Things To Do
in Furukawa
Furukawa is a quiet mountain town in central Japan where river valleys shape daily life. Traditional wooden storehouses line cobbled streets, and artisans keep age-old crafts alive alongside modern cafés. Visitors can stroll along the Furukawa River, sample seasonal produce, and pause at small shrines tucked into hillside lanes.
The town serves as a gateway to nearby nature trails and alpine scenery, inviting day trips and slow-paced exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by strolling through the charming streets of the Furukawa Historic District, where traditional wooden buildings are beautifully preserved. Visit the local shops and artisan studios that showcase the craftsmanship of the region. Don’t forget to stop by a traditional tea house for a refreshing matcha experience.
After a delightful lunch at a local soba noodle shop, embark on a guided walking tour that reveals the rich history and cultural significance of each landmark. Engage with knowledgeable guides who share captivating stories of the town's past. Take your time to capture stunning photographs of the picturesque scenery.
As the sun sets, enjoy a serene evening by the riverbanks where you can catch glimpses of fireflies dancing in the twilight. Dine at a cozy izakaya, tasting regional specialties like grilled fish and seasonal vegetables. End the night with a leisurely walk to absorb the peaceful ambiance of this historic town.
Begin your day at the Furukawa Art Museum, where you can immerse yourself in contemporary and traditional Japanese art. The museum's well-curated exhibitions provide insights into local artists and their creative journeys. Take your time to appreciate the stunning artworks that reflect the culture and heritage of the area.
After your museum visit, head to a nearby park where you can have a picnic surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms, depending on the season. Enjoy fresh bento boxes from a local shop as you soak in the beauty of nature. This peaceful lunch is the perfect way to recharge before exploring more.
In the evening, join a local cooking class that teaches you how to prepare traditional Japanese dishes. Experience the joy of cooking using fresh, local ingredients, guided by expert chefs. Sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared, complemented by fresh sake from local breweries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥪Lunch at cafe or casual restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🧼Laundry (wash & dry) | $4-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich balance of traditional culture and nature
- Efficient public transit for a rural town
- Limited nightlife and cosmopolitan dining
- Some services may be cash-only and English minimal in facilities
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "おいしいです" - It's delicious
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "予約しています" - I have a reservation
Places to Visit in Furukawa
Visit one of these nice places.
A line of traditional storehouses along the river with mirrored water reflections, ideal at dawn or dusk.
Cobblestone lane with preserved wooden kura, lanterns, and small shops that evoke the town’s past.
A small bridge framing the river as the sun sinks, perfect for long exposure shots.
A quiet shrine perched above the town offering panoramic views and seasonal blossoms.
Food in Furukawa
Furukawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat soba noodles milled from locally grown grain, served hot in broth or cold with a dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Pounded rice on skewers brushed with miso-sesame glaze and grilled until lightly charred.
Seasonal river fish grilled with salt, often enjoyed with steamed rice and pickles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small riverside market offering fresh vegetables, tofu, pickles, and quick bites from local stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow when greeting; speak softly on public transport; remove shoes indoors; avoid loud phone conversations in shops.
Many small shops operate on cash; larger establishments often accept cards but always carry small yen for markets and rural stores.
Wash before entering baths; no towels in the bath; tie hair back and keep noise down.
Safety
Tipping in Furukawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan, including Furukawa. If you wish, round up the bill or offer a small gift to a host or ryokan staff.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional rain. Pack light layers, stay hydrated, and seek shade in the river valleys; evenings are cooler and comfortable for strolls.
Lively foliage colors and crisp air. This is the best season for outdoor hikes and photography among maple and beech trees.
Snowy landscapes and chilly temps. Mountain trails can be icy; carry traction devices and enjoy hot springs after outdoor activities.
Mild temperatures and blossom season. Early mornings can be misty over the river, and cafes offer seasonal desserts.
Furukawa at Night
Hiking in Furukawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of mountain trails with alpine scenery and wildlife, reachable by bus or car.
Dramatic gorge hiking combined with a scenic railway ride in nearby valleys.
Airports
How to reach Furukawa by plane.
Domestic flights with some international connections; rail or bus access to Furukawa via Kanazawa or Toyama areas; about 1.5-2.5 hours depending on connections.
Regional flights; rail connections to Furukawa via Toyama Station; convenient for northern Japan routes.
Major international hub near Nagoya; convenient for long-haul connections; then shinkansen and local lines to Furukawa (roughly 2.5-3.5 hours total).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families with children form a stable part of the town, benefiting from parks and schools.
Aging population is common in rural Japan, with community centers and healthcare services actively supporting seniors.
Growing number of visitors drawn to nature, crafts, and traditional architecture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby ski resorts in the mountains offer winter sports with scenic alpine views.
Popular year-round activity with a range of forest and ridge trails near Furukawa.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Furukawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes use fish stock (dashi) or meat-based broths. Look for tofu, vegetables, rice bowls, and miso soup without dashi; ask for 'otsumami yasai' or 'vegetarian set' and confirm no fish stock.