Shirakawago and Hida No Sato Winter Illumination 2D1N Bus Tour
・Adventures in the mysterious world of snow in Gassho Zukuri Village, Shirakawago
・Explore the traditional atmosphere of Hida takayama old town.
・Experience wearing a uchikake and jinbaori at the Seki Cutlery Museum
・Shopping at Shiga Ryuo Outlet, one of the largest outlet malls in the Kansai region
Product Info
Purchase Notice
This is not a private tour, you will enjoy the tour with other guests together.
We might cancel the tour if we do not have at least 20 participants by 14 days before the scheduled departure.
The hotel you stay at may change depending on the availability of hotels on the day. We cannot refund the difference in price due to hotel changes.
Depending on the reservation situation on the day, you may not be able to wear the uchikake and jinbaori in Sanshu Cutlery Shop / Seki Cutlery Museum. In that case, please enjoy the museum and shopping at the facility. There will be no refunds due to this change.
Reminders
Customer Guidelines:
Please arrive at the meeting location 15 minutes prior to the departure time.
IMPORTANT: The bus will depart according to the schedule and will not wait for late arrivals.
Please be aware that weekends, holidays, and event days may experience high levels of congestion.
The schedule is subject to change without prior notice.
This tour basically utilizes a bus, and there may be delays in arrival time due to traffic or other factors.
Due to traffic or other reasons, the duration of visits at each destination may be shortened, and arrival times may be delayed.
Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).
In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.
Wearing your seatbelt is mandatory while the bus is in motion due to legal regulations.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the bus.
Please refrain from standing up while the bus is in motion.
If you accidentally leave any belongings on the bus, please be aware that they will be disposed of.
Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions when you book. especially if the tour includes lunch.
Please note that snow may not be present depending on weather.
Note: These guidelines are provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Thank you for your cooperation.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 21 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 8 to 20 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- For cancellations made 0 to 0 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
- 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
To truly immerse yourself in Shirakawa-go Village and appreciate its unique Gassho-zukuri farmhouses, a minimum of 3-4 hours is highly recommended. This allows ample time to explore the open-air museum, visit one of the larger houses, enjoy local snacks, and find various viewpoints. During winter, factor in extra time for navigating snowy paths and enjoying the unique atmosphere, especially for the winter illumination.
While it is technically possible to see parts of both in a very rushed day, it is generally not recommended to experience them fully. Both Shirakawa-go and Hida Takayama old town offer rich cultural experiences that benefit from more leisurely exploration. A 2-day, 1-night tour often allows for a more relaxed and comprehensive visit to each location, appreciating their distinct charm without feeling rushed.
The most common and convenient way to travel between Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go Village is by bus. Nohi Bus operates regular services connecting Takayama Nohi Bus Center to Shirakawa-go. The journey typically takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour, offering scenic views. Booking tickets in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons or for specific tour times.
In Hida Takayama old town, visitors can step back in time by strolling through preserved Edo-period streets lined with traditional wooden merchant houses. You can explore sake breweries with tasting opportunities, visit local craft shops, and sample regional delicacies like Hida beef sushi. The morning markets along the Miyagawa River or Jinya-mae are also highlights, offering fresh produce and local crafts.
The peak season for experiencing snow and the special winter illumination at Shirakawa-go Village typically runs from late January to mid-February. During this period, the Gassho-zukuri houses are often blanketed in thick snow, and select evenings feature a magical light-up event, transforming the village into a fairytale landscape. Checking the specific illumination dates for the year is crucial for planning your visit.
At the Seki Cutlery Museum, visitors have the unique opportunity to learn about the 800-year history of traditional Japanese sword and cutlery making. A special cultural experience often offered includes trying on traditional Japanese attire such as an uchikake (a formal kimono) or a jinbaori (a samurai's vest), allowing for memorable photo opportunities while appreciating historical Japanese craftsmanship.
Travelers can anticipate a delightful dining experience with Omi beef sukiyaki in Sekigahara. Omi beef is one of Japan's top three wagyu brands, known for its exquisite marbling and tender texture. The sukiyaki meal typically involves thinly sliced beef simmered with vegetables and tofu in a savory-sweet soy sauce broth, often enjoyed communally at the table, offering a taste of premium Japanese cuisine.
Shiga Ryuo Outlet is one of the largest outlet malls in the Kansai region, offering a wide array of shopping opportunities. Visitors can find numerous domestic and international brands across fashion, accessories, sportswear, and household goods. It's an excellent place to browse for quality items, often providing seasonal selections and a pleasant outdoor shopping environment, making it a good stop for retail therapy.
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