Getting Oriented

The label "Japan Alps" does not refer to a defined political region; it's a name for the mountains in Chubu, the middle district. Chubu encompasses nine prefectures in the heart of Honshu, three of which—Gifu, Nagano, and Yamanashi—make up the central highlands. Between the Alps and the Sea of Japan is a narrow coastal belt known as Hokuriku, comprised of Kanazawa, Fukui, and the rugged coastline of the Noto Peninsula. Heavy snowfall in winter and hot summers make this region ideal for growing rice. Niigata and Sado Island form the northeastern coast.