Explore the charming old town of Hida Takayama and the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go on this day trip from Nagoya. You’ll savor local cuisine, marvel at the stunning traditional farmhouses, and capture unforgettable memories – all while enjoying hassle-free transportation and expert guidance. This 10-hour tour promises an unforgettable journey through Japan’s enchanting countryside. What more could you ask for in a day trip?
Key Points
- Take a comprehensive day trip from Nagoya to explore the historical towns of Hida Takayama and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go.
- Enjoy guided tours, meals, and transportation for a hassle-free experience, priced at $74.35 per person with a 10-hour duration.
- Gain insights into the traditional architecture and culture of Takayama’s old town and the picturesque Shirakawa-go village.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues due to extensive walking and varying weather conditions.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and appropriate outerwear to make the most of this immersive cultural adventure.
Tour Overview
This tour offers visitors a comprehensive day trip from Nagoya to explore the historic towns of Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go.
Priced from $74.35 per person, the 10-hour tour departs from Nagoya Station at 8:30 AM.
Led by an English, Chinese, or Japanese-speaking guide, the trip includes transportation, guided tours, meals, and entrance fees.
Guests can discover Takayama’s charming old town, marvel at the UNESCO-listed Gassho-zukuri Village in Shirakawa-go, and even visit Hirase Onsen.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip offers an efficient way to experience two of Japan’s cultural gems.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour begins with a 2.5-hour transfer from Nagoya Station to the historic city of Takayama.
Upon arrival, guests embark on a guided tour of Takayama’s old townscape, exploring its well-preserved structures and seeing the local culture for 2.5 hours. Lunch is included.
Next, the group travels for 1 hour to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, known for its traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
After a 1.5-hour guided tour of the village, the journey concludes with a 2.5-hour return transfer back to the starting point in Nagoya.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a driver, bus cost, guided tour of Takayama’s old townscape, visit to the Hida Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village, a service charge of 10%, and transportation to and from the starting point.
Meals and beverages, as well as attraction tickets, are also included. However, the tour excludes personal expenses and any other expenses not listed.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, people with mobility issues or heart problems, and wheelchair users.
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and snacks.
Not Suitable For
Certain individuals may find this tour unsuitable.
Children under 5 years old, pregnant women, and those with mobility impairments or heart problems are advised against joining.
Wheelchair users may also encounter difficulties navigating the uneven terrain.
The tour involves extensive walking, both indoors and outdoors, which could prove challenging for some.
Plus, the high altitude and varying weather conditions may pose risks for those with certain medical conditions.
Participants are encouraged to carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking the tour to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this day trip, as you will be doing ample amounts of walking both indoors and outdoors.
A camera is highly recommended to capture the stunning traditional villages and landscapes.
Pack a water bottle to stay hydrated, and bring along some snacks in case you get hungry between the included meals.
Dress in layers and bring appropriate outerwear, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountainous regions.
Be sure to leave any flash photography, smoking, or littering behind, as these aren’t allowed during the tour.
Not Allowed
As participants embark on this day trip, they should be mindful not to engage in certain activities that are strictly prohibited. Smoking, flash photography, and littering are not allowed at any of the destinations on the tour. Plus, visitors must avoid touching the plants and flowers found throughout the villages. Failure to follow these rules could result in fines or being asked to leave the premises. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, participants are expected to be respectful of the cultural heritage sites and follow the guidance of the tour leader.
| Activity | Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Smoking | ❌ | |
| Flash Photography | ❌ | |
| Littering | ❌ | |
| Touching Plants | ❌ |
Weather Considerations
When planning this day trip, it’s important to check the weather forecast beforehand and pack clothing appropriate for the conditions.
The tour takes place in mountainous regions, so the weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and bring a jacket, as temperatures can be cool, especially in the morning and evening.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking. If rain is expected, bring an umbrella or raincoat.
The forecast may also indicate if there’s a risk of fog, which could limit visibility during the sightseeing portions.
Being prepared for the weather will help ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience.
Customer Reviews
According to 3 customer reviews, the overall rating for this day trip is 3.7 out of 5 stars.
Positive feedback highlights the organized guide, beautiful villages, and informative content. However, some criticism points to language barriers with Chinese and English interpretations, as well as limited sightseeing time.
The customer reviews provide useful insights for prospective travelers:
- Well-organized tour with knowledgeable guide
- Stunning scenery and culture in historic villages
- Language barriers can be a challenge for non-Japanese speakers
- More time allocated for sightseeing would be appreciated
More Of Our Reviews In This Region
Things To Know
Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?
The tour doesn’t offer customization options, but you can contact the tour provider to inquire about any special requests or modifications to the standard itinerary that may be possible.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, the tour operator offers group discounts. The more people in your group, the more you can save per person. Contact the operator for details on group pricing and availability.
What Is the Refund Policy for Cancellations?
According to the tour overview, there is a free cancellation policy that allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option also doesn’t require any upfront payment.
Are There Any Vegetarian/Dietary Options for the Included Lunch?
The tour includes a provided lunch, but it’s unclear if there are vegetarian or other dietary options available. Customers should contact the tour provider in advance to inquire about accommodating any special dietary needs.
Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, you can extend the tour to visit additional sites, but this will incur extra costs. Contact the tour operator to inquire about customizing the itinerary and pricing for an extended tour that meets your specific interests and needs.
Sum Up
This day trip from Nagoya to Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go offers an enchanting escape into Japan’s cultural heartland. Discover the charm of Takayama’s old town, savor local cuisine, and explore the stunning UNESCO-listed gassho-zukuri farmhouses in Shirakawa-go. With hassle-free transportation, expert guidance, and ample photo opportunities, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Japan’s timeless traditions and breathtaking landscapes.