1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida Folk Village, Caves & Ropeway

Takayama , Japan

1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida Folk Village, Caves & Ropeway

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(23 reviews)

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About this experience

Embark on an enchanting exploration of the Hida region’s cultural and natural splendors. Starting from Takayama, this full-day journey immerses you in breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage. Visit Hida no Sato, an open-air museum showcasing traditional architecture, explore the captivating depths of the Hida Great Limestone Cave, and ascend the Shinhotaka Ropeway for panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps. This tour blends culture, adventure, and nature, providing an unforgettable experience in Japan’s great outdoors.

This tour is sure to delight nature enthusiasts and those seeking an immersive experience in Japan’s stunning outdoor. The combination of exploring a captivating cave, and experiencing the Northern Japan Alps from above creates a truly well-rounded and memorable day.

Available options

1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida Folk Village, Caves & Ropeway

What's included

Admission to Hida Folk Village

All transport required for the tour, including travel to and from each of the attractions.

Round-trip tickets for the Shinhotaka Ropeway.

English speaking guide.

Admission to the Hida Great Limestone Cave

Detailed itinerary

Begin your exploration through Japan’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to Hida no Sato. This remarkable open-air museum, set just outside the bustling center of Takayama, showcases a collection of over 30 traditional buildings that have been relocated from various parts of the Hida region. Each building, from Begin your day with a visit to Hida no Sato, an open-air museum near Takayama showcasing over 30 traditional buildings from the Hida region. These structures, including thatched-roof farmhouses and ancient shrines, offer insights into Japan’s architectural and cultural heritage. Each building is a National Important Folk Cultural Asset, relocated from different parts of the region. As you explore, discover how locals adapted to the harsh climate with snow-resistant designs. Inside, traditional hearths, tools, and artifacts depict rural life in the Hida area.

Stop 2

Venture into the depths of the Hida Great Limestone Cave, a geological marvel, and be captivated by the stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and the unique subterranean atmosphere.

Elevate your experience with a ride on the Shinhotaka Ropeway, ascending through the breathtaking scenery of the Northern Japan Alps to reach the observation deck for unparalleled panoramic views.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tour Availability Disclaimer All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.

Meeting point

The meetup point is outside of the ticket gates at JR Takayama Station. Once you have left the gates, look to your left to see a walkway and a carving depicting an ornate wagon. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag.

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