2-Day Japan Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village Winter Illumination Tour | Hida Takayama, Shinhotaka Ropeway, Magical Snowy Night | Depart from Tokyo/Shinjuku
- Visit the World Heritage site 'Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village'!
Enjoy the traditional Japanese scenery covered in snow, blooming with magical light during the night illumination. Don't miss this winter-exclusive event held only 4 days a year! - Explore the popular tourist spot 'Hida Takayama' at your own pace!
Stroll through the old streets of Hida Takayama, feel the historical atmosphere, and taste local delicacies and sweets like Hida beef! The old streets are within walking distance from the hotel, making it easy to enjoy a walk around Takayama. - Ride the popular 'Shinhotaka Ropeway'!
Take Japan's only double-decker ropeway to a dreamlike world in the clouds and enjoy the magnificent snowy scenery. - Organized by a long-established major Japanese travel company, ensuring quality and a safe trip.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 25 travelers |
| Tour types | None |
| Meal arrangement | Breakfast included, With dinner, Arrange yourself |
| Accommodation type | Hotel, Luxury (4–5 stars) |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Japanese castles, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Relaxation & Beauty
| Hot spring type | Nude bath house |
Product Info
－ Highlights －
・Depart from Tokyo/Shinjuku to witness the romantic, limited-time illumination at Shirakawa-go
・Access is restricted during the illumination period without permission or a ticket; this tour guarantees entry
・Stroll through the 'Old Town' of Hida Takayama and experience the historical atmosphere of the Edo period
－ Itinerary －
【Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village Illumination】
When winter arrives, the sight of snow-covered thatched-roof houses illuminated at night creates a fairy-tale dreamscape that is truly unforgettable.
This is a must-see experience at least once in your life! Witness the village lit by warm, soft lights, creating a serene and magical night where time seems to stand still!!
The romantic Shirakawa-go illumination is only available during this season. Stroll through the World Heritage Gassho-zukuri village and let the lights illuminate the fairy-tale world in your heart!
*Please note that this tour does not include access to the observation deck.
【Hida Takayama】
Hida Takayama, which preserves the atmosphere of the Edo period, is a popular tourist destination loved by many travelers.
It retains old streets dating back to the Edo period, along with many buildings full of history and tradition.
Strolling through the quaint streets, you can also enjoy local delicacies such as Hida beef sushi, skewers, and Mitarashi dango, which are major attractions of Hida Takayama.
Satisfy your interest in historical streetscapes and unique Japanese food culture in one visit—it is a destination well worth visiting. Please make the most of your free time to enjoy the unique charm of Hida Takayama!
【Shinhotaka Ropeway】
From the roof of the Nishi-hotakaguchi Station at an altitude of 2,156 meters, you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view.
The breathtaking contrast between the towering Hotaka mountain range, the deep valleys below, and the endless sky and mountains is truly stunning.
This spectacular view has been awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan and is definitely worth seeing in person.
Experience a world-renowned, one-of-a-kind magnificent view!
－ About Accommodation －
・Hotel: Stay at MERCURE HIDATAKAYAMA
After a walk in the snow, let the hot spring slowly warm your cold body and enjoy a comfortable, relaxing time.
－ Important Information －
・Children aged 3 and over are charged the same price as adults. Children under 3 who do not occupy a seat can participate for free (meals and other expenses are not included); please note the number of such children when booking.
・Please be aware that this tour does not include a visit to the Shirakawa-go observation deck for the illumination.
・Travelers under 20 years old cannot participate alone and must be accompanied by a traveler aged 20 or older.
・This tour will be accompanied by a Japanese-speaking tour leader. Relevant information during the trip will be provided via translation software or AI-translated written materials.
Covered in snow, the Gassho-zukuri houses are illuminated by warm lights, creating a magical scene completely different from the daytime. The village in the silver snow looks like something out of a fairy tale, enchanting countless travelers. (Photo provided by: Mr. Hiroshi Yamashita, Chiba Prefecture)
Covered in snow, the Gassho-zukuri houses are illuminated by warm lights, creating a magical scene completely different from the daytime. The village in the silver snow looks like something out of a fairy tale, enchanting countless travelers.
【Hida Takayama】 Strolling through the quaint streets, you can also enjoy local delicacies such as Hida beef sushi, skewers, and Mitarashi dango, which are major attractions of Hida Takayama. Satisfy your interest in historical streetscapes and unique Japanese food culture in one visit—it is a destination well worth visiting.
【Shinhotaka Ropeway】 Take Japan's only double-decker ropeway to a high-altitude world at 2,156 meters. Magnificent snowy scenery will come into view, presenting a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.
＜MERCURE HIDATAKAYAMA＞ A 4-star hotel located about a 4-minute walk from JR Takayama Station.
＜MERCURE HIDATAKAYAMA＞ After a walk in the snow, let the hot spring slowly warm your cold body and enjoy a comfortable, relaxing time.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Tokyo/Gifu
Duration: 2 days, 1 night
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus Company: Tokyo Bus or equivalent
Meals: Breakfast x1, Lunch x1 (bento), Dinner x1 (bento)
Accommodation: MERCURE HIDATAKAYAMA room
Minimum number of participants: 25
Tour Leader: 1 (Japanese-speaking)
Tour Guide: 0 *No tour guide will accompany this trip
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Company Name: CLUB TOURISM INTERNATIONAL INC
Address: 1-9-6 Edagawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Registered Travel Agency No. 1693 approved by the Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency
Travel Association: Full member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
【Entrusted Sales】
KKDAY JAPAN Inc.
WESTALL Yotsuya Bldg. 2F, 1-22-5 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004
Registered Travel Agency No. 2045 by the Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency
Travel Association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 25 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 14 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Meals are not included for children under the age of 3
Shirakawa-go Light-up Precautions: Due to the deep snow, the road is slippery, so please wear snow boots. Nighttime snowy roads are extremely dangerous, so it's best to have a flashlight. Evening temperatures can drop below zero, so please be sure to bring adequate warm clothing to protect yourself from the cold.
The environment is dark when visiting Shirakawa-go, so it is recommended that visitors bring their own flashlights.
The itinerary is for reference only. If the scheduled itinerary is affected by traffic conditions on the day, it will be adjusted. Please be advised.
Passengers are advised to wear light clothing and non-slip shoes during the tour.
As the weather outside is quite cold, please bring your own warm clothes.
Please note that if you miss the bus meeting time on the day, you will not be allowed to wait for us, and you will not be able to change the date or get a refund.
The meeting and disbanding locations may vary, so please confirm with the tour leader on the day.
An odd number of guests will be seated together. In some cases, men and women may be seated together.
This route does not go to the Shirakawa-go Observatory. After 5:00 PM, please walk through the Gassho-style village. The lighting is scheduled for 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, so please observe the actual conditions.
Depending on weather conditions, the snow scene may not be visible or the illumination may be temporarily canceled. In such cases, no refund will be given. Please note.
The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway may be temporarily suspended due to weather conditions or other reasons. In such cases, we will either travel to another destination or refund the cable car fee.
On the first day, you can bring your own lunch or purchase meals at service areas along the way.
FAQ
1. What is the typical itinerary for the 2-day tour visiting Shirakawa-go and Hida Takayama?
This 2-day tour typically departs from Tokyo by bus to Gifu Prefecture. The first day includes visiting Shirakawa-go Gassho Village, followed by exploring Hida Takayama's preserved streets. Overnight accommodation is provided at the luxurious Hida Takayama Onsen Hotel Associa Takayama Resort. On the second day, guests experience the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway before returning to Tokyo.
2. What services are included in the Shirakawa-go, Hida Takayama, and Shin-Hotaka Ropeway 2-day tour package?
The tour package includes round-trip transportation from Tokyo on a safety-inspected bus, the guidance of a Chinese-speaking and Japanese-speaking tour guide, and accommodation at the Hida Takayama Onsen Hotel Associa Takayama Resort. It covers the core experiences at Shirakawa-go, Hida Takayama, and the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway.
3. What unique features and amenities does the Hida Takayama Onsen Hotel Associa Takayama Resort offer?
The Hida Takayama Onsen Hotel Associa Takayama Resort is a highly-rated luxury hotel, boasting a 4.3 Google rating. It provides a comfortable and relaxing stay, featuring an onsen (hot spring) experience. Guests can expect quality amenities and service for a pleasant overnight stay in the region.
4. When is the Shirakawa-go Gassho Village Illumination held in 2026, and what experiences does it offer?
The Shirakawa-go Gassho Village Illumination in 2026 is a limited-time event, held for only 4 specific days. Visitors can experience the breathtaking sight of the traditional Gassho-style houses beautifully illuminated against the winter snow, creating a picturesque and unique atmosphere in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. What are the scenic highlights and experiences accessible via the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway?
The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps. It is a two-stage ropeway, ascending to high altitudes where visitors can enjoy breathtaking snowscapes in winter and lush greenery in other seasons. From the observation deck, you can witness magnificent mountain ranges and expansive natural beauty.
6. What local sights and activities can visitors enjoy in Hida Takayama?
In Hida Takayama, visitors can stroll through the well-preserved traditional streets, often referred to as 'Little Kyoto.' You can admire the historic architecture, browse local artisan shops, sample regional delicacies, and visit morning markets. It's a great opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture and quaint countryside charm.
7. How are the departure and return logistics handled from Tokyo for the multi-day trip to Gifu Prefecture?
The multi-day trip to Gifu Prefecture, including Shirakawa-go and Hida Takayama, features convenient bus departure and return services directly from Tokyo. The transportation is provided by an established travel company, utilizing buses that undergo monthly safety inspections, ensuring a reliable and secure journey for all passengers.
8. What is the booking process for the 2026 Shirakawa-go Illumination tour?
To book the 2026 Shirakawa-go Illumination tour, you can typically use an online travel platform. KKday offers a convenient booking process, allowing you to secure your spot for this highly sought-after limited-time experience. Booking through KKday ensures access to a well-organized tour managed by a reputable travel company, providing peace of mind and comprehensive service.
