Shirakawago Gujo Hachiman and Hida Takayama One Day Tour | Nagoya

Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Gifu Prefecture, the Shirakawago Gujo Hachiman and Hida Takayama One Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Departing from Nagoya, this immersive excursion takes travelers on a journey through UNESCO-listed villages, historic districts, and vibrant local traditions. Whether you’re seeking picturesque landscapes, architectural wonders, or a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting sights and sounds that await.

Key Points

• A one-day tour from Nagoya visiting the UNESCO site of Shirakawago, the historic town of Gujo Hachiman, and the traditional city of Hida Takayama.
• Includes transportation, guide, entrance fees, and cultural experiences, but excludes personal expenses, tips, and optional activities.
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum of 20 travelers per tour and a meeting point at Taiko-dori Station.
• Explore the unique thatched-roof farmhouses of Shirakawago, the preserved old town of Gujo Hachiman, and the traditional merchant houses of Hida Takayama.
• Participants must be aged 3 or older, with infants sitting on laps, and late arrivals will not receive refunds.

Tour Overview and Details

This one-day tour takes participants to the picturesque villages of Shirakawago Gujo Hachiman and Hida Takayama.

The tour departs from Nagoya Station at 8:30 AM, with the meeting point at Taiko-dori Station. The tour includes transportation, a guide, entrance fees, and facility experiences.

It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants can sit on laps. The tour returns to the original meeting point, with a duration that may vary due to traffic and weather.

Participants must be 3 years or older, and latecomers won’t be refunded. The tour is priced at €88.11 per person, with a maximum of 20 travelers.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes transportation, a tour guide, and all entrance fees and experience fees for the facilities visited.

However, the tour doesn’t cover personal expenses, tips, or gratuities. The maximum number of participants is 20 travelers.

The tour has the following exclusions:

1. Personal expenses
2. Tips and gratuities
3. Any additional or optional activities not mentioned in the inclusions
4. Meals and drinks not specified

Travelers should be aware that the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds will be provided for cancellations or no-shows.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, and it’s located near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and participants must be aged 3 or older. Most travelers are able to participate in the tour.

The meeting point is at Taiko-dori Station, Nagoya Station Taikoudori Exit, in front of the west police box.

Latecomers won’t be refunded. Look for the guide with a blue flag at the meeting point.

Booking Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Shirakawago Gujo Hachiman and Hida Takayama One Day Tour.

However, this is a non-refundable tour, and there are no refunds for cancellations or no-shows. On the bright side, the tour is backed by a Lowest Price Guarantee, with prices starting from €88.11 per person.

To keep things running smoothly, please note the following:

1. Latecomers won’t be refunded.
2. Look for the guide with a blue flag at the meeting point.
3. The tour has a maximum of 20 travelers.
4. Infants must sit on laps, and participants must be aged 3 or older.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Travelers can find the meeting point at Taiko-dori Station, Nagoya Station Taikoudori Exit, in front of the west police box.

The tour departs promptly at 8:30 AM, so it’s recommended to arrive a few minutes early. Look for the guide holding a blue flag to identify the group.

The meeting point is wheelchair and stroller accessible and near public transportation. Latecomers won’t be refunded, so plan your commute accordingly.

Once the tour departs, the schedule may change due to traffic and weather conditions, but the guide will keep travelers informed throughout the day.

Exploring Shirakawago

After departing Nagoya, the tour makes its way to the historic village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

Visitors can:

1. Wander through the charming streets, marveling at the unique architecture of the thatched-roof houses.
2. Visit the Shirakawa-go Gassho-Zukuri Minkaen, an open-air museum that showcases the traditional lifestyle and crafts of the region.
3. Climb to the Shiroyama Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the village and its surrounding mountains.
4. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch and gain insights into the local culture and customs.

The tour offers a glimpse into the timeless beauty and tranquility of this picturesque mountain village.

Discovering Gujo Hachiman

From Shirakawago, the tour heads to the historic town of Gujo Hachiman.

Gujo Hachiman is known for its beautifully preserved old town, with wooden buildings and peaceful canals. Visitors can explore the town’s charming streets, browse local shops, and try traditional cuisine.

The tour also includes a visit to the Gujo Odori Dance Museum, where travelers can learn about the town’s famous Gujo Odori dance festival. This vibrant event, held annually since the 17th century, attracts thousands of participants in colorful costumes.

After exploring Gujo Hachiman, the tour continues to the nearby city of Hida Takayama.

Visiting Hida Takayama

After exploring the charming streets and canals of Gujo Hachiman, the tour then heads to the nearby city of Hida Takayama.

Known as the "Little Kyoto of the North," Takayama offers a glimpse into Japan’s traditional past.

Highlights of the visit include:

1. Strolling through the historic Sanmachi Suji district, lined with well-preserved merchant houses and sake breweries.

2. Visiting the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum showcasing traditional rural architecture and lifestyle.

3. Exploring the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, housing beautifully decorated festival floats.

4. Shopping for locally made crafts and delicacies at the Takayama Morning Market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour information clearly states that only infants who can sit on laps are permitted to join, and all participants must be aged 3 or older.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch?

No, lunch is not included in the tour. Participants are responsible for their own meals during the day. There are opportunities to purchase food at the various locations visited on the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Avoid overly casual attire like beachwear or torn/dirty clothes. Dress for a day of sightseeing and light activity.

Can I Leave the Tour Group During the Day?

Participants are expected to remain with the tour group throughout the day. Leaving the group on your own is generally not allowed, as it can disrupt the schedule and logistics of the tour. Check with the tour guide if you need to step away temporarily.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any specific discounts for students or seniors. However, they may be able to provide a discounted rate for group bookings of 4 or more participants. It’s best to inquire about available discounts when making the reservation.

The Sum Up

This one-day tour from Nagoya offers a captivating exploration of Shirakawago’s UNESCO-listed farmhouses, Gujo Hachiman’s charming old town, and the historic Hida Takayama. Enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage, savor local cuisine, and discover the unique traditions that make these destinations truly special. It’s an enriching experience that showcases the best of central Japan’s natural beauty and timeless charm.