When visiting Nagano, you absolutely should not miss Japan’s longest post town! This article provides a complete guide to transportation from Nagoya and Tokyo to “Narai-juku”, including must-see attractions along the old streets, recommended local cuisine, and must-buy souvenirs, helping you easily plan a one-day trip along the Nakasendo Road filled with the historical charm of the Edo period.
Kanto region
This guide to independent travel in Kanto region includes information on attractions, itineraries, accommodation and local cuisine.
Koenji One-Day Trip Guide: Vintage Shopping, Public Baths, Junjo Shopping Street, Artsy Cafes, and Must-Try Food
Koenji is a must-visit neighborhood for artsy strolls in Tokyo! This guide covers everything independent-minded travelers need to know, including transportation, local shopping streets, distinctive vintage and variety stores, must-try food, a historic sento bathhouse, the anime pilgrimage spot Weather Shrine, and the spectacular annual Awa Odori Festival—making it easy to plan an authentic one-day trip through Koenji's old-school neighborhood atmosphere!
Yokohama Chinatown Guide: Must-Try Foods, Souvenirs, Transportation, and Attractions in Japan’s Largest Chinatown
Many travelers visiting Tokyo independently include Yokohama Chinatown in their itinerary. As Japan's largest Chinatown, it has a history of more than a century. From freshly made pan-fried xiaolongbao and adorable panda buns to a wide variety of made-to-order all-you-can-eat restaurants, century-old establishments, and temple attractions, this is one of Yokohama's most iconic must-visit areas.
2026 Karuizawa Kumoba Pond Guide: Winter Scenery, Autumn Foliage, Parking, and Transportation
Kumoba Pond, one of Karuizawa's most popular attractions and also known as “Swan Lake,” is famous for its clear waters reflecting the scenery of all four seasons. From fresh greenery in spring and summer to colorful autumn foliage and snowy winter landscapes, the pond reveals a different charm throughout the year.
Azumino Attractions Guide: Daio Wasabi Farm, Transportation, Accommodation, and a One-Day Cycling Itinerary
Azumino in Nagano Prefecture is a pastoral town surrounded by the Northern Alps and is often called “Japan’s most beautiful countryside.” It is about three hours from Tokyo and around 30 minutes from Matsumoto. Highlights include Daio Wasabi Farm, the largest wasabi farm in Japan, art museums filled with creative atmosphere, and cycling routes through idyllic rural scenery. This guide, based on an on-site visit by “Let’s Enjoy Japan!”, covers transportation, attractions, food, accommodation, and a one-day itinerary so you can make the most of Azumino!
Togakushi Shrine Guide: Transportation, Omamori Charms, Five-Shrine Pilgrimage Route Map, and a One-Day Trip to Nagano’s Thousand-Year-Old Shrine
Togakushi Shrine in Nagano Prefecture is an ancient shrine with a history of more than 2,000 years and appears in the famous “Amano-Iwato” myth. It is known for its unique “Five-Shrine Pilgrimage,” in which visitors worship at all five shrines within the sacred grounds, as well as the spectacular cedar-lined approach leading to Okusha, one of the most famous views in Japan.
Tokyo Mori Art Museum Guide: Roppongi Hills Exhibition Highlights, Tickets, Observation Deck, and Transportation
When visiting Tokyo independently, don’t miss the chance to enjoy world-class contemporary art in addition to shopping and food. Located in the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, the Mori Art Museum regularly hosts major exhibitions by internationally renowned artists and combines art with spectacular high-rise views, letting you enjoy both creativity and the city skyline in one visit.
[Hakone Shrine]Must-See Peace Torii on the Water! Over 1,000 Years of History, a Famous Power Spot, and Must-Buy Omamori Charms
Hakone Shrine is famous for its Peace Torii standing over the water, a photogenic landmark that has taken over Instagram feeds. The shrine enshrines the Hakone Okami deities and is one of the most popular power spots on a Hakone day trip.
Owakudani Guide: Explore a 3,000-Year-Old Volcanic Valley, Ride the Ropeway, Try the Famous Black Eggs, and Enjoy Stunning Views of Mount Fuji
Hakone Owakudani is a volcanic landscape where steam continues to rise from the earth to this day, making it one of Hakone’s most iconic natural attractions. Ride the Hakone Ropeway to look down over the volcanic terrain, then try the famous local “black eggs.” This guide covers transportation to Owakudani, the ropeway, and nearby attractions, helping you quickly understand the essential information before your visit.
[Senso-ji Temple]Worship Guide, Transportation, and Nakamise Shopping Street Food Map
For an independent trip to Tokyo, I highly recommend the conveniently located Senso-ji Temple! On this Asakusa day trip, we got up especially early and quickly managed to photograph the iconic giant lantern at Kaminarimon Gate while experiencing the atmosphere of the Edo period.