Hokuriku Kanazawa & Shirakawa-go 2-Day Tour from Nagoya | Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village, Hida Takayama, Kenrokuen Garden, Omicho Market
- A 2-day, 1-night tour of classic routes in Central Japan, experiencing the traditional cultural atmosphere of the region.
- This itinerary offers multiple travel options, allowing you to enjoy the highlights of the Hokuriku Shoryudo in one go: Hida Takayama, the World Heritage site Shirakawa-go, and the ancient capital of Kanazawa, with a smooth route that avoids backtracking.
- Visit the World Heritage site Shirakawa-go Ogimachi Gassho Village, where the scenery changes with the seasons.
- Stroll through the Hida Takayama Old Town: experience the Edo-style streets and Hida beef cuisine, feeling the charm of the ancient city.
- Tour one of Japan's three great gardens, Kenrokuen, the popular Omicho Market, and the Higashi Chaya District.
Package Options
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
Step into the poetic landscapes of the Hokuriku Shoryudo! Departing from Nagoya, this 2-day journey takes you through the Edo-style old town of Hida Takayama, the fairy-tale-like World Heritage Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri village, and continues to the ancient capital of Kanazawa. Old stone-paved streets, thatched-roof Gassho-zukuri houses, garden ponds, and seafood markets weave together the unique scenery of Hokuriku. Choose from three plans (A, B, C). No need to drive yourself or research complex transportation routes; join the tour and easily collect the classic sights of Hokuriku.
Recommended restaurants in Takayama Old Town are as follows:
【Ajikura Tengoku】 A JA-operated restaurant with guaranteed beef quality, specializing in Hida beef, with a small selection of seafood, pork, and chicken. The menu is in English and Japanese, and there are platter options. The 'Ajikura Mori' for 2-3 people is the most comprehensive, allowing you to taste almost every part of the cow. Address: 4-147 Hanasato-cho, Takayama; Business hours: 11:00–14:00, 17:00–21:00 (Closed on Tuesdays); Budget per person (JPY): Lunch ¥3,000–¥3,999 (Restaurant prices or meals may change according to the season; please refer to the restaurant's official website). Phone: +0577-37-1129
【Maruaki Hida Takayama Store】 A designated specialty store for Hida beef, serving yakiniku and set meals. All beef is authentic Hida beef that melts in your mouth. Address: 6-8-1 Tenman-cho, Takayama; Business hours: 10:00-22:00; Average budget per person (JPY): Lunch ¥2,000–¥2,999 (Restaurant prices or meals may change according to the season; please refer to the restaurant's official website).
Hida Takayama Old Town: Hida Takayama is known as the 'Little Kyoto of Hida.' The Sanmachi Suji district is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, perfectly preserving the atmosphere of an Edo-period castle town. Lined with black wooden lattice-windowed merchant houses, century-old sake breweries, and miso shops, with water flowing through the eaves and cedar-leaf ball lanterns hanging outside sake shops, strolling through the streets feels like traveling back to the Edo period. The area is filled with souvenir shops, traditional confectionery stores, and craft shops. Do not miss the local premium specialty, Hida beef. Hida beef sushi, Hida beef yakiniku, and Hoba miso are all classics. Reserve plenty of free time to leisurely shop, take photos at a photo spot, and taste local delicacies.
Shirakawa-go is located in the northern Hida region of Gifu Prefecture and is a traditional mountain village recognized as a World Heritage site. In 1995, it was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site under the name 'Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama' along with the neighboring Gokayama region (Ainokura and Suganuma in Toyama Prefecture). Shirakawa-go is known as the kingdom of forests and streams. The village of Ogimachi in Shirakawa-go has the largest number of households among the three World Heritage villages (Shirakawa-go, and Ainokura and Suganuma in Gokayama). You can appreciate the traditional historical landscape of Japan and the daily lives of the local people. It feels as if you are in a forest kingdom from a fairy tale.
Kenrokuen Garden, one of the 'Three Great Gardens' of Japan alongside Mito's Kairakuen and Okayama's Korakuen, is a representative daimyo garden from the Edo period. It reached its current state through the long-term, tireless efforts of successive Kaga domain lords. Located in the heart of Kanazawa, this garden is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of all four seasons, and it is deeply loved by many Ishikawa residents and tourists from around the world. The name Kenrokuen is derived from a section in the ancient Chinese book 'Chronicles of Famous Gardens in Luoyang' explaining the 'Lake Garden.' It implies that it is not easy for a garden to possess six advantages, but this garden possesses all of them. The book states: 'According to people in Luoyang, there are six aspects of garden beauty that cannot be combined: those that seek grandeur lack seclusion; those that emphasize human artifice lack antiquity; those with many water springs are difficult to view from a distance. The only one that combines all six is the 'Lake Garden'.'
Higashi Chaya District | The most atmospheric teahouse district in Kanazawa from the Edo period. Together with the Nishi Chaya District and the Kazue-machi Chaya District, it is known as one of the three major chaya districts in Kanazawa. Among them, the Higashi Chaya District is the largest and one of the most iconic ancient streets. Stroll along the cobblestone paths lined with traditional wooden townhouses, where the antique streetscape still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. The former teahouse buildings have been cleverly revitalized into specialty restaurants, cafes, Japanese confectionery shops, and souvenir stores, making a walk through them feel like traveling back in time. The Higashi Chaya District is also an important preservation district for groups of traditional buildings in Japan, making it a perfect photo spot to capture streetscapes full of Japanese charm and to experience the unique historical and cultural allure of Kanazawa.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Aichi・Gifu/Ishikawa
Duration: 2 days, 1 night
Transportation: Chartered bus (different vehicle types arranged based on the number of passengers)
Bus Company: AMA Kotsu, etc.
Meals: Breakfast: Included in the plan; Lunch: 0; Dinner: Included in the plan
Accommodation: Based on the plan
Minimum group size: 6
Tour Leader: 1 (For 6-9 people, the driver acts as the tour leader; for 15 people or more, a separate tour leader will be arranged for the bus)
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company Name: KKT Co., Ltd.
Address: 1770-23 Kashiwai-cho 1-chome, Ichikawa-shi, Chiba Prefecture
License Number: Chiba Prefecture Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-1131
Reminders
A minimum of 6 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
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: Epilepsy, Heart disease, Asthma, Pregnant women, Acrophobia
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 2
Children under 2 years old who do not occupy a seat or bed can participate for free. Each adult is limited to bringing one child who does not occupy a seat or bed. If there are additional children, please inform us in the 'Remarks' section when booking.
Room types are subject to hotel availability and cannot be specified.
If you have special requests such as smoking/non-smoking rooms or allergy requirements, please note them in advance. Arrangements are subject to the hotel's availability and cannot be guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding.
Due to limited luggage space, each person is limited to one large suitcase. If you have more than two, please inform us in the 'Remarks' section. Thank you for your cooperation.
This is a fixed-schedule group tour. Participants must adhere to the designated time at each attraction and follow the driver's arrangements. If you prefer a flexible itinerary, please consider our private car charter service.
Due to the long distance, the actual arrival time will be affected by traffic conditions, weather, etc. The above times are for reference only. Please do not arrange other activities outside the itinerary on the same day. We are not responsible for any delays.
If attractions cannot be visited due to weather or severe traffic conditions, the tour leader has the right to change or cancel part of the itinerary for the safety of all participants. Participants may not request a refund or price reduction due to this.
If you leave the tour group on your own during the trip, it will be considered a voluntary withdrawal, and no refund will be provided. If this leads to personal injury or property loss, you must bear the consequences yourself.
Travelers aged 70 and over must sign a 'Senior Citizen Disclaimer Agreement.' This tour does not accept participants under 18 years old traveling alone. If they wish to participate, they must be accompanied by a guardian.
Reference vehicle types: 18-22 seater: minibus; 22 seater or more: large bus. The above vehicles are for reference only; the actual vehicle will be adjusted according to the number of participants on the day.
FAQ
1. When is the best time to visit Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village?
Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village offers unique beauty in every season. The winter scenery with its white snow is enchanting, like a fairytale world, with the illuminations being a particular highlight. In spring, you'll see cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Summer is lush and vibrant, while autumn presents a picturesque blend of crimson maple leaves and golden rice fields. You can choose to visit during different seasons based on your preferences to experience the village's diverse charms.
2. Where is Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village located?
Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village is situated in the northwestern part of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, and is a renowned World Heritage site in the Hokuriku region. Nestled in the Hida Mountains, it is famous for its unique Gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses, which form a beautiful rural landscape with the surrounding forests and terraced rice fields. This area is also an important stop along Japan's central 'Shoryudo' tourist route.
3. How long is a typical recommended stay in Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village?
A typical recommended stay for visiting Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village is about half a day to a full day to fully immerse yourself in its unique charm. You can wander through the Ogimachi Gassho-zukuri village, admire the ancient thatched-roof houses, climb the observation deck for a panoramic view of the entire village, and explore the village's museums or temples to gain a deeper understanding of the local lifestyle and culture. If you have ample time, you can also savor local specialties within the village.
4. How can I get to Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village from Nagoya?
The most convenient way to travel from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village is by highway bus, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Buses depart from the Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center and go directly to the Shirakawa-go bus station. Additionally, many tour groups offer two-day trips from Nagoya, including transportation and visits to other Hokuriku attractions, allowing you to easily explore Shirakawa-go and its surrounding areas.
5. What are the must-experience features in Takayama's old town?
Takayama's old town is steeped in the historical atmosphere of the Edo period. Walking through it, you can admire well-preserved traditional architecture and feel the quaint street ambiance. There are many specialty shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. It's also highly recommended to try the famous Hida beef dishes, such as sushi, skewers, or Hoba miso yaki. It's a great place to experience the charm of an ancient Japanese city.
6. What are the highlights of Kanazawa's Kenrokuen Garden and Omicho Market?
Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa is one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens, renowned for its seasonal scenery and exquisite garden design, making it worth savoring. The 'yukitsuri' (snow suspension) in winter is particularly unique. Omicho Market, on the other hand, is the kitchen of Kanazawa's residents. It offers a rich variety of fresh seafood, local vegetables, and fruits. You can enjoy various seafood rice bowls or purchase fresh ingredients, experiencing the local way of life.
7. What annual festivals or special events are held in Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village?
The most famous annual event in Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri village is the winter illumination festival, usually held on specific weekends in January and February, transforming the snowy village into a dreamlike landscape. Additionally, the autumn Doburoku Festival is an important traditional event where local residents, dressed in traditional attire, hold prayer ceremonies and share unique unrefined sake, showcasing the rich rural culture.
8. What kind of Japanese atmosphere can be experienced in Kanazawa's Higashi Chaya District?
Kanazawa's Higashi Chaya District was once a place for geisha performances and entertainment, and walking through it allows you to experience the ancient Japanese geisha district atmosphere. The streets are lined with well-preserved wooden buildings, and many traditional teahouses have been converted into cafes, boutiques, or art shops. You can wander through the alleys, enjoy Japanese sweets, or purchase local specialty souvenirs, experiencing the elegant atmosphere of the ancient capital.
