Central Japan’s Chubu region is a treasure trove of art, craftsmanship, andtradition—offering plenty to see and do with fewer crowds and easy bullet trainaccess from Tokyo. Kanazawa captivates with its dynamic arts scene, featuringcontemporary galleries like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art andbeautifully preserved merchant districts. Toyama is renowned for its Takaokacopperware and Inami woodcarving, with artisan studios open to visitors.Nagano is surrounded by the majestic Japanese Alps, offering stunning naturalbeauty, hiking and skiing trails, an acclaimed whiskey distillery, and charmingEdo-era towns to explore.