1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Gujo Hachiman’s Crafting Culture & Castle in the Clouds

Embark on a family-friendly journey to Gujo Hachiman, where Japan’s rich craftsmanship and timeless traditions come alive. Starting with a short scenic hike to Gujo-Hachiman Castle, you’ll stand where history was made, soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and town below. Wander the charming streets of this picturesque town, then unleash your creativity at a food replica factory, crafting your own sushi platter or sweet treat. Dive into the lively world of Japanese dance, where you’ll learn the steps of a 24-hour dance festival that’s been celebrated for centuries. A day full of culture, beauty, and hands-on discovery awaits as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide from Nagoya on this full-day tour.

Highlights

• Marvel at the panoramic mountain views of Gujo-Hachiman Castle.
• Explore the charming streets of small town Japan.
• Craft realistic sushi and sweet treats at a food replica factory.
• Learn from and dance with the Gujo Odori dancers at a lively festival museum.

*For those looking to join the tour from Tokyo, please see the FAQ Section below.

Description

This tour will start at Nagoya Station at 9:00 A.M., where your guide will meet you in front of the Silver Clock tower near the Shinkansen Gates. You will have the opportunity to put your belongings in a coin locker at the station if you feel the need or load it onto our tour bus if you are ending your tour in Takayama.

Your guide will provide you with a brief history of the region and set the scene as we depart Nagoya JR Station via our tour bus toward our first destination, Gujo-Hachiman Castle.

Our first stop is the Gujo-Hachiman Castle. Perched atop the stunning Mt. Hachiman, this castle often appears to float above the clouds while overlooking the town below, earning it the nickname of the “Castle in the Clouds.” 

We will get a chance to stretch our legs and enjoy an easy-yet-scenic 20-minute hike to the castle’s keep. There, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the town below and the surrounding Gifu mountains. Your guide will share insights into the castle's role in historical battles and will be on hand to take photos to make your friends and family back home jealous of your time in Japan.

Descending from the castle, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town, often referred to as “Little Kyoto” for its beautiful temples, shrines, and traditional charm. Here, you’ll have time to explore the town’s quaint streets, purchase local souvenirs, and enjoy a delicious lunch. Ask your guide for dining recommendations or follow your nose to one of the many eateries serving up local specialties including soba, Hida wagyu, and eel.

Next, we’ll visit a food replica factory—a true highlight of Gujo Hachiman. Here, you’ll get hands-on experience crafting your very own hyper-realistic dish.

Adults will be able to create a sushi platter while children (16 and under) can craft a sweet treat. This unique workshop honors the town’s legacy as the birthplace of Japan’s iconic plastic food replicas, now a staple in restaurants nationwide. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the quirky, oversized food samples displayed in the museum!

Our final stop immerses you in one of Japan’s most cherished cultural traditions—the Gujo Odori dance festival. A UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, this lively festival, known for its joyous 24-hour dances, is one of Japan’s most important summertime dance celebrations. You’ll not only watch the dances but learn the steps and dance alongside the festival dancers—an unforgettable experience.

From here, we will return to Nagoya station via our tour bus and say our goodbyes there. Feel free to ask the guide for dinner recommendations or instructions back to your hotel.

For guests who have elected to end their tour in Takayama, you will say goodbye to your guide at this time as you continue your journey through Central Japan on our tour bus.

This one-day tour offers an authentic and immersive look into Gujo Hachiman's crafting culture and the traditions that define this picturesque town. From the majestic castle views to hands-on experiences and lively cultural immersion, it’s a family-friendly journey that celebrates both the past and present of Japan.

TOUR MEETUP POINT

NAGOYA STATION @ 9:00 A.M.

The meetup point is at the base of the SILVER clock tower outside of the Shinkansen gates. 

If you are arriving via Shinkansen, the clock tower should be located directly in front of you as you exit the gate.

If you are arriving via a JR line, please look for signs directing you towards the Taiko-Dori Gate. The silver clock is located inside the station just before the Taiko-Dori exit.

For those coming from outside the station, you will most likely be entering through the Sakura-Dori gate (the side with the gold clock). In this case, please walk straight through the station towards the Taiko-Dori Gate. The silver clock is located inside the station just before the Taiko-Dori exit.

You may wait nearby there until the tour begins at 9:00 A.M. Be sure to look for the guide holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign. We highly recommend arriving early as Nagoya station can be quite crowded. 

NOTES

Included

• English speaking guide
• Admission into all locations included in the tour
• Food replica workshop (Adults: sushi platter / Children (16 and under): dessert tart)
• Transportation during the tour

Excluded

• Lunch
• Accommodation
• Transportation to/from Nagoya Station

Other Information

• There will be a significant amount of walking required (including steep stairs), so please wear appropriate shoes/boots.
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible and will not be suitable for most guests with mobility impairments. Should you have any concerns about your ability to join the tour, please contact us to discuss prior to booking.
• In the summer, the weather in the Gujo is typically hot and humid, with average daytime temperatures ranging from around 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F), though it can occasionally reach over 35°C (95°F). In the winter, there is often snow and temperatures hover around freezing. Please pay attention to the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
• This tour is not suitable for small children due to the steep stairs involved.