Tucked away in central Japan, Gifu Prefecture packs remarkable tour options at reasonable prices. Our favorite experiences center on the enchanting Shirakawa-Go village, where traditional thatched-roof houses tell centuries-old stories. The half-day walking tour ($102) provides excellent value and cultural insights. For active travelers, we love the morning bicycle rides through Hida-Furukawa ($153) – the local guides share fantastic historic details while pedaling past rice fields and traditional homes. The private onsen tours ($183) and winter snowshoeing adventures ($183) showcase Gifu’s natural beauty with authentic local connections. Let’s explore the most compelling tours this historic prefecture has to offer.
Key Points
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Shirakawa-Go Half Day Tour offers exceptional value at $101.83, featuring a perfect 5-star rating and includes lunch and cultural exploration.
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Private-group Morning Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa provides intimate experiences for groups up to 8 with a stellar 4.9-star rating.
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Shirakawago Onsen/Hiking Day Tour combines culture with hot springs, offering a comprehensive full-day experience for $183.30.
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Full Day Private Tour from Magome to Tsumago includes lunch and local guidance for an authentic historical journey.
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Private Snowshoeing Tour in Hida delivers unique winter adventures with professional guidance and all necessary equipment included.
Shirakawa-Go Half Day Tour (Unesco World Heritage Near Takayama)
Located in Gifu Prefecture, the Shirakawa-go Half Day Tour offers visitors an intimate look at one of Japan’s most cherished UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The 2-4 hour walking tour accommodates small groups of up to 9 travelers, ensuring personal attention from an English-speaking guide.
Starting at 8:30 AM from the Shirakawago Bus Terminal, guests explore the village’s iconic thatched-roof A-frame houses while learning about Japanese history and culture.
At $101.83 per person, the tour includes lunch and maintains a perfect 5-star rating.
While not wheelchair accessible, pickup options are available from Takayama City. Travelers can cancel free up to 24 hours before departure.
Read our full review: Shirakawa-Go Half Day Tour (Unesco World Heritage Near Takayama) Review
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Shirakawago(Unesco World Heritage)/ Onsen / Hiking / 1day Tour
Why settle for a basic sightseeing trip when you can experience the full splendor of Shirakawa-go through this comprehensive day tour?
Starting at $183.30, this UNESCO World Heritage adventure combines culture with natural wonders. Travelers will explore the iconic Gassho-style houses, relax in Hirayunomori hot springs, and trek to Hirayu Falls.
The tour includes a private guide, air-conditioned transport, and all entry fees. It’s ideal for groups up to 10 people and starts at 8:30 AM from Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal.
While meals aren’t included, the guide can recommend authentic local dining spots.
Read our full review: Shirakawago(Unesco World Heritage)/ Onsen / Hiking / 1day Tour Review
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Private-group Morning Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa
After exploring Shirakawa-go on foot, cyclists can discover another captivating area of Gifu Prefecture on two wheels.
This private morning tour in Hida-Furukawa lets visitors cycle through scenic countryside paths that vehicles can’t access.
For $203.67 per person, groups of up to 8 people can experience traditional wooden houses, rice paddies, and mountain views while learning about local history from their guide.
The tour includes bikes, helmets, insurance, and snacks. It’s suitable for anyone over 6 years old and at least 125cm tall.
With a 4.9-star rating and free cancellation, it’s a worthwhile investment in authentic rural Japan.
Read our full review: Private-group Morning Cycling Tour in Hida-Furukawa Review
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Short Morning Cycling Tour in Hida
For travelers seeking an intimate glimpse of rural Japan, this short morning cycling tour in Hida delivers exceptional value at $152.75 per person.
With a perfect 100% recommendation rate and 4.9-star rating, this small-group experience limits participants to eight people.
The tour includes bikes, helmets, insurance, and refreshments while a local guide shares insights into Hida’s history and culture.
Participants must be at least 6 years old and 125cm tall. The journey starts and ends at Furukawachō Ninomachi, offering easy public transport access.
While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with medical conditions, it’s free to cancel within 24 hours.
Read our full review: Short Morning Cycling Tour in Hida Review
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5h Bike Tour in Hida
The 3.5-hour bike tour in Hida offers a flexible and budget-friendly alternative at $105.80 per person.
The tour starts from SATOYAMA EXPERIENCE in Hida-Furukawa, providing bikes, helmets, and rain gear if needed.
Participants can choose between morning group tours (8:15-11:45) or private afternoon sessions (15:00-18:15). During summer’s peak season from July 16 to August 20, departure times adjust to avoid extreme heat.
The package includes a relaxing tea break and complimentary water refills.
While most travelers can join, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with serious medical conditions.
Full Day Private Tour Magome to Tsumago
While exploring the historic Nakasendo trail, visitors can experience an immersive journey from Magome to Tsumago with this private guided tour priced from $210.45 per person.
The full-day excursion starts at Nakatsugawa Station at 9:00 AM and ends at Nagiso Station, including a local English guide, lunch, and entry to the Nagiso Museum.
H.I.S.Co., Ltd. provides confirmation within 48 hours of booking. The tour includes bottled water, bus fare, and a Sado Experience.
Travelers should have moderate fitness as it’s not suitable for those with back problems or wheelchair users. The private tour ensures an exclusive experience for each group.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Tour Magome to Tsumago Review
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Private Guided Tour of Shirakawa-go
Moving from Nakasendo’s historic trail, visitors seeking another authentic Japanese experience can explore Shirakawa-go’s UNESCO World Heritage site through this comprehensive private tour.
Starting at $159.54 per person, the package includes English guidance, admission to a traditional gassho-zukuri house, and convenient bus transportation from either Takayama or Kanazawa.
The tour features lunch and meets at Shirakawago Bus Terminal, where guides display the DeepExperience logo.
While it requires moderate fitness and isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, travelers can book with confidence thanks to free 24-hour cancellation and a pay-later option.
Read our full review: Private Guided Tour of Shirakawa-go Review
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Private Snowshoeing Tour in Hida
For adventurous winter enthusiasts, this private snowshoeing tour in Hida offers an immersive trek through Japan’s pristine snow country at $182.78 per person.
The tour includes all essential gear – snowshoes, poles, and optional boots and outerwear. Participants meet at Nukumori no Yu Spaful, where free parking is available.
A professional guide leads the excursion, which includes a relaxing tea break.
While most travelers can join, it’s not suitable for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women. Guests should note the limited boot sizes (24-29 cm) and Japanese-sized outerwear (up to XL).
Bringing personal boots and jackets is recommended for the best experience.
Read our full review: Private Snowshoeing Tour in Hida Review
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Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Full Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
Travelers seeking a more relaxed cultural experience than winter sports can explore the historic castle town of Gujo Hachiman through this comprehensive private tour.
With rates starting at $142.57 per person, visitors can customize their itinerary by selecting 3-4 attractions from the recommended sites list. A licensed English-speaking guide leads groups of up to 7 people on foot, utilizing public transit or taxis between locations.
The tour’s wheelchair and stroller accessibility make it suitable for diverse travelers. While transportation costs aren’t included and require Japanese Yen, the tour offers flexibility in meeting points and pickup locations.
Read our full review: Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Full Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Cycling Tour at Tajimi Journey Through the History of Mino Ware
While exploring Gifu’s rich ceramic heritage, visitors can embark on an intimate cycling tour through Tajimi that delves into the history of Mino ware.
Starting at JR Tajimi Station, this four-person maximum tour provides electric bikes and an English-speaking guide for a manageable journey through the region’s pottery sites.
At $305.50 per person, the tour includes lunch and runs for a full morning beginning at 9:00 AM.
It’s ideal for physically fit adults who can handle cycling. Travelers should book 48 hours ahead and can cancel free up to 24 hours before.
The tour isn’t suitable for children or those with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Cycling Tour at Tajimi Journey Through the History of Mino Ware Review
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Beppu Private Customizable Full Day Tour
Looking to explore Gifu Prefecture with maximum flexibility? The Beppu Private Customizable Full Day Tour offers an 8-hour personalized experience starting at $238.97 per person.
Travelers receive an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup, and city transportation while visiting 4-5 attractions of their choice.
After booking, guests complete a custom tour form to shape their itinerary. Tours begin at 8:00 AM, with pickup from hotels or designated locations.
The service is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Book at least one month ahead, though three months is recommended.
Early cancellations minimize fees, but a 15% service charge applies once itineraries are created.
Read our full review: Beppu Private Customizable Full Day Tour Review
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2 Days Samurai Experience Tour in Sword Town Seki
Ever dreamed of wielding a sword like a true samurai? This 2-day private tour in Sword Town Seki offers an authentic immersion into traditional Japanese warrior culture.
For $678.89 per person, participants learn Iaido from professional instructors while staying at a traditional Dojo house.
The package includes overnight accommodation, meals, private transport, samurai gear rental, and a kitchen knife set.
Tours start at 10 AM from JR Gifu Station or JR Mino-Ota Station. While most travelers can join, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.
Book with confidence – there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: 2 Days Samurai Experience Tour in Sword Town Seki Review
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Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
Three must-see attractions await travelers on this customizable half-day private tour of Gujo Hachiman with a licensed English-speaking guide.
Visitors can select 2-3 sites from the available options, with the guide’s entry fees covered for listed attractions. Starting at $149.36 per person, the tour accommodates up to 7 passengers and offers flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
While transportation and entrance fees aren’t included, guests can use public transit or local taxis between sites. A private vehicle’s available with 5-day advance notice.
The walking tour’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Gujo Hachiman All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Explore Takayama and Shirakawa Tesla Tour With Accommodation
For travelers seeking a luxurious yet eco-friendly way to explore Gifu Prefecture, this Tesla tour combines modern comfort with traditional Japanese culture.
The private journey includes a night’s stay at Guesthouse Gifu Hashima Cocone and transportation in an air-conditioned Tesla Model 3.
At $543.11 per person, guests get an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, meals (except dinner), and refreshments.
The tour runs daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, with pickup and drop-off at the guesthouse.
It’s ideal for families, offering infant seats and stroller access.
Travelers can book with confidence thanks to the 24-hour free cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Explore Takayama and Shirakawa Tesla Tour With Accommodation Review
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Sum Up
Gifu Prefecture’s top tours showcase Japan’s cultural and natural treasures at reasonable prices. From UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go‘s traditional houses to cycling adventures in Hida-Furukawa, there’s something for every budget. Whether it’s a quick half-day excursion or a two-day samurai experience in Seki, visitors can maximize their time and money while exploring this historic region’s best attractions through guided tours.