Hirayu Bus Terminal: Your Gateway to the Japanese Alps
The Hirayu Bus Terminal is a key transportation hub nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Conveniently located near the renowned Hirayu Onsen, this terminal connects visitors to some of the most stunning natural destinations in the region, including Kamikochi, Shinhotaka Ropeway, and Takayama. With frequent buses and well-organized facilities, the Hirayu Bus Terminal makes it easy to explore the alpine beauty and cultural gems of Gifu Prefecture and beyond.
Explore Kamikochi and Shinhotaka with Our Guided Tours
Kamikochi
Kamikochi, one of Japan’s most celebrated natural destinations, is accessible from Hirayu Bus Terminal. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine rivers, and hiking trails, Kamikochi is the perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Route Information & Bus Fare / from Hirayu Bus Center
To reach Kamikochi, board the Hirayu Onsen to Kamikochi Line at the Hirayu Bus Terminal. The one-way fare is JPY 1,200 per adult, with a travel time of approximately 25 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for accessing this stunning natural destination.
Please note that buses to Kamikochi are often in high demand during the busy summer season, and seat reservations are recommended to ensure availability, especially when returning from Kamikochi.
Shinhotaka Ropeway
The Shinhotaka Ropeway offers one of Japan’s most scenic cable car rides, featuring a double-decker gondola that ascends to an observation deck, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps. This popular destination is accessible by regular buses departing from the Takayama Bus Terminal.
Route Information & Bus Fare / from Hirayu Bus Center
Board the Hirayu Onsen to Shinhotaka Ropeway Line from the Hirayu Bus Terminal for a convenient journey to the iconic ropeway. The one-way fare is JPY 910 per adult, with a travel time of approximately 30 minutes, providing easy access to breathtaking alpine views.
Takayama
Likely coming from Takayama, but if you happen to be traveling from the Matsumoto side through Kamikochi, Hirayu serves as the perfect stopover before continuing to Takayama. This charming city is renowned for its beautifully preserved Edo-period old town, vibrant festivals, and delicious local cuisine, making it a cultural gem just a short bus ride away from Hirayu Bus Terminal. A visit here allows you to experience both the natural beauty of the Japanese Alps and the historical allure of this timeless city.
Route Information & Bus Fare / from Takayama Bus Center
Take the Hirayu Onsen to Takayama Line to access Takayama directly, with a one-way fare of JPY 1,600 per adult and a travel time of approximately 60 minutes. This route is ideal for visitors planning a day trip to Takayama or continuing their journey to explore the Hida region’s historical and cultural landmarks.
Guided Tours and Itineraries Through Takayama and Beyond
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Alpine Splendor – Shinhotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi
Explore two of the region’s most iconic alpine destinations in a single day with this all-inclusive tour. The journey begins with a visit to Kamikochi, a pristine mountain valley known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including stunning river trails and majestic peaks. Afterward, ascend into the heart of the Japanese Alps aboard the Shinhotaka Ropeway, where 360-degree panoramic views await. With convenient transportation and no need to worry about bus schedules, this tour makes exploring both destinations in one day stress-free.
1 Day Tour
| (Seasonal) 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Alpine Splendor – Shinhotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi | |
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| Period | April – November |
| Time | 09:00 – 18:00 |
| Meeting Place | Takayama Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥27,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥14,900 |
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida’s Hidden Gems – Hida Folk Village, Limestone Caves, and the Shinhotaka Ropeway
Explore the cultural and natural wonders of the Hida region with this comprehensive full-day tour. Starting from Takayama, this journey combines traditional heritage, geological marvels, and alpine vistas, making it an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Visit the Hida Folk Village, a charming open-air museum showcasing traditional architecture and rural life. Explore the Hida Great Limestone Cave, a geological wonder with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and ascend to breathtaking heights aboard the Shinhotaka Ropeway, where panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps await.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida’s Hidden Gems – Hida Folk Village, Limestone Caves and the Shinhotaka Ropeway | |
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| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:00 – 17:30 |
| Meeting Place | Takayama Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥28,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥23,000 |
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
For those starting from Matsumoto, this tour offers a perfect blend of nature and history. Begin your journey with a visit to Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles, steeped in samurai history. Then continue to Kamikochi, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the alpine valley, surrounded by soaring peaks and lush greenery. With transportation provided, this tour is an excellent option for those exploring Kamikochi from the Matsumoto side.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle | |
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| Period | April to November |
| Time | 08:15 – 18:30 |
| Meeting Place | Nagano Station Matsumoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥23,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,900 |
Let us take care of the details so you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Kamikochi, the Shinhotaka Ropeway, and the surrounding regions. Whether you’re looking for a convenient day trip or exploring from Matsumoto, our guided tours ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
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 Takayama, Hirayu Onsen, Kamikochi, 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 Takayama and its stunning surroundings.
