Things To Do
in Nanto
Nanto is a picturesque town located in Toyama Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful rural landscapes, traditional farming practices, and historic villages. Visitors to Nanto can explore the charming thatched-roof houses of Ainokura and Gokayama, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The town offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and experiencing the local culture.
- "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: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the traditional thatched-roof houses and take in the serene mountain landscape.
Visit the Nanto Art Museum to view exhibitions that showcase local art and history. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring regional cuisine.
Stroll through the town and savor a traditional dinner at a local izakaya. Experience the night ambiance with locals as you unwind.
Early morning hike at the Nanto Green Park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and pack some water.
After your hike, have a picnic in the park while you enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Take time to relax and appreciate nature.
Return to town for dinner and try a hot pot meal, a comforting choice after a day of hiking. Share your experiences with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers, making it a great location for outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional crafts like Washi paper making.
- Less crowded than larger cities, providing a peaceful living environment.
- Strong community spirit and friendly local residents.
- Access to local festivals and events that celebrate traditional Japanese culture.
- Limited public transportation options compared to bigger urban areas.
- Fewer job opportunities, especially for those seeking work in diverse industries.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options, which may not appeal to younger populations.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall, which can be challenging for some residents.
- Potential for isolation due to its rural setting, which may not suit everyone.
Best Activities in Nanto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site to see traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and immerse in rural Japanese culture.
Explore the beautiful gorge with hiking trails, boat rides, and scenic views of the Shogawa River.
Enjoy a serene garden with art installations, nature trails, and a variety of outdoor sculptures.
Relax in the hot springs while surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Embark on hiking adventures in the nearby Northern Alps, offering various trails for different skill levels and stunning natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nanto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nanto
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and scenic rural landscape.
A picturesque gorge with crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, and stunning rock formations, offering great photo opportunities.
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its thatched-roof houses and tranquil mountain setting, providing excellent views for photography.
Food in Nanto
Nanto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Nanto is famous for its handcrafted soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour and served with a flavorful dipping sauce. Visit Yamada Soba for an authentic and delicious soba experience.
Must-Try!
Sawara sushi, also known as river fish sushi, is a must-try local delicacy. Head to Oyamada Sushi for a delectable taste of this regional specialty.
Himuro salmon, a traditional preserved salmon dish, is a highlight in Nanto. Sample this delicacy at the local izakayas like Nanto Himuro-ya and savor the rich flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nanto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Start your day at the Nanto Morning Market, where you can explore a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to try freshly prepared skewers of yakitori and imagawayaki.
For a unique street food experience, make your way to Tateyama Murodo Station, located in the stunning Northern Alps. Indulge in grilled mountain vegetables, yakisoba, and warm amazake as you take in the breathtaking scenery.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nanto, Japan, it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
It is important to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional spaces in Nanto, Japan, as a gesture of respect and cleanliness.
In Nanto, Japan, it is polite to respect personal space and avoid making physical contact, especially upon initial meetings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nanto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nanto
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Nanto, Japan. In fact, it is generally considered rude to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. Japanese hospitality places emphasis on providing exceptional service without the expectation of additional gratuity.
In Nanto, Japan, cash is the predominant form of payment, and credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. However, it is advisable to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller businesses or rural areas where credit card acceptance may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nanto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nanto, Japan is during spring (March to May) when cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is mild.
Summer (June to August) in Nanto, Japan is hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. It's a good time for outdoor activities and festivals.
The autumn months (September to November) bring beautiful foliage to Nanto, Japan, making it a great time to visit for nature lovers.
Winter (December to February) in Nanto, Japan is cold with occasional snowfall. It's a quieter time to visit, and the surrounding mountains offer opportunities for winter sports.
Nanto at Night
Hiking in Nanto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot known for its beautiful views and diverse flora. The trail features varied terrain and is suitable for all skill levels.
Part of the Tateyama Mountain Range, this area offers breathtaking landscapes and numerous hiking trails, including routes to the summit with spectacular views.
Famous for its stunning gorge views and unique railways, this hiking spot features well-marked trails that highlight the natural beauty of the area.
A local nature park with well-maintained trails ideal for hiking and walking, surrounded by beautiful forests and scenic landscapes.
A stunning mountainous area with a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, offering picturesque views of the Northern Japan Alps.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nanto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nanto by plane.
Located in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, approximately 150 km from Nanto, this airport serves international and domestic flights.
Situated on an island in Osaka Bay, about 170 km from Nanto, it is one of Japan's primary international airports.
Also known as Nagoya Komaki Airport, this airport is approximately 130 km from Nanto and serves limited international flights.
Officially known as Osaka International Airport, it is located about 150 km from Nanto, primarily serving domestic flights with some international connections.
While further away at about 380 km from Nanto, this airport is one of the busiest and most significant in Japan, offering many international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Nanto, Japan.
Includes a mix of non-Japanese residents from various countries.
An indigenous people of Japan, though very few in number within Nanto.
A small population of Korean descent, including both immigrants and descendants.
The Soul of Nanto
Discover the essence of Nanto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a widely popular sport in Nanto, with many local clubs and youth teams participating in regional leagues.
Basketball is also a favorite among the youth in Nanto, with schools and community centers often organizing games and tournaments.
Baseball has a strong following in Nanto, as it is one of Japan's most beloved sports, with both amateur and professional teams.
Track and field events are commonly held in schools and local athletics clubs, drawing participation from many residents.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced by many in Nanto, reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage in these sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Nanto's cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for eateries like Mamehachi for delicious vegetarian soba and tofu-based dishes, and Cafe Hitomoshi for vegan-friendly treats.
For gluten-free dining, establishments like Maruhachi Soba provide gluten-free soba noodles, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can relish the local flavors without compromise.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nanto with these cultural adventures.
