{"id":41379,"date":"2026-05-29T07:05:31","date_gmt":"2026-05-29T07:05:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/?p=41379"},"modified":"2026-05-29T07:10:42","modified_gmt":"2026-05-29T07:10:42","slug":"10-days-central-japan-road-trip-itinerary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/2026\/05\/10-days-central-japan-road-trip-itinerary\/","title":{"rendered":"10 days Central Japan Road trip Itinerary"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>This blog shares our itinerary, hotels, where we stayed, what we ate, and the cities we visited.\u00a0 If you are interested to do a road trip in Central Japan, just copy this route.<\/p>\n<p>Day 1 SG to <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Chubu Centrair International Airport with SIA<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Car Rental<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"452\">Arrived in the morning and picked up our rental car to kick off the road trip. We booked through Trip.com with a company called RDZ. They picked us up directly from the airport and drove us to their office, which was about a 10-minute drive away. We originally arranged to meet at 10am, but since we arrived earlier, we asked them to pick us up at 9am instead. There was an additional charge of 650 yen for the earlier pickup, which was understandable.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"452\">\n<p data-start=\"454\" data-end=\"517\">After signing a few papers, we were ready to start our journey.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"519\" data-end=\"702\">The rental cost us SGD326 for 9 days, and we got a Toyota Prius hybrid. It turned out to be very fuel-efficient \u2014 throughout the entire 9-day trip, we only spent around SGD80 on fuel.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"519\" data-end=\"702\">9 days SGD326<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"519\" data-end=\"702\">Toll is about SGD200+ paid by cash everytime<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"519\" data-end=\"702\">Didn&#8217;t opt for insurance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41393\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_092451.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"704\" data-end=\"1230\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">One downside was that all the ETC cards had run out due to Japan&#8217;s Golden Week period, so unfortunately we couldn\u2019t get one. This made things slightly inconvenient because we had to pay cash every time we exited a toll. Having an ETC card would have made the journey smoother, and it also comes with around 20\u201330% toll discounts. Normally, you don\u2019t need to pay toll fees on the spot with ETC \u2014 the charges are calculated after you return the car, and the rental company will let you know the total amount based on your usage.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"704\" data-end=\"1230\">IDP International Driving Permit<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"93\">Before that, make sure to get your International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"95\" data-end=\"243\">In Singapore, you can apply through the <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Automobile Association of Singapore<\/span><\/span> (AAS). You can either apply online or visit their office in person at:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"293\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1ab9x2z\" data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"293\">AAS Office (HQ) \u2013 535 Kallang Bahru, Singapore\u00a0 (pay SGD20 and get it on the spot)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"295\" data-end=\"499\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">You\u2019ll need to bring both your IDP and your original driving licence when driving in Japan. Both documents are required when collecting your rental car, so it\u2019s important to prepare them before your trip.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"295\" data-end=\"499\">Day 1<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Gero<\/li>\n<li>Enakyo Service Area for lunch<\/li>\n<li>Maze village for the night<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"68\">The first city we drove to was Gero \u2014 and there\u2019s a reason for that.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"70\" data-end=\"369\">Instead of heading straight into a busy city like Nagoya, we chose to drive out towards the countryside first. Gero is a much quieter onsen town, which makes it a great place to ease into driving in Japan. The roads are calmer, traffic is lighter, and it feels more relaxed compared to city driving.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"641\">It\u2019s also a good way to get used to the car, the road system, and driving on the left side again without the pressure of heavy traffic. After a long night flight, your energy and focus aren\u2019t always at 100%, so it\u2019s not ideal to immediately dive into a busy city centre.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"643\" data-end=\"782\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Starting in a small town like Gero gives you time to adjust, recover, and build confidence before tackling bigger cities later in the trip.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h3>Enakyo Service Area for lunch<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"643\" data-end=\"782\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Enakyo Service Area<\/span><\/span> is a good stop for lunch on the expressway \u2014 easy parking, clean toilets, and decent food options. There are also plenty of small snacks, making it a convenient place to rest and recharge during your drive.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"643\" data-end=\"782\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41395\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_114757.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41396\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_114802.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"643\" data-end=\"782\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">We had kitsune udon for 800 yen and a karaage rice ramen set for 1,350 yen.\u00a0 Went to Family mart and bought an ice-cream 194yen and Georgia latte 193yen<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"643\" data-end=\"782\">\n<h3>Gero town<\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41398\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_145503.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1365\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"105\">In Gero, we parked at the Gero City Hall Parking Area \u2014 a convenient and free parking spot right in town.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"107\" data-end=\"369\">From there, it\u2019s easy to explore on foot. Bring a small towel with you, or buy one in town, because you\u2019ll want it for the public foot onsen scattered around the area. It\u2019s a nice way to relax and experience the onsen culture.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"107\" data-end=\"369\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41399\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_145520.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"525\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Food-wise, Gero is known for its Hida beef, and the local pudding desserts are also a must-try. Simple, local, and very satisfying after a day of driving.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"525\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41397\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_142251.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1365\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"209\">We bought a Jimi Tamago soft serve for 620 yen \u2014 the egg taste was surprisingly fresh with no strong smell at all. We also picked up a Gero towel for 550 yen featuring the Hida mascot (Sarubobo) , said to bring good luck.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"211\" data-end=\"411\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">To end it off, we got a beer for 770 yen and a cute frog soft toy for 600 yen. \u201cGero\u201d also sounds similar to a frog\u2019s croak in Japanese, which is why frogs are such a big mascot theme around the town.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"211\" data-end=\"411\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41411\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_073000.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"211\" data-end=\"411\">Where to stay? Miki no Sato Hotel SGD188 Dinner &amp; Breakfast<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"69\" data-end=\"134\"><strong data-start=\"69\" data-end=\"81\">Address:<\/strong><br \/>\n1695 Maze Nishimura, Gero City, Gifu 509-2615, Japan<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"114\" data-end=\"354\">We stayed at Miki no Sato in Maze Nishimura (\u99ac\u702c\u897f\u6751), a quiet countryside village about 30\u201340 minutes from Gero Onsen town. The stay cost around <strong data-start=\"257\" data-end=\"284\">SGD188 including dinner<\/strong>, which made it great value for a traditional ryokan-style experience.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"114\" data-end=\"354\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41400\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_162148.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"459\">We arrived at around 4pm and were welcomed by a peaceful rural setting with free parking right on site. There is also a signboard stating that Maze is considered one of Japan\u2019s most beautiful villages, which immediately sets the tone for how scenic and quiet the area is.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"459\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41406\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_183315.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"11j8ywy\" data-start=\"461\" data-end=\"480\">Onsen Experience<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"482\" data-end=\"621\">The onsen here is one of the highlights. We visited from <strong data-start=\"539\" data-end=\"559\">4.30pm to 5.30pm<\/strong>, and there are around <strong data-start=\"582\" data-end=\"613\">15 different types of baths<\/strong> to try.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"623\" data-end=\"701\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1veu2qd\" data-start=\"623\" data-end=\"667\">Women\u2019s bath is located on the 2nd floor<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"eq27ug\" data-start=\"668\" data-end=\"701\">Men\u2019s bath is in the basement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"703\" data-end=\"944\">Facilities include indoor and outdoor baths with mountain views, a deep pool, lavender\/beauty bath, massage jets, shoulder and head water streams, and even a sauna area. There\u2019s also a unique shower room designed for full-body water massage.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"946\" data-end=\"1074\">The outdoor bath is especially memorable \u2014 open-air with mountain views, birds chirping, and a very calm countryside atmosphere.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1267\">Basic amenities are well provided, including shampoo, body soap, hair dryer, and cold water dispensers after bathing. Items like toothbrushes and hair ties can be collected at the front desk.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1356\">The onsen is also open to non-staying guests for <strong data-start=\"1318\" data-end=\"1355\">700 yen (adult) \/ 500 yen (child)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"10l5ich\" data-start=\"1358\" data-end=\"1378\">Dinner Experience<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1510\">Dinner is served at the restaurant. You\u2019ll need to bring your room key tag as identification when entering.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1380\" data-end=\"1510\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41404\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_175449.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1512\" data-end=\"1594\">Dinner is arranged in time slots (5.30pm \/ 6pm \/ 6.30pm \/ 7pm). The meal includes:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1596\" data-end=\"1770\">\n<li data-section-id=\"4xcfmg\" data-start=\"1596\" data-end=\"1626\">Chicken hotpot (tori nabe)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"wce1se\" data-start=\"1627\" data-end=\"1674\">Sashimi (salmon and maguro, 4 slices total)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"ycb6us\" data-start=\"1675\" data-end=\"1707\">Rice, miso soup, and pickles<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"19sxykt\" data-start=\"1708\" data-end=\"1747\">Fresh fruits (orange and pineapple)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"128wdxp\" data-start=\"1748\" data-end=\"1770\">Tea and iced water<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41403\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_173928.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1772\" data-end=\"1882\">While we were at dinner, staff prepared the futon in our room \u2014 so it\u2019s best to bring your valuables with you.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41407\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_185642.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"11fm8q\" data-start=\"1884\" data-end=\"1896\">Breakfast<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1898\" data-end=\"1972\">Breakfast is served the next morning in two time slots: <strong data-start=\"1954\" data-end=\"1971\">7.30am or 8am<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1898\" data-end=\"1972\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41412\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_074031.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1365\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1898\" data-end=\"1972\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41414\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_074046.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"mnbwqq\" data-start=\"1974\" data-end=\"1993\">Other Facilities<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1995\" data-end=\"2091\">There is a small omiyage (souvenir) shop at the lobby where you can find local snacks and gifts.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"1995\" data-end=\"2091\">Other fees upon check out<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Hotel tax 200 yen per pax<\/li>\n<li>Onsen bath tax 150 yen per pax<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41409\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_191042.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41408\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260424_191034.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"525\">Day 2<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Takayama old town<\/li>\n<li>Shirakawa go<\/li>\n<li>Kanazawa<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41417\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_104845.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p>At Takayama, lunch at<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41422\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_113021.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41421\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_111620.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41420\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_111127.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>&#x1f4cd; <strong data-start=\"107\" data-end=\"136\" data-is-last-node=\"\">Takumiya Yasukawa (\u5320\u5bb6 \u5b89\u5ddd)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong data-start=\"59\" data-end=\"101\">Address 24 Okuharamachi, Takayama, Gifu, Japan<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>2 sets of beef rice bowl total 5500 yen<\/li>\n<li>Parking is 600 yen<\/li>\n<li>Had a strawberry mochi manju 590 yen<\/li>\n<li>Hida beef hot bun 500 yen<\/li>\n<li>Tango 120 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41415\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_103951.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_103951.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_103951-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41416\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_104815.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41418\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_105948.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41419\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_110226.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Shirakawa Go<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Parking 2000 yen inside the village<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41424\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_133608.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41426\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_141857.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-41427\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_141934.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-41428\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_141942.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_141942.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_141942-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Where we stay?<\/h3>\n<h3>ANA holiday inn Kanazawa SGD 147 + breakfast<\/h3>\n<p>We arrived and checked into ANA Holiday Inn Kanazawa Sky at around 5pm. One thing to note is that the hotel lobby is located on the 16th floor, not the ground floor. Right beside the lobby, there\u2019s a small complimentary drink area with free soft drinks, coffee, and tea \u2014 a nice little perk after a day of driving.<\/p>\n<p>The room felt slightly compact, but that\u2019s quite expected considering the hotel is right in the city centre. The location is very convenient with lots of eateries and shopping nearby, and it\u2019s only about a 5-minute walk to famous fish market Omicho market area.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41442\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_070815.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Parking<\/h3>\n<p>For those driving, parking is directly connected to the hotel. We parked on Level 5, although Level 4 is reserved for women-only parking. To access the hotel entrance from the car park, head towards the shopping mall area on Level 3 \u2014 you\u2019ll see a row of vending machines before entering. Parking costs 1,000 yen per day, and remember to pass your parking ticket to the front desk for validation.<\/p>\n<p>There is also a Kanazawa city tax of 200 yen per person, so we paid 400 yen in total upon check-in.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41441\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_070803.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Breakfast<\/h3>\n<div class=\"qMYqUG_convSearchResultHighlightRoot\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-27\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-27\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-27\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-56\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"7f785cfe-b8e8-4cda-8022-0c72be110b29\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-5\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"441\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Breakfast is served from <strong data-start=\"25\" data-end=\"40\">6.30am\u201310am<\/strong> on <strong data-start=\"44\" data-end=\"56\">Level 16<\/strong>, right beside the lobby. No breakfast coupon is needed \u2014 simply provide your room number when entering. The breakfast spread was quite good with a decent variety of Japanese and Western options, although it wasn\u2019t as elaborate or luxurious as the breakfast you\u2019d typically get at an onsen ryokan. Still, it was a satisfying way to start the day before heading out to explore Kanazawa.\u00a0 Must try the iconic Kanazawa curry, is different from other region, darker and thicker.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Dinner at Yatai Zushi Restaurant<\/h3>\n<p>15 min walk from hotel, highly recommended.<\/p>\n<p>For dinner, we headed to Yatai Zushi Restaurant and spent 3,131 yen in total. We ordered a mix of dishes including a 9-piece sushi set (1,099 yen), steamed clams with sake (549 yen), octopus in vinegar (604 yen) and a beef tofu hotpot (879 yen).<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41429\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_182959.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-41430\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_183406.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-41431\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_183423.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-41432\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_183434.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Later, we stopped by the supermarket inside Kanazawa Station and somehow ended up buying way more snacks than planned. We picked up local drinks, desserts and fruits including a Kanazawa craft beer, sake, pudding, black sesame dessert, zenzai, strawberries and a Nijumaru orange (\u306b\u3058\u3085\u3046\u4e38) \u2014 a premium Japanese citrus known for being very sweet, juicy and easy to peel. Think of it as a luxury version of a mikan &#x1f34a;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41440\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_201622.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_201622.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_201622-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41439\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_201611.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_201611.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_201611-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"90\">At <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Kanazawa Station Tsuzumi Gate<\/span><\/span>, the famous gate is called <strong data-start=\"68\" data-end=\"89\">Tsuzumi Gate (\u9f13\u9580)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"90\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41435\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_190552.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41436\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_190715.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41437\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_190754.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41438\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260425_191408.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"92\" data-end=\"367\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">It\u2019s the large wooden gate in front of Kanazawa Station, designed to resemble a traditional Japanese hand drum called a <em data-start=\"212\" data-end=\"221\">tsuzumi<\/em>, which is used in Noh theatre. It\u2019s one of Kanazawa\u2019s most recognizable landmarks and a popular photo spot, especially at night when it\u2019s lit up.<\/p>\n<p>After a long day, it was the perfect way to end our first night in Kanazawa.<\/p>\n<h3>Day 3<\/h3>\n<p>Kanazawa city tour<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Omicho Market<\/li>\n<li>Kanazawa Castle<\/li>\n<li>Kenrokuen Garden ticket 320 yen per pax<\/li>\n<li>Higashi Chaya district<\/li>\n<li>Nagamachi Samurai District<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Omicho Market<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41443\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_085432.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41444\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_085951.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41445\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_090028.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41446\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_090728.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41447\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_090903.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_090903.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_090903-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Omicho Market is only 5 mins walk from Ana Holiday Inn.<\/p>\n<div class=\"qMYqUG_convSearchResultHighlightRoot\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-29\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-29\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-29\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-60\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"2d66d74b-fceb-45a4-bbe3-25aa46f9fd61\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-5\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"364\">At <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">\u014cmich\u014d Market<\/span><\/span>, I personally felt the seafood prices were much higher compared to eating at restaurants. We had a grilled sea snail, oyster, and clam, and the total came up to around <strong data-start=\"209\" data-end=\"222\">2,300 yen<\/strong>. In comparison, a restaurant sushi set with <strong data-start=\"267\" data-end=\"297\">9 pieces of assorted sushi<\/strong> only cost around <strong data-start=\"315\" data-end=\"328\">1,000 yen<\/strong>, which felt like much better value.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"366\" data-end=\"610\">Right in the middle of the market, there\u2019s also a supermarket selling fresh sushi, sashimi, seafood, and cooked items. I found the prices there slightly more reasonable, but you\u2019ll likely have to stand while eating, and it can get very crowded.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"612\" data-end=\"786\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">For me, Omicho Market felt more like a place to walk around, soak in the atmosphere, and see the seafood displays rather than somewhere I\u2019d specifically come for a full meal.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"612\" data-end=\"786\">Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41454\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_104733.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41453\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_104728.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41450\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_094826.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41456\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_104745.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41457\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_104804.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41458\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_111310.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41459\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_111544.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41460\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_111718.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-30\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-30\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-30\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-62\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"0efce4ac-da6f-406c-a6f0-aaec875fe00e\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-5\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"195\">From <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">\u014cmich\u014d Market<\/span><\/span>, you can easily walk over to <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Kanazawa Castle<\/span><\/span> and <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Kenroku-en<\/span><\/span>, making it a nice route to explore on foot.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"195\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41448\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_093145.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41449\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_093545.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41450\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_094826.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"197\" data-end=\"527\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">And don\u2019t forget to try Kanazawa\u2019s famous gold leaf ice cream &#x1f366; A half gold leaf topping costs around <strong data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"311\">800 yen<\/strong>, while the full gold leaf version is around <strong data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"369\">1,000 yen<\/strong>. It\u2019s definitely more about the experience and photo moment, but since Kanazawa is famous for gold leaf, it\u2019s one of those things worth trying at least once.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"197\" data-end=\"527\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41451\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_102824.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_102824.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_102824-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"197\" data-end=\"527\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Then we headed back to Omicho market to have lunch and this is what we ate:<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"197\" data-end=\"527\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">From the grilled shop<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"197\" data-end=\"527\">BBQ grilled oyster x1, sea snail x1, clam x1 =2250yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41461\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_115601.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p>From the supermarket in Omicho Market<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fish teriyaki 280 yen<\/li>\n<li>Wakame salad 280yen<\/li>\n<li>Crab legs 1500 yen<\/li>\n<li>Oyster rice 780 yen<\/li>\n<li>Total is 2840yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41462\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_121125.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Bought<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>a shio salt mochi dessert 180 yen<\/li>\n<li>Dried fish snacks and squid to bring home x3 (600 yen each, total 1800 yen)<\/li>\n<li>Strawberry 450 yen<\/li>\n<li>Dried persimmon 600 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41463\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_125115.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Later in the afternoon, we headed out again with our car and these were the parking areas we used during our time exploring the city.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41465\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_153006.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41466\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_155122.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Higashi Chaya district Parking<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong data-start=\"69\" data-end=\"81\">Address:<\/strong><br data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"84\" \/>Higashiyama 1 Chome, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0831, Japan<\/li>\n<li>1200 yen, paid by machine based on how long you stayed there.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41468\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_164817.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Nagamachi Samurai District Parking<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong data-start=\"64\" data-end=\"76\">Address:<\/strong><br data-start=\"76\" data-end=\"79\" \/>1 Chome-2-1 Nagamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0865, Japan<\/li>\n<li>350 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Dinner at M&#8217;za Department store, right next to ANA Holiday Inn Hotel, had okonomiyaki, very yummy and cheap.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41469\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_184441.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41470\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_184846.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"152\"><span class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Botejyu Kanazawa M\u2019ZA<\/span><\/span><\/span> is located inside the basement level (B1F) of <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Kanazawa M\u2019za<\/span><\/span>, right opposite \u014cmich\u014d Market.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"154\" data-end=\"227\"><strong data-start=\"154\" data-end=\"166\">Address:<\/strong><br data-start=\"166\" data-end=\"169\" \/>B1F, 15-1 Musashimachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0855, Japan<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"154\" data-end=\"227\">Okonomiyaki pancake and yakisoba cost 2240yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41471\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260426_190846.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Day 4<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Takaoka Zuiryuji Temple<\/li>\n<li>Aeon Mall Takaoka for lunch<\/li>\n<li>Himi<\/li>\n<li>Amaharashi Coast<\/li>\n<li>Eihokaku Onsen Ryokan<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"e8pq4g\" data-start=\"42\" data-end=\"116\">Day Trip: Kanazawa \u2192 Takaoka \u2192 Himi Coastal Drive (Food + Scenic Route)<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"118\" data-end=\"469\">We left Kanazawa at <strong data-start=\"138\" data-end=\"145\">9am<\/strong> and started our drive towards Takaoka, which took about <strong data-start=\"202\" data-end=\"212\">1 hour<\/strong>. The journey started with a small hiccup \u2014 we accidentally entered an <strong data-start=\"283\" data-end=\"305\">ETC-only exit lane<\/strong>. Luckily, there was an intercom, and the staff helped open the gate and let us make a U-turn back onto the highway.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"118\" data-end=\"469\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41472\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_120115.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41473\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_120120.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"jvuy5\" data-start=\"476\" data-end=\"503\">Zuiryuji Temple, Takaoka<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"505\" data-end=\"591\">Our first stop was <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Zuiryu-ji Temple<\/span><\/span>, a beautiful historic temple.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"593\" data-end=\"682\">\n<li data-section-id=\"hndvtx\" data-start=\"593\" data-end=\"633\">Entrance fee: <strong data-start=\"609\" data-end=\"631\">500 yen per person<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"gd439q\" data-start=\"634\" data-end=\"682\">Parking: <strong data-start=\"645\" data-end=\"680\">Free (Zuiryuji Tourist Parking)<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41474\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_120124.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41475\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_121204.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41476\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_121223.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41477\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_121349.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"784\">A calm and impressive temple complex, perfect for a short cultural stop before continuing the drive.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"784\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41478\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_122039.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"vectmj\" data-start=\"791\" data-end=\"826\">AEON Mall Takaoka<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"828\" data-end=\"886\">Next, we stopped at <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">AEON Mall Takaoka<\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"888\" data-end=\"1007\">\n<li data-section-id=\"z2yt66\" data-start=\"888\" data-end=\"905\">Parking: Free<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"mpzo2k\" data-start=\"906\" data-end=\"1007\">Shopped for skincare: <strong data-start=\"930\" data-end=\"949\">5,049 yen total<\/strong>\n<ul data-start=\"952\" data-end=\"1007\">\n<li data-section-id=\"mngrsr\" data-start=\"952\" data-end=\"980\">Face cream x2: 3,564 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"fihhfp\" data-start=\"983\" data-end=\"1007\">Eye cream: 1,485 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1l49t13\" data-start=\"1009\" data-end=\"1037\">Lunch at AEON Food Court<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"1038\" data-end=\"1166\">\n<li data-section-id=\"3oece9\" data-start=\"1038\" data-end=\"1166\">Gindaco Takoyaki: <strong data-start=\"1058\" data-end=\"1069\">835 yen<\/strong>\n<ul data-start=\"1074\" data-end=\"1166\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1jrc4yn\" data-start=\"1074\" data-end=\"1117\">Seasonal version with lots of scallions<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"3806hu\" data-start=\"1120\" data-end=\"1166\">Taste was slightly sweet and very satisfying<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41479\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_132737.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1038\" data-end=\"1166\">\n<li>\n<p data-section-id=\"1sxaawa\" data-start=\"1173\" data-end=\"1202\">Kanazawa Miso Ramen<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1256\">We also had ramen at <strong data-start=\"1225\" data-end=\"1255\">Kanazawa Miso Ramen\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1257\" data-end=\"1355\">\n<li data-section-id=\"yip4pe\" data-start=\"1257\" data-end=\"1301\">Total: <strong data-start=\"1266\" data-end=\"1299\">2,530 yen (1,155 + 1,375 yen)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"k72t39\" data-start=\"1302\" data-end=\"1355\">Portion is very big \u2014 easily shareable for 2 people<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1357\" data-end=\"1422\">Rich miso broth and hearty noodles, perfect for a road trip meal.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41480\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_134342.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"16a9x8w\" data-start=\"1429\" data-end=\"1448\">Himi Fish Market<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41481\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_145614.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1450\" data-end=\"1524\">We then drove to Himi and parked at <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Himi Banya-gai Parking<\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1526\" data-end=\"1569\">We explored the fish market area and bought these from the market<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1570\" data-end=\"1673\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1pmfkmh\" data-start=\"1570\" data-end=\"1602\">Strawberry (ichigo): 600 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1yv9rdz\" data-start=\"1603\" data-end=\"1648\">Mandarin (mikan): 600 yen (slightly sour)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"552oze\" data-start=\"1649\" data-end=\"1673\">Green Manju sweet: 340 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1675\" data-end=\"1728\">A casual stop to enjoy fresh local snacks by the sea.\u00a0 Also enjoyed the foot bath onsen next to Banya gai.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1675\" data-end=\"1728\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41491\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_164011.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1clejl6\" data-start=\"1735\" data-end=\"1754\">Amaharashi Coast<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1756\" data-end=\"1808\">Next stop was <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Amaharashi Coast<\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1810\" data-end=\"1859\">\n<li data-section-id=\"sk0dw0\" data-start=\"1810\" data-end=\"1859\">Parking: Free (multiple areas near the coast)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"2090\">We bought snacks for <strong data-start=\"1882\" data-end=\"1895\">1,188 yen at the Michi no Eki<\/strong> and spent time at the viewing area and beach. This spot is famous for its sea view with mountains in the background.\u00a0 Wait for the orange train to pass by and you can the iconic video or pictures.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"2090\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41487\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_162102.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1861\" data-end=\"2090\">Bought dinner at Lawson to have it in our Ryokan hotel<\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1fgqra9\" data-start=\"2097\" data-end=\"2118\">Dinner from Lawson<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"2120\" data-end=\"2218\">We ended the day by buying dinner from Lawson for a total of <strong data-start=\"2181\" data-end=\"2194\">3,368 yen<\/strong>, including snacks like:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2219\" data-end=\"2388\">\n<li data-section-id=\"v8w351\" data-start=\"2219\" data-end=\"2237\">Sushi &amp; temaki<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"74io1x\" data-start=\"2238\" data-end=\"2253\">Muscat beer<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"o2flf2\" data-start=\"2254\" data-end=\"2276\">Yakitori &amp; karaage<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"ou0ksc\" data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2311\">Zenzai, kintsuba, potato salad<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1ro4yde\" data-start=\"2312\" data-end=\"2335\">Pasta &amp; side dishes<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"fb5pi3\" data-start=\"2336\" data-end=\"2388\">Facials makeup remover (638 yen included in total)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41499\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_185121.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2390\" data-end=\"2464\">A simple but satisfying convenience store dinner after a long driving day.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"2390\" data-end=\"2464\">Where we stay\u00a0Eihokaku Onsen Hotel<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2502\" data-end=\"2538\">We checked into Eihokaku at <strong data-start=\"2530\" data-end=\"2537\">5pm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2502\" data-end=\"2538\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41498\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260427_175446.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2540\" data-end=\"2736\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1mzpjpo\" data-start=\"2540\" data-end=\"2581\">Price: <strong data-start=\"2549\" data-end=\"2579\">SGD153.71 (with breakfast)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1c0wyr1\" data-start=\"2582\" data-end=\"2608\">Free parking available<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1gscrgx\" data-start=\"2609\" data-end=\"2632\">Seaview onsen hotel<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1qec2k3\" data-start=\"2633\" data-end=\"2675\">Room fits up to 5 pax (2 beds + futon)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"hiffoy\" data-start=\"2676\" data-end=\"2736\">Very spacious, great for relaxing or even dining in-room<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"hiffoy\" data-start=\"2676\" data-end=\"2736\">Breakfast was buffet-style with a wide variety of options, very Japanese in style and super yummy. Everything was served in small portions on individual plates, making it easy to pick and go. There was even a traditional charcoal grill where you could reheat fish or sausages, which made the experience feel even more authentic.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41500\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_073303.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2540\" data-end=\"2736\">\n<li data-section-id=\"hiffoy\" data-start=\"2676\" data-end=\"2736\">Onsen bath is overlooking the sea and Tateyama mountain range, super relaxing.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"hiffoy\" data-start=\"2676\" data-end=\"2736\">Bath tax 150yen per pax<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"hiffoy\" data-start=\"2676\" data-end=\"2736\">At the omiyage shop in hotel, bought snacks 2560yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"2738\" data-end=\"2826\">We didn\u2019t include dinner here as it was quite expensive, so we opted for Lawson instead.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"2738\" data-end=\"2826\">Day 5<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Arisoumi Rest Area<\/li>\n<li>Kurobe Gorge Railway<\/li>\n<li>Unatsuki Onsen Hotel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Arisoumi Rest Area<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"114\">To visit <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Kurobe Gorge Railway<\/span><\/span>, we stopped by <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Arisoumi Rest Area<\/span><\/span> along the way.\u00a0 We picked up some snacks there, including Toyama pudding cookies and a few other local treats \u2014 a nice little break before continuing the drive to the station.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"114\">We bought some omiyage snacks for a total of <strong data-start=\"45\" data-end=\"58\">1,814 yen<\/strong>, including prawn crackers and salt cookies. Next to the souvenir shop, there was also a Lawson convenience store where we picked up more snacks \u2014 including Toyama pudding cookies 860yen, orange peel cookies 322yen, and dried sweet potatoes 181yen. The total came up to <strong data-start=\"307\" data-end=\"320\">3,211 yen<\/strong>, paid using YouTrip.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"114\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41502\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_121254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-3 w-full empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"text-center\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-42\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-42\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-42\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-86\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"6e2a23be-3081-4d24-8d49-559085fb3534\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"streaming-animation markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<h2 data-section-id=\"v7jz4g\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"57\">Kurobe Gorge Railway &amp; Onsen Stay (Unazuki Onsen Trip)<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"59\" data-end=\"246\">We started the day with a visit to the <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Kurobe Gorge Railway<\/span><\/span>, one of the most scenic train rides in Japan. The drive up was smooth and we parked right outside the station.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"248\" data-end=\"528\">Parking was very straightforward \u2014 there\u2019s a machine where you key in your car plate, select your vehicle, and the camera system matches your entry. Payment is capped at <strong data-start=\"418\" data-end=\"431\">1,000 yen<\/strong>, which made it very convenient. Alternatively, you can also park at nearby hotels and walk over.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"248\" data-end=\"528\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41501\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_115603.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"718\">For the train ride, we paid a total of <strong data-start=\"569\" data-end=\"592\">5,640 yen for 2 pax<\/strong>. We also added an extra <strong data-start=\"632\" data-end=\"645\">1,200 yen (600 yen for 1 pax)<\/strong> for the indoor relaxed seating, which made the journey more comfortable.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"718\">Relax seat and normal seat.\u00a0 Relax has to pay extra 600 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"137ehrj\" data-start=\"725\" data-end=\"748\">Lunch at the Station<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"750\" data-end=\"834\">Before boarding, we had lunch at the station, spending about <strong data-start=\"811\" data-end=\"833\">2,000 yen in total<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"873\">\n<li data-section-id=\"ma1i4p\" data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"852\">Udon: 900 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1f9vms9\" data-start=\"853\" data-end=\"873\">Ramen: 1,100 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41507\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_141234.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_141234.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_141234-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-44\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-44\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:967648c8-a4b5-41eb-b44c-5eb385017ef0-44\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-90\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"2dff00cd-6140-4ae4-9c71-668b0f770a06\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"131\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">We walked around the onsen town but couldn\u2019t really find many places to eat, so the best option for lunch was still at the station.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1qy5r8c\" data-start=\"933\" data-end=\"977\">Where we stay? Kurobe Unazuki Onsen<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"1070\">After the ride, we checked into Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Yanaginoha Hotel at around <strong data-start=\"1059\" data-end=\"1069\">2.30pm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1222\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1kdn4tc\" data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1131\">Price: <strong data-start=\"1081\" data-end=\"1129\">SGD249 (including buffet dinner + breakfast)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1j36i12\" data-start=\"1132\" data-end=\"1195\">Free parking<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1qmqcw6\" data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1222\">We stayed on <strong data-start=\"1211\" data-end=\"1222\">Level 5<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41510\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_161331.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1ccdill\" data-start=\"1229\" data-end=\"1259\">Afternoon Walk &amp; Relaxation<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1418\">After check-in, we rested for about an hour before heading out again at <strong data-start=\"1333\" data-end=\"1343\">3.30pm<\/strong>. We walked to a nearby red bridge and tunnel area to explore the surroundings.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1418\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41511\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_162501.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1420\" data-end=\"1514\">By <strong data-start=\"1423\" data-end=\"1433\">4.30pm<\/strong>, we returned to the hotel and went for a short rest before heading to the onsen.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1420\" data-end=\"1514\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41509\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_160924.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_160924.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_160924-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"11j8ywy\" data-start=\"1521\" data-end=\"1540\">Onsen Experience<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1620\">We enjoyed the onsen at <strong data-start=\"1566\" data-end=\"1573\">5pm<\/strong>, which includes both indoor and outdoor baths.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1622\" data-end=\"1847\">One interesting detail is that the onsen layout changes for men and women the next day, so each gender gets a different view. For us, the evening bath had a beautiful view facing the red bridge \u2014 especially relaxing at night.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1849\" data-end=\"1920\">Facilities are located on <strong data-start=\"1875\" data-end=\"1886\">Level 1<\/strong>, which also includes a game room.<\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"12502mj\" data-start=\"1927\" data-end=\"1961\">Buffet Dinner (6pm Reservation)<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"2101\">After check-in, we scanned a QR code to book our dinner slot. The buffet operates on a <strong data-start=\"2050\" data-end=\"2078\">90-minute seating system<\/strong>, and we chose <strong data-start=\"2093\" data-end=\"2100\">6pm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"2101\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41515\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_064716.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2103\" data-end=\"2149\">Dinner was very impressive with a wide spread:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2150\" data-end=\"2279\">\n<li data-section-id=\"126u8am\" data-start=\"2150\" data-end=\"2213\">Sushi &amp; sashimi (chef making sushi live in front of guests)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1flujzz\" data-start=\"2214\" data-end=\"2226\">BBQ pork<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1pl72wy\" data-start=\"2227\" data-end=\"2238\">Tempura<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"174pjjf\" data-start=\"2239\" data-end=\"2266\">Local ramen and noodles<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"p3lzq1\" data-start=\"2267\" data-end=\"2279\">Desserts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41516\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_065719.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2281\" data-end=\"2363\">Fresh, abundant, and well-prepared \u2014 definitely one of the highlights of the stay.<\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"zhv1r9\" data-start=\"2370\" data-end=\"2385\">Hotel Layout<\/h2>\n<ul data-start=\"2387\" data-end=\"2531\">\n<li data-section-id=\"h1nyxi\" data-start=\"2387\" data-end=\"2421\"><strong data-start=\"2389\" data-end=\"2401\">Level 1:<\/strong> Onsen + game room<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1ju4h9b\" data-start=\"2422\" data-end=\"2477\"><strong data-start=\"2424\" data-end=\"2436\">Level 2:<\/strong> Restaurant (dinner &amp; breakfast buffet)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"ya07wv\" data-start=\"2478\" data-end=\"2505\"><strong data-start=\"2480\" data-end=\"2492\">Level 3:<\/strong> Front desk<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1dtx5s6\" data-start=\"2506\" data-end=\"2531\"><strong data-start=\"2508\" data-end=\"2520\">Level 5:<\/strong> Our room<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41514\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260428_191724.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s better to book the dinner in advance, because there are very limited or no restaurants open nearby in the evening, especially in onsen towns like Unazuki. Most guests just eat at the hotel buffet or convenience store food if they didn\u2019t pre-book.<\/p>\n<h3>Check out<\/h3>\n<p>We checked out at <strong data-start=\"82\" data-end=\"89\">9am<\/strong> from the hotel. Before leaving, we paid an onsen fee of <strong data-start=\"146\" data-end=\"167\">300 yen for 2 pax<\/strong>, which was done easily at the machine by keying in our room number. After payment, we simply dropped the room key at the key drop box.<\/p>\n<p>We also bought some souvenirs at the souvenirs shop before leaving \u2014 <strong data-start=\"351\" data-end=\"413\">2 packs of white prawn senbei for 1,490 yen (745 yen each)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Day 6<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Rest Area stop in Expressway -Nadachi\u2013Tanihama<\/li>\n<li>Lunch at Sogen Ramen Restaurant<\/li>\n<li>Nagano monkey park<\/li>\n<li>Drug store shopping<\/li>\n<li>Mercure Nagano Matsushiro Resort &amp; Spa -check in<\/li>\n<li>Dinner at Yakiniku King &#8211; highly recommended<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1q57kk7\" data-start=\"421\" data-end=\"454\">Rest Stop at Nadachi\u2013Tanihama<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"456\" data-end=\"543\">At around <strong data-start=\"466\" data-end=\"477\">10:15am<\/strong>, we stopped at <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Nadachi\u2013Tanihama Rest Area<\/span><\/span> for a break before departing to Nagano monkey park.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"545\" data-end=\"675\">\n<li data-section-id=\"hzcgaq\" data-start=\"545\" data-end=\"596\">Matcha tea from vending machine: 200 yen (cash)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"r1fmdz\" data-start=\"597\" data-end=\"675\">Niigata facial skincare set: 1,980 yen (5 packs \u00d7 7 pieces = 35 pcs total)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"677\" data-end=\"840\">We also filled up petrol for <strong data-start=\"706\" data-end=\"752\">5,858 yen (full tank, paid by credit card)<\/strong>. Along the drive, we passed through many tunnels and paid tolls totaling <strong data-start=\"826\" data-end=\"839\">3,430 yen<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1pr2nya\" data-start=\"847\" data-end=\"861\">Lunch Stop<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"863\" data-end=\"915\">We stopped for lunch at Sogen Ramen restaurant and spent <strong data-start=\"894\" data-end=\"914\">2,500 yen (cash)<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"916\" data-end=\"977\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1x26akd\" data-start=\"916\" data-end=\"936\">Ramen: 1,050 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"cjhxrv\" data-start=\"937\" data-end=\"955\">Gyoza: 450 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"bqg3pf\" data-start=\"956\" data-end=\"977\">Yakitori: 900 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41517\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_115204.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41518\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_115403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_115403.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_115403-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41519\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_115841.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_115841.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_115841-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"1045\">It\u2019s more of an independent local ramen spot with parking available, especially convenient for road trips since it\u2019s located near the Shinshu Nakano expressway exit.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"93mtky\" data-start=\"1052\" data-end=\"1078\">Jigokudani Monkey Park<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41524\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_130229.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41520\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_125237.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1151\">At around <strong data-start=\"1090\" data-end=\"1097\">1pm<\/strong>, we arrived at <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Jigokudani Monkey Park<\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1153\" data-end=\"1215\">\n<li data-section-id=\"gurhx9\" data-start=\"1153\" data-end=\"1173\">Parking: 500 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"gzv7uy\" data-start=\"1174\" data-end=\"1215\">Entrance: 1,600 yen (800 yen per pax)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41521\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_125334.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1217\" data-end=\"1356\">Unfortunately, we didn\u2019t manage to see any monkeys during our visit, but the walk and natural surroundings were still worth the experience.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1217\" data-end=\"1356\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41523\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_125345.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_125345.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_125345-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1sachvp\" data-start=\"1363\" data-end=\"1381\">Drugstore Stop<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1383\" data-end=\"1473\">We also stopped at a local drugstore and spent <strong data-start=\"1430\" data-end=\"1443\">5,170 yen<\/strong> on snacks and skincare items:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1474\" data-end=\"1671\">\n<li data-section-id=\"6pydi5\" data-start=\"1474\" data-end=\"1500\">Momo biscuits: 278 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"15dhq28\" data-start=\"1501\" data-end=\"1522\">Biscuits: 213 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"3dvqqr\" data-start=\"1523\" data-end=\"1544\">Crackers: 429 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"ej1gzd\" data-start=\"1545\" data-end=\"1575\">Mixed grape candy: 224 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1gdsjld\" data-start=\"1576\" data-end=\"1603\">Biore UV cream: 876 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"8nne8i\" data-start=\"1604\" data-end=\"1622\">Toner: 990 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"5ml54m\" data-start=\"1623\" data-end=\"1644\">Toner : 988 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"2fxe3u\" data-start=\"1645\" data-end=\"1671\">Moisturiser: 1,331 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1673\" data-end=\"1734\">A typical Japan drugstore haul \u2014 with no queues and barely any tourists since it\u2019s located in a local neighbourhood.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"16lq407\" data-start=\"2453\" data-end=\"2479\">Dinner \u2013 Yakiniku King<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2481\" data-end=\"2562\">Dinner was at <strong data-start=\"2495\" data-end=\"2519\">Yakiniku King buffet<\/strong>, costing <strong data-start=\"2529\" data-end=\"2561\">7,326 yen for 2 pax (~SGD59)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2564\" data-end=\"2618\">&#x1f4cd; Address: \u3012381-0038 Nagano, Higashiwada, \u5b57\u8acf\u8a2a\u5bae\u5357\u6c96\uff18\uff10\uff10\u2212\uff11<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2564\" data-end=\"2618\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41526\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_174922.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"186\">A very satisfying BBQ buffet with great variety and value. There were more than 100 items to order from the iPad menu, and the food was delivered directly through a conveyor belt system.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"186\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41527\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_175154.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41528\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260429_175746.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"188\" data-end=\"437\">The buffet comes with a <strong data-start=\"212\" data-end=\"238\">90-minute dining limit<\/strong>, so we focused mainly on ordering the premium beef selections and skipped the chicken and pork altogether. The quality of the meat was surprisingly good, and the desserts were also really enjoyable.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"439\" data-end=\"557\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">I actually wanted to try the Korean cold noodles too, but by the end we were already too full to fit in anything else.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"439\" data-end=\"557\">Where we stay in Nagano :Mercure Nagano Matsushiro Resort &amp; Spa<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"128\" data-end=\"320\">The hotel has a public bath (onsen) which was great for relaxing after a long day of driving. Yukata are also provided for guests, giving the stay a more traditional Japanese hotel experience.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"128\" data-end=\"320\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41529\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_061934.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"501\">One nice perk was the complimentary lounge access from <strong data-start=\"377\" data-end=\"391\">4pm to 6pm<\/strong>, where guests could enjoy free drinks including coffee, soft drinks, wine, and beer, along with small snacks.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"642\">The room came with Western-style beds and was quite spacious compared to many city hotels in Japan. Our room also had a nice mountain view.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"642\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41530\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_064744.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"644\" data-end=\"859\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Breakfast timing needs to be reserved in advance, either through the machine at the hotel or with the check-in staff. Each breakfast slot is limited to <strong data-start=\"796\" data-end=\"806\">1 hour<\/strong>, so it\u2019s better to book your preferred timing early.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"644\" data-end=\"859\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Parking at Mercure Nagano Matsushiro Resort &amp; Spa is free. There\u2019s also a supermarket and drugstore located nearby, both within about a 5-minute walking distance, which makes it very convenient for picking up snacks, drinks, or daily necessities.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"140\">We stayed at Mercure Nagano Matsushiro Resort &amp; Spa for 3 nights, although personally I think 2 nights would have been enough for this area.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"142\" data-end=\"276\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Breakfast was buffet-style with a wide selection of choices, both Japanese and Western, although the overall taste was fairly average.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"142\" data-end=\"276\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41545\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_064425.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Day 7 Snow wall whole day<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Snow wall<\/li>\n<li>Supermarket next to hotel<\/li>\n<li>Shoryuen Yakiniku<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"83\">There are two main entry points to visit the <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route<\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"83\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41531\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_105431.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"305\">1&#xfe0f;&#x20e3; <strong data-start=\"89\" data-end=\"123\">Toyama Side (Tateyama Station)<\/strong><br data-start=\"123\" data-end=\"126\" \/>This is the more common starting point if you are coming from Toyama. From here, you\u2019ll take a series of transport including cable cars, buses, and ropeways through the mountains.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"305\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41535\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_120640.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"305\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41537\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_123355.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_123355.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_123355-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"307\" data-end=\"473\">2&#xfe0f;&#x20e3; <strong data-start=\"311\" data-end=\"344\">Nagano Side (Ogizawa Station)<\/strong><br data-start=\"344\" data-end=\"347\" \/>This entrance is more convenient if you are staying in Nagano. You can drive to Ogizawa and start the Alpine Route from there.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"307\" data-end=\"473\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41532\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_105438.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"705\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Most travellers do a one-way journey from one side to the other instead of returning the same way. If you are doing a road trip, it\u2019s important to plan properly because private cars are not allowed through the Alpine Route itself.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"705\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41533\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_120538.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"705\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">I booked our ticket online (12300yen each) for <strong data-start=\"31\" data-end=\"39\">11am<\/strong>, and we arrived at <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route<\/span><\/span> via <strong data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"120\">Ogizawa Station<\/strong> at around <strong data-start=\"131\" data-end=\"139\">10am<\/strong>. The drive from our hotel took about <strong data-start=\"177\" data-end=\"218\">1 hour through winding mountain roads<\/strong>, so we made sure to leave early and arrived with some buffer time before boarding.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"705\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41534\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_120616.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"705\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"8\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Tip:<\/strong> Bring some snacks like bread or sushi with you, because at the top station in <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route<\/span><\/span> (Murodo), food options can be very crowded and limited during peak hours. Having your own snacks makes the journey much more comfortable.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"112\" data-end=\"205\">1&#xfe0f;&#x20e3; <strong data-start=\"116\" data-end=\"131\">Trolley Bus<\/strong> \u2013 Ogizawa \u2192 Kurobe Dam Station<br data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"165\" \/>(Short tunnel ride through the mountain)<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"207\" data-end=\"271\">2&#xfe0f;&#x20e3; <strong data-start=\"211\" data-end=\"237\">Walk across Kurobe Dam<\/strong><br data-start=\"237\" data-end=\"240\" \/>(Scenic walk over the dam area)<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"273\" data-end=\"331\">3&#xfe0f;&#x20e3; <strong data-start=\"277\" data-end=\"297\">Kurobe Cable Car<\/strong> \u2013 Kurobe Dam \u2192 Kurobeko Station<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"333\" data-end=\"411\">4&#xfe0f;&#x20e3; <strong data-start=\"337\" data-end=\"355\">Kurobe Ropeway<\/strong> \u2013 Kurobeko \u2192 Daikanbo<br data-start=\"377\" data-end=\"380\" \/>(Panoramic views of the valley)<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"413\" data-end=\"470\">5&#xfe0f;&#x20e3; <strong data-start=\"417\" data-end=\"448\">Tateyama Tunnel Trolley Bus<\/strong> \u2013 Daikanbo \u2192 Murodo<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41540\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_140626.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"70\">We bought a pork bun for <strong data-start=\"25\" data-end=\"41\">600 yen each<\/strong> after seeing the snow wall.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"72\" data-end=\"211\">We left Ogizawa at around <strong data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"105\">3pm<\/strong>, aiming to avoid the peak crowd. To make it in time, we started heading down from the top around <strong data-start=\"203\" data-end=\"210\">2pm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"213\" data-end=\"369\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Be prepared for queues along the <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route<\/span><\/span> \u2014 especially during peak hours, as waiting times for each transfer can be quite long.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>430pm arrived in hotel and have the complimentary drinks<\/li>\n<li>5pm onsen bath<\/li>\n<li>Visit supermarket next to hotel and bought 4213yen snacks in total<\/li>\n<li>strawberry 499 yen<\/li>\n<li>muscat oadifuku sweet 599 yen<\/li>\n<li>Ume Jelly 239 yen<\/li>\n<li>snack crackers 529 yen<\/li>\n<li>Mandarin orange 399<\/li>\n<li>Kawashi mochi 4pcs 299yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong data-start=\"34\" data-end=\"55\">Shoryuen Yakiniku<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong data-start=\"107\" data-end=\"119\">Address:<\/strong><br data-start=\"119\" data-end=\"122\" \/>3934-4 Matsushiromachi Higashiterao, Nagano 381-1225, Japan<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41541\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_190328.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41542\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_190539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41543\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260430_191444.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"87\">We walked to a nearby restaurant, <strong data-start=\"34\" data-end=\"55\">Shoryuen Yakiniku<\/strong>, which came highly recommended.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"89\" data-end=\"133\">We spent a total of <strong data-start=\"109\" data-end=\"122\">3,850 yen<\/strong>, ordering:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"134\" data-end=\"221\">\n<li data-section-id=\"19wql7x\" data-start=\"134\" data-end=\"159\">Cold noodles: 900 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1li3ho9\" data-start=\"160\" data-end=\"189\">Stone pot rice: 1,100 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"6ehbwc\" data-start=\"190\" data-end=\"221\">Special beef BBQ: 1,500 yen<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"6ehbwc\" data-start=\"190\" data-end=\"221\">tax 350yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It\u2019s a local yakiniku restaurant in a residential area, popular for its Shinshu beef and very much a hidden gem rather than a chain.<\/p>\n<h3>Day 8<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Zenkoji Temple<\/li>\n<li>Aeon Mall Suzaka<\/li>\n<li>Obuse Town<\/li>\n<li>Dinner at Komugi Tei<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41549\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_095220.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Zenkoji Temple -free entrance<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41546\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_092415.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"147\">We visited <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Zenko-ji Temple<\/span><\/span> and parked right nearby for <strong data-start=\"77\" data-end=\"88\">600 yen<\/strong>, which was very convenient for exploring the area on foot.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"147\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41548\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_094055.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"149\" data-end=\"326\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">After the visit, we tried a local green tea 297yen sweet near the temple, which came with a chestnut filling \u2014 a simple but nice treat to enjoy while walking around the temple streets.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"149\" data-end=\"326\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41547\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_092504.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"149\" data-end=\"326\">Aeon Mall Suzaka<\/h3>\n<p><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"20\">\u53e3\u798f\u5802 (Koufukudou)<\/strong> is a popular Japanese wagashi (traditional sweets) shop chain.\u00a0 Highly recommended.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Warabi mochi 345 yen<\/li>\n<li>Black sesame dango 140 yen<\/li>\n<li>Banana daifuku 248 yen<\/li>\n<li>Total 733 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41555\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_140755.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"101\">It is known for:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"294\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1nk0gih\" data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"137\">Freshly made mochi (rice cakes)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"wdh1ys\" data-start=\"138\" data-end=\"175\">Daifuku (sweet filled rice cakes)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1b32htn\" data-start=\"176\" data-end=\"218\">Warabi mochi (soft jelly-like dessert)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"pb73w\" data-start=\"219\" data-end=\"294\">Seasonal Japanese sweets like chestnut, matcha, and strawberry desserts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Aeon food forest food court &#8211; very affordable<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Seafood spaghetti with clams, cabbage for <strong data-start=\"42\" data-end=\"53\">870 yen<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>prawn &amp; squid for <strong data-start=\"77\" data-end=\"88\">790 yen<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Gindako takoyaki 825 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41551\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_121341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41550\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_121336.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"143\">We stopped by an AEON supermarket to grab some snacks and picked up strawberries for <strong data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"96\">537 yen<\/strong> \u2014 fresh, sweet, and perfect for a quick treat.\u00a0 After that, we had ice cream for <strong data-start=\"178\" data-end=\"208\">580 yen at Kuri-an Fuumido<\/strong>, a nice little dessert stop to cool down while walking around the area.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"143\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41553\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_140053.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_140053.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_140053-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"143\">Obuse town<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41556\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_153106.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"148\">Obuse (\u5c0f\u5e03\u65bd) is a small, super charming town in <strong data-start=\"47\" data-end=\"75\">Nagano Prefecture, Japan<\/strong>, and it\u2019s often done as a half-day or relaxed day trip from Nagano City.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"316\">It\u2019s known for three main things: <strong data-start=\"184\" data-end=\"234\">chestnuts, art (Hokusai), and walkable streets<\/strong>. The whole town is compact, so you can explore everything on foot in a few hours.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"xv37gs\" data-start=\"318\" data-end=\"349\">&#x1f330; What Obuse is famous for<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"350\" data-end=\"589\">Obuse is especially famous for its <strong data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"411\">chestnut sweets (kuri)<\/strong> \u2014 you\u2019ll see Mont Blanc cakes, wagashi, ice cream, and chestnut desserts everywhere. <br data-start=\"534\" data-end=\"537\" \/>It\u2019s basically a dessert town if you like chestnuts.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"rn33nq\" data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"616\">&#x1f3a8; Hokusai connection<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"617\" data-end=\"847\">The famous artist <strong data-start=\"635\" data-end=\"657\">Katsushika Hokusai<\/strong> spent his later years here and created works while staying in Obuse. <br data-start=\"764\" data-end=\"767\" \/>You\u2019ll still see his influence all over town, especially at temples and museums.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"f2zjqz\" data-start=\"849\" data-end=\"877\">&#x1f6b6; Things to do in Obuse<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"1209\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1b6cqjd\" data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"944\"><strong data-start=\"880\" data-end=\"898\">Hokusai Museum<\/strong> \u2013 main highlight, lots of original artworks<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1velat6\" data-start=\"945\" data-end=\"1017\"><strong data-start=\"947\" data-end=\"967\">Gansho-in Temple<\/strong> \u2013 ceiling painting by Hokusai (phoenix artwork)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1kelqzg\" data-start=\"1018\" data-end=\"1084\"><strong data-start=\"1020\" data-end=\"1055\">Chestnut Street \/ old town walk<\/strong> \u2013 cute lanes, shops, caf\u00e9s<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"m90m7o\" data-start=\"1085\" data-end=\"1145\"><strong data-start=\"1087\" data-end=\"1119\">Sake breweries &amp; local shops<\/strong> \u2013 tasting and souvenirs<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1ythkv6\" data-start=\"1146\" data-end=\"1209\"><strong data-start=\"1148\" data-end=\"1169\">Museums &amp; gardens<\/strong> \u2013 small but very aesthetic and peaceful<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1p8vqt3\" data-start=\"1211\" data-end=\"1234\">&#x1f552; How long to stay<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"1235\" data-end=\"1359\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1muhg3e\" data-start=\"1235\" data-end=\"1279\">&#x23f1;&#xfe0f; 3\u20135 hours is enough for a quick visit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Obuse was already peaceful\u2026 then a rainbow appeared out of nowhere<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41561\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_160449.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Dinner at Komugi Tei<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Karage chicken udon set 1580yen<\/li>\n<li>Kyoza udon set 1500 yen<\/li>\n<li>Total 3080 yen<\/li>\n<li>There\u2019s a small parking area right outside the restaurant, but it only fits about 1\u20132 cars. If it\u2019s full, there\u2019s a larger car park nearby within walking distance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41563\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_191928.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41562\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260501_191923.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Day 9<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Mastumoto Castle<\/li>\n<li>Komagatake Service Area<\/li>\n<li>Magome post town<\/li>\n<li>Enakyo Service Area<\/li>\n<li>return car<\/li>\n<li>Comfort Hotel near airport<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Mastumoto Castle<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41567\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_095258.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Parking near castle 1000 yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"9b295c44-5abd-4f1c-ac6f-ab83639ec5c2\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<h3>Komagatake Service Area &#8211; lunch<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:ed838af5-6967-4340-b99a-dafe0fa032ce-3\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:ed838af5-6967-4340-b99a-dafe0fa032ce-3\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:ed838af5-6967-4340-b99a-dafe0fa032ce-3\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-8\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-3 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"627ced75-4873-46ef-85b7-527ed5ea1c7d\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"203\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Komagatake Service Area<\/span><\/span> is a popular expressway rest stop along the Ch\u016b\u014d Expressway, and it\u2019s one of those service areas where people actually <em data-start=\"157\" data-end=\"174\">stop on purpose<\/em>, not just for a quick break.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"205\" data-end=\"403\">It\u2019s well known for its <strong data-start=\"229\" data-end=\"278\">beautiful mountain views of the Japanese Alps<\/strong>, especially on clear days. On a good day, you can literally see snow-capped peaks while eating your snack or coffee outside.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"mho81j\" data-start=\"405\" data-end=\"434\">&#x1f697; What you\u2019ll find there<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"435\" data-end=\"670\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1afxaex\" data-start=\"435\" data-end=\"479\">&#x1f35c; Local Nagano food (soba, curry, snacks)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1gbfprg\" data-start=\"480\" data-end=\"533\">&#x1f6cd;&#xfe0f; Souvenirs from the Kiso \/ Ina \/ Nagano region<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"bphxac\" data-start=\"534\" data-end=\"559\">&#x2615; Caf\u00e9s and quick bites<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1twnyuj\" data-start=\"560\" data-end=\"607\">&#x1f304; Outdoor viewing spots facing the mountains<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"19fxmg1\" data-start=\"608\" data-end=\"670\">&#x1f6bb; Clean, spacious rest facilities (very road-trip friendly)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"yh96m5\" data-start=\"672\" data-end=\"683\">\u00a0Vibe<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"832\">It feels more like a <strong data-start=\"705\" data-end=\"738\">mini travel stop with scenery<\/strong>, not just a highway rest area. Many people stop here specifically to take photos of the Alps.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"832\">Shinju ramen fried rice set 1300 yen<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"832\">Shinju Soba 850 yen<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"832\">Total; 2150 yen<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"832\">Had a red bean gelato premium 630 yen<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"684\" data-end=\"832\">Dried grapes 540 yen, truly value for money.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41571\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_120602.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Magome<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41572\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_143609.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_143609.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_143609-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"195\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Magome-juku<\/span><\/span> is a beautifully preserved <strong data-start=\"65\" data-end=\"108\">post town along the old Nakasend\u014d trail<\/strong>, famous for its stone-paved slope street, wooden buildings, and Edo-period atmosphere.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"15upcg8\" data-start=\"197\" data-end=\"237\">\u00a0Parking situation (important tip)<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"238\" data-end=\"470\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1wnzq1m\" data-start=\"238\" data-end=\"306\">&#x1f193; <strong data-start=\"243\" data-end=\"306\">Free parking is available further away from the town centre<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1c7v0h2\" data-start=\"307\" data-end=\"385\">&#x1f4b0; <strong data-start=\"312\" data-end=\"385\">Paid parking is closer to the main street \/ entrance of the post town<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1qe1ykf\" data-start=\"386\" data-end=\"470\">&#x1f6b6; Even if you park farther, it\u2019s usually just a <strong data-start=\"437\" data-end=\"470\">short walk uphill into Magome<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"498\" data-end=\"559\">Magome is quite compact \u2014 one main sloping street lined with:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"560\" data-end=\"689\">\n<li data-section-id=\"wwoasx\" data-start=\"560\" data-end=\"590\">old wooden inns and houses<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"lj48bp\" data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"619\">souvenir shops and caf\u00e9s<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"msqedm\" data-start=\"620\" data-end=\"647\">soba noodle restaurants<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"a9ybrc\" data-start=\"648\" data-end=\"689\">mountain views at the top of the town<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"691\" data-end=\"789\">It\u2019s more about <strong data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"755\">slow walking and soaking in the Edo-era vibe<\/strong> than rushing through attractions.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"160qll9\" data-start=\"791\" data-end=\"813\">Simple takeaway<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"814\" data-end=\"937\">\n<li data-section-id=\"60vb6z\" data-start=\"814\" data-end=\"850\">Park further = free + short walk<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1l364l3\" data-start=\"851\" data-end=\"895\">Park near entrance = convenient but paid<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1hcv6na\" data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"937\">The walk up is part of the experience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Because the exit was ETC-only, we couldn\u2019t use it and had to detour via Nakatsugawa, which added about an extra hour to our drive.<\/p>\n<h3>\u201cB-gate BBQ at Tokoname Station \u2014<\/h3>\n<p>\u201cWe spent 7,600 yen and honestly it wasn\u2019t worth it. The yakiniku beef only came with a few slices per plate and was too salty. On top of that, you must order a drink per person, and there\u2019s also a 400 yen snack charge per pax (800 yen total) for just a small plate of peanuts. The cold noodles were just average. The seating area was also very crowded \u2014 we were sitting on old container boxes used as tables, with no proper space to put your feet, and basically no proper space to place the BBQ gas setup. Overall, not recommended and quite a disappointing experience.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41573\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_174616.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_174616.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_174616-865x1536.jpg 865w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41574\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_175041.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41575\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_175821.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41576\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_181336.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-41577\" src=\"https:\/\/thinkerten.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/20260502_181523.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Car return<\/h3>\n<p>Before returning the car, we made sure to fill up the petrol tank. We returned the car by 7pm, and then drove back to Comfort Hotel at Chubu Airport<\/p>\n<h3>Where we stay : Comfort Hotel Tokoname<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<p>Comfort Hotel Tokoname uses self check-in machines \u2014 just scan your passport and you\u2019re done. The room is pretty small, like most airport hotels. It\u2019s only about a 2-minute walk to the airport via a linked bridge, and you can even use the trolleys provided. Breakfast is simple.\u00a0 SGD126 include breakfast.<\/p>\n<p>After checking into the hotel, we went to explore the airport and found that there are actually many restaurants and convenience stores there. We should have just eaten at the airport after returning our car so we wouldn\u2019t have to rush, since our car return was only booked at 7pm.\u00a0 Most restaurants open till 9pm in the airport.<\/p>\n<p>I went in a Japanese tibit store to get more crackers,<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Prawn cracker 540 yen x2<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In order to use up all the coins, I went into Airport family mart to buy these:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ika cracker 118yen<\/li>\n<li>Prawn crackers 150 yen<\/li>\n<li>Peach sweet 213yen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Day 10 Flying back<\/h3>\n<p>Hotel breakfast starts at 6am, and it\u2019s just a short walk to the airport \u2014 there\u2019s already a Family Mart open. If you don\u2019t eat at the hotel, you can just grab breakfast there.<\/p>\n<h3>Final thoughts:<\/h3>\n<p>This is a 10-day road trip covering the countryside in central Japan. Nagano is especially beautiful, with scenic mountain views and snow-capped peaks along the way. For Nagano, staying at Mercure Nagano for 2 nights is enough \u2014 3 nights is a bit too long. You can plan another stop, maybe near Magome or Matsumoto, to break up the journey and explore more places along the way<\/p>\n<p>Total spending for 2 pax:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Airline Tickets &#8211; 1714.00<\/li>\n<li>Hotel &#8211; 1368.19<br \/>\nGero, Hotel Miki (Include Dinner) &#8211; 159.10<br \/>\nKanazawa, ANA Holiday Inn Kanazwa &#8211; 293.14<br \/>\nNagano &#8211; Mercure Nagano Matsushiro resort &#8211; 387.39<br \/>\nHimi &#8211; Eihokaku &#8211; 153.71<br \/>\nKurobe &#8211; UnazukiOnsen Yamanoha &#8211; 248.85<br \/>\nComfort Hotel Central 126<\/li>\n<li>Car Rental &#8211; 326.02<\/li>\n<li>Travel Insurance &#8211; 70<\/li>\n<li>Credit Card &#8211; 256.87<br \/>\nYouTrip &#8211; 500<br \/>\nCash &#8211; 600<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Total &#8211; 4235.08 + 600 =SGD 4835.08 (for 2 people)<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"295\" data-end=\"499\"><\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This blog shares our itinerary, hotels, where we stayed, what we ate, and the cities we visited.\u00a0 If you are interested to do a road trip in Central Japan, just&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":41539,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[106,130,6],"tags":[7644,7646,7648,7651,7650,7643,7649,7645,7642,188,7647,7641],"class_list":["post-41379","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-japan","category-nagano","category-travel","tag-amaharashi-coast","tag-comfort-hotel-tokoname","tag-eihokaku-onsen-ryokan","tag-expressway-service-area","tag-gero-onsen-town","tag-himi","tag-miki-no-sato-hotel","tag-nagano","tag-ogizawa-station","tag-tateyama-kurobe-alpine-route","tag-unatsuki-onsen-hotel","tag-unatzuki-onsen"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>10 days Central Japan Road trip Itinerary<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A 10-day Chubu Japan road trip itinerary covering some of the most scenic countryside regions in Central Japan, including Gero, Kanazawa, Himi, Unazuki Onsen, and Nagano before returning to Tokoname Airport. 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