Find Tranquil Lakes, Ancient Traditions and Majestic Waterfalls in Central Japan Shiga / Fukui / Ishikawa / Toyama

One of the largest natural resort parks in the area, Biwako Hakodateyama sits at an altitude of close to 700m. This mountain retreat facilitates some of the most popular activities in Japan, such as hiking, skiing in the winter months, strolling through flower-filled parks, zip lining and enjoying delicious dishes at the resorts’ restaurants. The top of the mountain is reached by gondola, and from this vantage point you can take in the stunning sight of Lake Biwa below. One of the oldest lakes in the world, thought to be over four million years in the making, it is also the largest body of freshwater in Japan. If you're an avid cyclist, you can also explore the scenic beauty of Lake Biwa by embarking on a cycling journey around its shores. When you plan your Japan adventures in the country’s heartland, you’ll be pleased you put mountainous Biwako Hakodateyama on the itinerary.

Echizen is known as a center of “monozukuri”, a term that denotes manufacturing, in particular in places where traditional arts and craft practices are still alive and well. While artisans in the town still produce lacquerware, and skilled craftspeople are known for their proficiency in building wooden items, like chests, it’s the art of forging that is perhaps the most enticing draw to the town. Japanese sword making in the area dates back to the 14th century when swordsmith Chiyozuru Kuniyasu settled in modern-day Echizen. These days, blacksmiths practice this ancient artform in full view of the public. And while you may struggle to find the legendary samurai sword in production, you’ll certainly see craftspeople forging famous Echizen knives, a far easier souvenir to carry home with you as a memento of your trip after seeing the skilled blacksmiths at work. Across Japan, villages often had local artisans at work, but today to see these unique artforms still practiced is a privilege.

For one of the best hikes in Japan you must visit Tedori Gorge. A vast, cavernous depression that runs for 8 kilometers, the gorge is banked by towering cliffs on either side ranging from 20 meters to 30 meters in height. The gorge begins its journey at Komon Bridge in the town of Kamashimizu and follows the winding Tedori River onwards to the Taizan Bridge in Kawarayama. The sheer power of the river and the effect of the water cascading on the volcanic rocks below have created some unusual sights, odd-shaped boulders and pot-holed riverbanks, caused by the immense force of the rivers as it flung rock against rock. Get up close to the Watagataki waterfall and experience its power firsthand, and if you’re visiting in cherry-blossom season, it’s a great place to see the blooms. There are also several hot springs in the area to soak in the experience. Hiking in Japan is always special because the country’s unique natural landscape affords so many spectacular sights. However, no visitor hiking Japan could fail to be mesmerized by the truly incredible shapes and formations that make Tedori Gorge standout as a particularly memorable stop on their itinerary.
*Please check the latest information before visiting this area.

Shomyo Falls is the highest waterfall in Japan and cascades down a staggering 350 meters from top to bottom. If you enjoy hiking in Japan, you’ll be blown away by the sheer ferocity of this torrent of water which appears at the close of a short 30-minute-long trail. Inland from Toyama Bay, this natural wonder is surrounded by dense forest – a lush landscape of trees hiding a powerful force of nature at its center. The waterfall originates at Mt. Tateyama and undertakes a series of four descents in the Shomyo Gorge before transforming into the falls. For many visitors to Japan, hiking represents one of the best ways to explore the country and truly appreciate its natural wonders. At Shomyo Falls, fed by water originating in the 3,000-meter-high peaks of the Northern Alps, the fall foliage in particular paints a particularly exquisite scene, but this natural beauty transforms throughout the year with a focal point that ebbs and flows as the seasons change.