Shirakawago and Takayama Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Kanazawa
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit Shirakawago in the Japanese Alps to see the historical and beautiful old thatched houses of Japan stand strong. These houses are over 150 years old and still are lived in today. After seeing the natural beauty of Shirakawago, head to Takayama to see the various traditional crafts the area keeps alive. Join one of our tour guides and learn about history and culture in a way that you would have never been able to on your own!
This private and customizable tour will take you to Shirakawago and Takayama at your own pace. Once you place your reservation, a guide will be in touch with you to plan out the details of your tour. Be sure to let your guide know where you would like to visit and your interests so they can plan out an itinerary for you! If you will not have time to visit all the sights on your must-see list, contact us directly regarding extension fees.
Learn about this world heritage site with us! We hope to guide you soon!
Available options
Regular(Up to 2 PAX)
Regular(Up to 2 PAX)<br/>Pickup included
Van(Up to 7 PAX)
Van(Up to 7 PAX)<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private vehicle
Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your adventure here! Meet your Guide and driver and off to beautiful Shirakawago!
2
Learn about old Japanese farm houses and how they were made. The Wada house is still lived in today!
3
Another beautiful thatched roof house that still stands after it was constructed in 1850.
4
Take in the beautiful view of Shirakawa village from these castle ruins.
5
Stop 5
Sanmachi Street is a popular sightseeing area in Hida-Takayama. As an old town, the area has houses and stores from the Edo period (1603 - 1868). The area is lined with shops carrying local specialties such as Japanese sake, senbei (rice crackers), barbecue yakiniku Hida beef, and croquettes. The area has a lively atmosphere with people shopping and eating.
6
Stop 6
Matsuri no Mori (Festival Forest Museum) offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of Takayama’s famous festivals. The museum features full-sized replica floats (yatai), richly decorated with gold leaf and lacquer, as well as mechanical karakuri dolls that perform traditional dances in a dramatic underground hall.
In addition to the festival exhibits, visitors can explore a nature museum with a global insect collection and meet cute animals like squirrels and rabbits. There is also a peaceful tea house and a small art gallery on-site(10min walk from Matsuri no Mori).
Blending culture, nature, and local charm, Matsuri no Mori is an enjoyable stop for visitors of all ages.
7
Hida Folk Village (飛騨の里, 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.
8
Return to Kanazawa after a wonderful day sightseeing with your private guide. Enjoy the view as you relax on the way back to your hotel.
What's not included
Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Only one reservation per group allowed. You cannot combine multiple reservations into one group.
There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
About Shizuoka
Shizuoka is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, traditional Japanese culture, and world-renowned green tea. It offers a blend of urban attractions, natural beauty, and historic sites, making it a unique destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Mount Fuji
One of Japan's most iconic landmarks, Mount Fuji offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Nature
Full day
Free to view, hiking permits may be required
Shizuoka Sengoku Castle
A historic castle with beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing the region's history.
Historical
2-3 hours
¥300
Miho no Matsubara
A scenic pine tree-lined beach with stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shizuoka Sushi
Fresh sushi made with local seafood, including tuna and yellowtail.
Dinner
Contains fish and seafood.
Houtou
A hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat, a local specialty.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Green Tea Soft Serve
A sweet and refreshing treat made with locally grown green tea.
Dessert
Vegan and gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking Mount Fuji
Surfing at Miho no Matsubara
Kayaking in Shimizu Port
Onsen (hot springs) in Hakone
Tea tasting in Shizuoka
Beach relaxation in Numazu
Visiting Shizuoka Sengoku Castle
Exploring the Shizuoka Tea Museum
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Shizuoka is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and official tour guides.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Shizuoka Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Shizuoka Station
By bus
Shizuoka Chuo Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Shizuoka, covering most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Aoi Ward
Suruga Ward
Shimizu Ward
Day trips
Hakone
50 km from Shizuoka • Full day
A scenic town known for its hot springs, views of Mount Fuji, and cultural sites like the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Numazu
20 km from Shizuoka • Half day
A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and seafood.
Atami
30 km from Shizuoka • Half day
A coastal city known for its hot springs and scenic views.
Festivals
Shizuoka Festival • June
Tea Festival • November
Shimizu Illumination • December to February
Pro tips
- Visit the Shizuoka Tea Museum to learn about the city's famous green tea.
- Take a day trip to Hakone for stunning views of Mount Fuji and relaxing onsen.
- Try local specialties like Shizuoka sushi and houtou noodle soup.
- Explore the historic Shizuoka Sengoku Castle and its beautiful gardens.
- Visit Miho no Matsubara for a scenic beach walk with views of Mount Fuji.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
