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Offered languages
- English
Explore the enchanting landscapes of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique gassho-zukuri houses. Wander through the beautifully preserved streets of Hida Takayama, immersing yourself in its Edo-period charm and local culture. Conclude your adventure at Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's top three gardens, celebrated for its seasonal beauty. This 2-day tour includes comfortable bus transportation and an overnight stay in Toyama, providing you ample time to soak in the rich history and natural beauty of the Hokuriku region.
- Visit the iconic Shirakawa-go village and enjoy its traditional architecture
- Stroll the nostalgic streets of Hida Takayama and sample local delicacies
- Discover the scenic beauty of Kenrokuen Garden with included admission
- Comfortable round-trip transport from Tokyo with an English-speaking assistant
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
- Departs 7:00 a.m. (*6:50 a.m. on Nov 23; Dec 13, 27–31; Jan 1–3, 10, 11, 31.) - Look for the guide holding a dark blue HIS flag. - Arrive 15 minutes before departure. - No toilets at the meeting point—please use those at the nearest station. - After check-in, follow the conductor to board the bus.
Itinerary
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1
Shirakawa-go, with its iconic thatched-roof gassho-zukuri houses, has been recognized for its beautiful traditional scenery and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with Gokayama. The village is home to many open-to-the-public residences, guesthouses, and local eateries, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s rural past. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through this timeless landscape.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Kenrokuen Garden
Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens and designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Enjoy its seasonal beauty and scenic views from multiple angles throughout the garden.
50 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3Takayama
Stroll through the beautifully preserved streets of Hida Takayama, a castle town that thrived during the Edo period. Explore Sanmachi Street, where traditional architecture, local shops, and beloved Hida-Takayama street foods create a nostalgic atmosphere full of charm and culture.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
World Heritage Shirakawa-go
Kenrokuen Garden & Takayama Old town
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- If the minimum number of participants (25) is not met, or if the tour cannot operate due to unforeseen circumstances such as disasters or accidents, the tour may be modified or canceled up to 13 days before the start date.
- Depending on traffic or other conditions on the day of the tour, the order of visits may change, or time spent at each location may be shortened.
- Depending on weather conditions, it may not be possible to enjoy the snow scenery at each tourist spot.
- On departure days in winter, the roads may be frozen and slippery in some places, so please wear winter boots or other non-slip shoes.
- From the bus parking area to the entrance of Kenrokuen Garden, there is approximately a 10-minute walk one way.
- Some areas within Kenrokuen Garden (around Mt. Saigyo, the Meiji Monument, and Mt. Yamazaki) are currently closed due to damage from the Noto Peninsula earthquake and for safety against aftershocks.
- Access to the Shirakawa-go Observatory requires a local shuttle bus (not included, to be paid on-site). Due to traffic or shuttle service conditions, it may not be possible to visit the observatory—thank you for your understanding. The shuttle bus may also be suspended without notice due to snow accumulation, ice, poor visibility, road conditions, etc. The shuttle bus is not available on days when the Shirakawa-go illuminations are held.
- Departure will be 10 minutes earlier at 6:50 on November 23rd, December 13th, 27th-31st, and January 1st-3rd, 10th, 11th, and 31st.
- Depending on the number of participants, a mid-size or small bus may be used.
- Buses do not have onboard toilets. Smoking is prohibited on the bus. Reclining seats are generally not permitted (except on specific tours).
- Due to the “Work Style Reform Law” enacted on April 1, 2019, the tour conductor’s meal times will also serve as their designated break periods. In some cases, the tour conductor may stay at a different accommodation from the participants. During free time, guests are expected to act independently.
- Lost and found items will be kept for two weeks after the end of the tour. Perishable or non-preservable items will be disposed of immediately.
- APA Hotel Toyama Ekimae's Rooms: Western-style single room (maximum capacity: 1 person, 12 m², bathtub and toilet included); Western-style twin room (maximum capacity: 2 people, 19 m², bathtub and toilet included).
- Room Sharing: Even for groups requesting 2 guests per room, you may be assigned multiple rooms depending on availability (final room assignment will be confirmed on the day).
- There is no lunch break. Please prepare your lunch and eat it on the bus or enjoy it while strolling around Shirakawa-go and Hida Takayama.
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Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Cancellation Policy
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, 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.
You will not receive a refund if you cancel.
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