Nanto City in Toyama Prefecture is a charming area rich in traditional culture. It's home to several culturally significant tourist spots, including World Heritage Sites and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, drawing many visitors from Japan and abroad. About 80% of Nanto's area is covered with beautiful natural landscapes, making its fresh air and scenery another big attraction. Among its most popular destinations is the Gokayama Gassho-style Village, visited by tourists from both Japan and overseas.
In this article, we’ll introduce some must-see historical sites, scenic views, and other top tourist attractions in Nanto City. Be sure to use this as a guide when planning your Nanto adventure!
1. World Heritage Site: Gokayama Ainokura Gassho-style Village
Located on a terraced area above the Shogawa River, Ainokura Gassho-style Village is a top sightseeing spot in Nanto City. This traditional village stretches across a narrow plateau and features 20 Gassho-style houses that are well worth a visit.
Some of these houses date back to the late Edo period, with many built during the Meiji era. Beyond the unique architecture, the village includes historical structures like temples and shrines, and you can also see "yukimochirin", forests designed to protect the houses from avalanches. The atmosphere of the whole village, steeped in tradition, is a major highlight. It's a favorite for tourists looking to experience local culture.
Registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1995, this is a once-in-a-lifetime place to see and a must-visit when traveling in Nanto.
Name: World Heritage "Gokayama"
Address: 611 Ainokura, Nanto City, Toyama
Official Site: https://gokayama-info.jp/
2. National Important Cultural Property: Iwase Residence
The Iwase Residence, designated as a National Important Cultural Property, is a historic site that reflects the heritage of Nanto City. Built around 300 years ago, the construction reportedly took nearly 8 years. The house is five stories tall and offers a spacious, impressive interior.
Remarkably, up to 35 members of an extended family lived here during the Meiji era. Inside, you’ll find rooms such as a traditional study and a silk farming workshop, giving insight into life during that time. Built in harmony with Nanto’s nature, the residence’s design is thoughtful and functional. It’s a fascinating place to visit while in Nanto.
Name: National Important Cultural Property Iwase Residence
Address: 857-1 Nishiakao-machi, Nanto City, Toyama
Official Site: https://www.iwaseke.jp/
3. Floral Park
Floral Park is the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful nature of Nanto. It's a botanical garden that features a variety of plants, including chrysanthemums. Surrounded by flowers and greenery, visitors can relax and refresh their minds. One of its highlights is the ability to enjoy different plants throughout the seasons.
Specializing in chrysanthemums, the park’s biggest event is the annual "Chrysanthemum Festival", held in early November. While entry is usually free, there’s an admission fee during the festival period. It’s a must-see for chrysanthemum lovers, and you can even find exclusive chrysanthemums sold only here.
Name: Floral Park
Address: 128 Shibataya, Nanto City, Toyama
Official Site: http://nantogenki.com/floralpark/
4. Johana Betsuin Zentoku-ji Temple
If you're looking to experience the history of Nanto, we recommend visiting Zentoku-ji Temple (Johana Betsuin).
The main deity, Amida Nyorai, is said to be carved by the Buddhist priest Gyoki, making it an important spiritual and historical icon of Nanto. The temple houses over 10,000 culturally valuable items, including handwritten works by Shinran Shonin like the "Yuishinsho". Some of these treasures are displayed to the public at specific times, so check the schedule before your visit.
Other features include the temple gate, main hall, and drum tower, all designated cultural assets of Toyama Prefecture. It's a must-see destination when visiting Nanto.
Name: Johana Betsuin Zentoku-ji Temple
Address: 405 Johana, Nanto City, Toyama
Official Site: http://www.zentokuji.jp/
◎ Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Nanto City
In this article, we introduced 4 recommended sightseeing spots in Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture. Did you find any places you'd like to visit?
Nanto offers many attractions—from places where you can fully experience nature, to historical and cultural sites, to parks where you can stretch and enjoy the outdoors. It’s no wonder Nanto is a popular destination for so many tourists.
With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Nanto has become even easier to visit. If you’re wondering what to do on your next day off, why not take a trip to Nanto?