Things To Do
in Chikuma
Chikuma is a city located in Nagano Prefecture in Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains, rivers, and hot springs. The city also has a rich history, with historical sites such as shrines and temples that visitors can explore.
Chikuma offers a mix of traditional Japanese culture and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for tourists.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Chikuma River, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the banks. The scenic views and fresh air will energize you for the day ahead.
Visit the Anraku-ji Temple, an impressive historical site. Take some time to appreciate the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Dine at a local izakaya for authentic Japanese flavors. Share stories with friends over delicious yakitori and sake.
Start with a trip to the Togakushi Shrine, nestled in the mountains. Breathe in the crisp air and marvel at the towering trees surrounding the shrine.
Explore the hidden hiking trails around the shrine, immersed in nature's beauty. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape as you walk.
Return to town for dinner at a traditional soba noodle shop. Savor the locally made noodles, a specialty of the region.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and local customs.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing.
- Proximity to Nagano, offering access to urban amenities while enjoying a quieter lifestyle.
- Strong community spirit and friendly residents.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Harsh winters which may not be suitable for everyone.
- Public transportation options might be limited.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Possibility of natural disasters such as earthquakes.
Best Activities in Chikuma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and stunning natural landscapes along the Chikuma River.
Experience excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the nearby mountains.
Explore the expansive Shiga Kogen Resort, known for its hiking, skiing, and hot springs.
Take a bike ride along the river, with various paths and routes to enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Partake in water activities at Lake Nojiri, surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chikuma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chikuma
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides a picturesque view of the surrounding mountains and countryside
Offers stunning panoramic views of the Northern Alps and beautiful flower fields
Food in Chikuma
Chikuma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty, Chikuma is renowned for its buckwheat soba noodles, best enjoyed at traditional soba restaurants like Togariishi Jaya.
Must-Try!
Oyaki, a type of stuffed dumpling, is a popular snack in the area. You can savor these delicious dumplings at local markets or specialty shops like Shinshu Oyaki Kan.
Shinshu salmon, sourced from the Chikuma River, is a sought-after local delicacy often prepared as sashimi or grilled, and can be savored at restaurants along the river or local seafood markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chikuma better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Obasama Market is a vibrant hub for experiencing Chikuma's street food culture. Here you'll find an array of stalls offering everything from yakitori skewers to takoyaki octopus balls.
Nagano Farmers Market is a must-visit for fresh produce and local street food. Indulge in seasonal delights like tempura vegetables and grilled fish on sticks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Chikuma, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders and people in authority. This can be done through polite language, bowing, and following proper etiquette in social interactions.
Being punctual is highly valued in Chikuma, Japan. Arriving on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings is considered a sign of respect for others' time and demonstrates good manners.
When visiting Chikuma, Japan, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting shrines, temples, or other sacred sites. Revealing clothing may be seen as disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chikuma with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chikuma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chikuma, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries.
Payment in Chikuma, Japan is commonly done using cash, although credit cards are accepted in many establishments, particularly in larger cities. It is important to have cash on hand for smaller businesses and more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chikuma.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Chikuma, Japan is in spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, but it's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Autumn (September to November) is another beautiful time to visit as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange.
Winter (December to February) brings snow and cold temperatures, making it ideal for winter sports and enjoying hot springs.
Chikuma at Night
Hiking in Chikuma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park offering a variety of hiking trails, including routes through scenic forests and mountain landscapes.
An active volcano with multiple trails that provide stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
A peaceful area with walking trails that are perfect for hiking while enjoying birdwatching.
Hiking trails around the historical site of Ueda Castle, allowing visitors to explore both nature and history.
A highland area with extensive hiking trails, known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and alpine environment.
A scenic mountain pass with well-maintained trails ideal for a day hike surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Chikuma through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Chikuma by plane.
Located approximately 150 km from Chikuma, this airport serves as a major international gateway for the Chubu region of Japan.
Approximately 270 km southeast of Chikuma, Narita Airport is one of the two primary airports serving the Greater Tokyo area.
Located about 300 km from Chikuma, Haneda Airport primarily handles domestic flights but also offers several international routes.
Situated around 420 km west of Chikuma, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is a hub for both international and domestic flights.
About 120 km north of Chikuma, Niigata Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group, making up the majority of the population in Chikuma.
A small community of Korean descent, often involved in local businesses and cultural exchanges.
A minority group consisting mainly of Chinese residents and students living in the area.
Includes individuals from various other Asian countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand.
Includes a small number of Western expatriates living and working in Chikuma, engaged in various industries.
The Soul of Chikuma
Discover the essence of Chikuma through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Chikuma, enjoyed by people of all ages and often practiced in schools and local clubs.
Soccer has a strong following in Chikuma, with youth leagues and school teams actively participating in regional competitions.
Basketball is widely played in Chikuma, with various local teams and tournaments encouraging community involvement.
Volleyball is popular in both schools and community centers, often bringing residents together through local matches.
Track and field events are a significant part of school athletics in Chikuma, promoting fitness and competition among students.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chikuma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes seafood and meat, many restaurants in Chikuma offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, with cafes like Cafe Kitanozaka catering specifically to these dietary preferences.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can find rice-based dishes, such as sushi and rice bowls, as well as gluten-free soy sauce, ensuring a variety of dining choices in the region.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Chikuma with these cultural adventures.
