1-Day Tour from Takayama: Gujo Hachiman -History, Traditions and Crafts

Embark on a journey to the heart of Japanese culture in Gujo Hachiman, a hidden gem nestled in the mountains. Known for its rich history, traditional crafts, and stunning natural beauty, Gujo Hachiman offers an escape into a world where time-honoured traditions thrive in harmony with nature. This full-day tour from Takayama to Gujo Hachiman will take you through centuries-old streets, into the realms of ancient castles, and the intricate world of Japanese craft making. Wander through this picturesque town and find yourself captivated by its serene beauty, enriched by the legacy of its traditions, and inspired by the craftsmanship that has shaped its identity over centuries. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of Gujo Hachiman’s vibrant history, enduring traditions, and the artistry that makes this town a treasure of Japanese culture.

Highlights

• Cultural Immersion: Delve into the town’s past and learn about the Gujo Odori Festival, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event.

• Gujo Hachiman Castle: Explore Japan’s oldest wooden castle, offering stunning views and rich historical insights.

• Hands-on Craft Experience: Engage in the unique art of replica food crafting, creating your own hyper-realistic replicas to take home.

• Free Exploration: Discover Gujo Hachiman at your own pace, from its old town charm to its traditional crafts.
• Scenic Journey: Enjoy the picturesque landscapes on your journey between Takayama and Gujo Hachiman.

Description

Your journey into the heart of Gujo Hachiman begins at 9:00 AM at Takayama Station, where your guide will welcome you for a day of exploration and insight. As you leave Takayama behind and embark on a scenic journey weaving through landscapes, a picturesque backdrop sets the stage for your adventure into Gujo Hachiman.

Upon arriving in Gujo Hachiman, the your first destination is Gujo Hachiman Castle, a historic emblem, celebrated as ‘Japan’s most beautiful mountain castle’. Rebuilt in 1933, this wooden castle stands as Japan’s oldest of its kind, offering a unique insight into the region’s past.

As you stroll through the castle grounds, you’ll be captivated by panoramic views and the serene beauty of its setting. Whether framed by vibrant autumn leaves or a serene snow-covered landscape, the castle’s vantage point offers a stunning perspective of the town and its picturesque surroundings.

While wandering through its historic halls and grounds, your guide will bring to life stories of ancient samurai and strategic fortifications, vividly narrating the castle’s storied past and its enduring legacy.

Your exploration continues next to a local museum, a treasure trove of the town’s cultural and historical narratives. While exploring its exhibits, you’ll gain insights into how the natural surroundings and historical sites have shaped Gujo Hachiman’s unique traditions.

A key highlight of the museum is its detailed exposition on the Gujo Odori Festival. Although the festival itself takes place annually, the museum allows visitors to experience its essence year-round. Through interactive displays and performance demonstration, you’ll learn about this UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event, its traditional dances like ‘Kawasaki’ and ‘Haru Koma’, and its role in unifying the community. The museum serves as a vibrant testament to the festival’s enduring impact on Gujo Hachiman’s cultural fabric, offering an engaging glimpse into a tradition that continues to enliven the town.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Gujo Hachiman’s unique art of replica food crafting. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create your own lifelike food replicas, a craft that’s an integral part of Japanese culture and admired for its hyper-realistic detail. Initially designed for restaurant displays, these intricate pieces have garnered global attention. As a highlight, you’ll take home your crafted replica, a tangible and memorable souvenir of your time spent delving into this fascinating aspect of Gujo Hachiman’s heritage.

As the workshop concludes, the rest of the afternoon is yours to embrace the charm of Gujo Hachiman at your leisure. This free time allows you to meander through its quaint, winding streets, step into traditional shops brimming with local crafts, or simply relax in the town’s tranquil ambiance. Seize this opportunity to uncover hidden gems, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, and create personal memories in this picturesque setting.

As the day draws to a close, reconvene with your group for the return journey to Takayama. Reflect on a day rich in history, culture, and creativity as you travel back, arriving at Takayama Station around 5:30 PM. With memories of Gujo Hachiman’s enchanting streets, majestic castle, and unique crafts, you’ll depart with a deeper appreciation for the enduring spirit of Japan’s traditions.

*Guests who have secured accommodation for the night around Gujo-Hachiman and wish to end the tour there are free to do so. Please inform your guide, and they will offer any additional help you may need. See our FAQs below for details.

TOUR MEETUP POINT

1 / TAKAYAMA STATION @ 9:00 A.M.

The meetup point is outside of the ticket gates at JR Takayama Station. Once you have left the gates, look to your left to see a walkway and a carving depicting an ornate wagon. You may wait nearby there until the tour begins at 9:00 A.M. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag. There is also a waiting room with benches nearby for guests who have arrived early and would like to sit down; however, please make sure that you have left the waiting room and are in place at the meetup point at 9:00.

NOTES

Included

• Transportation to Gujo-Hachiman from Takayama, and transport from Gujo-Hachiman to Takayama
• Entrance to both the Gujo Hachiman Museum and Gujo Hachiman Castle
• Hands-on replica food crafting experience
• Guided walks at Gujo Hachiman
• An English speaking guide

Excluded

• Lunch
• Accommodation

Other Information

• This tour involves several hours of walking in the outdoors. We recommend that you wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in. Please check the weather forecast before you head to the meetup point and prepare an umbrella or rain coat if necessary.

• In winter the temperatures may drop below freezing, and even during the daytime temperatures may not exceed 1-2 ℃ on some days. Please wear warm clothing and footwear appropriate for snowy and cold conditions. There may also be snow and ice on the road/sidewalk, and so you should take care to not slip by preparing the correct shoes for such conditions.

• There will be free time at both Takayama and Shirakawa-go for guests to enjoy the locations at their own pace. However, please make sure that you are at the respective meetup points at the time stated by your guide. If you get lost or need assistance, feel free to call the number which is listed on your tour pass, and our staff will assist you immediately.