Central Japan Day Tour from Nagoya: Gassho Village in Shirakawa-go & Hida Takayama Old Town
Central Japan Day Tour from Nagoya: Gassho Village in Shirakawa-go & Hida Takayama Old Town
Central Japan Day Tour
Children aged 2 and below who do not require a separate seat can join the tour free of charge. Please indicate the number of eligible children for free participation in the "Requests & Remarks" section during the booking process
The bus does not include a stop at the observatory. Travelers have the option to walk up to the observatory after entering Shirakawa-go, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, for those who prefer not to walk, there is a village bus available at the entrance of Wada's house. Please note that taking the village bus would be at the travelers' own expense
From
Highlights
Nestled in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is a beautifully preserved “Jōkamachi” (castle town) with roots tracing back to the 16th century. The city’s layout and architecture reflect its feudal past, with a remarkable concentration of wooden merchant houses, narrow lanes, and historic bridges that evoke the refined ambience of Kyoto, earning it the nickname “Little Kyoto of Hida.”
Takayama is celebrated for its Hida woodcarving, a tradition upheld by master craftsmen whose work has adorned imperial palaces and historic temples in Kyoto and Nara. As you stroll through the atmospheric streets of Hida Takayama Old Town, especially the famed Kamisannomachi Street, you’ll encounter a wealth of artisan shops, sake breweries, and tea houses housed in centuries-old buildings.
Don’t miss the chance to savour local specialities, including the famed Hida beef sushi, Takayama ramen, and soak in nearby hot springs. With a backdrop of scenic mountain views, Takayama is a harmonious blend of nature, craftsmanship, and tradition.
Fun Fact: Takayama gained international attention after being featured in the animated film “Your Name”, further enhancing its allure for fans and first-time visitors alike.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore Shirakawa-go’s iconic thatched-roof gassho-style farmhouses.
- Historic Takayama: Stroll charming merchant streets in this "Little Kyoto" nestled in the Japanese Alps.
- Local Flavors & Crafts: Try Hida beef sushi and shop for traditional woodcraft souvenirs.
- Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of Japan’s central alpine region.
- Hassle-Free Travel: Includes round-trip transport and multilingual staff support for a smooth experience.
Itinerary
Duration: 10 hours (approx.)
Meet at Nagoya Station – Taiko-dori Exit (8:10 AM)
Your day begins at the Taiko-dori Exit, just in front of the Nagoya Station West Police Box. Look for your friendly guide holding the EasyGO sign — they’ll be waiting to welcome you and check you in for the adventure ahead.Depart from Nagoya Station (8:20 AM)
Hop aboard a comfortable coach and settle in for a scenic ride through Japan’s picturesque countryside en route to the historic town of Takayama.Explore Takayama Old Town (11:00 AM – Approx. 2 Hours)
Step back in time as you wander through the charming streets of Takayama Old Town, lined with traditional merchant houses and sake breweries. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, and don’t miss Takayama Jinya — the only remaining Edo-period government office in Japan.Discover Local Culture at Miyagawa Morning Market
Browse through colorful stalls offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and beloved local treats. Sample skewers, dumplings, and sweets — perfect for a midday snack!Arrive at Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2:00 PM – Approx. 2 Hours)
Enter the fairytale world of Shirakawa-go, famous for its Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. With their steeply sloped thatched roofs, these traditional homes were built to withstand heavy snow — a timeless symbol of mountain village life in Japan.Free Time to Explore Gassho Village
Wander through narrow paths and rustic bridges, soak in the serene beauty of the landscape, and capture perfect photos of this idyllic alpine setting.Seasonal Highlights – Autumn
Visit in fall and enjoy the fiery foliage blanketing the hillsides, with golden-red leaves forming a magical contrast against the wooden rooftops.Seasonal Highlights – Winter
In winter, Shirakawa-go becomes a snowy wonderland. Marvel at the iconic Gassho houses with thick layers of snow on their rooftops and glistening mountains in the distance.Return to Nagoya Station (6:30 PM)
After a memorable day of discovery, sit back and relax as your guide brings you back to Nagoya Station — hearts full, cameras loaded, and stories to tell.
What's included
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Customer reviews
Additional information
Pickup Location
- Nagoya Station Taiko-dori Exit (near the west police box)
- Staff will hold an “EasyGO” sign for easy identification
Instructions
- Tour Schedule: Operates Monday to Sunday
- Meeting Time: 8:10 AM
- Please arrive at least 10 minutes early; the bus departs on time
- Present your mobile or printed voucher upon check-in
- Each traveler may bring up to 2 pieces of 28" luggage and one foldable stroller (note this in booking)
Emergency Contact (Japan):
- +81-80-4057-5249
- Available 9:30 AM–6:30 PM local time
- The tour does not stop at the Shirakawa-go observatory. Guests can either walk 15–20 minutes uphill or take the village bus (at own cost) near Wada’s house
- In case of inclement weather (e.g., typhoon, snowstorm), cancellation decisions will be made 1 day prior by 12:00 PM (Japan time)
- This is a staff-accompanied tour only; there is no guided explanation at the attractions
- Seat assignments are not available and may be shared with other guests
- The itinerary may change due to road or weather conditions; no compensation will be provided
- Shirakawa-go and Takayama visit times may vary
- During the Shirakawa-go lantern lighting period, the itinerary sequence may reverse
- A minimum of 1 traveler is required. Cancellations will be announced 3 days before departure if not met
- Suitable for all ages
- Infants (0–2 years): Free of charge without a separate seat; must be declared at time of booking
- Children 3+: Require a standard seat and ticket
- Strollers allowed (foldable, please note in booking)
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Warm clothing (seasonal)
- Mobile device or printed voucher
- Camera, cash for local purchases and meals
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible
- The walk to the Shirakawa-go observatory involves an uphill path of 15–20 minutes
Your booking will be confirmed by the provider within 96 hours.
A full refund will be processed if cancelled at least 2 days before date of selection. No refund will be processed if cancelled less than 2 days before the date of selection.
Show mobile or printed voucher to the staff before commencing the activity.
Upon booking confirmation, this ticket is valid on the date of selection only.
Location
Frequently asked questions
GBP 32.20
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