan at work\" data-id=\"76368\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125829\/Hokuriku_Chubu_15.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76368\" class=\"wp-image-76368\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125829\/Hokuriku_Chubu_15-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125829\/Hokuriku_Chubu_15-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125829\/Hokuriku_Chubu_15-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125829\/Hokuriku_Chubu_15.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">The knife gallery also features the profiles of the artisans.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ishikawa\">Ishikawa Prefecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ishikawa Prefecture (\u77f3\u5ddd\u770c) brings together the vibrant urban culture of the Edo Period\u2019s heyday and the best of remote natural landscapes. Its privileged location provides a prosperous environment for the blossoming of a rich, finely distilled, and influential arts and crafts scene which is still very much alive today. At the same time, Ishikawa features great locations both for sea or mountain lovers to get lost in its countryside scenery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"nagamachi\">Strolling in Nagamachi Samurai District <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kanazawa city (\u91d1\u6ca2\u5e02) is another splendorous example of old school ambiance through well-preserved neighborhoods. The Nagamachi Samurai District \u9577\u753a\u6b66\u5bb6\u5c4b\u6577\u8de1 (a 30-minute walk from Kanazawa station or a 10-minute bus ride) is a prime example of a shortcut to the past while strolling through what was once a samurai residential district. The soothing sound of water fills one\u2019s senses thanks to the river canal surrounding the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125834\/Hokuriku_Chubu_16-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Samurai district\" class=\"wp-image-76369\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125834\/Hokuriku_Chubu_16-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125834\/Hokuriku_Chubu_16-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125834\/Hokuriku_Chubu_16-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125834\/Hokuriku_Chubu_16-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125834\/Hokuriku_Chubu_16.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125840\/Hokuriku_Chubu_17-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Nomura-ke garden\" data-id=\"76370\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125840\/Hokuriku_Chubu_17.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76370\" class=\"wp-image-76370\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125840\/Hokuriku_Chubu_17-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125840\/Hokuriku_Chubu_17-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125840\/Hokuriku_Chubu_17-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125840\/Hokuriku_Chubu_17.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125846\/Hokuriku_Chubu_18-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Nomura-ke tea room\" data-id=\"76371\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125846\/Hokuriku_Chubu_18.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76371\" class=\"wp-image-76371\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125846\/Hokuriku_Chubu_18-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125846\/Hokuriku_Chubu_18-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125846\/Hokuriku_Chubu_18-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125846\/Hokuriku_Chubu_18.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">Nomura-ke garden and the view from the tea room<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For a genuine feel of the samurai lifestyle in this neighborhood, the <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.nomurake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">Nomura-ke<\/a> (\u91ce\u6751\u5bb6) family house and garden are beautiful examples of their delicate aesthetic senses. The different spaces have all scenic views of their magnificent garden for a quiet, contemplative moment. Access is 550 yen for adults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kenrokuen\">Garden Perfection in Kenrokuen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Expectations can\u2019t be much higher when you\u2019re told you\u2019re about to witness what a perfect garden looks like. <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.pref.ishikawa.jp\/siro-niwa\/kenrokuen\/e\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">Kenrokuen<\/a> (\u517c\u516d\u5712), as its name indicates, gathers the <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.pref.ishikawa.jp\/siro-niwa\/kenrokuen\/e\/6place.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">six required attributes<\/a> grouped in three contradictory aspects that are considered ideal for a garden: ample spaces and secluded spots, artificial design and naturally aged elements, panoramic high views as well as watercourses representing lowlands. Reaching harmony between all these requirements is an extraordinary feat of Japanese garden design admired by countless visitors every year, just like <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/kanto-hokuriku-arch-pass\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Tokyo\u2019s Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125851\/Hokuriku_Chubu_19-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"fountain in kenrokuen\" data-id=\"76372\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125851\/Hokuriku_Chubu_19.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76372\" class=\"wp-image-76372\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125851\/Hokuriku_Chubu_19-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125851\/Hokuriku_Chubu_19-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125851\/Hokuriku_Chubu_19-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125851\/Hokuriku_Chubu_19.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-item__caption\">One of the most recognized symbols of Kenrokuen: The oldest fountain in Japan<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125858\/Hokuriku_Chubu_22-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"stone lamp in kenrokuen\" data-id=\"76373\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125858\/Hokuriku_Chubu_22.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76373\" class=\"wp-image-76373\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125858\/Hokuriku_Chubu_22-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125858\/Hokuriku_Chubu_22-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125858\/Hokuriku_Chubu_22-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125858\/Hokuriku_Chubu_22.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-item__caption\">Kotoji-toro, a two-legged stone lantern, is another emblem of Karuizawa<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/28163544\/Hokuriku_Chubu_23-2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Kasumiga-ike Pond\" data-id=\"77900\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/28163544\/Hokuriku_Chubu_23-2.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=77900\" class=\"wp-image-77900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/28163544\/Hokuriku_Chubu_23-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/28163544\/Hokuriku_Chubu_23-2-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/28163544\/Hokuriku_Chubu_23-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/28163544\/Hokuriku_Chubu_23-2-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/28163544\/Hokuriku_Chubu_23-2.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-item__caption\">Kasumiga-ike, the largest pond in the garden where the beautiful scenery can be admired<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"higashichaya\">Time Travel in Higashi Chayagai<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many visitors enjoy a peaceful walk while dressed in kimonos, either taking photos with friends or simply admiring the beautiful scenery.  Many kimono shops have rental offers, so it\u2019s quite common seeing lots of girls coming and going to spend a few hours in the gardens or simply strolling around the streets of Higashi Chayagai (\u3072\u304c\u3057\u8336\u5c4b\u8857), the bustling eastern neighborhood that rivals the Samurai District in terms of Edo style charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125910\/Hokuriku_Chubu_24-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"higashi chayagai\" class=\"wp-image-76375\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125910\/Hokuriku_Chubu_24-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125910\/Hokuriku_Chubu_24-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125910\/Hokuriku_Chubu_24-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125910\/Hokuriku_Chubu_24-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125910\/Hokuriku_Chubu_24.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125916\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Girls in kimono in Higashi chayagai\" data-id=\"76376\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125916\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76376\" class=\"wp-image-76376\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125916\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125916\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125916\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125916\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24142918\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25_02-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"gold leaf soft ice cream\" data-id=\"76397\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24142918\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25_02-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76397\" class=\"wp-image-76397\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24142918\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25_02-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24142918\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25_02-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24142918\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25_02-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24142918\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25_02-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24142918\/Hokuriku_Chubu_25_02-scaled.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">One of the most popular items is the soft-serve ice cream with a layer of edible gold leaf, representing Kanazawa\u2019s long and rich tradition of gold leaf crafts.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"gold\">Gold Leaf Workshop in Kinpakuya Sakuda<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Did you know that 99% of Japan&#8217;s gold leaf is produced in Kanazawa? Honoring this tradition, <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/goldleaf-sakuda.jp\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">Kinpakuya Sakuda<\/a> (\u91d1\u7b94\u5c4b\u3055\u304f\u3060\u672c\u5e97) offers the lovely and creative experience of learning the traditional Japanese craft of applying gold leaf to a variety of items of the user\u2019s choice. Just thinking about the extreme care that has to be placed to handle a delicate, less than paper-thin 1\/10,000th of a millimeter gold leaf can be a little daunting. Still, thanks to the patience of the artisans teaching you, the finished product is very satisfying. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-4 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125929\/Hokuriku_Chubu_27-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"gold leaf workshop stencil\" data-id=\"76378\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125929\/Hokuriku_Chubu_27-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76378\" class=\"wp-image-76378\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125929\/Hokuriku_Chubu_27-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125929\/Hokuriku_Chubu_27-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125929\/Hokuriku_Chubu_27-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125929\/Hokuriku_Chubu_27-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125929\/Hokuriku_Chubu_27-scaled.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125939\/Hokuriku_Chubu_28-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"primer application\" data-id=\"76379\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125939\/Hokuriku_Chubu_28-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76379\" class=\"wp-image-76379\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125939\/Hokuriku_Chubu_28-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125939\/Hokuriku_Chubu_28-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125939\/Hokuriku_Chubu_28-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125939\/Hokuriku_Chubu_28-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125939\/Hokuriku_Chubu_28-scaled.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125949\/Hokuriku_Chubu_29-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"gold powder application on top of the gold leaf\" data-id=\"76380\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125949\/Hokuriku_Chubu_29-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76380\" class=\"wp-image-76380\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125949\/Hokuriku_Chubu_29-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125949\/Hokuriku_Chubu_29-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125949\/Hokuriku_Chubu_29-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125949\/Hokuriku_Chubu_29-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125949\/Hokuriku_Chubu_29-scaled.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130000\/Hokuriku_Chubu_30-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"end result\" data-id=\"76381\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130000\/Hokuriku_Chubu_30-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76381\" class=\"wp-image-76381\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130000\/Hokuriku_Chubu_30-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130000\/Hokuriku_Chubu_30-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130000\/Hokuriku_Chubu_30-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130000\/Hokuriku_Chubu_30-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130000\/Hokuriku_Chubu_30-scaled.jpg 960w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The difficulty level may vary depending on the intricacy of your choice&#8217;s design. You can either draw with the stencils provided or try your hand at your own design, only bearing in mind that smaller drawings will require a higher level of precision and care when applying gold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125921\/Hokuriku_Chubu_26-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"selection of goods for gold leaf workshop\" class=\"wp-image-76377\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125921\/Hokuriku_Chubu_26-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125921\/Hokuriku_Chubu_26-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125921\/Hokuriku_Chubu_26-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125921\/Hokuriku_Chubu_26-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125921\/Hokuriku_Chubu_26.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>But this is not the only place where we can engage in gilded fun. Similar gold leaf workshops can also be enjoyed in other Kanazawa establishments like <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/enkanazawa.hakuichi.co.jp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">Hakuichi<\/a>, <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hakuza.co.jp\/shop\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">Hakuza<\/a> and <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.k-katani.com\/experience-e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">Katani<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"shunran\">Shunran no Sato, Japan&#8217;s Farmstay Precursors <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After the fascinating experiences in Kanazawa city, it\u2019s time to switch gears and experience the wonderful Ishikawa countryside in Noto village. And nothing better to do it than stop by Shunran no Yado (\u6625\u862d\u306e\u5bbf), the house that sparked the farm stay project of Shunran no Sato (\u6625\u862d\u306e\u91cc).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130008\/Hokuriku_Chubu_31-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"shunran no yado farmstay in japan\" class=\"wp-image-76382\" width=\"580\" height=\"386\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130008\/Hokuriku_Chubu_31-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130008\/Hokuriku_Chubu_31-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130008\/Hokuriku_Chubu_31-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130008\/Hokuriku_Chubu_31-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130008\/Hokuriku_Chubu_31.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Kiichiro Tada started the project in 1996, along with other village residents, as a way to compensate for the rural depopulation through farm-stay tourism, offering a unique Japanese rural experience with outdoor activities and promotion of the local culture. About 40 houses in the area are currently participating in this project. One of the most interesting things is the chance to get to know these people and chat with them about the history of this place and the Noto Peninsula&#8217;s natural surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130014\/Hokuriku_Chubu_32-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"irori in shunran no yado\" data-id=\"76383\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130014\/Hokuriku_Chubu_32.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76383\" class=\"wp-image-76383\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130014\/Hokuriku_Chubu_32-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130014\/Hokuriku_Chubu_32-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130014\/Hokuriku_Chubu_32-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130014\/Hokuriku_Chubu_32.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130019\/Hokuriku_Chubu_33-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"dinner served in shunran no yado\" data-id=\"76384\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130019\/Hokuriku_Chubu_33.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76384\" class=\"wp-image-76384\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130019\/Hokuriku_Chubu_33-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130019\/Hokuriku_Chubu_33-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130019\/Hokuriku_Chubu_33-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130019\/Hokuriku_Chubu_33.jpg 853w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">The dinner is an incredible feast of local produce served around the irori, a traditional Japanese fireplace.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The authenticity of the experience is what really sets this apart. It\u2019s not just about the rural location; it\u2019s more about the connection and learning experience with local people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130024\/Hokuriku_Chubu_34-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"noto village in japan\" class=\"wp-image-76385\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130024\/Hokuriku_Chubu_34-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130024\/Hokuriku_Chubu_34-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130024\/Hokuriku_Chubu_34-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130024\/Hokuriku_Chubu_34-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130024\/Hokuriku_Chubu_34.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"toyama\">Toyama Prefecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Toyama Prefecture (\u5bcc\u5c71\u770c) is the birthplace of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, home to unique villages and unreal landscapes. Flanked between the Japanese Alps and The Sea of Japan, Toyama offers some of the most breathtaking sights along this route. To top it off, it prides itself in its extraordinary gastronomic experience thanks to its one of a kind water quality and prized sushi. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"gokayama\">Gokayama Village, A World Heritage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With quite a similar vibe to Gifu\u2019s Shirakawa-go, <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/toyama-gokayama-village\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><strong>Gokayama<\/strong><\/a><strong> (\u4e94\u7b87\u5c71)<\/strong> is the lesser-known quintessential Japanese mountain village. Comprising of 40 small settlements, two of them (Ainokura and Suganuma) have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It holds immense value as an immersion in past traditions as well as the unique architectural style known as <strong>gassho-zukuri, suited for heavy snowfall climates<\/strong>. Such artisanal techniques date back to the Edo period. The remote location has helped to create a unique culture that, coupled with the fact it\u2019s not as touristy as Shirakawa-go, makes it an absolute must to get a feel of an authentic rural Japanese village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/08163908\/%E4%BA%94%E7%AE%87%E5%B1%B1%E2%91%A4-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-78335\"\/><figcaption>Gokayama Village| Photo provided by sponsor<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"midagahara\">Otherworldly Landscapes in Midagahara <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just a peek into the beautiful highland plateau of Midagahara (\u5f25\u9640\u30f6\u539f) will be enough to fall in love instantly with the gorgeous landscape. About 3,000 small ponds and puddles within 80,000\u33a2 of green meadows and rare alpine plants create an unreal sight that inspired the legend of a hungry demon who fell into hell and planted rice to relieve his hunger. An elevation of almost 2,000 meters over sea level makes it possible, when the weather allows it, to sit above a sea of clouds right out of a dreamscape.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130043\/Hokuriku_Chubu_36-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Midagahara plains\" class=\"wp-image-76387\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130043\/Hokuriku_Chubu_36-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130043\/Hokuriku_Chubu_36-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130043\/Hokuriku_Chubu_36-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130043\/Hokuriku_Chubu_36-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130043\/Hokuriku_Chubu_36-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24130043\/Hokuriku_Chubu_36-scaled.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Midagahara plains | Photo provided by sponsor<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Private car access is restricted, so the access options are by train until Tateyama Station, cable car until Bijodaira Station and then one of the bus lines that are operating on routes between Bijodaira and Murodo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"nagano\">Nagano Prefecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Nagano Prefecture (\u9577\u91ce\u770c) rose to world prominence during the 1998 Winter Olympics. While winter activities, hot spring resorts and the famously beloved <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/hot-spring-monkeys-jigokudani-nagano\/\" class=\"ek-link\">snow monkeys<\/a> are some of its main highlights, Nagano is also at its core an inland sacred place known for its historical heritage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"zenkoji\">Zenkoji, A One of a Kind Temple <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/nagano-zenko-ji-temple\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Zenkoji Temple<\/a> (\u5584\u5149\u5bfa) is famous for being one of Japan&#8217;s largest wooden temples and a true feat of traditional Japanese architecture. Although the wooden main hall was built in the 18th century, the temple\u2019s history dates back to the 7th century. The city of Nagano partially owes its existence to this temple, as it was originally a small town that was built up around Zenkoji. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-11 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Zenkoji temple\" data-id=\"76349\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76349\" class=\"wp-image-76349\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125548\/Hokuriku_Chubu_37-scaled.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">Zenkoji temple is one of its kind among Buddhist temples in Japan | Photo provided by the sponsor.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several particularities that set this temple apart from its kind. It holds the honor of receiving the first Buddha statue that ever made its way into Japan. And like Amanosan Kongoji in Osaka, women were free to worship at their grounds during a time when it was not allowed in most temples. Also, it remains unaffiliated with any major Buddhist school. Despite this, it\u2019s one of the most important pilgrimage sites in all of Japan because of its historical relevance and partly thanks to its accessibility. It\u2019s easily reachable from Nagano Station, either by foot (around 20-minutes) or by bus from the train station.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"karuizawa\">Karuizawa, A Resort Town with International Appeal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/nagano-karuizawa\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Karuizawa<\/a> (\u8efd\u4e95\u6ca2) has a long history as a popular leisure town of summer villas and winter ski retreats. It was an important location since the Edo era as one of the Nakasendo posts, but its popularity increased dramatically during the Meiji era. In 1886, a Canadian missionary introduced the city to his peers as a resort town. Ever since then, it became a favored spot for many wealthy Tokyoites and international visitors to run away from the scorching hot summers in Tokyo and engage in winter sports due to its climate and close location to Mt. Asama. These circumstances allowed Karuizawa to flourish as both a cultural fixture and a nature attraction site. It\u2019s only 1 hour and 20 minutes away from Tokyo onboard the Hokuriku Shinkansen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-12 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Karuizawa night illuminations\" data-id=\"76351\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76351\" class=\"wp-image-76351\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125616\/Hokuriku_Chubu_39-scaled.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-item__caption\">Prince Shopping Plaza<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"karuizawa winter\" data-id=\"76350\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-scaled.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?attachment_id=76350\" class=\"wp-image-76350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125603\/Hokuriku_Chubu_38-scaled.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-item__caption\">Kumoba Pond<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption\">A cool climate and accessible location is the Karuizawa formula for success.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"niigata\">Niigata Prefecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Niigata Prefecture (\u65b0\u6f5f\u770c) sits at the west coast of Honshu on the northern end of the Hokuriku route. It&#8217;s one of the favored choices for winter destinations, not just because of its numerous hot springs and winter sports resorts, but also thanks to the renowned high quality of its rice and the even better quality of its sake. It turns out it&#8217;s all tied together thanks to a not so secret ingredient: Snow! Heavy snowfalls aren&#8217;t just great for ski enthusiasts \u2014 they also create a unique environment for rice harvest and fermentation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kanzuri\">Kanzuri: A Unique, Centuries Old Seasoning Spice <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As far as unique Japanese tastes are concerned, quite possibly, Niigata prefecture takes the cake with its centuries-old traditional kanzuri spice. It\u2019s an all-purpose seasoning made from Togarashi chili pepper (a local variety) harvested in Myoko city. Once collected, the peppers are pickled with salt and left in the snow for several days. Afterward, the fermentation with yuzu peels and rice koji (fermented rice employed in sake production) begins. After a slow process of over 3 years, the mixture produces a unique flavor that has been part of the local traditional cuisine for 400 years. Kanzuri Ltd, the company responsible for its current production and commercialization, has put great care into preserving the traditional methods. This way, kanzuri is not just a delicious and versatile condiment but also a testament to an everlasting local culinary culture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125626\/Hokuriku_Chubu_40-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Japanese chili peppers\" class=\"wp-image-76352\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125626\/Hokuriku_Chubu_40-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125626\/Hokuriku_Chubu_40-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125626\/Hokuriku_Chubu_40-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125626\/Hokuriku_Chubu_40-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125626\/Hokuriku_Chubu_40-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125626\/Hokuriku_Chubu_40.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Niigata\u2019s harsh winters inspired techniques of food preservation with snow which has derived into a unique flavor | Photo provided by the sponsor<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"lotte\">Lotte Arai Resort, A Winter Wonderland<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from Kanzuri production, Myoko city is also one of Asia\u2019s most ambitious mountain leisure facilities. <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lottehotel.com\/arai-resort\/en.html\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">Lotte Arai Resort<\/a> showcases 14 ski courses, 257 rooms, generous amenities and services with restaurants, onsen, and swimming pools, as well as the continent\u2019s longest zip tour at 1,501 meters. The advantageous location between Mt. Myoko and Mt. Ogenashi(\u5927\u6bdb\u7121\u5c71) grants a beautiful mountain landscape that can be equally enjoyed in the colder and warmer seasons thanks to a wide array of activities throughout the year. It\u2019s located under two hours from Tokyo via Shinkansen or two hours from Niigata Airport by car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125636\/Hokuriku_Chubu_41-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"skiing in japan\" class=\"wp-image-76353\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125636\/Hokuriku_Chubu_41-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125636\/Hokuriku_Chubu_41-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125636\/Hokuriku_Chubu_41-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125636\/Hokuriku_Chubu_41-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125636\/Hokuriku_Chubu_41-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/24125636\/Hokuriku_Chubu_41-scaled.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Winter sports enthusiasts will feel right at home in Lotte Arai Resort | Photo provided by the sponsor<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=1zbMrff6Js2r-apsCX7vrn1V5P7vGKpBW&amp;hl=en\" width=\"800\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<p>To find out more about the <a href=\"https:\/\/issuu.com\/new_golden_route_japan\/docs\/new_golden_route\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"ek-link\">New Golden Route, download the brochure<\/a> and learn about this treasure trove of Japan&#8217;s hidden gems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hokuriku-arch-pass\">Introducing the Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/strong> is a regional rail pass for exclusive use by foreign visitors that <strong>allows unlimited travel for seven consecutive days on some Japan Rail (JR) and private train lines between Tokyo and Osaka via the Hokuriku region<\/strong>. You can make stops along less-explored parts of Japan, generally more rural and less populated, to experience a more tranquil side of the country, full of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking scenic spots. For more information on how to purchase the pass and where it is valid, please see the <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/kanto-hokuriku-arch-pass\/#HokurikuArchPass\" class=\"ek-link\">Hokuriku Arch Pass section<\/a> in our first article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"528\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/21174830\/hokurikumap_2-1024x528.png\" alt=\"Hokuriku arch pass information\" class=\"wp-image-76069\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/21174830\/hokurikumap_2-1024x528.png 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/21174830\/hokurikumap_2-500x258.png 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/21174830\/hokurikumap_2-1536x793.png 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/21174830\/hokurikumap_2-2048x1057.png 2048w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/21174830\/hokurikumap_2.png 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we wanted to introduce you to some interesting spots and hidden gems located in the Chubu region that you will be able to visit using your Hokuriku Arch Pass. To discover the rest of this New Golden Route from Tokyo to Osaka, read our two other articles: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"is-style-default wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/kanto-hokuriku-arch-pass\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Part 1: Sightseeing in Kanto with the Hokkuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sightseeing-kansai-hokuriku-arch-pass\/\" class=\"ek-link\">Part 3: Sightseeing in Kansai with the Hokkuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/21174833\/japan-endless-discovery-logo.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-77658\" width=\"472\" height=\"104\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/21174833\/japan-endless-discovery-logo.jpg 944w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/21174833\/japan-endless-discovery-logo-500x110.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The list is far from exhaustive but hopefully will give readers enough pointers to venture by themselves and explore some of these locations better to understand Japan\u2019s historical sites and unique cultural assets. Traveling is also about getting out of one\u2019s own comfort zone and connecting with new experiences while learning about places and cultures on the antipodes of one\u2019s own birthplace. The Chubu region provides an ideal opportunity to explore a different Japan away from media clich\u00e9s while still accessible from its major cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><em><em>Sponsored by Hokuriku-Shin&#8217;etsu District Transport Bureau, JR West and JR East<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This is Part 2 of a 3 part series of articles about the New Golden Route, a part of Japan&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":163,"featured_media":76359,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pgc_meta":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[2091,23,1],"tags":[1713,1264,1275,2157,1268,1320,1258,1731,1266,1374],"class_list":{"0":"post-76348","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-chubu","8":"category-sightseeing","9":"category-sponsored","10":"tag-local-crafts","11":"tag-fukui","12":"tag-gifu","13":"tag-hokuriku-arch-pass","14":"tag-ishikawa","15":"tag-garden","16":"tag-niigata","17":"tag-skiing","18":"tag-toyama","19":"tag-train"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Hokuriku Arch Pass: The Best of Japan&#039;s Chubu Region on the 7 Day Pass<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Chubu region is full of fascinating experiences with rural and traditional Japan. 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