Introduction to Western Honshu

In addition to Tokyo, Kyoto, and the Japan Alps, the island of Honshu has numerous other cities, towns, and attractions in its western half that are well worth a visit. As the largest of Japan's islands and home to 80% of the country's population, Honshu is where most of the country's important historical events took place; you'll find many castles, gardens, temples, shrines, and other famous sights linked to the past here. Honshu's climate ranges from snowy winters in the north and in its mountain ranges to subtropical weather in the south. The middle of the island is traversed by Japan's longest river, the Shinano. With all this to offer, it's little wonder that many travelers to Japan never make it off this central island.