2027 Shirakawa-go Illumination | Hida Takayama + Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village + Illumination Day Tour | Day Tour from Nagoya (No Observatory Access)
- Experience the dreamlike winter scenery of the Shirakawa-go World Heritage site, available only 4 days a year!
- Don't miss out! A perfect spot for photos—capture your most beautiful moments.
- Relax your body and mind, enjoy local delicacies, and soak in the beauty of nature and the festive atmosphere.
- Highly recommended for families and couples to visit and experience.
- Small group of 9 people. Enjoy a better travel experience with our intimate small group tour.
Package options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 1 traveler |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Japanese castles |
| Transport | Charter car |
Product Info
Stroll through the old streets of Hida-Takayama to admire the exquisite craftsmanship of local artisans and savor local specialties like Takayama ramen. Wander through Shirakawa-go, surrounded by mountains and rice paddies with gentle rivers flowing through, and enjoy a healing journey in the beauty of nature. In the evening, attend the annual light-up festival, where the orange glow illuminates the falling snow, turning the entire village into a fairytale world for an unforgettable, dreamlike experience.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Aichi/Gifu
Duration: Same-day round trip
Transportation: Chartered vehicle
Bus Company: Tokuko Travel Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation: None
Minimum Participants: 1
Tour Leader: 0
Tour Guide: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: JRT Group Co., Ltd.
Address: Room 510, 5F, Ginza Ishii Building, 6-14-8 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Tokyo Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-8353
Travel Association: Full Member of Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 1 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 4 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
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
This is a small-group tour. For packages with a driver-guide, the driver will provide guide services but will not accompany you off the vehicle.
This product has no separate price for adults or children. It is charged starting from 0 years old and there is no child price. If you need a child seat, please inform us in advance.
The order of the itinerary will be adjusted according to the traffic and weather conditions of the day, please be informed.
If you are late or cancel due to personal reasons, the tour fee will not be refunded.
No refund will be given if the passenger abandons the tour due to personal reasons.
The company is not responsible for the inability to join the tour or poor photography due to force majeure such as traffic, weather, etc., and no refunds or rescheduling are possible. Please understand.
Please be sure to arrive at the designated location at the designated time and do not be late. Since this itinerary cannot be transferred to other flights or joined midway, if you fail to participate in the one-day tour due to your own reasons, you will be responsible for the corresponding losses. Please understand.
FAQs
1. What is the correct pronunciation of "Hida Takayama", and does it have any special meaning?
The Japanese pronunciation of "Hida Takayama" is "Hida Takayama". "Hida" is an ancient Japanese place name referring to the northern part of present-day Gifu Prefecture, known for its rich mountain resources and exquisite woodworking skills. "Takayama" means "high mountain" due to its mountainous location. Together, it refers to the mountain city in the Hida region, characterized by its well-preserved old town scenery and traditional culture.
2. Does it usually snow in Hida Takayama in December? What should travelers be aware of during winter visits?
Hida Takayama enters winter in December and usually starts to snow, with a higher chance of snowfall, especially in the latter half of the month, and common snow accumulation. During winter travel, pay close attention to staying warm, as the roads may be slippery. It's recommended to wear non-slip shoes. Due to shorter daylight hours, please allow ample time for your itinerary and confirm if transportation might be affected by snowfall to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
3. What are the must-visit attractions and characteristics of the old town in Hida Takayama?
The old town of Hida Takayama (Kami-Sannomachi) is a must-visit area, preserving the architectural style of the Edo period and also known as "Little Kyoto". Here, you can stroll and admire traditional wooden townhouse architecture, and savor local delicacies such as Hida beef sushi and gohei mochi. Additionally, Takayama Jinya, Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, and the Hida Folk Village are recommended attractions for experiencing the local history, culture, and traditional crafts.
4. What are some recommended local souvenirs or handicrafts from Hida Takayama?
Hida Takayama offers many unique souvenirs. It is recommended to purchase "Hida Ichi-Ittobori" wood carvings, known for their exquisite craftsmanship, or the local mascot "SARUBOBO" dolls. For food items, Hida beef products, Takayama ramen, miso, sake, and local limited edition sweets and pastries are great choices for gifts or personal enjoyment.
5. When does the Shirakawa-go light-up festival usually take place, and what is special about it?
The Shirakawa-go light-up festival usually takes place on specific nights in January and February each year, a winter-limited event held only a few nights annually. During this time, the Gassho-zukuri houses in the village are illuminated with warm lights, creating a dreamlike, fairy-tale scene intertwined with the snowy landscape. Visitors can personally experience the unique winter romance and traditional atmosphere of this World Heritage site, making it a highly popular photography spot.
6. Besides the light-up event, what other recommended sightseeing experiences are there in Shirakawa-go during winter?
In addition to the winter light-up event, Shirakawa-go is charming during the daytime as well. You can visit open Gassho-zukuri houses such as the Gassho-zukuri Minkaen or the Wada House to gain a deeper understanding of their unique architectural structures and lifestyle culture. Stroll through the village covered in snow, experience the tranquil natural beauty surrounded by mountains and dotted with rice paddies, and savor local specialty dishes to experience the winter charm of a traditional mountain village.
7. For winter travel to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go, how is clothing and warm gear recommended?
For winter travel to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go, layered dressing is recommended. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a warm middle layer such as wool or down, and a windproof and waterproof outer jacket. Be sure to prepare a hat, scarf, gloves, thick socks, and waterproof, non-slip snow boots to cope with the low temperatures and snowy roads, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable.
8. What enhanced experiences can be expected on a small group winter tour to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go?
Participating in a small group winter tour to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go can be expected to offer more flexible and customized itinerary arrangements, avoiding the crowds of large group movements. Guides can provide more in-depth explanations and personalized services, allowing for a more comfortable transportation experience while appreciating the World Heritage sites. On the Shirakawa-go light-up days, a refined small group can plan the viewing route more efficiently, ensuring you don't miss the magical scenes.
