1-Day Guided Tour of Shiragawa-go and Takayama from Nagoya

Embark on a full-day journey from Nagoya to explore the hidden gems of Takayama and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shiragawa-go.

Takayama Tour

Dive into the preserved town of Takayama, known for its rich history and vibrant markets, and stroll along Sannomachi Street, where local craftsmen showcase their skills, and indulge in culinary delights like Hida beef and Takayama ramen. For lunch, you will get expert recommendations for the best local spots to savor these culinary delights. Next, you can Immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of Miyagawa or Jinya-Mae Market to witness the pulse of local life and explore stalls offering a variety of goods.

Explore Shiragawa-go

Next, visit the enchanting village of Shiragawa-go. Here, you will get to feast your eyes on the UNESCO-listed landscapes, where traditional houses stand as timeless testaments to Japan's rich history along with serene mountains, lush paddy fields, and trickling rivers that define this region, earning it the name "the white river."

Your adventure will be hassle-free with convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide. Don't miss the chance to visit the Ogimachi Castle Site Observatory for stunning views of Gassho-mura village and Mount Hakusan. Plus, take a moment to unwind at Ochiudo Cafe, famous for its unique atmosphere.

Itinerary

• 8:30am: Pick-up from Nagoya Station

• 11am: Sannomachi Street and Miyagawa or Jinya-Mae Market

• 3pm: Shiragawa-go and Ogimachi Castle

1-Day Guided Tour of Shiragawa-go and Takayama from Nagoya

This full-day guided tour from Nagoya immerses you in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Shirakawa-go and Takayama, covering approximately 200 kilometers round trip. The day begins with a scenic drive through rural Japan to explore the charming town of Takayama, where guests indulge in local specialties at bustling markets such as Miyagawa and Jinya-Mae. Afterward, the tour continues to Shirakawa-go, a village renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses built over 400 years ago. The guided tour includes audio commentary in English, Japanese, and Chinese, ensuring visitors from various backgrounds can enjoy the cultural significance of each site. With stops at key landmarks like the Hida Folk Village Museum and the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, this tour offers a comprehensive look into traditional Japanese life, architecture, and culture.

Explore the Charming Town of Takayama

Your tour stops at the charming town of Takayama where guests can indulge in local specialties and wander through bustling markets such as Miyagawa and Jinya-Mae. Established in 1540, Takayama is known for its well-preserved Edo-era architecture and traditional crafts like Hida woodwork and pottery. The market areas cover approximately 2 square kilometers and are filled with vendors selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade souvenirs. Visitors spend about two hours exploring the vibrant streets, learning about the town's history from knowledgeable guides, and enjoying a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine. Unlike other tourist destinations in Japan, Takayama retains its traditional charm, making it a unique stop on this tour.

Marvel at the UNESCO-Listed Landscapes of Shirakawa-go

Your tour continues to the picturesque village of Shirakawa-go, where history comes alive through its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses and serene landscapes. The village spans approximately 24 square kilometers and is home to over 100 well-preserved thatched-roof houses dating back to the 16th century. Each house features steeply pitched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall, with angles reaching up to 60 degrees. Visitors can spend about three hours exploring the village, learning about traditional farming practices and the history of rural life in Japan. The gassho-zukuri houses are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their architectural significance and cultural importance, making Shirakawa-go a must-visit destination for those interested in Japanese heritage.

Tour Highlights

• Immerse yourself at Takayama's bustling markets
• Drive 200 kilometers round trip with scenic views
• Audio commentary in English, Japanese, and Chinese
• Experience traditional crafts at Hida Folk Village Museum
• Explore the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
• Enjoy local specialties throughout Miyagawa and Jinya-Mae
• Access to UNESCO-listed landscapes of Shirakawa-go
• Unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steeply pitched roofs

Perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and culture seekers, this guided tour provides an in-depth look into the traditional life of rural Japan. The full-day format allows you to explore Takayama's markets, visit the Hida Folk Village Museum, and marvel at the UNESCO-listed landscapes of Shirakawa-go, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Japan's rich cultural heritage while enjoying its scenic beauty.