Central Japan’s Chubu region is a treasure trove of art, craftsmanship, and tradition—offering plenty to see and do with fewer crowds and easy bullet train access from Tokyo. Kanazawa captivates with its dynamic arts scene, featuring contemporary galleries like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and beautifully preserved merchant districts. Toyama is renowned for its Takaoka copperware and Inami woodcarving, with artisan studios open to visitors. Nagano is surrounded by the majestic Japanese Alps, offering stunning natural beauty, hiking and skiing trails, an acclaimed whiskey distillery, and charming Edo-era towns to explore.