Takayama , Japan

Shirakawa-go Light-up from Takayama

Active

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Don’t miss the chance to witness Shirakawa-go like never before—glowing with enchanting lights during the rare and magical illumination season! This exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime event is only available 4 times in 2026, making this an unmissable opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most beautiful World Heritage Sites in a whole new light.

On this special half-day trip from Takayama, you’ll enjoy a comfortable bus ride to and from the village, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey. As night falls, the historic gassho-zukuri farmhouses are transformed into a breathtaking spectacle, set against a snowy, starry backdrop. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.

Available options

Without Dinner

This option does not include dinner.

With Dinner Bento

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Round-trip bus transportation to and from Takayama station

Dinner bento (a convenient packed meal)

Detailed itinerary

Board a comfortable coach and begin a scenic journey toward Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gifu Prefecture, famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. During the limited-time Light-Up event, these historic homes glow warmly against the winter night, creating a contrast with the surrounding snow. Lanterns and illumination transform the entire village into a magical scene.
Stroll through the village and admire the craftsmanship of these centuries-old houses. If the weather cooperates, you’ll see the rooftops blanketed in snow, adding to the enchantment. Please note: snow scenery depends on seasonal conditions, but the light-up itself guarantees a stunning experience.
To make your evening comfortable, the tour includes a delicious bento dinner, thoughtfully prepared since dining options in the village are limited.
After this unforgettable experience, you’ll return by bus to Takayama Station, arriving around 21:00.

What's not included

Food and drinks (unless specified)

Hotel pick up and drop off

National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter

Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, shopping)

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Delays, shortenings of the tour, or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to a refund.

If the tour operator has to cancel the tour because of a typhoon, heavy snow or other circumstances beyond their control, this will be decided by 3pm the day before the tour departure; you will be informed by e-mail and suggested a new departure date or receive a full refund.

Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no tour inclusions.

Since the paths may be dark, we suggest bringing a flashlight for safety.

This tour does not include a visit to the Shirakawa-go Observation Deck. After 17:00, you will have time to stroll through the village, enjoying the illuminated gassho-zukuri houses.

The illumination takes place during the coldest hours of the night, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C. The roads may be icy, so we recommend wearing warm, waterproof clothing, insulated boots, and spikes for extra grip.

Due to weather conditions, there may be times when the snow-covered landscape is not visible or the Shirakawa-go illumination event could be canceled.

The scheduled dates for the Shirakawa-go Light Up event are subject to change, and the event may be canceled depending on weather conditions. Snow scenery may also be unavailable due to weather.

Due to limited access to the observation deck, visiting this location is extremely difficult and typically not included in the tour.

A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.

Please note that we are unable to accommodate special dietary requests, including food allergies. If you have specific dietary needs, we recommend making your own meal arrangements. No refunds will be provided for meals.

Meeting point

In front of JR Takayama Station (West Exit)

Important notes

・Emergency Contact: +81-50-3649-8469 (answered in Japanese only). For assistance in English, please use the 3-way calling app 'Oyraa' with a professional interpreter. Instructions on how to use 'Oyraa' will be sent to your email address in a PDF. If you cannot find the email, please contact us at welcome@club-tourism.co.jp
-Delays, shortenings of the tour, or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to a refund.
-If the tour operator has to cancel the tour because of a heavy snow or other circumstances beyond their control, this will be decided by 3pm the day before the tour departure; you will be informed by e-mail and suggested a new departure date or receive a full refund
-Since the paths may be dark, we suggest bringing a flashlight for safety
-This tour does not include a visit to the Shirakawa-go Observation Deck. After 17:00, you will have time to stroll through the village, enjoying the illuminated gassho-zukuri houses
-The illumination takes place during the coldest hours of the night, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C. The roads may be icy, so we recommend wearing warm, waterproof clothing, insulated boots, and spikes for extra grip
-Due to weather conditions, there may be times when the snow-covered landscape is not visible or the light up event could be canceled
-The scheduled dates for the event are subject to change, and the event may be canceled depending on weather conditions. Snow scenery may also be unavailable due to weather
-A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. The tour conductor is not a guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour
-We are unable to accommodate special dietary requests, including food allergies. If you have specific dietary needs, we recommend making your own meal arrangements. No refunds will be provided for meals

About Takayama

Takayama is a charming mountain town in the Japanese Alps known for its well-preserved Edo-era streets, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into Japan's past with its historic districts, vibrant festivals, and delicious local cuisine, particularly its famous Hida beef and sake.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Sannomachi Street)

This well-preserved Edo-era district features beautifully maintained merchant houses, wooden facades, and traditional shops. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Takayama's cultural heritage.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free to explore (individual shops may charge)

Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)

An open-air museum featuring 30 traditional thatched-roof houses from the Hida region, showcasing the rural life and architecture of the Edo period.

Cultural/Historical 1-2 hours 600 JPY

Takayama Morning Market

A lively market offering local produce, crafts, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample regional delicacies.

Cultural/Market 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to enter (costs vary for food and items)

Takayama Jinya

A historic government office from the Edo period, now a museum showcasing the region's history and the samurai era. It features exhibits on local governance, trade, and daily life.

Historical/Museum 1 hour 320 JPY

Shirakawa-go

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, known as gassho-zukuri. This remote mountain village offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life.

Cultural/Historical Half-day to full day Free to enter the village (individual houses may charge for entry)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hida Beef

A premium type of wagyu beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It's often served as sukiyaki or grilled.

Main Course Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Gohei Mochi

Grilled rice cakes skewered on bamboo sticks, often served with sweet soy glaze or miso paste.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (check for miso or soy sauce if vegan)

Mitarashi Dango

Sweet rice dumplings skewered and grilled, brushed with a sweet soy-based glaze.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (check for soy sauce if vegan)

Hoba Miso

Grilled miso paste on magnolia leaves, often topped with vegetables and Hida beef.

Main Course Contains miso (fermented soybean paste), may contain beef

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Japanese Alps Mountain biking River rafting in the summer Onsen bathing Traditional tea ceremonies Strolling through the old town Visiting temples and shrines Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It's the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60Hz (varies by region)Hz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Takayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. The town is well-maintained, and the locals are friendly and helpful.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas late at night

Getting there

By air

Chubu Centrair International Airport • 100 km
Nagoya Airfield (Komaki Airport) • 150 km

By train

Takayama Station

By bus

Takayama Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are punctual and cover most tourist areas. A day pass is available for unlimited rides.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Sannomachi Street) Kamisannomachi Higashiyama

Day trips

Shirakawa-go

60 km • Half-day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, known as gassho-zukuri. This remote mountain village offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life.

Kamikochi

50 km • Full day

A scenic alpine area in the Japanese Alps, offering stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities.

Gero Onsen

30 km • Half-day

A famous hot spring town known for its beautiful natural surroundings and historic inns. It's one of Japan's three most famous hot spring resorts.

Festivals

Takayama Festival (Takayama Matsuri) • April 14-15 (Spring Festival) and October 9-10 (Autumn Festival) Winter Light-Up Festival • December to February Hida Folk Village Festival • Various dates throughout the year (check schedule)

Pro tips

Visit the Takayama Tourism Association for a free map and guide, as well as information on local events and attractions
Try the famous Takayama ramen, a local noodle dish with a rich, miso-based broth
Experience a traditional ryokan stay, complete with multi-course kaiseki meals and onsen baths
Explore the old town in the evening when the streets are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere
Visit the morning market for a taste of local culture and to sample regional delicacies like gohei mochi and mitarashi dango