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Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and timeless culture of Gifu Prefecture. This day trip takes you to two of Japan's most captivating destinations: the historic, UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go and the charming, preserved streets of Hida Takayama.
Wander through landscapes that blend natural beauty with cultural heritage. Explore traditional villages, discover local craftsmanship, and savor authentic regional cuisine—all while experiencing the rich traditions and stunning views that make this area unforgettable.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet in front of the McDonald's inside Esca Shopping Mall at the West Exit (Taikodori-guchi) of JR Nagoya Station. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. The tour conductor will be holding a flag and a placard with the local tour operator's logo.
The bus will stop at a nearby location where it is safe and convenient for passengers to disembark.
Itinerary
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1
Step back in time and explore a UNESCO World Heritage village, known for its iconic thatched-roof farmhouses. Located in one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall regions, this village offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional rural life, preserved for centuries. Referred to as "the homeland of Japan," the village features the unique gassho-zukuri (praying-hands) architecture, which has allowed the community to thrive in harsh winter conditions. Experience a way of life largely unchanged for generations. In winter, the village transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow blanketing the landscape for up to 4 months. Villagers continue their daily routines in homes built to withstand the cold, offering a rare look at rural Japan’s resilience. In warmer months, the village comes alive with lush greenery and vibrant rural life. Whether surrounded by snow or bathed in sunlight, the village offers an immersive look at Japan’s deep cultural heritage year-round.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
The contents of the lunch vary depending on the season. Until March, savor a traditional Hoba-yaki lunch featuring Hida beef, where tender slices of beef are placed on a dried hoba (magnolia) leaf with miso paste and gently cooked in your own small pot. Served at a designated restaurant in Takayama, this local specialty is perfectly complemented by the region’s famous mitarashi dango (sweet rice dumplings) for a perfect finish.
50 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Stroll through the picturesque town of Takayama, often called "Little Kyoto" for its well-preserved historic streets and charming atmosphere. Once a bustling castle town during the Edo period, Takayama has retained much of its Edo-era character, allowing you to step back in time as you wander its narrow alleys and traditional wooden houses. In the Old Town, you’ll find rows of historic sake breweries, local craft shops, and delicious food stalls, where you can savor the best of Takayama’s traditional cuisine and purchase handmade souvenirs. The town’s nostalgic ambiance offers the perfect setting to relax, shop, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful region.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- 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
- Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no tour inclusions.
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Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- 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
- Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no tour inclusions.
- For children aged 3 and above, the travel cost is the same as for adults. The meal provided will also be the same as the adult meal.
- Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
- The order of the itinerary is subject to change.
- This tour is operated for both Japanese and foreign customers. 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.
- Delays or omissions made to the itinerary due to circumstances beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to a refund
- If the tour operator has to cancel the tour because of extreme weather or other circumstances beyond their control, this will be decided by 3pm the day before tour departure. You will be informed by e-mail and suggested a new departure date or receive a full refund
- 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.
- Due to road conditions or other factors, there may be delays in the return time.
- During the New Year holidays, significant crowds are expected, which could result in major delays in return times due to road conditions or local circumstances. Additionally, depending on snowfall, traffic, or congestion, the duration of your stay at the destinations may be shortened or adjusted
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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.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
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