Shirakawa-go Gassho Village & Hida Takayama & Magome-juku & Inuyama Castle Two-Day Tour (Accommodation not included)

This tour departs from Nagoya and takes you deep into Hida Takayama and the World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go Gassho Village, allowing you to experience the unique charm of the Hokuriku region of Japan. The next day, you'll head straight to Magome-juku, a place steeped in history and culture with well-preserved traditional scenery, as well as the Ena Gorge Observatory and Inuyama Castle, which are very distinctive attractions in the Chubu region of Japan.

Shirakawa-go Gassho Village: Explore Japan’s unique thatched-roof houses Shirakawa-go is located in a quiet valley surrounded by mountains, and is known worldwide for its 113 traditional gassho-style buildings. Climb to the observatory and overlook the gabled thatched roofs that resemble a fairytale world. The scenery is beautiful in all four seasons.

Hida Takayama: Ancient merchant streets and gourmet experiences Hida Takayama, known as “Little Kyoto,” retains a strong Edo-era atmosphere. Stroll along the ancient streets of Sanomachi, admire the well-preserved traditional merchant streets, and feel the interweaving of history and modernity. You can also freely explore unique craft shops, Japanese cafes, and traditional taverns, and enjoy a relaxing time. You can sample Hida Takayama’s most famous delicacy, Hida beef, at your own expense.

Inuyama Castle: Inuyama Castle is the oldest existing castle tower in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure. Along with Himeji Castle, Matsumoto Castle, and Hikone Castle, it is known as one of Japan’s Four National Treasure Castles. Visitors can climb the castle tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the Kiso River and the castle town from the top observation deck, experiencing the atmosphere of the Warring States period.

Ena Gorge Observatory: Ena Gorge is a columnar joint valley formed by the Kiso River cutting through volcanic lava. Here you’ll find umbrella rocks, a national natural monument, as well as strangely shaped rocks covered with reddish-brown moss. Climb to the “Ena Gorge Bridge Observatory” to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the “Folding Screen Rock” and “Battleship Rock” reflected in the lake. The magnificent natural scenery is breathtaking.

Magome-juku: Magome-juku was a necessary stop for merchants traveling between ancient Kyoto and Tokyo. It is the 43rd post town on the Nakasendo Trail and is named for its resemblance to a “basket on a horse’s back.” Visitors can stroll along the undulating stone-paved road, wander through old street houses, watermills, and unique shops, experience the authentic Edo atmosphere, and sample local snacks.

Tsumago-juku: Tsumago-juku is said to be the place where brides in the mountains waited to be greeted by their grooms in ancient times. It is Japan’s first “Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.” Compared to Magome-juku, it is more simple and quiet. Strolling through it, you can feel the leisurely time of travelers in the past.