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Experiences & Reviews

  • 2025.11.05

Takayama 2025 Autumn Leaves Live Updates

UPDATE:
*Update (11/5) Currently, areas in central Takayama (Hie Shrine) and Ichinomiya have began to show coloration, and the mountains are starting to show the first stages of autumn colors. Currently, coloration is scattered and trees are a mixture of greens, yellows, and reds.
*Update (11/5) Hida Furukawa is showing coloration but the ginko tree in town square has not yet completely turned yellow.
*Update (11/3) The foliage in the Hirayu area of Takayama is at its peak colors, mostly a yellow. The weather is expected to be sunny this week, so we recommend seeing the leaves at Shinhotaka Ropeway.
*Update (11/3) From Takayama to Gero the mountains are showing color, however the actual city and tourist areas are not yet changing colors (especially the Japanese maple trees).

If you have a car, the surrounding neighborhoods deep in the mountains (such as Kiyomi, Kuguno, Hirayu) have began to turn yellow and red, however it is not yet at its peak.

Current Condition
Takayama: Early Stages (as of 11/5)
Hida Furukawa: Early Stages (as of 11/5)
Kamioka: Nearing Peak Colors (as of 11/5)
Okuhida: Peak Colors (as of 11/5)

When can you start to see autumn colors in Takayama?
Autumn leaves usually start appearing in the Takayama area late October to mid November. Last year fall foliage in Takayama had a short period of peaking early November 10th – 18th, and most were fallen or in the late stages of coloration by the third week of November. Areas with altitudes such as Okuhida in Takayama and Hida Furukawa and Hida Kamioka in Hida City also tend to peak in colors before Takayama City. Compared to earlier years, foliage has been showing later and later.

Table of contents:

  1. Central Takayama
  2. Outer Takayama
  3. Hida City (Hida Furukawa and Hida Kamioka)

Central Takayama Fall Foliage

■ Shiroyama Park

Picture taken 10/30/2025


What is Shiroyama Park?
Shiroyama Park is a quaint park located on a hill in Takayama and was once a section of Takayama Castle, an influential castle built in 1588. In the center of the park you can find a statue of Kanamori Nagachika, the founder of Takayama Castle.

TIPS: We recommend you climb the hiking path and complete the Higashiyama Walking Course around the Takayama Castle Ruins from Shiroyama Park. The area is surrounded by hundreds of Japanese colorful maple trees and is one of the most beautiful forest areas in Takayama.

LIVE UPDATE: November 5th, 2025

While the park area are vibrant yellows and red, the hiking route and japanese maple trees in the surrounding area are still green or transitioning between green, yellow, and red.

■ Hie Shrine

What is Hie Shrine famous for?
Hie Shrine in Takayama is one of the two main shrines used in the Takayama Festival, with the focus of this Shrine being during the spring festival. It is also one of the shrines which inspired the anime movie, Your Name. Google Maps

TIPS: On November 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 15th, and 16th, Hie Shrine will hold the autumn Hie Yoiakari Momiji Festival, where coloful parasols and lanterns are lit up and placed all around the shrine grounds. Guests will also have the chance to write on parasols.
More information: here

LIVE UPDATE: November 5th, 2025

Most of the trees around the entrance of Hie Shrine are starting to show color, while some trees in the main part of the shrine are a beautiful vibrant red and yellow.

■ Hida Kokubunji Temple

Where is Hida Kokubunji Temple?
Hida Kokubunji Temple is conveniently located in the center of Takayama on the way to Miyagawa River, next to the main shopping street, Honmachi Dori. The temple is the oldest in Takayama and has a giant ginko tree which is over 1200 years old.

LIVE UPDATE: November 5th, 2025

While some maple trees by the pagoda are showing early stages of coloration, the ginko tree is still very green.

Outer Takayama Fall Foliage

Outside the main tourist areas of Takayama are many mountainous hiking areas as well as waterfalls, temples, and deep nature. If you have some extra time in Takayama, we highly recommend experiencing the natural beauty of the area.

■ Ankokuji Temple

Where is Ankokuji Temple?
Ankokuji is famous temple located in the Kokufu neighborhood of Takayama, around 50 minutes from Takayama Station if you transfer at Hida Furukawa Station and take the local bus.
*If you’re in Hida Furukawa for the day, you can also rent a bicycle from the Festival Square and ride your bicycle to Kokufu in around 40 minutes, if done at a leisurely pace. Read more

TIP: If you want to do some light hiking and see beautiful nature, we also recommend Sankyu Falls. Sankyu Falls is a local waterfall part of a walking path. The area is hidden in an enclaved part of the mountains– it almost magical since it feels so hidden. Just beware on times getting back.

LIVE UPDATE: November 5th, 2025

The trees are still in early stages of blooming but are very vibrant and beautiful.

■ Hida Osaka Falls

Picture taken November 2nd, 2025

How do I get to Hida Osaka Falls?
If you dont have a car, the only other way to get to Hida Osaka Falls directly is through Nohi Bus from Takayama Nohi Bus Center or Gero Station. It is a half day bus and requires a reservation up to 2 days in advance, so you must plan ahead.
More information: here

LIVE UPDATE: November 2nd, 2025

While the parking lot area of Gandate is very vibrant yellows and reds, the waterfall hiking route is still very green, with very slight yellow coloration.

■ Ichinomiya Shrine (Mizunashi Jinjya)

Picture taken November 5th, 2025

What is special about Mizunashi Jinjya?
Mizunashi Jinjya is considered one of the most sacred shrines in the Takayama area, due to its affiliation to Kurayama, which is known as the holiest mountain in the Hida region. The mountain contains ancient artifacts and is home to the surrounding areas god. The area is also known for being the source of all water in Takayama.

TIPS: You can either take the train or bus to Ichinomiya. If you take the train, there is no one manning the station, so you will have to drop off your ticket in a box at the station. The shrine is located right in front of the bus stop, or a 3 minute walk from the station.

Hida City/ Hida Furukawa and Kamioka Foliage

Hida City is the neighboring city to Takayama, famous for inspiring the anime movie Your Name, and having a even slower pace of life compared to Takayama. Its a charming city worth the visit for a half day or day trip from Takayama.

■Hida Furukawa Festival Square

Picture taken November 5th, 2025

Can you see the koi fish at Furukawa Festival Square in November?
Locals move the koi fish from the canals starting mid-October, as the weather starts to be too cold for the fish. This year the koi fish were transferred October 18th, 2025.

LIVE UPDATE: November 5th, 2025

The trees around the festival square are in the early stages of changing with vibrant greens, yellows, and reds. The giant ginko tree has changed color but still has some green.

Bus times to Hida Furukawa: here

■Kamioka City

Ema Clan Residence Garden in Kamioka City

What can you do in Kamioka City?
Kamioka City is the home of the noble prize winning space museum featuring Neutrino, Gattango, which is a railway biking experience taking place on old abandoned railway tracks, and deep nature more rich than the Furukawa and Takayama areas. I highly recommend walking down Fujinami Hachicho, a beautiful forest enclosed walkway with over 120 japanese maple trees alongside the accessible river basin. Walking around Kamioka, you can experience a more retro vibe with hidden things to discover amongst the gorgeous nature.

LIVE UPDATE: November 5th, 2025

On October 31st, foliage began to change colors, and by November 5th have neared the peak stages of fall colors as a gradient of oranges and yellows fill the area.

Bus times to Kamioka: here

  • 2025.08.13

From Hida Takayama to Matsumoto! A Spectacular Autumn Route – Enjoy the Autumn Foliage at Shin Hotaka Ropeway!

A special experience to enjoy the Japanese Alps in autumn by air!

If you are planning a trip from Hida Takayama to Matsumoto, Shinshu in October, there is one spot you definitely shouldn’t miss– the Shin Hotaka Ropeway. The Shin Hotaka Ropeway is the most popular ropeway in Japan.

The second half of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in all of Japan. It’s a special experience where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Japanese Alps from the air.


The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
Autumn offers the most beautiful scenery of the year. Located at an elevation of 2,156 meters, the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform offers a panoramic view of the Japanese Alps in the brilliant red and golden colors of the autumn leaves.

As the trail rises more than 1,000 meters in elevation from the foot of the mountain to the summit, visitors can enjoy the changes in autumn foliage at different elevation zones. This is a must-visit spot in autumn, where you can enjoy both a breathtaking photo-worthy view and Japanese autumn foliage viewing at the same time.

A trip with a spectacular view starting at the morning market in Takayama

Takayama Morning Market, one of the three major morning markets in Japan

Start your trip with the Takayama morning market. Known as one of the three major morning markets in Japan, the Takayama morning market is a great place to enjoy fresh local finger foods, crafts, and local produce. Taking in the crisp morning air and leisurely browsing the stalls makes for a wonderful start to experiencing traditional Hida life.

Access to Shin Hotaka Ropeway from Takayama

After enjoying the morning market, head to the Shin Hotaka Ropeway from the Takayama Bus Center.
A direct bus service runs to the Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of the first Shin Hotaka Ropeway, arriving at the site in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Traffic information:

Important Note: Due to the extremely crowded fall foliage season, it is strongly recommended to arrive early at the Alpine Bus Center to get in line.

Aerial views on the Shin Hotaka Ropeway

The second part of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in Japan, offering a special experience to enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Northern Alps from the air. The view from the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform at the summit station is breathtaking.
The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.

Ropeway information:

Shinhotaka Ropeway Digital Ticket

You can purchase digital tickets for the Shinhotaka Ropeway, as well as digital tickets combining the Shinhotaka Ropeway with the route bus (free pass) between Takayama/Hirayu Onsen and Shinhotaka Ropeway Station, on your smartphone.

KLOOK, KKDAY

[Attention]
If you come by bus, please leave your large luggage in the coin locker at Shin Hotaka Onsen Station.
The ropeway requires an extra charge for luggage over 6 kg. Luggage tickets are 1,000 yen/piece for round trip.

Shinhotaka Ropeway Coin Locker Information

Since the capacity of the ropeway No. 1 is small (45 passengers), it may take some time to get on the ropeway when it is crowded.
We recommend that you drive to the Shirakabadaira parking lot at the second ropeway stop.
If you use the local bus, only Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of Daiichi Ropeway is available.

Route to Matsumoto

After enjoying the spectacular autumn scenery of the Japanese Alps, head to Matsumoto, a city of history and culture. For transportation, you will need to change buses at the Hirayu Bus Terminal.

Travel Routes and Fees

  1. Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station) → Hirayu Bus Terminal
    • Fare: 910 yen
  2. Hirayu Bus Terminal → Matsumoto Bus Terminal

Total cost of taking public transportation on your own

  • Takayama Bus Center → Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station): 2,200 yen
  • Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Ropeway 1 + Ropeway 2) round trip: 3,800 yen
  • Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station) → Hirayu Bus Terminal: 910 yen
  • Hirayu Bus Terminal → Matsumoto Bus Terminal: 2,800 yen * Reservations required

Total travel expenses: 9,710 yen

If you bring luggage weighing 6 kg or more onto the ropeway, you will be charged a luggage ticket (1,000 yen per piece) or a coin locker fee.

The base of Shinhotaka Ropeway

Around early October, the lines for Shinhotaka ropeway were not long at all, and almost everyone who lined up could board without waiting for the next shuttle.

Although the foliage at the bottom of the ropeway was still green, as you step out to the 1st station ropeway, suddenly the season completely changes from summer to fall! Though not fully developed, the vibrant fall leaves along with the crystal clear skies looked like a postcard and almost unreal.

Shirakabadaira Station (Ropeway 1)

Just one year ago, Shirakabadaira Station was renovated to include a new and stylish gift shop, bakery, and dining area. At the bread store, they sell a variety of freshly baked breads, craft drinks (including an amusing curry and melon bread cider), gelato, and other local specialties.

After walking around and doing some light souvenir shopping, you can leisurely relax or take a stroll around the grounds in time for the gondola which arrives twice an hour. Depending on high winds or other weather aliments, the gondola usage may be postponed.

Alpscape Observation Deck and Itadaki no Mori

Finally making it to the second ropeway exit, you will have to walk a few flights of stairs until reaching the observation deck. The scenery of the mountains from the second ropeway is completely different from the base of the ropeway and was completely colorful. The view especially from Itadaki no Mori is the best as you can get a very clear view of the autumn foliage.


Around the station are also several hiking trails along with trendy restaurants, cafes, and places to sit and rest. Its a perfect place to just relax and stare into the distance. The temperature is not too cold (around 15C) and is very comfortable around this time.

Matsumoto Castle at Night (Fall)

While Matsumoto Castle is stunning during the day due to the backdrop of the Japanese Alps, the night time view is arguably even more breathtaking. Every night from sundown until 10PM, Matsumoto Castle is lit up creating a mesmerizing glowing image. During special holidays they also display more colorful light shows on the castle walls.

Matsumoto Light Up Hours: ~6PM to 10PM

How to Enjoy Matsumoto

Matsumoto has many attractions and gorgeous scenic spots located beyond Matsumoto Castle. Areas such as Happo Pond, Hakuba, and Narai-juku are all breathtaking view points enjoyed by locals and travelers alike.

More info

Takayama to Matsumoto Timetable

If you are traveling on your own from Takayama to Matsumoto, up to two transfers by highway bus may be necessary. Since there are no trains connecting the two areas, your only options other than renting a car is by taking the bus. The direct bus to Matsumoto departs from Hirayu Bus Terminal, a bus terminal 1 hour from Takayama City proper.

Takayama Nohi Bus Center → Hirayu Bus Terminal [times]: 6:00, 7:00, 7;40, 8:40, 9:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:40
Total price: 1600 yen
*For the Takayama to Hirayu bus, you will need to buy a ticket in person at Takayama Nohi Bus Center (open from 6:10 AM).



Hirayu Bus Terminal → Matsumoto Station [times]: 7:50, 11:50, 1:50, 2:50, 4:50
Total price: 2,800 yen
*Buses from Hirayu Bus Terminal to Matsumoto Station all require a reservation in advance.

Hirayu ⇄ Matsumoto Bus

Summary

A trip from Takayama to Matsumoto is a special route that allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of autumn in Japan. The aerial walk on the Shin Hotaka ropeway is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether it be going on your own or going via a convenient bus tour, take time to enjoy this wonderful autumn scenic route according to your travel style.

Google Map (Takayama – Shin Hotaka Ropeway – Matsumoto) Location


Google Map (Takayama Station→Shin Hotaka Ropeway)


Google Map (Shin Hotaka Lowway→Hirayu Bus Terminal)

Google Map (Hirayu Bus Terminal→Matsumoto Bus Terminal)

  • 2025.06.24

How to Rent a Bicycle in Hida Furukawa! / Furukawa Set Ticket by Bus


Compared to the more city like atmosphere of Takayama, in Hida Furukawa you can experience a more authentic and slower paced countryside life. Hida Furukawa is most famous for its two national award winning sake breweries (Watanabe Shyuzoten and Kaba Sake Brewery), for inspiring the anime move “Your Name”, and for its many bars, cafes, and restaurants.

To get the full countryside experience, we recommend enjoying the town during the day, renting a bicycle and exploring town like locals do, and at night dine at the many eateries and enjoy the award winning sake. Just remember not to drink and ride!

The Complete Local Experience with Nohi Bus


If you’re coming to Hida Furukawa from Takayama, the best way to experience the area fully is by going via Nohi Bus’s Hida Furukawa Food & Sake Set (a one day bus pass with vouchers). This set ticket covers transportation to and from Takayama (or any stops in between), a sake souvenir (of your choice), and a voucher for dinner at various eateries, allowing you to experience the life of a true local.

Hida Furukawa Food & Sake Set


Locals in Hida Furukawa are proud of their award winning sake production and local cuisine. Most of the sake sold throughout the area and beyond come from this area, and it is a cherished part of the areas culture. If you’re a sake lover, the Furukawa Food & Sake Set is a great opportunity to enjoy all Hida Furukawa has to offer.


A majority of the bars serving dinner open 4-6 PM, which is right when bicycle rentals close for the day. After exploring town alongside the locals, grab your sake souvenir and dine/ drink at some of the popular local joints in town. The last train back to Takayama is at 9PM whereas the bus runs later (up to 12:10AM), giving you plenty of time to spend time around the locals and have great conversation.

1. Depart from Takayama Station by Bus


From bus stop 2 at Takayama Nohi Bus Center, board the bus headed towards Hida Furukawa. To purchase the Hida Furukawa Food & Sake Set, go to the reception desk located at Takayama Nohi Bus Center. No reservations are necessary. Simply board the bus and show your voucher when departing!

Boarding times: 7:00, 7:10, 8:10, 9:10, 11:10, 12:40, 2:10, 3:10, 3:40, 4:10, 4:40, 5:50, 6:10, 6:40, 7:10, 7:40, 8:10, 9:40, 10:40, 11:40

2. Choose a Bicycle to Rent


After arriving in Furukawa, head towards the bicycle reception located inside of Furukawa Festival Hall. The Furukawa Festival Hall is located at the Festival Square, just a 5 minute walk from the station and next to the Koi Fish ponds. There are late fees, so be aware of the return time written on your form. When returning the bicycle, you can leave the bicycle at the stand outside, but make sure to inform the shopkeeper.

Rental Information

Bicycle Reception: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last rental at 3:00 PM)

►1 hour/ 300 yen
►All day/ 1000 yen

Note:
*500 yen fee per hour late
*5,000 yen fee if not dropped off by 4:00 PM

Bicycle Information

After filling out the form, you can choose between two bicycle types: A sports type bicycle or a regular bicycle with a basket. There are no e-bikes for rental and there are no extra costs based on which bicycle you choose. There are a total of 8 bicycles in total every day (4 of each type).

REGULAR BICYCLE (with a basket, bell, gear shift [1-3] )

In Japan, bicycles are classified as vehicles, so there are few rules to follow when riding.

Bicycle Rules:
1. Ride on the left side of the lane
2. At intersections follow the traffic lights and stop signs
3. No drinking alcohol and riding

SPORTS BICYCLE (with a headlight, bell, gear shift [1-6] )


The sports style bicycle is a Bridgestone LB764, and comes with a bell, headlight, a gear shift (1-6). Total amount of bikes: 4

Furukawa Bike Routes


We recommend biking to the following landmarks:
► Keta Wakamiya Shrine (the town’s main shrine which inspired “Your Name”) [~7 minutes]
► Atayuta Shrine (a shrine surrounded by beautiful red bridges, rivers, and rice fields) [~25-30 minutes]
► Ankokuji Temple (a popular Buddhist temple with a beautiful aerial view of the area) [~45 minutes]

Keta Wakamiya Shrine
Atayuta Shrine
Ankokuji Temple

Furukawa Bicycle Map



Around Furukawa are many cafes accessible by bicycle. If you get hot, cool down with ice cream, drinks, or desserts around the area.

Rice Field Forecast


Hida Furukawa is a landlocked area, surrounded by mountains and is relatively flat with no steep hills. There are also many river basins and trees surrounding the area. If you rent a bike from June-September, you can see the rice fields that surround the entire town. In September, the rice fields turn a golden yellow color and are harvested soon after. By October, most rice fields will be gone.

June: 🌱
(rice is freshly planted with beautiful water reflecting the sky)

July: 🌾🌾
(rice is growing and you can start to see the green stalks)

August: 🌾🌾🌾
(rice is growing tall and green)

September: 🌾🌾🌾🌾
(rice begins to turn yellow and will be harvested late September)

3. Return Your Bike and Enjoy Dinner & Sake


After returning your bicycle, you can walk around and enjoy town a bit until some of the eateries open. During this time, you can pick up your sake souvenir at Goto liquor store which closes at 8PM. To see a full list of restaurants covered by the voucher, check here. Restaurants generally open from 4-6 PM.

Bus evening return times [to Takayama]: 4:40 PM, 5:10 PM, 5:40 PM, 6:10 PM, 6:40 PM, 7:10 PM, 8 PM, 9PM, 10:10 PM, 11:10 PM, 12:10 AM

Tips & Advice

  1. Rent the bike all day
    • A good amount of time to have the bicycle is for 3 hours, but that amounts to 900 yen. In the case that you want to leisurely spend time at some cafes, its worth to pay the extra 100 yen to not worry about time.
  2. Pick up souvenirs after returning your bike
    • Most stores in Furukawa begin to close around 5PM. The town itself is small, so you can enjoy the town and pick up souvenirs without worrying about lugging it around.
  3. Have an early dinner with the Hida Furukawa Food & Sake Set
    • Enjoy sake and dinner at the restaurants and pubs in town and take the bus back to Takayama. The last bus is at 12:10 AM! Check the time table here.


➤For bus reservations and detailed travel itineraries learn more:  here
➤For access from Nagoya to Takayama and Shirakawago learn more: here
➤For transportation information in Nara learn more: here

 
  • 2025.06.11

Gero Onsen Day Trip from Takayama!

Did you know one of Japan’s top 3 onsen towns is only one hour from Takayama?


♨️Gero Onsen is a stylish sweets haven also more commonly known as one of the top 3 hot spring towns in all of Japan. Gero in Japanese directly translates to “ribbet”, and because of that, a lot of tourist attractions are frog themed. Conveniently located around an hour south of Takayama, it makes a perfect day trip for those wanting to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery of the Gifu Area for under 2200 yen!

1. Board the bus at Takayama Station for Gero
2. Buy a Yumeguri Pass (Onsen pass!)
3. Frogs, Nature, and Shopping!
4. Rental Bikes
5. Gero’s Ultimate Attraction: the Slide
6. Enjoy Gero Gourmet Foods
7. Board the bus back to Takayama

1. Board the bus at Takayama Station for Gero


There are two modes of transportation to Gero Onsen, train or bus. The bus runs to Gero hourly while the local train runs every other hour. Alternatively, there are express trains that come hourly, however these cost up to 2000 yen one way, making the trip cost double the amount while taking the same amount of time as the bus. If you plan on returning to Takayama, we recommend taking the earliest bus at 8AM and then the last bus back at 5:00PM. Most of the restaurants are closed in Gero by that time.

If you are based in Takayama, we recommend buying the “Gero Onsen 2-Day Ticket” by Nohi Bus. This pass allows unlimited bus usage from Takayama Nohi Bus Center to Gero for 2 days for only 2,040 yen. This is the regular price of the roundtrip bus–reservations are made online and you can board with an online voucher.

How to ride the bus to Gero:

① Board from Takayama Nohi Bus Center and simply wait at bus stop 1 and get on the bus. Get off at the Gero Station bus stop after paying 1,060 yen (cash/coins only).

②If you buy the “Gero Onsen 2-Day Ticket”, buy it online through this website. You will receive the voucher digitally. Go to bus stop 1 and board the bus normally and show the bus driver your voucher when you get off.

►Boarding times from Takayama Nohi Bus Center:
8:05, 9:05, 10:05, 11:05, 12:05, 1:05, 2:05, 3:05, 4:05, 5:05, 6:05, 7:05
Price: 1,060 yen (one way)

Get off at Gero Station


After getting off at Gero Station, there is a locker space along with some souvenir stores, a bathroom, and information center. Past the information center and the bathrooms is an underground stairway that leads to the main part of Gero.

2. Buy a Yumeguri Onsen Pass!


The Yumeguri Onsen Pass is highly recommended for onsen (hot spring) lovers. This pass allows you to enter any 3 participating hot springs in Gero for only 1,500 yen! Its a great deal as some onsen can cost up to 1,500 yen on its own. Plus, you can save the pass and use it any time within 6 months. Entrance time differs per hotel, which you can check here (Japanese only). Otherwise, please refer to this time chart.


For the sake of time , we recommend going to the following hot springs immediately after arriving in Gero. The onsen are open only during small time windows that are easy to miss. We recommend going to: Suimeikan, Ogawaya, Yamagataya, Bosenkan (12-2 PM on weekends only) before their service ends for the day at 2PM. Each of these hotels have usual entrance fees of 1500 yen each, so to get the most money out of your pass we recommend going to these more expensive and larger inns.

Where to buy the Yumeuri Pass?


You can buy the Yumeguri pass at several locations such as Daily Mart convenience stores or Japanese inns. On the path to the main town, the souvenir store Sakuraen sells it along with the Gero City Tourism & Cultural Center.

Full list of sellers (Japanese Only): here


When entering an onsen, the attendant will peel 1 out of 3 stickers on the back of your pass. Generally each bather needs their own pass, but if you are accompanied by children aged 4-12, you can use the same pass. Whether its one or two children, if accompanied by an adult, they will account for only 1 sticker. Also, if you have a child less than 3 years old, the child can bathe for free.

3. Frogs, Nature, and Shopping!


No matter where you go around Gero, you’re going to see everything from posters, statues, and manholes, all in frog form. If you have a phobia of frogs–beware. 🐸 Gero in Japanese directly translates to “ribbet” and this town really went with that theme and ran. Everything frog themed was so cute and personally I felt happy finding frog versions of everything everywhere I went. There’s even a frog shrine!


Aside from cool frogs, Geros natural scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Crossing the bridge to the town, you can get a glimpse of the mountains and the large park where the town holds frequent firework shows, especially in the summer. There are also a bunch of foot baths to rest your feet throughout the town. The shopping street has not only snacks but ceramics and games to enjoy, making it fun for anyone of any age.


Foot baths around Gero are almost all free. You can find them on regular streets or even inside hotels. Just make sure not to bathe in them as they are strictly just for your feet!

4. Rental Bikes in Gero


Next to the Tourist Information Center, Gero provides stylish E-bikes for rental. While most of the town is walkable, the deep nature really is beautiful and fun to bike around. The bikes can be rented by downloading an app or paying by cash. If you want to pay by cash, you have to speak to the receptionist at the information center (open until 5:30 PM).

Bike Rental Info:
Rental time: 24 hours
6 hours: 1,000 yen
12 hours: 1,500 yen

5. Ride Gero’s Infamous Slide


One of Gero’s most popular attractions is the slide that overlooks Gero City. This slide isnt just for kids–actually when I went only adults were riding it! The slide is high speed and lasted up to a minute going down. At the curves it could be quite scary at times, but the thrill was worth it. The slide is guarded by protection rails and has cushions for landing.


To get to the Gero Slide, you have to go through the Gero Onsen Gassho Village and pay the entrance fee of 800 yen. The Village is similar to Shirakawago with a lot of displays and even a very modern foot bath. There are cafes, funny and cute statues, and even a shrine dedicated to cooking. Once you reach the other side of the mountain, you have to pay 100 yen to use the slide.

6. Enjoy Gero’s Gourmet Foods

Gero has a lot of delicious food, but they excel in desserts (especially parfaits). Sakae-machi dori is a stylish street by the station with many cafes and souvenir stores. Here you can find many parfait or other sweets stores. Other popular foods are butter ramen (ramen cooked with a butter and milk broth), frog themed tiramissu, pudding, crepes, and more!


One of the more popular souvenirs to buy in the area is Gero butter sandwiches, a butter cookie made out of fresh milk from the area. Around the area is a lot of finger food and desserts, but for a bigger lunch the town offers a lot of international foods in additional to traditional Japanese like German and Italian.

7. Going from Gero back to Takayama


To get back you can take the train or the bus. Trains leave at the 30 minute mark each hour, where as buses leave 30 minutes prior to the train. The last bus back to Takayama from Gero is at 5PM. By this time, a lot of the restaurants and souvenir stores have closed up, so we recommend going back at this time. To ride back, simply hop on the bus or show your pass if you had purchased the Geron-Onsen 2 Day Pass. Payment is when you get off.

How to board the bus back to Takayama

① Board from Gero Station bus stop

Boarding times for Takayama Nohi Bus Center:
6:00, 7:00, 7:42, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00, 5:00. 5:30
Price: 1,060 yen (one way)



OR

②Board from Shirasagaibashi Bridge bus stop (center of town in front of Lawson)

Boarding times for Takayama Nohi Bus Center:
7:01, 8:01, 9:01, 10:01, 11:01, 12:01, 2:01, 4:01
Weekends only: 6:01 AM, 3:01 PM, 5:01 PM
Price: 1,060 yen (one way)

➤To check the cheapest ways to get around Japan and the Takayama/Hida area, check out this page for detailed routes, pricing, and travel ideas!
➤For Nagoya access to Takayama and Shirakawago learn more: here
➤For information about transportation in Nara learn more: here



  • 2025.06.02

Hiking Mt.Anbou in Hida Furukawa!

Hida Furukawa Above the Clouds

Mt.Anbou (also spelled Mt.Ambo) is the most popular hiking route in the city of Hida Furukawa. Its easy accessibility and stunning views is widely loved amongst both locals and travelers. From the mountain summit, you can see all of Furukawa, stretching to parts of Takayama. Furukawa is a landlocked town with an elevation of 495 meters (1624 ft). If you do an early morning hike (often before 10 AM), clouds form above the town, creating a blanket that makes you appear as if you are standing above the clouds. After the morning fog clears, you can see the basin of the town appear.

Hiking Details

Level: Beginner/ Lower Intermediate

Total time: 1 hour ~ 1hr 15 mins (ascent),
50 minutes (descent)

Elevation: 1,058m (3,471 ft)

Toilet: Available (at summit and entrance)

Other: *Wifi/Data is usable on the summit peak (no free wifi available)
*If you reach the summit before 10AM there is a chance you can see a layer of clouds

Bathrooms

There is a bathroom at the summit of the mountain. On the left side of the trail, walk three minutes down the concrete road (meant for cars) to reach the bathroom. The bathroom is also located next to a trail that will bring you down the mountain you came up from.

Extra Info

Besides the deck overlooking the town of Hida Furukawa, if you walk down and to the right, there is another photo spot. Here you can hold a commemorative sign and take a picture, or write down your memory in the public journal!

Route Experience

12:30 PM

Before entering the hiking trail, lift the bar from the red gate and put it back in place once you’re inside.

12:40 PM

There is a steep incline but after 10 minutes you should reach the entrance of the hiking trail. From here the hike should take around 1 hour.

1:00 PM

The first 30 minutes of the hike are quite steep, but gets less intense the second half. At the half way point, you’ll find a bear bell and column post. If you’re counting, there are 3 total this entire hike!

1:40 PM

Before reaching the top, a path splits into two. The left route with the column leads directly to the public toilet, and to reach the terrace from there you need to walk an additional 3 minutes on a concrete road.


On the right there is a path with a bear bell which leads directly to the terrace (this route however is very steep).

1:48 PM

Reach the top of the mountain! If you turn backside to the view, on the right side is an additional photo spot and on the left is the public bathroom.

Access

Name: Mt. Anbou/ Mt.Ambo
Address: Hida-shi Furukawa-cho Kamikita / Google Maps Here
Public transportation: Takayama Nohi Bus Center to Hida Furukawa Station /25 minute walk from Hida Furukawa
Parking: There is a parking space located in front of the entrance (for hiking) / Summit parking (if you drive, the roads are narrow and enough for 1 car only so beware)
Facilities: Bathroom at parking lot/ Bathroom mountain peak (3 minute walk from summit)

From Takayama Station to Hida Furukawa Station

At Takayama Nohi Bus Center, board the local bus at Platform 2 for Hida Furukawa.
Times: 6:40, 7:00, 9:10, 11:10, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:10, 6:10, 6:40PM (380 yen)
Reservations are not necessary, however there are set deals that the local bus company offers.

*From Takayama to Hida Furukawa, you can take the “Hida Furukawa Food & Sake Set” which includes roundtrip fares between Takayama Station and Hida Furukawa Station, a 3,000 yen voucher for local eateries, and a voucher for Sake, which the town has won many national awards for.

View the bus routes and special deals: here

Map

Other Things to Do in Town

Hida Furukawa’s’ Onsen:
Nukumori no Yu Spaful

By bus: Hida Furukawa Station → Spa-ful Tougenkyou-Onsen Stop
Times: 8:29, 12:26, 3:30, 6:11 (200 yen)

Rent a bicycle at the town square:
Hida Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall (rentals close at 4PM, last rental 3PM)

By foot: From Hida Furukawa Station, 7 minutes

Local homemade Japanese food deli:
Yamamoto Delicatessen
*We recommend the fried chicken!

By foot: From Hida Furukawa Station, 10 minutes


➤To check the best ways to get around Japan and the Takayama/Hida area, check out this link for detailed routes, pricing, and travel ideas!
➤For Nagoya access to Takayama and Shirakawago learn more: here
➤For information about transportation in Nara learn more: here