The Japan Alps cover a region known as Shinshu, between the north and south coasts of the Chubu Area. The Hida Range was first referred to as the Japanese Alps in the late 19th century.

Takayama is a city in the mountainous Hida Region, which has retained a traditional touch like few other Japanese cities, especially in its beautifully preserved old town. Takayama has been a wealthy and refined city since the late-16th century. Many old buildings have survived and some have been turned into folk museums. The Floating Festival Museum displays four which are several hundred years old and beautiful examples of Takayama's legendary craftsmanship.Taking a rickshaw ride or just strolling along the narrow streets gives you an idea of what a pre-modern Japanese city was like.

Shirakawago, a world heritage site, offers glimpses into Japanese rural life. A remote, mountainous region in northern Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawago is famous for its old farmhouses, which were built in an architecture style called gasshozukuri, (or joined hands) as the houses' steep roofs resemble two hands folded for a prayer. The massive construction is required for the houses to withstand the large amounts of snow falling in the region during winter. Gokayama village is famous for Folk songs and dances that have been handed down from generation to generation and also here you will learn about making Gokayama Washi, traditional Japanese paper.