Private Shirakawago & Takayama Tour with Pickup and Drop-off

A Shirakawago and Takayama Private day tour from Nagoya is a perfect way to experience the traditional charm and scenic beauty of Japan's Gifu Prefecture in just one day. Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect:

Morning: Departure from Nagoya
Departure: The tour typically begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel. A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will take you on a scenic journey, traveling through picturesque landscapes and the mountainous terrain of the Gifu region. The trip takes around up to 3 hours.

First Stop: Shirakawago Village
The UNESCO-listed Shirakawago Village is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri houses, which have steep, thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. These historic houses, many of which are over 250 years old, provide a glimpse into rural Japan’s past.
Explore the Village: Wander through the village, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning scenery. You can visit the Wada House, one of the largest gassho-zukuri homes open to the public, to learn about the village's history and lifestyle.
Shirakawago Observation Point: Don’t miss the panoramic views from the Shiroyama Viewpoint, which offers stunning vistas of the entire village, especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season or winter when the houses are covered in snow.
Lunch: Local Cuisine
After exploring the village, enjoy a break for lunch. Shirakawago offers a range of local specialties, such as Hida beef (a premium Japanese beef from the region), gohei-mochi (grilled rice cakes), and other traditional dishes. Several restaurants in the village offer these regional delicacies.
Afternoon: Takayama
After lunch, continue the journey to Takayama, a charming city known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets and historical landmarks. The drive from Shirakawago to Takayama takes around 50 minutes.
Explore the Takayama Old Town: Once in Takayama, you’ll be able to walk through the historic Sanmachi Suji district, a charming area lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and sake breweries. This area retains the old-world charm of the Edo period, with its narrow lanes and picturesque architecture.
Takayama Jinya: A visit to Takayama Jinya, an important historical government building from the Edo period, offers insight into Japan’s feudal past. It’s one of the few remaining buildings of its kind in Japan.
Takayama Morning Markets: Depending on your tour schedule, you may have time to visit the morning markets, which are held along the Miya River. These markets feature local produce, handmade crafts, and traditional products like pickles and preserved foods.
Late Afternoon: Return to Nagoya
Departure from Takayama: After a full day of sightseeing, the tour departs Takayama in the late afternoon. You’ll relax in the car as it returns to Nagoya, arriving by evening, with plenty of memories from your visit to two of Japan’s most picturesque and culturally rich destinations.