Chino,
Chino is a picturesque town located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, known for its stunning natural beauty and serene surroundings. The town is surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. Chino is also famous for its abundance of cherry blossoms in the spring, creating a beautiful backdrop for visitors to enjoy.
In addition to its natural attractions, Chino is also home to historical sites such as temples and shrines that offer a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Chino's Nature
morning:Start your day with a serene walk through the majestic Chino Botanical Garden, surrounded by colorful blooms and lush greenery. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Café Colore, offering delightful pastries and refreshing beverages.
afternoon:Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Suwa Lake and soak in the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Indulge in a delightful lunch at Momoya, a local favorite known for its delectable tempura and udon dishes.
evening:Wrap up your day with a visit to Konaya Ryokan for a relaxing dip at their open-air hot spring and then head to Craft Beer Bar Beez for a vibrant night-out with a wide selection of local and international brews.
Cultural Immersion in Chino
morning:Embark on a cultural journey by visiting the historic Suwa Taisha Shrine, a magnificent Shinto shrine with a rich heritage. Treat yourself to a traditional Japanese breakfast at Yamasan Soba, renowned for its authentic soba noodles.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in the art and history at the Nakamura Keith Haring Collection, showcasing an inspiring collection of Haring's artworks and other contemporary pieces. Savor a satisfying lunch at Gomayama Kogen Rest House, offering a diverse menu of Japanese comfort foods.
evening:Experience the local nightlife at Bar Sobanomugi, a cozy and inviting bar where you can savor local sake and engage in lively conversations with fellow patrons.
Outdoor Adventure Day in Chino
morning:Begin your day with an invigorating mountain bike ride through the scenic trails of Tateshina Plateau, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Recharge with a hearty breakfast at Café de la Branche, known for its gourmet sandwiches and aromatic coffee.
afternoon:Continue your adventure with a thrilling zipline experience at Chino City Zipline Adventure, offering adrenaline-pumping rides amidst the lush forest. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Nagashima Farm Restaurant, serving fresh and flavorful farm-to-table dishes.
evening:Unwind at Bar Bar Z, a laid-back watering hole with a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a few drinks and unwinding after an action-packed day.
Foodie's Delight Tour in Chino
morning:Embark on a gastronomic journey by exploring the local produce and specialty food items at Chino Farmers' Market, filled with an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal treats. Indulge in a delectable brunch at Cafe & Farm Kurumi, offering farm-fresh ingredients in their mouthwatering dishes.
afternoon:Delve into the world of Japanese sake with a visit to Tateshina Sake Brewery, where you can enjoy a guided tour and tasting of their finest sake varieties. Treat yourself to a satisfying ramen lunch at Bestu-Betsu Ramen, known for its rich and flavorful broth.
evening:Conclude your culinary adventure with a visit to Nakaiku Izakaya for a lively evening of enjoying an array of delicious small plates and drinks that perfectly complement the vibrant atmosphere.
Chino Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Shinshu Soba
A regional specialty, Shinshu Soba is a type of buckwheat noodle renowned for its nutty flavor and firm texture. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and is often served with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth. Head to Sobadokoro Hirokami for an authentic taste of this dish.
Must-Try!
Basashi
Basashi, or horse sashimi, is a unique delicacy in Chino. The tender, thinly sliced raw horse meat is typically served with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. For an authentic experience, visit a local izakaya like Izakaya Hiyori.
Oyaki
Oyaki are savory stuffed dumplings made with buckwheat or regular flour and filled with various ingredients such as mushrooms, pickles, or sweet azuki beans. You can savor this local specialty at Oyaki no Sato, a popular spot for sampling different oyaki variations.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Chino Morning Market
Start your day at the Chino Morning Market, where you can explore a vibrant selection of fresh produce, local snacks, and artisanal crafts. Sample grilled skewers, steamed buns, and seasonal fruits while immersing yourself in the lively market atmosphere.
Things to do in Chino
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Chino
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!