Things to do in Takayama

Our Takayama and Shirakawago tour was truly one of the highlights of our trip. Everything was well-organized and perfectly paced, giving us enough time to explore. Hao, our tour guide, was wonderful, warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely attentive. She made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable throughout the journey. We especially appreciated her thoughtful recommendations on what to eat and what to see in both Takayama and Shirakawago. Because of her guidance, we were able to experience the best of both destinations. Special thanks as well to Ishida, who drove us all the way with such care and professionalism. You could truly feel that our safety was his priority. On our way back to the bus, he even made iced duck for us before we get on the bus, such a sweet and thoughtful gesture that made the day even more memorable. We would happily do it again, maybe in another season to see Takayama and Shirakawago in a different light.

Mr.GU is a part time student but did his job very well. His English is remarkable and is open to recommend you anything good in Nagoya. The trip, however, was very rainy during the morning so our first stop at Takayama Old Town was very damp, but a rainy vintage town has its own charms, just not a lot of time to explore definitely but the ambience was good. Still, wished it didn't rain, it was a hassle. Here's a tip, before booking any tours better do it a week before after checking the weather, its better than booking early saving a few hundreds and not enjoy it completely, there's also a chance that promos are available again with even lower prices. On the way to Shirakawa-Go Village the rain completely stopped and it was just cloudy (perfect). The Village was really nice, definitely a world heritage. The lunch food included (we availed) was really good too that even my picky mother loved it. Over-all the experience was nice, weather check is a must.

I highly recommend this tour. Although the drive was a bit long, seeing the snow-covered Shirakawa-go village makes you temporarily forget the fatigue of the journey. Takayama Old Town has a lot of delicious food and many souvenirs to choose from. The itinerary is well-arranged, with an appropriate amount of time spent at each attraction. The tour guide (Jia Jia) is friendly and reminds you of and supplements travel information along the way. She recommends delicious restaurants or snacks, takes the group members to a fixed location, and reminds them of the boarding time before letting everyone explore freely. This is different from the usual guided tour, where you don't need to travel together as a group and the tour guide explains everything while leading the way. This way is more relaxed, free, and stress-free. The group members this time were also great. Everyone was very punctual when getting on and off the bus, and the itinerary was not delayed at all. It was a perfect day.

Guides were very knowledgeable about the area and even the driver can speak English. It was snowing during our visit. The time given to explore the area was just nice, not too long or too short. The agent was also very helpful to accommodate to our dietary requirements. Recommended.

the view was beautiful and the kids had fun playing with snow at the top. should cater for half a day at least. there is also a foot onsen at the first stop so do soak your feet after playing in the snow.

Really worth it trip. It’s the highlight of my 2026 Japan trip. Shirakawago in winter is magical like straight from a story book or snow globe. Meet up point is easy to get to as it’s just in front of Nagoya Station. I was even from Kyoto and found the meeting place easily despite the ongoing construction of the landmark. One suggestion though is to shorten the time in Takayama and add it to Shirakawago as 1.5hrs isn’t enough to explore the area. The guide is also very kind. Kudos to Anny-san, she is very professional and considerate. Over-all really recommend tour!

Such a beautiful and stunning tour during winter! Got lots of photos and tried amazing food. Had an amazing guide, Aileen, was very clear and informative with the itinerary and history. Would definitely recommend and go again! (snow was very soft XD)

the tour is very smooth and easy because i choose the package with hotel pick up and drop off. and we are only 5pax in the private van so nice.

This is perfect for children experiencing snow for the first time. The snow play area is not far from the restaurant, and the restaurant's food is above average. The kids didn't want to leave! It's also close to Nagoya city, and the best part is the hot spring experience, which is truly excellent value. You don't need to bring anything; just rent a towel on-site. The bathhouse amenities are very complete and clean, and soaking in the outdoor hot spring while enjoying the snow is incredibly comfortable.