How Much Time?
- Overview
- Places to Explore
- Sights
- Restaurants
- Hotels
- Entertainment
- Travel Tips
- Features
- Fodor's Choice
- Deals
- Japanese Phrases
- Guidebooks
How Much Time?
A quick loop of the major towns and destinations—the Alps, the Noto-anto (Noto Peninsula), the Chubu Coast, and Sado Island—takes more than a week. To enjoy the unique scenery and culture of the region, it is best to choose two or three cities as sightseeing hubs. In the Alps region, frequent trains run north and south through the mountain valleys, while cutting across the mountains east to west and visiting smaller towns requires more planning. Local tourist offices can supply you with detailed bus and train information for the surrounding area.
Free Fodor's Newsletter
Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.
Fodor's Trip Planning Ideas
- Weekend Getaways: Fodor's Recommends the Best Weekend Escapes in the US
- Great American Vacation: Find Your Next U.S. Trip with Fodor's
- 80 Degrees: Fodor's Helps You Find Your Best Beach Vacation Spots
- Go List: Fodor's Top 25 Places to Go in 2013
- Hotel Awards 2012: Fodor's 100 Top Hotels
- Best of Europe: Fodor's Picks the Best Places to Visit in Europe
Travel Deals in The Japan Alps and the North Chubu Coast
- Book 3-Star Chisun & Conference Center Niigata Fr $98+/Nt Save with Expedia, $10/night less
- Book 3 Nts in Niigata this Jun Fr $85+/Nt Save with Expedia, $9/night less
- Small budget: Stay in Toyama this Jun Fr $134+/Nt — $134 Save with Expedia, $50/night less


