Embarking on this one-day tour starting from Takayama (or any location within 5km of the Takayama train station) features a guided tour of the Takayama Jinya, and an immersive walk through the historic village of Shirakawa-go. Our private tour vehicles ensure seamless transport throughout your journey. Depending on your plans, this tour can conclude at your accommodation in Takayama or at a chosen location in Kanazawa.
For our guests starting in Takayama, at 9:00 A.M., our comfortable tour bus will conveniently pick you up from your chosen location within the Takayama area. Your journey then begins with a visit to the historic Takayama Jinya, setting the stage for a day filled with exploration.
Upon arriving at Takayama Jinya, you will embark on a 1-hour guided journey through its historic halls. Your guide will unveil the rich history of this building and the pivotal role it played in Takayama’s past. You’ll explore rooms once reserved for official business, as well as private quarters used by high-ranking officials. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to view the Jinya’s exquisite Japanese garden.
After exploring Takayama Jinya, the journey continues to Takayama’s historic old town, known as the charming ‘Sanmachi.’ Throughout the approximately 30-minute guided stroll, your guide will lead you through this picturesque area, ensuring you capture all the scenic views that epitomise the beauty of traditional Japan. This part of the tour concludes gracefully at the entrance of the Miyagawa Morning Market.
After your guided tour, you’ll be given ample leisure time of more than 1 hour and 30 minutes. This period is not only your opportunity to explore the Miyagawa Morning Market and the quaint alleys of Sanmachi further but also a designated time for you to enjoy lunch.
After your free time concludes, meet up with your guide at the market’s entrance for the journey to Shirakawa-go. The drive, lasting about an hour, is itself a scenic preview, with clear days offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Upon arrival in Shirakawa-go, you’ll embark on the captivating second half of your tour. Begin with a visit to the renowned lookout point, offering a panoramic view of the entire Shirakawa-go village. From there, your guide will lead you on a gentle descent through the village’s picturesque rice paddies and charming streets.
Once the guided portion concludes, you’ll enjoy approximately 1 hour of free time to explore Shirakawa-go at your leisure, allowing you to take a closer look at any places that captivated your interest.
Finally, you will meet up with your guide at 17:00 to wrap up the tour and commence the return journey to Takayama, expected to take about an hour. You’ll arrive back in Takayama by approximately 17:30, enriched by the day’s adventures. For those opting to conclude their journey in Kanazawa, anticipate your arrival around 18:40.
