Nakatsugawa

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Nakatsugawa's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Nakatsugawa
morning
:

Start your day at the Nakatsugawa Park and enjoy a peaceful stroll surrounded by nature. Don't forget to grab a snack from a local vendor to fuel your adventures.

afternoon
:

Visit the Nakatsugawa Onsen area for a relaxing soak in the hot springs. Afterward, explore the shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can savor authentic Japanese cuisine. Take a walk along the riverbank to witness the sunset.

day 2
Hiking Adventure
morning
:

Set out early to hike the nearby mountains such as Ena or Nakasendo. The trails offer scenic views and a chance to connect with nature.

afternoon
:

Return to Nakatsugawa and have lunch at a local café. Spend the afternoon visiting historical sites like the Sakamoto School.

evening
:

Relax at your accommodation and enjoy some evening tea. If you're up for it, take a night walk to admire the starry sky.

day 3
Culinary Journey
morning
:

Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Japanese dishes. This interactive experience will deepen your appreciation for the local cuisine.

afternoon
:

Visit a local market to shop for fresh ingredients and snacks. Enjoy sampling various street foods and delicacies available.

evening
:

Dine at a sushi restaurant and treat yourself to delicious, fresh fish. Cap off the night with a sweet dessert from a local patisserie.

day 4
Cultural Experience
morning
:

Visit the Nakatsugawa Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Engaging exhibitions will provide insight into local traditions.

afternoon
:

Attend a hands-on workshop to try your hand at traditional art forms like pottery or calligraphy. It's a great way to take a piece of Nakatsugawa home.

evening
:

Watch a local performance or festival if available. Enjoy dinner in a traditional ryokan for an authentic cultural experience.

day 5
Cycling Through Nature
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and ride along the scenic bike paths near Nakatsugawa. The fresh air and stunning landscapes make for a perfect morning.

afternoon
:

Stop at the picturesque villages you encounter along the way. Enjoy a picnic with your own prepared food or refreshments from local shops.

evening
:

Explore the Nakatsugawa night market if available. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and try various local specialties.

day 6
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a visit to the beautiful Kinkazan, where you can soak in the nature surrounding you. Try some morning meditation or tai chi.

afternoon
:

Spend time at an onsen and enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch. Take in the serene surroundings before moving on to your next adventure.

evening
:

Consider visiting a local sake brewery to learn about the brewing process. Sample different types of sake while enjoying an informative session.

day 7
Shopping and Leisure
morning
:

Spend your morning exploring local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs. Find handcrafted goods made by local artisans.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a cozy café, then continue shopping in the area. Look for regional specialties to bring back home.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant, sampling fusion dishes that mix local and international cuisines. Relax at a nearby café for dessert and coffee.

day 8
Sunset Views
morning
:

Visit the nearby mountains or hills for a morning hike. The early hours provide a tranquil atmosphere for nature enthusiasts.

afternoon
:

Spend some time near the river, enjoying the scenery and possibly spotting local wildlife. Have lunch at a riverfront café.

evening
:

Find a good vantage point to watch the sunset over Nakatsugawa. Capture the moment with photos before indulging in a cozy dinner.

day 9
Festivals and Events
morning
:

Check for local festivals happening during your visit and participate in morning activities. Engage with the community and locals.

afternoon
:

Enjoy street performances and traditional games at the festival. Savor seasonal foods available at the stalls.

evening
:

Finish the day with fireworks if offered at the festival. Join the celebrations with local families and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Discover Nakatsugawa

Read more in our Nakatsugawa 2024 Travel Guide.

Nakatsugawa Travel Guide