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Offered languages
- Japanese
- English
Spend a full day in the heart of Japanese mythology on this private tour of Takachiho, the mountain town where the gods are said to have descended to earth. Travelling in a comfortable private vehicle with your own government-licensed guide, you set the pace and explore in depth. Begin at the dramatic Takachiho Gorge, a ravine of columnar volcanic cliffs where the Manai Falls tumble into emerald water. Walk among the towering cedars of Takachiho Shrine, then visit Amano Iwato Shrine and the sacred cave of Amano Yasugawara, where the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu comes alive through your guide's storytelling. Enjoy sweeping views from Kunimigaoka Observatory, famous for its autumn sea of clouds, and sample premium Takachiho wagyu and local specialities at Gamadase Market. With a private guide and vehicle throughout, the itinerary is fully customisable, making it ideal for families and photographers seeking one of Japan's most spiritual landscapes.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
If your hotel or desired pick up point is not on the list, please contact us. Please be at your pick up point 10 minutes before the tour starts. This tour includes an English-speaking, government-licensed guide and a private vehicle with a driver. Pick up is available at hotels in the Takachiho area or at the Takachiho Bus Center.
Please meet your guide at the Takachiho Bus Center. Your guide will be holding a sign with your name. From here we will start the tour by vehicle.
Itinerary
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1Takachiho Gorge
Your guide leads you along the dramatic Takachiho Gorge, a V-shaped ravine of columnar volcanic cliffs carved by the Gokase River. Enjoy the iconic views and the option to rent a rowboat near the falls.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Manai Falls
A short walk brings you to the Manai Falls, the symbol of Takachiho Gorge, where water cascades 17 meters down the basalt cliffs. It is one of Japan's most photographed waterfalls and can be admired from the gorge path or by rowboat.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Takachiho Shrine
Takachiho Shrine is an ancient shrine set among towering cedar trees, dedicated to the deities of Japanese mythology. Your guide explains the legends of the gods, the 800-year-old sacred cedar, and the famous pair-tree said to bring good fortune to couples.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Amano Iwato Shrine
Amano Iwato Shrine enshrines the sacred cave where, according to legend, the sun goddess Amaterasu hid herself and plunged the world into darkness. Your guide shares this central myth of Japanese cosmology as you look across the gorge toward the cave.
50 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Amano Yasugawara
A short riverside walk from Amano Iwato Shrine leads to Amano Yasugawara, an atmospheric cavern where the myriad gods are said to have gathered to coax Amaterasu out of hiding. Visitors stack small stone towers here while praying for their wishes to come true.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Kunimigaoka Observatory
Kunimigaoka Observatory sits on a ridge with sweeping panoramic views over the Takachiho basin and surrounding mountains. On clear autumn mornings it is famous for its sea of clouds, and at any time of year it offers a memorable photo stop with your guide.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7Takachiho Gamadase Market
At Takachiho Gamadase Market your guide introduces local specialties, from premium Takachiho wagyu beef to fresh produce and souvenirs. It is an ideal stop to sample regional flavors and pick up gifts before continuing the tour. (Meals are at your own expense.)
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
8The Site of Takachiho Railway Amanoiwato Station
This is the former Amano-Iwato Station on the old Takachiho Railway line, now home to the popular "Amaterasu Railway" grand super cart that runs along the historic tracks and across the lofty Takachiho Railway Bridge, one of Japan's highest. It offers thrilling views high above the valley - a fun, scenic stop your guide can include depending on time and operating schedule.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
- Please contact us should you need a child or infant seat.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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