1 Day Private Charter Tour to Shirakawa-go & Takayama

Kanazawa , Japan

1 Day Private Charter Tour to Shirakawa-go & Takayama

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About this experience

We focus on comfort, exclusivity, and cultural depth. Designed as a fully private experience, it allows guests to enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to their interests, free from the constraints of group schedules. Travelers are provided with a dedicated vehicle and professional driver, ensuring a smooth, safe, and relaxing journey through the scenic mountain landscapes. The tour highlights the UNESCO-listed gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawago and the preserved Edo-period streets of Takayama, offering an immersive encounter with Japan’s heritage. By combining personalized service with authentic cultural exploration, this tour delivers a refined and memorable experience.

Available options

Luxurious Conveyance( 3person)

Land Cruiser Prado<br/>Pickup included

Up to 9 Persons

Toyata Hiace Commuter 10seater<br/>Pickup included

Up to 5 persons

Pickup included

Up to 13 persons

Toyota Hiace commuter 14seater<br/>Pickup included

Up to 3 persons

Sedan<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Customisable Tour( Guests can add 1-2 sites of their choice that are not included itinerary of Tour)

Private transportation

Bottled water

English speaking driver

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

The world heritage site, Shirakawago, is a free walk. Take a stroll at your own pace and enjoy the countryside at your leisure. with a delicious lunch full of mountain food.

Enjoy the unique view of Shirakawago village from the best angle and height.

Visit Wada House to see inside the Gassho Zukuri House and be impressed by the architectural details of the unique house.

Admission fee:-
General individual Adults (junior high school students and above): 400 yen; children (elementary school students): 200 yen.
General group (20 people or more) Adult: 350 yen
Disabled individual Adult: 200 yen (disability certificate required, person only)

Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato) is an open-air museum exhibiting over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region, the mountainous district of Gifu Prefecture around Takayama. The houses were built during the Edo Period (1603–1867) and were relocated from their original locations to create the museum in 1971. In a village-like atmosphere, the museum features buildings such as the former village head's house, logging huts, storehouses, and a number of gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These massive farmhouses are named after their steep thatched roofs, which resemble a pair of hands joined in prayer ("gassho"). They were moved here from nearby Shirakawago, where gassho-zukuri houses are the reason for the region's World Heritage status.

Because of its valuable timber resources, the Hida Region around Takayama was put under direct control of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1692. The Takayama Jinya served as the local government office, headed by officials dispatched from Edo (present-day Tokyo). The building complex was in official use until 1969 and is now open to the public as a museum. It includes various nicely maintained tatami mat rooms that once served as offices, conference rooms, guest rooms, and residential spaces. There is also an interesting interrogation room. Beside the main building stands a large storehouse, built in the 1600s. Known as the biggest traditional rice storehouse in Japan, it now functions as a museum, showcasing the belongings and official documents of past feudal lords, old maps of the Hida Region, and historic town plans.

Kamisannomachi, area is popular for its charming ambiance, with narrow streets lined with willow trees and iconic structures like latticed windows and wooden facades. Many of the shops sell local crafts, sweets, and other regional specialties, including Hida beef and sake.

Takayama Betsuin Shorenji Temple, around a five-minute stroll from JR Takayama Station, is a notable Buddhist temple in Takayama. Its notorious, three-celebrated pagoda was developed in 1820. A Buddhist statue remembered to have been made in the Heian time frame is revered in the fundamental structure. Make certain to pay heed to the tremendous gingko tree on the grounds. It is more than 1,260 years old.

What's not included

Lunch

Snacks

Wada House

Takayama Jinya

Hida no Stao

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

27 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

209 reviews

5★

187

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Kanazawa

Kanazawa, a beautifully preserved city on Japan's western coast, is renowned for its well-maintained Edo-era districts, traditional arts, and fresh seafood. Often overlooked in favor of more famous cities, Kanazawa offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that sets it apart from other Japanese destinations.

Top Attractions

Kenrokuen Garden

Kenrokuen is one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens. It features a variety of trees, ponds, and walking paths, and is especially stunning during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

Nature 1-2 hours 320 JPY

Kanazawa Castle

Kanazawa Castle is a historic castle that played a significant role in the city's history. The castle grounds are open to the public and feature several restored buildings, including the Ishikawa Gate and the Gyokusin-en Garden.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (some areas may have a small fee)

Higashi Chaya District

Higashi Chaya is a historic geisha district that has been preserved to maintain its traditional atmosphere. The district features wooden teahouses, narrow alleys, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, costs vary for shops and restaurants

Omicho Market

Omicho Market is a bustling seafood market that offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, produce, and local specialties. The market is a great place to sample Kanazawa's famous seafood dishes and pick up souvenirs.

Food 1 hour Free to explore, costs vary for food and souvenirs

Nagamachi Samurai District

Nagamachi was the former samurai district of Kanazawa, and many of the original samurai residences have been preserved. The district features narrow streets, traditional houses, and several museums.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, costs vary for museums and exhibits

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaisendon (Seafood Bowl)

A bowl of rice topped with fresh, local seafood such as crab, shrimp, and scallops. Kanazawa is famous for its kaisendon, which features a variety of seafood sourced from the nearby Sea of Japan.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Jibuni (Duck Stew)

A traditional Kanazawa dish made with duck, tofu, and vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Jibuni is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cold weather.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Gold Leaf Ice Cream

A unique and luxurious dessert made with local gold leaf, which adds a delicate crunch and a touch of elegance. The gold leaf is edible and safe to consume.

Dessert Contains dairy, may contain allergens

Kanazawa Sake

Kanazawa is known for its high-quality sake, which is brewed using local ingredients and traditional methods. The city has several sake breweries that offer tours and tastings.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Hakusan Onsen hopping in Kaga Onsen Exploring Shirakawa-go's traditional villages Staying in a traditional ryokan Exploring Kanazawa's gardens and parks Visiting Kanazawa's historic districts Attending a traditional tea ceremony Exploring Kanazawa's museums and art galleries

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn offers vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kanazawa is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft is uncommon. The city is generally safe for solo travelers, women, and LGBTQ+ travelers, but it's important to exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using taxis, and insist on using the meter
• Avoid unsolicited offers for tours or services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Komatsu Airport • 30 km from Kanazawa

By train

Kanazawa Station

By bus

Kanazawa Station Bus Terminal, Hokuriku Expressway Bus Stops

Getting around

Public transport

The Kanazawa Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. It operates on several routes and offers unlimited rides with a day pass.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kata-machi Higashi Chaya District Nagamachi District Korinbo

Day trips

Shirakawa-go

60 km from Kanazawa • Full day

Shirakawa-go is a remote mountain village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The village is especially stunning during the winter when the heavy snow creates a picturesque landscape.

Kaga Onsen

30 km from Kanazawa • Half day to full day

Kaga Onsen is a group of hot spring towns in Ishikawa Prefecture, known for their therapeutic waters and traditional ryokan (inns). The area offers a variety of hot spring experiences, from public baths to private onsen in ryokan.

Mount Hakusan

50 km from Kanazawa • Full day to overnight

Mount Hakusan is one of Japan's three holy mountains and is known for its stunning natural beauty and hiking trails. The mountain offers a variety of hiking routes, from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks.

Festivals

Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival • June Kanazawa Gold Leaf Festival • October Kanazawa Samurai Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit Kenrokuen Garden early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning seasonal views
Try gold leaf ice cream, a unique and delicious Kanazawa specialty
Explore the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of the Nagamachi Samurai District for a glimpse into Kanazawa's samurai history
Attend a traditional tea ceremony or geisha performance for a memorable cultural experience
Shop for gold leaf products and traditional crafts in the Higashi Chaya District for unique souvenirs