Setting out on a captivating 2-day bus tour to Shirakawago and the enchanting Hida no Sato Winter Illumination promises an unforgettable winter experience. This immersive journey from Osaka caters to 40 travelers, offering meals, comfortable transportation, and a licensed guide. Marvel at the thatched-roof houses illuminated during the festival, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit historic Takayama Jinya. With free cancellation available, this tour allows travelers to plan their winter getaway with ease. What makes this excursion truly remarkable, however, is the chance to witness the stunning landscapes of Japan in all their winter glory.

Key Points

  • This 2-day bus tour takes travelers from Osaka to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawago and the Hida no Sato Light Up festival.
  • The tour includes meals, transportation, accommodation, admission fees, and a licensed guide, with a maximum of 40 travelers.
  • Highlights include exploring the illuminated thatched-roof houses of Hida no Sato and visiting the historic Takayama Jinya government house.
  • The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or during pregnancy.
  • The tour give you a memorable winter experience, immersing participants in Japanese culture and the beauty of the winter landscape.

Tour Overview

This 2-day bus tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the picturesque village of Shirakawago and experience the enchanting Hida no Sato Winter Illumination.

Departing from Osaka, the tour accommodates a maximum of 40 travelers and is supplied by the reputable H.I.S. Co., Ltd.

The price starts from $296.06 per person, with free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.

The tour includes meals, transportation, accommodation, admission fees, and a licensed guide.

The meeting point is the Mainichi Newspaper building, with an 8:30 am start time and a return to the same location.

Inclusions

The 2-day bus tour includes several amenities to enhance the traveler’s experience. The price covers breakfast, a lunch, and a dinner on the second day.

Travelers will ride in an air-conditioned vehicle and receive bottled water each day. Plus, the tour includes:

  1. Admission to the captivating Hida no sato Light up festival and the historic Takayama Jinya.
  2. Comfortable overnight accommodation for the convenience of the travelers.
  3. The services of a licensed tour guide to provide expert insights and ensure a seamless journey.

These inclusions create a well-rounded and immersive experience for the tour participants.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the 2-day bus tour to Shirakawago is the Mainichi Newspaper building, located at 3-chōme-4-5 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0001, Japan.

The tour departs at 8:30 am sharp, so participants should arrive on time. The tour ends at the same meeting point.

To help identify the guide, they’ll be holding a flag.

The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, but it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.

Most travelers can participate, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated.

Accessibility and Participation

The 2-day bus tour to Shirakawago is wheelchair accessible, with transportation and surfaces that can accommodate those in wheelchairs. Strollers are also welcome. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with:

  1. Back problems, as the terrain can be uneven.
  2. Serious medical conditions, as medical assistance may be limited.
  3. Pregnancy, as the tour involves moderate physical activity.

Most travelers can participate, and dietary restrictions, such as vegetarianism, can be accommodated.

The tour provides a memorable winter experience in the charming villages of Shirakawago and Hida No Sato.

Additional Information

Confirmation for the 2-day bus tour to Shirakawago is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation. Travelers have the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

Most travelers can participate, and dietary restrictions like vegetarian can be accommodated.

The tour provides an immersive winter experience in the historic villages of Shirakawago and Hida no Sato.

Highlights of the Tour

This 2-day bus tour to Shirakawago and Hida no Sato promises an immersive winter experience in Japan’s historic villages.

Travelers will marvel at the mesmerizing Hida no Sato Light Up festival, where traditional thatched-roof houses are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

Participants will also explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawago, known for its distinctive gassho-zukuri architectural style.

The tour includes a visit to Takayama Jinya, a historic government house that offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.

This unforgettable journey through Japan’s winter wonderland is sure to leave lasting memories.

  1. Witness the enchanting Hida no Sato Light Up festival.
  2. Discover the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawago.
  3. Explore the historic Takayama Jinya government house.

Itinerary

Day 1 begins with pickup from the meeting point at the Mainichi Newspaper building in Osaka at 8:30 AM. The bus travels to Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where travelers have ample time to explore the picturesque gassho-style thatched-roof houses. After lunch, the tour visits Hida no Sato, an outdoor museum showcasing traditional buildings and crafts. In the evening, the group enjoys the stunning winter illumination at Hida no Sato before returning to the hotel.

Day Location Activities
1 Shirakawago Explore gassho-style houses
Hida no Sato Visit outdoor museum, see winter illumination
2 Takayama Tour historic Takayama Jinya
Osaka Return to meeting point

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The tour company allows outside food, as long as it’s not in violation of any venue policies or local regulations at the tour sites.

Is There Any Opportunity for Free Time or Exploring on My Own?

This tour provides some free time for independent exploration. Travelers can take advantage of breaks and free time between scheduled activities to explore on their own, though the majority of the itinerary is guided.

What Should I Pack for the Cold Weather Conditions?

For cold weather, pack warm layers like thermals, fleece jackets, and insulated coats. Don’t forget gloves, hats, and thick socks. Comfortable, waterproof boots are also a must. Bring a small backpack to carry extra clothing during the day.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, layered clothing is recommended. Dress warmly for the winter weather, with sturdy shoes or boots. Avoid anything too formal – the tour involves outdoor activities and walking.

Can I Request to Be Seated With My Travel Companions?

Travelers can request to be seated with their companions, though the tour operator cannot guarantee this. Seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s best to make this request when booking the tour to increase the likelihood of being seated together.

Sum Up

This 2-day bus tour to Shirakawago and Hida no Sato Winter Illumination provides an immersive experience to explore Japan’s stunning landscapes and UNESCO heritage sites. With meals, comfortable transportation, and a licensed guide included, travelers can marvel at the illuminated thatched-roof houses, visit historic sites, and create unforgettable winter memories. The tour’s flexibility with free cancellation up to six days in advance makes it a practical choice for winter adventures in Japan.