Kanazawa is a pleasure to walk around as its main attractions are centerd on the castle and Kenroku-en Garden, whose lakes and bridges lead you to traditional tea houses amidst the flowers. For a more modern take, visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. The Chubu region as a whole is rugged and diverse, with working rice paddies, snow-capped Japanese Alps and soothing hot springs. See the infamous snow monkeys bathing near Yudanaka onsen or lap up ultimate luxury at Yamashiro onsen, where you can stay at a traditional ryokan for a taste of Japanese life.