Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal
The Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal serves as the main transportation hub for this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conveniently located within walking distance of the village, the terminal connects Shirakawa-go to Takayama, Kanazawa, Takaoka, and other destinations, making it an essential gateway for visitors exploring the region. Here you can find the charming gassho-zukuri farmhouses and scenic beauty that define Shirakawa-go.
Key Routes & Destinations from Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal
Takayama
Takayama, a cultural gem of the Hida region, is easily accessible from Shirakawa-go. Known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period old town, Takayama offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history with its charming streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, artisan shops, and sake breweries. The city is also renowned for its biannual Takayama Festivals, which feature elaborate floats and vibrant local traditions.
Route Information & Bus Fare / from Shirakawa-go Bus Center
To reach Takayama, board the Takayama-Shirakawago/Kanazawa Line from the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal. The fare for a one-way trip is JPY 2,600 per adult, with a travel time of approximately 50 minutes.
Please note that if you plan to visit Shirakawa-go and then continue to another destination, you will need to purchase separate tickets for each segment of your journey. Additionally, reserved seats on these routes tend to fill up quickly during peak travel seasons, so early booking is recommended.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa, a vibrant city blending history and art, is easily accessible from Shirakawa-go. Renowned for its Higashi Chaya District, where traditional teahouses preserve the elegance of the geisha era, and the Nagamachi Samurai District, showcasing historic samurai residences, Kanazawa offers a window into Japan’s cultural heritage. The city is also home to Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, and Kanazawa Castle, a site rich in feudal history.
Route Information & Bus Fare / from Shirakawa-go Bus Center
As a major cultural hub, Kanazawa is a popular next destination. To reach Kanazawa from Shirakawa-go, board the Takayama-Shirakawago/Kanazawa Line. The one-way fare is JPY 4,000 per adult, with a travel time of approximately 75 minutes. Please note that reserved seats on these routes tend to fill up quickly during peak travel seasons, so early booking is recommended.
Takaoka, Toyama
Takaoka, a historic town in Toyama Prefecture, is renowned for its traditional craftsmanship, including its legacy in bronze casting and metalwork. The Toyama region boasts attractions like the Toyama Glass Art Museum and the serene Toyama Castle Park. For those seeking adventure, Toyama serves as the gateway to the iconic Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, famous for its dramatic alpine landscapes. Takaoka itself offers tranquil sites such as the Zuiryu-ji Temple, a designated national treasure. Conveniently connected via the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line, traveling to Takaoka by bus from Shirakawa-go is a great option for continuing your journey.
Route Information & Bus Fare / from Takayama Bus Center
To reach Takaoka in Toyama, board the Takayama-Shirakawago/Takaoka Line, with a one-way fare of JPY 3,900 per adult and a travel time of approximately 70 minutes. This route offers a convenient option for travelers continuing to Kanazawa via the Hokuriku Shinkansen
Explore Shirakawa-go with Our Guided Tours
Visiting Shirakawa-go is a highlight for many travelers, but navigating the bus schedules and securing seats during peak seasons can be challenging. Why not make your journey easier by joining one of our guided tours? We offer several options to Shirakawa-go, ensuring you can experience this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site without the hassle of planning transportation.
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
Departing from Takayama, this tour takes you to the charming gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawa-go, where you can immerse yourself in its rich history and scenic beauty. With the flexibility to return to Takayama or continue onward to Kanazawa, this tour provides seamless transportation and expert guidance to maximize your experience. Whether it’s exploring the iconic village or taking in the panoramic views from the observation deck, this tour is ideal for those starting their journey in Takayama.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go | |
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| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:00 – 18:30 |
| Meeting Place | Takayama Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥20,800 / 22,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥12,000 / 14,000 |
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
Perfect for travelers based in Kanazawa, this tour explores Shirakawa-go and the nearby Gokayama region, known for its traditional culture and picturesque villages. You’ll visit iconic locations like Ainokura and the Taira Wood Carving Village, gaining deeper insight into the unique traditions of this area. The tour offers convenient options to return to Kanazawa or continue onward to Takayama, making it a flexible choice for exploring central Japan.
1 Day Tour
| 1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village | |
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| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:00 – 18:00 |
| Meeting Place | Kanazawa Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥23,800 / 25,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥15,000 / 17,000 |
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go
For those starting in Nagoya, this full-day tour combines visits to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go, offering an immersive experience of two of Japan’s most treasured destinations. Enjoy the historic charm of Takayama’s old town before heading to the serene beauty of Shirakawa-go, all with round-trip transportation back to Nagoya. This comprehensive tour is perfect for those looking to make the most of their time while avoiding the complexities of arranging travel between these destinations.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go | |
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| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 8:30-18:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Nagoya Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥24,900 |
| Child Rate | ¥12,900 |
Each of these tours offers comfortable transportation, expert guides, and the convenience of flexible routes, ensuring a stress-free way to explore Shirakawa-go. Whether you’re starting in Takayama, Kanazawa, or Nagoya, our guided tours provide a seamless and enriching experience for travelers. Save yourself the effort of coordinating transport and let us take care of the details while you focus on creating unforgettable memories.
To see the full range of tours starting from Takayama and plan your stress-free journey, visit our tours page today!
Charters and Private tours
Takayama Bus Terminal offers convenient charter and private tour options. Whether you’re traveling with family, a group of friends, or just want the flexibility to explore at your own pace, our private charters allow you to customize your itinerary and visit the destinations that interest you most. With comfortable, private transportation and knowledgeable guides, you can explore the beauty of Shirakawa-go and beyond without the constraints of fixed schedules.
Private Tours offer an immersive experience, where you’ll be guided by experts who can provide in-depth knowledge about the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty. These tours can be tailored to your preferences, ensuring you see the sights most important to you.
To learn more about our charter services and private tours, or to inquire about pricing and availability, contact us here. Let us help you craft the perfect journey through Shirakawa-go and its stunning surroundings.
