Shirakawa-go and Hida Takayama Day Trip | Limited Light-up Tour & Nagoya Roundtrip
- Stroll through Ogimachi Village in Shirakawa-go and admire the intertwined beauty of nature and culture in this World Heritage village
- The autumn leaves of Hida no Sato are illuminated in a picturesque scene, allowing you to experience the dreamy atmosphere of autumn nights only.
- Experience the local culture in Takayama's historic streets, where traditional markets and Hida beef cuisine blend seamlessly.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 8 travelers |
| Tour types | None |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Seasonal | Autumn Maple |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Traditional markets, Historic site tour, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
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.
- Hida no Sato
Special events during the Red Leaf Season:
The "Water Curtain Show," a fire drill for Gassho-style houses, is held twice a year. Water streams pour down like curtains, interweaving with the autumn colors of Shirakawa-go to create a spectacular sight.
Date and Time: November 1 (Saturday) 1:30 PM - Approximately 40 minutes
Autumn Leaves Illumination (Hida no Sato)
The dreamy lights illuminate the gorgeous red leaves, creating a unique night view.
Date and Time: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from October 11 (Saturday) to November 9 (Sunday) from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Seasonal Lighting Event Information
Autumn Leaves Illumination: October 11 to November 9, 2025 (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays only)
Christmas lights: December 20 to December 25, 2025 Winter lights: January 10 to February 28, 2026
Hida no Sato has relocated and displayed historical houses, featuring thatched roofs and wooden farmhouses from the Edo period. The autumn leaves of Hida no Sato and the Gassho-style houses covered in heavy snow in winter are comparable to the Gassho-style houses of Shirakawa-go. The area will also host a "Red Leaf Light-up" event, allowing you to enjoy the crimson mountain scenery during the day and the picturesque crimson leaves at night under the dreamy lights, presenting you with a unique night view of the mountains.
The heavy snow in winter is not inferior to Shirakawa-go, and the amount of snow in winter is amazing. However, Gassho-zukuri is not only extremely soft and gravity-resistant, but also has a very good warmth-keeping effect. These are the crystallization of the wisdom and technology of ancient predecessors.
You can observe artisans using traditional techniques to create handicrafts up close, and even try out traditional techniques deeply rooted in Hida life: demonstrations of Hida's traditional woodcraft "Ichiko Ichito" (carving), straw-woven handicrafts, fine stitching, houndstooth patterns, Utoji, weaving, and spinning wheels, and live performances and experiences are also held. Various events are also held according to the seasons.
Unlike the Gassho-style houses in Shirakawa-go, since there are no residents in the village, visitors can enter each house to visit and see the agricultural village life and about 8,000 folk utensils.
Shirakawa-go's forests, predominantly composed of broadleaf trees, are more distinctly influenced by the climate, offering a unique blend of natural beauty each season. Whether it's the vibrant cherry blossoms after the spring snowmelt, the refreshing greenery of summer, or the poetic crimson maple leaves of autumn, every season is worth exploring.
Gassho-zukuri is an architectural style in which houses are built with timber beams placed at an extreme angle. The inverted triangular roof looks like the fingertips of a person facing each other. In Shirakawa-go, where snowfall is heavy, the snow on the houses falls naturally.
Takayama's historic streets, featuring well-preserved Edo-period architecture and traditional lifestyle experiences, combine historical charm with cultural flair. Consisting of three main streets (Ichi-no-machi, Ni-no-machi, and San-no-machi), the streets retain the architectural style of the Edo period (17th-19th centuries). Wooden houses feature carved doors and windows, creating a streetscape similar to Kyoto but with a more rural feel. Traditional craft exhibitions and museums of traditional customs line the streets, offering visitors opportunities to explore family workshops such as sake breweries and weaving studios.
Takayama's historic streets, preserving the castle town and merchant town atmosphere from the Edo period, are known as the "Little Kyoto of Hida." The approximately three-kilometer-long streets are perfect for a stroll, offering views of the Miyagawa River's red bridge and other sights. You can also sample authentic local delicacies like Hida beef steamed buns and soy sauce grilled dango.
Takayama Jinya is the only well-preserved shogunate magistrate's office building from the Edo period in Japan. As the administrative center of the Tokugawa shogunate in the Hida region, Takayama Jinya served as the office for local officials, including the magistrate and magistrate, responsible for local administration and tax collection.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Aichi and Gifu
Travel days: Round trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: AMA Kotsu
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 8
Team leader: 1
Tour guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: KKT Co., Ltd.
Address: No. 1770-23, Kashiwai-cho 1-chome, Kawa City, Chiba Prefecture
License Number: Chiba Prefecture Governor's Travel Business Registration No. 2-1131
Reminders
A minimum of 8 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 3 day(s) before the departure date
In case of delays caused by traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors resulting in the cancellation of some itinerary attractions, please contact customer service. We will arrange a partial refund for you
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: Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
You cannot withdraw from a group tour midway. Withdrawing midway will be deemed as giving up the unfinished itinerary and will not be refunded. Please note that any accidents that occur after withdrawal or midway are the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Children aged 0-3 years old can enter for free if they do not occupy a seat. If they do, they will be charged the same price as adults. Children aged 3 years and above will be charged the same price as adults.
Transportation, tours, and duration of stays may be adjusted based on the day's circumstances. In the event of unforeseen circumstances (traffic congestion, weather conditions, etc.), the tour guide will adjust the order of the tours based on the actual situation and with the guest's consent, but the number of attractions included in the itinerary will not be reduced.
Please keep your passport and valuables safe during your trip. If lost, stolen, or damaged, the relevant expenses will be borne by the passenger.
Due to the long distance, the actual arrival time may be affected by traffic conditions, weather conditions, and other factors. The above times are for reference only. Please do not plan other activities outside of the itinerary on the day. We are not responsible for any delays.
Once the order is confirmed, the date will not be changed without authorization. Any losses will be borne by the customer (if there are special circumstances, please contact us).
This product may be adjusted due to factors such as weather. To ensure the safety of guests, the supplier reserves the right to ask guests to cancel outdoor activities and contact guests for alternative arrangements based on the actual situation on the day.
It is recommended that the elderly, patients with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and heart disease, and pregnant women be accompanied by their family members.
The closure of the observatory is beyond our control and no refund will be given in the event of closure.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 3 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 1 to 2 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Shirakawa-go's Ogimachi Village is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site primarily for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These distinctive houses feature steep, triangular thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfall and maximize attic space for silkworm cultivation. The village exemplifies a traditional way of life and a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, preserving centuries-old architectural styles and cultural practices.
Shirakawa-go is located in the mountainous Gifu Prefecture in the central Chubu region of Japan. It is nestled in the remote Shogawa River valley, surrounded by natural beauty. Its secluded geographical position has historically contributed to the excellent preservation of its unique cultural landscape and architectural heritage.
For a thorough and enjoyable exploration of Shirakawa-go's Ogimachi Village, a visit duration of 2 to 3 hours is generally recommended. This allows ample time to stroll through the village, admire the gassho-zukuri houses, visit a few of the publicly accessible traditional homes like the Wada House, and take in the panoramic views from the Shiroyama Viewpoint.
In Shirakawa-go, essential experiences include visiting the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses such as the Wada House and Kanda House, which offer insights into traditional life. A visit to the Shiroyama Viewpoint provides breathtaking panoramic views of Ogimachi Village. Exploring the tranquil village lanes and immersing yourself in the unique architectural charm and natural surroundings are also highly recommended.
Shirakawa-go is primarily accessed by bus, as there is no train station directly within the village. Direct bus services are available from major hubs such as Kanazawa, Takayama, and Nagoya. Visitors can also join guided day tours that typically include roundtrip transportation, offering a convenient way to reach this somewhat remote destination.
The autumn illumination at Hida no Sato offers a magical and unique experience. During this special event, the traditional folk houses are beautifully lit, creating a picturesque and dreamy atmosphere. Visitors can witness the vibrant autumn leaves glow under the soft lights, transforming the village into an enchanting scene that is perfect for an evening stroll and capturing memorable photographs.
Takayama's historic streets, often referred to as 'Little Kyoto,' offer a charming glimpse into traditional Japan. Visitors can explore well-preserved Edo-period merchant houses, sake breweries, and craft shops. Highlights include sampling local delicacies like Hida beef, browsing the lively morning markets along the Miya River, and discovering unique souvenirs and traditional crafts in the Sanmachi Suji district.
The houses in Shirakawa-go's Ogimachi Village feature the distinctive "Gassho-Zukuri" architectural style. These large wooden farmhouses are characterized by their steeply pitched, triangular thatched roofs, which resemble hands joined in prayer (gassho). This design helps the roofs shed heavy snowfall and provides a spacious attic for sericulture (silkworm cultivation), a traditional industry of the region.
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