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Don’t miss the chance to witness Shirakawa-go like never before—glowing with enchanting lights during the rare and magical illumination season! This exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime event is only available 4 times in 2026, making this an unmissable opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most beautiful World Heritage Sites in a whole new light.
On this special half-day trip from Takayama, you’ll enjoy a comfortable bus ride to and from the village, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey. As night falls, the historic gassho-zukuri farmhouses are transformed into a breathtaking spectacle, set against a snowy, starry backdrop. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
In front of JR Takayama Station (West Exit)
Itinerary
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1Shirakawago
Board a comfortable coach and begin a scenic journey toward Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gifu Prefecture, famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. During the limited-time Light-Up event, these historic homes glow warmly against the winter night, creating a contrast with the surrounding snow. Lanterns and illumination transform the entire village into a magical scene. Stroll through the village and admire the craftsmanship of these centuries-old houses. If the weather cooperates, you’ll see the rooftops blanketed in snow, adding to the enchantment. Please note: snow scenery depends on seasonal conditions, but the light-up itself guarantees a stunning experience. To make your evening comfortable, the tour includes a delicious bento dinner, thoughtfully prepared since dining options in the village are limited. After this unforgettable experience, you’ll return by bus to Takayama Station, arriving around 21:00.
2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Delays, shortenings of the tour, or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to a refund.
- If the tour operator has to cancel the tour because of a typhoon, heavy snow or other circumstances beyond their control, this will be decided by 3pm the day before the tour departure; you will be informed by e-mail and suggested a new departure date or receive a full refund.
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Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Delays, shortenings of the tour, or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to a refund.
- If the tour operator has to cancel the tour because of a typhoon, heavy snow or other circumstances beyond their control, this will be decided by 3pm the day before the tour departure; you will be informed by e-mail and suggested a new departure date or receive a full refund.
- Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no tour inclusions.
- Since the paths may be dark, we suggest bringing a flashlight for safety.
- This tour does not include a visit to the Shirakawa-go Observation Deck. After 17:00, you will have time to stroll through the village, enjoying the illuminated gassho-zukuri houses.
- The illumination takes place during the coldest hours of the night, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C. The roads may be icy, so we recommend wearing warm, waterproof clothing, insulated boots, and spikes for extra grip.
- Due to weather conditions, there may be times when the snow-covered landscape is not visible or the Shirakawa-go illumination event could be canceled.
- The scheduled dates for the Shirakawa-go Light Up event are subject to change, and the event may be canceled depending on weather conditions. Snow scenery may also be unavailable due to weather.
- Due to limited access to the observation deck, visiting this location is extremely difficult and typically not included in the tour.
- A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.
- Please note that we are unable to accommodate special dietary requests, including food allergies. If you have specific dietary needs, we recommend making your own meal arrangements. No refunds will be provided for meals.
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Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- For a 50% refund, you must cancel 2–6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 2 full days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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