Gifu Prefecture’s best tours cut straight to the heart of central Japan’s cultural treasures. The standout experience is the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go day tour, where you’ll explore fairy-tale thatched farmhouses nestled in mountain valleys. I especially love the intimate cycling tours through rural villages – they get you up close with local life at a perfect pace. For culture buffs, the guided walks through historic Gujo Hachiman reveal the town’s famous dance traditions and pristine waterways. Small group sizes and knowledgeable local guides make these tours particularly worthwhile. Transportation and entry fees are typically included, keeping things simple and hassle-free. Let’s explore the top tours that showcase the best of Gifu.
Key Points
- Private cycling tours in Hida-Furukawa and Hida provide scenic journeys through traditional villages, rice paddies, and mountains with knowledgeable guides.
- Shirakawa-go tours offer exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site, including visits to hot springs and hiking to Hirayu Falls.
- Customized private tours in Gujo Hachiman allow travelers to choose their preferred sites with personalized attention from guides.
- Ride and Hike tours in Gifu combine cycling and hiking for a full-day outdoor experience with lunch and tea breaks.
- Tours in Gifu include English-speaking guides, transportation, and entry fees, though some may not be wheelchair accessible.
Private-group Morning Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa
For those seeking a unique and immersive experience in the countryside of Gifu Prefecture, the Private-group Morning Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa offers a delightful opportunity. This 105-review tour with a 100% traveler recommendation provides a scenic bicycle journey through rural Japan, showcasing traditional wooden houses, rice paddies, and mountains.
Participants can access stunning landscapes off-limits to vehicles and observe daily life in the Japanese countryside. The tours begin in the morning when rural Japan comes to life, and an informative private guide provides context on the region’s history.
The tour includes the use of a bicycle and helmet, insurance, local taxes, and snacks, though a basket isn’t attached, and food and drinks aren’t included.
The meeting point is in Hida, Gifu, and the tour returns to the same location. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, and the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, with a maximum of 8 people per booking.
Certain health restrictions apply, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: Private-group Morning Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa Review
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Shirakawago (UNESCO World Heritage) / Hot Springs (Onsen) / Hiking / 1-Day Tour
Visitors seeking to enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Gifu Prefecture can embark on the Shirakawago (UNESCO World Heritage) / Hot Springs (Onsen) / Hiking / 1-Day Tour.
This private guided tour provides travelers the opportunity to explore the renowned Shirakawa-go village, known for its iconic Gassho-style houses. Highlights include a visit to the Hirayunomori hot springs and a hike to admire the breathtaking Hirayu Falls.
The tour begins at the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal, with transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. Throughout the day, the private guide facilitates communication and enhances the overall experience.
While meals aren’t included, recommendations for local eateries are provided. The tour concludes in Takayama, accessible by either the train station or the Hirayu bus terminal.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, this tour offers a personalized and immersive experience in the natural and cultural wonders of Gifu Prefecture. Pricing starts at $176.68 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Shirakawago (UNESCO World Heritage) / Hot Springs (Onsen) / Hiking / 1-Day Tour Review
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Shirakawa-Go Half Day Tour (Unesco World Heritage Near Takayama)
The Shirakawa-Go Half Day Tour provides visitors an immersive glimpse into the UNESCO World Heritage site’s renowned thatched-roof A-frame houses.
This small-group walking tour focuses on Japanese history and culture, led by an English-speaking guide. The tour lasts 2-4 hours and is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
Highlights include admiring the distinctive Gassho-style architecture and gaining deeper insights through the guide’s expertise.
Pickup options are available from Takayama City, with the tour starting at 8:30 AM. Lunch is included, and infant seats are available, though the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.
Priced from €95.58 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With a 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore the captivating Shirakawa-Go region.
Private tours are also available upon request, providing a tailored experience.
Read our full review: Shirakawa-Go Half Day Tour (Unesco World Heritage Near Takayama) Review
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Short Morning Cycling Tour in Hida
Exploring Hida’s local charm and hidden gems comes alive on this short morning cycling tour.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour offers an intimate experience to discover the area’s history and culture. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, cyclists will navigate the quiet streets and scenic countryside, stopping to savor regional snacks, coffee, and tea.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or mobility limitations. Participants must be at least 6 years old and 125cm (4.1ft) tall.
Bicycles and helmets are provided, and the tour includes insurance and local taxes. Priced from $147.24 per person, the experience receives exceptional reviews, with a 100% traveler recommendation rate.
After the 3-hour tour, cyclists return to the starting point in central Hida. This cycling excursion offers an immersive and authentic way to connect with the charm of this Gifu Prefecture destination.
Read our full review: Short Morning Cycling Tour in Hida Review
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5-Hour Bike Tour in Hida
This 3.5-hour bike tour in Hida, Gifu Prefecture, allows participants to explore the local charm and hidden gems of the area.
The tour starts and ends at the SATOYAMA EXPERIENCE Hida-Furukawa Desk, providing a convenient meeting point. During the tour, cyclists will be equipped with bicycles, helmets, and rain gear if needed, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.
The tour includes a tea break and free water, allowing participants to recharge. However, they should bring their own water bottles.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions, such as back problems, heart issues, or pregnancy.
Booking confirmations are provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. While the tour is non-refundable, it’s a great option for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Hida.
During peak summer months, the tour times are adjusted to avoid extreme heat, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.
Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Full Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
Visitors to Gifu Prefecture can enjoy the historical and cultural charms of Gujo Hachiman through a private full-day tour led by a government-licensed guide.
The tour offers a customized choice of 3-4 sites from a designated list, allowing travelers to personalize their experience. With a maximum group size of 7 passengers, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized exploration of this picturesque town.
Transportation for the tour is primarily on foot, with the option to utilize public transportation or local taxis between sites. Private vehicle arrangements can be made in advance, if desired.
The tour price starts at $137.42 per person, varying based on group size, and includes the guide’s entry fees for the listed sights. Lunch and personal expenses aren’t covered.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and strollers and service animals are allowed. Most travelers can participate, making it a suitable choice for a diverse range of visitors.
Read our full review: Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Full Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
Although the Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour with a government-licensed guide allows visitors to personalize their experience by selecting 2-3 sites from a designated list, the tour price starts at $99.99 per person and varies based on group size.
The tour offers flexibility, with transportation costs and entrance fees discussed with the guide after booking. The tour is accessible, welcoming wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals.
Participants can expect a walking tour with the potential use of public transportation or local taxis between sites.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and dates can be changed up to 2 days prior, subject to availability.
This private tour experience in Gujo Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture, promises an immersive introduction to the area’s must-see attractions, led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Read our full review: Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Full Day Private Tour Magome to Tsumago
The Full Day Private Tour from Magome to Tsumago in Gifu Prefecture offers an immersive experience through the historic Nakasendo Trail. Priced from $202.86 per person, this non-refundable private tour is operated by H.I.S.Co., Ltd. and includes an English-speaking guide, bottled water, lunch, bus fare, Sado Experience fee, and entry to the Nagiso Museum.
The tour starts at 9 am from Nakatsugawa Station and ends at Nagiso Station. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems.
Highlights of the tour include the charming post towns of Magome and Tsumago, immersing visitors in the historic Nakasendo Trail. The Sado Experience and visit to the Nagiso Museum provide deeper insights into the local culture and traditions.
With a private tour, guests can enjoy a personalized experience without the crowds.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Tour Magome to Tsumago Review
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Ride and Hike Tour in Hida
Located in the heart of Gifu Prefecture, the Ride and Hike Tour in Hida provides an exhilarating way to explore the region’s picturesque landscapes. This private tour combines cycling and hiking, allowing participants to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
The tour starts at the SATOYAMA EXPERIENCE in Hida, where guests will be provided with bicycles, helmets, and rain gear. The 10:15 am departure time ensures a full day of adventure. Along the way, guests will enjoy a bento box lunch and tea break, refueling for the hike portion of the tour.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate fitness level required makes this tour suitable for most travelers. With a private setting, the group will have the freedom to explore at their own pace.
This Ride and Hike Tour in Hida is an excellent way to discover the natural wonders of Gifu Prefecture, with a price starting from $353.03 per person.
Read our full review: Ride and Hike Tour in Hida Review
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Private 2.5h Bike Tour in Hida
This private 2.5-hour bike tour in Hida, Gifu Prefecture, is an exhilarating way to explore the region’s picturesque landscapes.
Operated by 株式会社Honey J コーポレーション, the tour starts at $191.23 per person, with the price varying by group size. Participants will receive the use of a bicycle and helmet, as well as rain gear if needed. A tea break is included, and free water is available, though participants must bring their own bottles.
The tour departs and returns to the SATOYAMA EXPERIENCE, a 10-minute walk from Hida-Furukawa Station. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, and a Lowest Price Guarantee is offered. This private tour ensures that only your group will partake in the experience, allowing for a more personalized and immersive exploration of Hida’s stunning landscapes.
Read our full review: Private 2.5h Bike Tour in Hida Review
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Recap
Gifu Prefecture offers a variety of intriguing tours, from cycling through historic Hida-Furukawa to exploring the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go village. Visitors can enjoy hot springs, hiking, and biking excursions, as well as private guided tours that showcase the region’s must-see highlights. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or culture, Gifu has plenty of options to create an unforgettable experience.