Nagoya: Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go UNESCO Winter Trip

Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Nagoya’s Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go offer a captivating winter escape. This guided tour whisks visitors through the well-preserved Edo-period streets of Takayama, where they can soak in the region’s rich cultural heritage and savor local delicacies like the renowned Hida beef. The highlight, however, lies in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, renowned for its iconic Gassho-style farmhouses blanketed in snow. As the day draws to a close, one can’t help but wonder what other wonders this winter wonderland holds.

Key Points

• A day trip from Nagoya to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site, priced from $72.13 per person.
• Explore the well-preserved Edo-period streets of Hida Takayama, known as "Hida’s Little Kyoto," and the renowned Miyagawa Morning Market.
• Discover the picturesque Gassho-style farmhouses and scenic views in Shirakawa-go during an optional 1.5-hour stop.
• Savor local culinary delights, including the premium Hida beef and the regional Takayama ramen.
• The 10-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Nagoya to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go is priced from $72.13 per person.

The 10-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

Departing from central Nagoya, the journey takes 2.5 hours each way on a bus or coach. Guests will enjoy 2.5 hours of free time in historic Takayama, including a visit to the Miyagawa Morning Market.

An optional 1.5-hour stop in Shirakawa-go allows for sightseeing the UNESCO World Heritage site’s Gassho-style architecture and scenic views.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at the MINISTOP convenience store at the BIC CAMERA West Exit of Nagoya Station, where you will board a bus or coach for the 2.5-hour journey to the historic city of Hida Takayama.

Once there, visitors will have 2.5 hours of free time to explore the town’s well-preserved Edo-period streets, visit the renowned Miyagawa Morning Market, and enjoy the local delicacies like Hida beef.

Afterward, the tour may continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, where visitors can admire the traditional Gassho-style farmhouses and scenic rural landscapes.

• Explore the well-preserved Edo-period streets in Hida Takayama
• Visit the Miyagawa Morning Market, one of Japan’s top three morning markets
• Discover the Gassho-style farmhouses and picturesque scenery of Shirakawa-go

Dining and Local Cuisine

After exploring the historic streets and visiting the vibrant Miyagawa Morning Market in Hida Takayama, visitors can indulge in the local culinary delights.

The region is renowned for its Hida beef, a premium wagyu variety prized for its marbling and tenderness. Recommended dining spots include Ajizo Heaven, which specializes in Hida beef, and Maruaki Hida Takayama Store, famous for its Hida beef barbecue.

For a unique experience, try Hida こって Beef, known for its beef sushi. The free time allows travelers to discover other local eateries and sample Takayama ramen, a regional noodle dish.

Cultural and Scenic Experiences

Visitors can explore the well-preserved Edo-period streets of Hida Takayama, often referred to as "Hida’s Little Kyoto" for its traditional architecture and historical charm.

Other highlights include:

• Visiting the famous Miyagawa Morning Market, one of Japan’s top three morning markets, where visitors can browse local crafts, fresh produce, and sample delectable street food.

• Discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, renowned for its picturesque Gassho-style farmhouses and scenic rural landscapes.

• Enjoying an optional visit to Rakuto, a cozy café known for its delightful red bean porridge and dango.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Meeting Point and Participant Guidelines

Participants meet at the MINISTOP convenience store located at the West Exit of Nagoya Station, right by the BIC CAMERA store.

The tour doesn’t allow unaccompanied minors, and food and drinks are prohibited inside the vehicle.

Luggage space is limited, so travelers should avoid bringing large bags.

Children under 3 can join the tour for free without occupying a seat.

The multilingual guide can provide assistance in Chinese, English, and Japanese.

Exploring Hida Takayama

As the bus arrives at the historic city of Hida Takayama, often referred to as "Hida’s Little Kyoto," travelers are immediately captivated by its well-preserved Edo-period streets and charming traditional architecture.

The first stop is the Miyagawa Morning Market, one of Japan’s top three morning markets, where visitors can browse stalls selling local delicacies, crafts, and produce.

Just steps away, the picturesque Sanmachi Suji district invites exploration, with its well-preserved merchant homes, sake breweries, and artisanal workshops.

For a panoramic view of the city, the Shiroyama Observatory offers a scenic overlook of the surrounding mountains and traditional rooftops.

Discovering Shirakawa-go

Next up, the iconic Shirakawa-go awaits. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, this UNESCO World Heritage site enchants visitors with its charming Gassho-style farmhouses and stunning natural scenery. After exploring the quaint streets of Takayama, the group heads to this picturesque rural village. Visitors can wander the narrow lanes, admire the distinctive thatched-roof houses, and take in the serene mountain views from the Shiroyama Observatory.

Highlights of Shirakawa-go
Gassho-style Farmhouses	UNESCO World Heritage Site
Shiroyama Observatory	Scenic Rural Landscapes
Self-Guided Exploration	Traditional Crafts and Cuisine

The free time allows travelers to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and discover the unique cultural heritage of this enchanting destination.

Reviews and Ratings

Though the overall rating for this Nagoya winter trip is 3.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews, travelers seem to have had a mixed experience.

Some highlights include:

• Visitors praised the well-organized tour, with a knowledgeable guide leading them through the historic streets of Takayama and the picturesque Shirakawa-go.

• However, a few reviewers noted that the free time allotted for self-exploration felt rushed, leaving them wishing for more opportunities to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

• Others noted that the long bus ride, though necessary to cover the distance, could be tiring for some participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Availability of Restrooms During the Trip?

The trip provides restroom breaks at various points throughout the journey, including during the bus rides and at the sightseeing locations in Takayama and Shirakawa-go. Participants can access public restrooms at these stops to ensure their comfort during the day.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Snacks on the Bus?

Travelers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks onto the bus. The tour guidelines explicitly state that food and drinks are prohibited inside the vehicle to maintain cleanliness and safety.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t seem to offer a private tour option. The day trip is only available as a group tour, but the price includes transportation, a multilingual guide, and admission to the UNESCO sites in Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go.

How Accessible Is the Trip for Travelers With Mobility Challenges?

The tour includes some walking and may not be fully accessible for travelers with mobility challenges. However, the tour provider can accommodate requests for assistance and adapt the itinerary to suit individual needs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Stay in Takayama or Shirakawa-Go?

The trip doesn’t offer an option to extend the stay in Takayama or Shirakawa-go. It’s a day trip with set durations in each location. Travelers who want more time in these areas would need to book a separate multi-day trip.

The Sum Up

This enchanting winter tour through Nagoya’s Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Edo-period streets, marvel at the UNESCO-listed Gassho-style farmhouses, and indulge in local delicacies like Hida beef. With its scenic landscapes and rich heritage, this guided trip promises an unforgettable journey through Japan’s winter wonderland.

You can check if your dates are available here: