Chubu

Information and Tourism

The region of Chubu occupies the central region of Japan's main island of Honshu. Its most notable feature is the rugged spine known as the Japanese Alps, which runs right down its centre, dividing the region neatly into two.

The two sides are known, rather straightforwardly, as the front and back of Japan. It is worth remembering that the side lying on the Sea of Japan tends to have quite high snowfall in the winter compared to the Pacific side of Chubu, which is sunnier.

This region is understandably popular with hiking enthusiasts, drawn here by the prospect of exploring Japan's 21 peaks that measure in above the 3,000-metre / 9,840-foot mark. The fact that mountain huts and hot springs are a feature of many regional hiking routes is also very appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

Included among Chubu's peaks is Japan's highest mountain, which also happens to be a volcano. Although Mount Fuji hasn't erupted since the early 18th century, it is still counted as being active. Catch a glimpse of its snow-covered peak on a clear day and you can understand why it has earned itself accolades for scenic beauty. It has also made its way onto the World Heritage list, although for cultural rather than natural reasons. It is one of three mountains in Japan that are classed as having particular religious significance.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Chubu is also the undisputed winter sports capital of Japan. Shiga Kogen is one of its most notable ski resorts, being a place where you stand as good a chance as any of catching a glimpse of a Japanese celebrity. It is also equally famed for its 'onsen' or natural hot spring. Nagano was, incidentally, the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics.

In the north of the Chubu region, the city of Toyama is remarkable not just for producing cheap hydroelectricity, but also for having the only glaciers in East Asia outside of Russia.

Chubu Information and Fast Facts

• Country: Japan
• Location: Honshu
• Biggest city: Nagoya
• Population: approximately 22 million
• Language: Japanese
• Area: 28,020 square miles / 72,570 square kilometres
• Height of highest point (Mount Fuji): 3,776 metres / 12,390 feet

	WORLD GUIDES TO CHUBU
	World Guide to Nagoya, Japan Nagoya has become famous for its scenic coastal location and is next to the Pacific Ocean. Although Nagoya may not stand out as a tourist destination, it does offer many appealing attractions, gardens, boulevards and a grand castle.

Map of Japan