Obuse - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Obuse

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Obuse, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Obuse and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Obuse, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Obuse for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Obuse

Obuse is a small town in the northern region of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is located approximately 20 km east of Nagano City and has a population of around 10,000 people. Obuse is known for its beautiful traditional architecture, especially its historic Hokusai Museum which features the works of famous ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai. The town is also famous for its chestnuts which are used in many local dishes, including Obuse-zen, a traditional Japanese dish made with chestnuts and local vegetables. Obuse is a popular tourist destination and attracts many visitors who come to enjoy its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

What to visit in Obuse

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Obuse, Japan: 1. Obuse Museum Nakajima Chinami Hall: This museum is dedicated to the works of Nakajima Chinami, a Japanese painter and printmaker. It showcases his paintings, woodblock prints, and other art pieces, as well as his personal belongings.
2. Hokusai Museum: This museum features the works of Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan's most famous artists. It houses over 1,800 pieces of art, including paintings, woodblock prints, and sketches.
3. Obuse Castle: Also known as Ganshoin Castle, this castle was built in the late 16th century by a local warlord named Masayuki Sanada. Today, only ruins remain, but visitors can explore the castle grounds and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding area.
4. Takai Kozan Memorial Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and works of Takai Kozan, a Japanese painter from Obuse. It showcases his paintings, calligraphy, and other art pieces, as well as his personal belongings.
5. Obuse Shrine: This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the deity Yorimasa Taira. It features a beautiful torii gate and a courtyard with sakura trees, which bloom in the spring.
6. Chestnut trees: Obuse is known for its chestnut trees, which produce some of the highest quality chestnuts in Japan. Visitors can see these trees all over the town, and can also enjoy chestnut-flavored treats like mochi and ice cream.
7. Hot springs: Obuse is home to several onsen (hot springs) that are perfect for a relaxing soak. Some popular ones include Kurhaus Obuse and Obuse-no-Yu.
Overall, Obuse is a charming town with a rich cultural heritage and many beautiful sights to see.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Obuse.

When to go on holiday to Obuse

The best time to visit Obuse, Japan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the scenery is beautiful with cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful leaves in the autumn. However, Obuse is a year-round destination, and if you don't mind the cold weather, winter can also be a great time to visit, with less crowds and the opportunity to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, but it is also the season for festivals and other cultural celebrations.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Obuse

To get to Obuse in Japan, you can consider the following transportation options: 1. By Train: You can take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station and then transfer to the local train on the Nagano Dentetsu line to Obuse Station. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the train schedule.
2. By Bus: There are bus services available from Nagano Station to Obuse. The journey takes around 40 minutes and the bus leaves hourly.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive from Tokyo. The journey takes around 4 hours, but it offers flexibility and the opportunity to sightsee along the way.
Whichever option you choose, Obuse is a beautiful and charming town known for its history, culture, and art, so be sure to enjoy your visit!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Obuse, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Obuse

Obuse is a small town located in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan. It is famous for its unique cuisine which is heavily influenced by the local produce and ingredients of the region. Here are some typical foods of Obuse along with their descriptions: 1. Chestnut Rice (Kurikinton): It is a traditional Japanese sweet made of mashed chestnuts with sugar and sweet potatoes.
2. Soba Noodles: Obuse is famous for its homemade buckwheat soba noodles which have a unique texture and flavor.
3. Hoba Miso: This is a traditional dish made with miso paste, vegetables, and mushrooms wrapped in dried hoba leaves and grilled over charcoal.
4. Oyaki: Oyaki is a type of dumpling that is stuffed with different fillings like vegetables, meat, and mushrooms and then grilled.
5. Apples: Obuse is known for its high-quality apples, which are often used in desserts and snacks.
6. Miso-flavored Sake (Misoshu): This is a unique drink made by fermenting sake with miso paste, resulting in a sweet and savory flavor.
7. Hoshi-gaki: Hoshi-gaki refers to dried persimmons which are a popular snack in Obuse.
8. Shinshu-izakaya: The izakaya-style food of Obuse is a must-try experience. This dish consists of a variety of small dishes ranging from sashimi, grilled fish, pickles, and steamed specialities.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Obuse an expensive destination for tourists?

Obuse, Japan can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation can be higher than in other parts of Japan. However, with some research and planning, it is possible to find affordable options for all of these things.
Accommodation prices in Obuse can vary depending on the time of year you visit. During peak seasons, such as cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season, prices can be higher. However, there are hostels and guesthouses available that provide more budget-friendly options for travelers.
Food prices in Obuse can also be slightly higher than other parts of Japan, but there are many affordable options available such as Japanese-style fast food chains or local markets where you can buy fresh produce to cook your own meals.
As for transportation, the cost of getting to Obuse from Tokyo or other major cities in Japan can be expensive, but once you are in Obuse, the town is small enough to easily explore on foot.
Overall, while Obuse can be considered a somewhat expensive destination for tourists, careful planning and budgeting can make it an affordable and enjoyable trip.

Where to find accomodation in Obuse

There are several areas where you could find accommodation to visit Obuse, Japan. Some good options to consider are: 1. Obuse town center: This is the most convenient area to stay in as it's close to all the major attractions in the town. There are several budget-friendly hotels, traditional inns, and guesthouses here.
2. Sakai: This is a residential area that offers a more authentic Japanese experience. There are many guesthouses and traditional ryokans in Sakai that offer comfortable accommodations with a traditional touch.
3. Fukashi Onsen: This is a popular hot spring resort area located on the outskirts of Obuse. There are several Japanese-style ryokans and hotels here that offer relaxing hot spring baths.
4. Nagano city: If you don't mind being a little further from Obuse, you could consider staying in Nagano city, which is only a short train ride away. There are many modern hotels and guesthouses to choose from here.
You can check hotel prices at Obuse here:
Booking.com

Is Obuse a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Obuse, Japan is generally a safe place for tourists. It has a low crime rate and is widely considered to be one of the safest countries in the world. However, as with any destination, it is always important to be mindful of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Follow common sense safety practices, such as keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night, and being aware of any potential scams or pickpocketing. With these precautions in mind, you should be able to have a safe and enjoyable trip in Obuse.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Obuse.

What type of travelers will enjoy Obuse the most?

Obuse, Japan is ideal for all types of travelers, but it is particularly popular among couples and families who are looking for a relaxing and peaceful experience. The town is known for its beautiful temples, shrines, and traditional architecture, which make it a great destination for those who are interested in Japanese culture.
Obuse is also famous for its sake brewery, chestnut-themed sweets, and delicious local cuisine, including soba noodles and sushi, making it an excellent place for food enthusiasts to visit. In terms of activities, visitors can enjoy hiking and nature walks, exploring historical sites, and taking part in traditional cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies and calligraphy lessons.
Overall, Obuse is a great destination for those looking to experience authentic Japanese culture and enjoy a soothing, nature-filled getaway.

How to get around Obuse

In Obuse, Japan, the most convenient way to move around the town is by walking and cycling. The town is relatively small and can be easily explored on foot or by renting a bicycle. There are also public buses available that connect different parts of the town. Taxis are also available, but they are relatively expensive compared to walking or cycling. Overall, walking or cycling is the best way to move around Obuse to enjoy the beautiful scenery and experience the local culture.

What to see around Obuse

Sure, here are some places to visit in a day trip from Obuse, Japan: 1. Zenko-ji Temple in Nagano City: A beautiful and historic Buddhist temple that is one of the oldest and most important in Japan.
2. Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto City: A stunning, well-preserved castle that dates back to the 16th century.
3. Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi Town: A unique park where you can see hot spring-loving Japanese macaques up close.
4. Togakushi Shrine in Nagano City: A group of ancient shrines set amidst a lush forest, with a scenic hiking trail.
5. Hokusai Museum and Museum of Obuse in Obuse: Museum dedicated to Hokusai, a famous ukiyo-e artist, and Museum of Obuse, which contains works of contemporary artists.
6. Shibu Onsen in Yamanouchi Town: A quaint and charming hot spring resort town with traditional Japanese inns.
7. Lake Nojiri in Shinano Town: A picturesque lake that offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.
I hope this helps!
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