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Activities in Takayama

Takayama & Shirakawago Private Tour

On this private tour of Takayama and Shirakawago, you'll learn about daily life in the two authentic cultural treasures of Japan with an English-speaking guide. Are you ready to discover the traditional essence of the Japanese Alps?

On this private tour of Takayama and Shirakawago, you'll learn about daily life in the two authentic cultural treasures of Japan with an English-speaking guide. Are you ready to discover the traditional essence of the Japanese Alps?

Tour Details

At the indicated time, we'll meet at the JR Takayama Station to begin this exciting tour. We'll begin our route through the markets of Jinya-mae and Miyagawa, two of the oldest and biggest markets in Japan. Across more than 60 stalls, you'll find vegetables, fruit, deserts, handicrafts and unique souvenirs. You'll be fascinated by the variety and freshness of its products!

Afterwards, we'll head to the historic centre of Takayama, walking along the famous Sannomachi Street. This area is known for its traditional sake breweries, charming cafés and craft shops. Its houses, with architecture dating back to Japan's feudal era, will transport you back in time, making you feel the history in every corner.

After exploring Takayama for 1.5 hours and enjoying its delicious food, we'll return to the station to take a public bus to the village of Shirakawago. During the almost hour-long journey, we'll admire impressive views of the Japanese Alps. Don't forget to bring your camera!

Upon arrival in Shirakawago, we'll take a tour of this World Heritage village. From the viewpoint of Ogimachi Castle, we'll get a spectacular view of the Gassho Zukuri style houses, built to withstand the heavy snowfall of the region. We'll even get to visit one of them!

Afterwards, we'll continue strolling around Shirakawago and, if you're hungry, you'll have the option to try some of the local delicacies at the street stalls, such as the famous gohei mochi or hida beef. If you prefer a more traditional meal, we'll take you to a restaurant where you can try hida beef hoba yaki style, accompanied by homemade soba noodles—a real treat for the palate!

Finally, after 2.5 hours in Shirakawago, we'll say our goodbyes at the bus station. There, we'll accompany you to get the public bus that we will have already booked for you to return to Takayama on your own. You'll arrive at the same meeting point 6 hours after the start of the tour.

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More Information

Duration

6 hours.

Language The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

English–speaking guide

Private and exclusive tour, there won't be anyone else in your group

Not included

Public transport tickets: ¥ 5,200 (US$ 35.32) per person

Admission fees: ¥ 400 (US$ 2.71) per person

Food and drinks

When to book?

You can book up until 15 days before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Joisjo Corporate name: Jorge Sarur Casillas Registered Office: Kitayasue 4-Chome 7-ban, Kanazawa, Japan Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): T1810833025799 Contact information Email: jorge.sarurcasillas@mail.mcgill.ca Phone: +8108089922966

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

Where does the activity end?

JR Takayama Station

Shirakawago Bus Station

View map
Where does the activity end?

Shirakawago Bus Station

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