Places You'll See
Description
Takayama is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of tradition and breathtaking landscapes. This 5-day itinerary is designed to take you through the best of Takayama, immersing you in its well-preserved Edo-period streets, historic temples, artisanal crafts, and stunning mountain scenery.
Begin your journey by exploring Takayama’s rich history, from ancient temples to feudal-era relics. Then, step into the charming town of Hida Furukawa, known for its traditional townscape and deep cultural roots. Continue to Gujo Hachiman, a town where history, craftsmanship, and nature converge, before heading into the majestic Japanese Alps with a visit to Shinhotaka and Kamikochi, where panoramic mountain views await. Finally, end your journey in the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go, where iconic thatched-roof farmhouses stand against a stunning rural backdrop.
With a balanced mix of history, local culture, hands-on experiences, and nature, this itinerary offers the perfect introduction to Takayama and its surrounding wonders.
*ESTIMATED BUDGET – Please note that the estimated budget advertised on this page is only for the cost of the tours and what they include. Some tours may include transportation between tour destinations via tour buses. However some tours do not include transportation between tour destinations, and you will need to book your own transportation in such cases. Please refer to each tour listed on this page for further information on what is not included.
Day 1 TAKAYAMA
How to Start Off Your Day
Begin your journey in Takayama, a town where centuries-old history and traditional charm have been beautifully preserved. Explore historic temples, serene shrines, and well-preserved streets, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage. This tour provides a deep dive into Takayama’s past, setting the stage for an immersive multi-day adventure.
HALF DAY WALKING TOUR: TAKAYAMA HIDDEN GEMS & TEMPLE WALK / all year round
Uncover the rich history and hidden beauty of Takayama with our Half-Day Walking Tour: Takayama’s Hidden Gems & Temple Walk. This immersive journey takes you through centuries-old streets, serene temple grounds, and scenic landscapes, offering a deeper appreciation of the city’s heritage. Begin at the Takayama City Museum, where you’ll learn about the samurai governance and merchant culture that shaped Takayama. Follow the historic Higashiyama Walking Course, a tranquil route lined with temples, shrines, and Shiroyama Park, once home to Takayama Castle. Conclude in the charming Old Town, where traditional wooden buildings, artisan shops, and sake breweries invite further exploration at your own pace. Ready to step back in time and experience Takayama’s enduring legacy? Book your walking tour today!
How to End Your Day
After a day of exploring Takayama’s historic heart, take an evening stroll through the Old Town, where the soft glow of lanterns and quiet alleyways make for a perfect atmospheric walk. Stop by a local izakaya to savor grilled Hida beef and seasonal delicacies, enjoying the cozy ambiance of traditional wooden eateries.
Day 2 HIDA FURUKAWA
How to Start Off Your Day
A short journey from Takayama brings you to Hida Furukawa, a picturesque town with white-walled storehouses, traditional carp-filled canals, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. Here, you'll delve into local craftsmanship and history, experiencing artisanal workshops and stunning townscapes untouched by time.
DELVE INTO HIDA-FURUKAWA'S CULTURAL TREASURES / all year round
Embark on a journey to Hida-Furukawa with our 1-Day Tour from Takayama, a town where Edo-period grace meets serene mountain landscapes. Wander along Shirakabe Dozogai Street, absorbing the ambiance of historic architecture and immerse yourself in the celebrated Furukawa Festival, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance. Discover the legacy of the Hida no Takumi, revered master builders whose craftsmanship defines the region's architectural heritage. Participate in a traditional weaving workshop, connecting with local artistry, and explore the spiritual depth of Hida-Furukawa through the Santera pilgrimage. This tour offers a profound connection to the town's traditions and beauty, providing a unique insight into its enduring cultural heart. Experience the charm of Hida-Furukawa, a place where history and tradition converge to create unforgettable memories. Book now to delve into the essence of this hidden cultural gem.
How to End Your Day
Return to Takayama in the evening and take a peaceful stroll along the Miyagawa River before settling into a quiet café or teahouse. Unwind with a warm cup of matcha and seasonal wagashi, or enjoy a simple yet delicious meal of handmade soba or grilled Hida beef.
Day 3 GUJO HACHIMAN
How to Start Off Your Day
Travel to the hidden town of Gujo Hachiman, a town known for its stunning riverside setting, well-preserved Edo-era streets, and hands-on crafts. Climb to Gujo Hachiman Castle, Japan’s oldest wooden castle, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Then, explore the town’s rich cultural heritage, including a traditional food replica-making experience, showcasing Gujo’s unique artistic craftsmanship.
GUJO HACHIMAN - HISTORY, TRADITIONS, AND CRAFTS / all year round
Embark on a cultural odyssey with our 1-Day Tour from Takayama to Gujo Hachiman, where history, tradition, and artistry beautifully converge. Stand in awe of the revered Gujo Hachiman Castle, a beacon of the town's rich past, offering breathtaking views and storied walls. Dive deeper into local heritage at a museum, where the town's lore and traditions are meticulously preserved, providing a window into the soul of Gujo Hachiman. Embrace the opportunity to engage in the town's celebrated craft of making lifelike food replicas, a unique artistic expression that offers a hands-on connection to Japanese culture. Meander through quaint streets and alleys, each turn revealing layers of Gujo Hachiman's enduring charm and beauty. This journey into the heart of Japanese culture is not just a tour; it's an invitation to become part of a living tradition. Immerse yourself in the scenic and cultural wonders of Gujo Hachiman. Reserve your place now to explore, learn, and be inspired by a town where history is alive and creativity flourishes.
How to End Your Day
Back in Takayama, explore Dekonaru, a lively alley of izakayas serving Hida beef skewers, miso-glazed tofu, and Takayama-style yakitori. For a more traditional meal, head to Kyoya, a cozy eatery that offers Hoba Miso, seasonal mountain vegetables, and locally brewed Hida sake.
Day 4 SHINHOTAKA ROPEWAY & KAMIKOCHI
How to Start Off Your Day
Journey into the Japanese Alps, where you'll ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway, one of Japan’s highest elevation cable car, offering unparalleled mountain views. Then, immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Kamikochi, where pristine rivers, iconic bridges, and scenic trails provide an unforgettable nature experience.
KAMIKOCHI & SHINHOTAKA TOUR FROM TAKAYAMA / April to November
If you are a lover of nature in all of its splendid forms, taking the Shinhotaka Ropeway to the top of mountains then exploring the valleys of Kamikochi is perfect for you. Starting from Takayama Station, you will take one of our tour buses to the Shinhotaka Ropeway where you will get on and experience the exciting two stage ride. At the top you will have time to enjoy the panorama that is the Central Japanese Alps. After taking in all of the majestic mountain views, you will head to a different part of the range and to Kamikochi. Here you will walk along the scenic river with its stunning colors, cross the picturesque Kappa Bridge and generally explore the fields, riverbeds and forests of the area. There are even wild monkeys in the area that can be seen. Relax and enjoy your day through strolls in the refreshing nature.
How to End Your Day
After a day in the mountains, unwind with a relaxing onsen soak at your hotel or visit another local onsen/bathhouse for a hot spring experience. End your evening with a comforting bowl of Takayama ramen or a warming nabe hot pot.
Day 5 TAKAYAMA & SHIRAKAWA-GO
How to Start Off Your Day
Your final day takes you to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its distinctive thatched-roof farmhouses and preserved rural culture. Explore the charming village streets, visit historic homes, and take in panoramic views from the observatory, where the traditional architecture blends seamlessly with the stunning natural surroundings.
TAKAYAMA & SHIRAKAWA-GO TOUR FROM TAKAYAMA / all year round
Day Tour
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
¥20,800 / 22,800
Hidden away in the middle of the mountains of Central Japan, but also an easy 2 hour trip from Kanazawa, Nagoya, Toyama and Matsumoto, Takayama is a popular destination for its traditional old town and surrounding natural beauty. The tour starts from Takayama Station and we head to the Takayama Jinya, the former headquarters of the Shogun's government in the city. It was made from the materials of the castle that used to exist on a mountain nearby. After learning more about the history of the city and region, we will walk down the historical merchant street lined with traditional Japanese buildings. You can eat and shop here in the atmosphere of a 200 year old market district. The morning market is also nearby and there are lots of local handicrafts, fruits and other foods. Following lunch in the area, we will get on the bus and head to Shirakawa-go, the historical village with the traditional thatched-roof houses. You will be able to see stunning views of the town from above, go inside one of the homes and learn about village life and have time to enjoy the town by yourselves.
How to End Your Day
As your journey comes to a close, take in one last view of Shirakawa-go’s stunning scenery before heading back to Takayama. If you’ve chosen the option to end in Kanazawa, enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside, arriving in time to explore its samurai districts and bustling markets.
