The Shinhotaka Ropeway is a popular nature attraction located in the Okuhida area of Takayama, recently remodeled in 2024. Often regarded as one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the Japanese Northern Alps, every year tourists and locals alike come to the area to hike and enjoy hot springs around the area. The summit sits at a height of 2,156m and has several hiking paths and view points at its peak.
Locker Information
The Shinhotaka Ropeway has an abundance of coin lockers on its first floor. For those worried about luggage not fitting, there is also an option to leave luggage with the staff of the souvenir store. In total, there are three locations on the first floor with lockers which can carry medium to extra large sized luggage.
Note: In the case you would like to store luggage overnight, you must let the shop attendantknow first.
Coin Exchange Machine
There is a coin exchange machine located directly next to the coin locker area. It takes 500 yen coins and 1000 yen bills.
Coin Locker #1 / Operating Hours: 8:30AM ~ 4PM
Location: To the right of the stairs leading to the second floor, nearby the entrance.
Type:
Size (LxWxH)
Amount
Price
Medium Locker
35cm x 48cm x 74cm
40 lockers
600 yen
Large Locker
88cm x 52cm x 54 cm
12 lockers
1000 yen
Large Locker
Total lockers: 40
Large lockers: 88cm x 52cm x 54 cm LxWxH
The largest lockers are absolutely massive, and would have no problem carrying even two carry on suitcases.
Coin Locker #2 / Operating Hours: 8:30AM ~ 4PM
Location: In the cafe area to the left of the dining area
■ Medium Locker Size (LxWxH): 35cm x 48cm x 74cm , Amount: 24 lockers, Price: 600 yen
Medium Locker
Total lockers: 24
Large lockers: 35cm x 48cm x 74cm LxWxH
These coin lockers are a bit hidden, but are around the same size as the lockers in the main coin locker area.
Coin Locker #3 / Operating Hours: 8:30AM ~ 4PM
Location: Across the bathroom entrance
■ Medium Locker Size (LxWxH): 74cm x 47cm x 34cm , Amount: 8 lockers, Price: 600 yen
Medium Locker
Total lockers: 8
Large lockers: 74cm x 47cm x 34cm LxWxH
How to get to Shinhotaka Ropeway
Shinhotaka Ropeway can be reached by car or local bus. You can board from either Takayama Nohi Bus Center with a connection through Hirayu Bus Terminal, or via Hirayu Bus Terminal directly. Reservations can be made in person at the bus center or online in advance. All buses are operated by the local bus company, Nohi Bus.
■ Takayama Nohi Bus Center ➞ Hirayu Bus Terminal ➞ Shinhotaka Ropeway Boarding times: 7:00, 7:40, 8:40, 9:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:40, 6:40
Note: Shinhotaka Ropeway Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the ticket counter the day of. The gondolas depart every 30 minutes starting from 8:30 AM. Gondola departure times may vary based on weather and may also be increased during high seasons. Official website
Reservations for buses departing from Hirayu Bus Terminal can be made online in advance, in case the ticket window is not open. There is a ticket office and ticket machine inside the bus terminal waiting room, however please note that tickets to local stops such as Takayama, Kamikochi, Mt.Norikura, and Shinhotaka Ropeway can only be purchased on the same day at the bus terminal. If you would like to purchase an e-ticket, in some cases the local bus company, Nohi Bus also offers set ticket deals which can be displayed on your phone: here.
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.
Takayama Departure – Matsumoto (one way) via [a limited time] Bus Tour
Fee: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch)
If you participate in this bus tour, you will be: -Free from transferring baggage -Free of complicated transfers -Free of stressful timely arrangements
This special limited bus tour will save you 4,710 yen in transportation costs alone and also includes admission fees to Shinhotaka Ropeway and Matsumoto Castle!
Save yourself from the hassle of transferring buses and paying extra costs!
This tour includes a round-trip ticket for the Shin Hotaka Ropeway! The Shin Hotaka Ropeway round-trip ticket is 3,800 yen alone, but on this tour you will receive it absolutely free of charge.
Limited number of people! First-come, first-served.
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.
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.
[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.
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.
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
Shin HotakaRopeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station) → Hirayu Bus Terminal
Departure from Takayama – Matsumoto (one way) by a limited Bus Tour
If you participate in this bus tour, you will be: –Free from transferring baggage -Free of complicated transfers -Free of stressful timely arrangements
This special limited bus tour saves you 4,710 yen in transportation costs alone and also includes admission fees!
Fee: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch) **Save 4,710 yen in transportation costs alone compared to individual travel! Furthermore, a boxed lunch and Matsumoto Castle admission fee* are also included! * Same-day ticket for admission to Matsumoto Castle by yourself is 1,300 yen.
With this tour, you can enjoy the attractions of both cities efficiently without having to worry about complicated transfers and reservations, while leaving your luggage in the chartered bus. In addition, you will be accompanied by a professional guide to learn more about the history and culture of each region.
Limited number of people! First-come, first-served.
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 not yet developed, 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 is 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
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 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
Hirayu Bus Terminal →Matsumoto Station [times]: 7:50, 11:50, 1:50, 2:50, 4:50 Total price: 2,800 yen
If you take the bus tour on October 8th, you can reach Shinhotaka Ropeway (with expense fees included), Kamikochi, and Matsumoto for around the same price. As the buses to Matsumoto are limited, its an ideal way to maximize your time and is really an unbeatable deal!
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)
Why is the Nagano and Gifu area the best place to travel to Japan in October?
October is the most beautiful season in Japan for autumn foliage. The Kamikochi area in Nagano Prefecture and the Takayama area in Gifu Prefecture in particular are ideal destinations for foreign travelers who want to both enjoy jaw dropping autumn scenery and authentic traditional Japanese culture at the Takayama Autumn Festival.
Down below, we’ll introduce a 3-day model plan that starts with historical exploration in Matsumoto City, followed by breathtaking autumn foliage in Kamikochi and the traditional autumn Takayama Festival (held on Thursday and Friday, October 9th and 10th, 2025).
A Model Planfor Enjoying Spectacular Autumn Scenery and Cultural Experiences in 3 Days
Matsumoto, Kamikochi and the Takayama Festival in Autumn Foliage!
Day 1: October 7th (Tuesday) – Enjoy history and art in Matsumoto
Morning: Explore Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure
Experience firsthand the history of Japan from the Warring States Period to the present day.
Visit the beautiful Matsumoto Castle, one of the 12 existing castle towers in Japan, designated as a National Treasure.
Taste Nagano’s local cuisine such as Shinshu soba noodles and Sanzokuyaki
Stay at a hotel in Matsumoto City
Day 2: October 8th (Wed) – Spectacular view of autumn leaves in Kamikochi and transfer to Takayama
Early morning: Departure from Matsumoto to Kamikochi
There are two ways to access Kamikochi: by public transportation or on your own
(1) Railroad + local bus Feature: High frequency, access by train and local buses , Matsumoto Station→Shinshimashima Station: Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line (about 30 minutes, 710 yen) From Shinnimashima Station→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus (about 1 hour, 3,000 yen) Buses are available by reservation only. ＞ Details & Reservations
or
Direct route bus Feature: Easy, direct route bus access Matsumoto Bus Terminal→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus (5:30 and 10:15 departures, 4,450 yen) ＞ Details & Reservations
Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line (CAUTION) Caution (1) The Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line cannot be boarded with IC cards. Please purchase a ticket at Matsumoto Station.
Caution (2) The location of the ticket vending machines at Matsumoto Station is the same as for the JR line. Tickets for the Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line can be purchased at the two ticket vending machines on the left. Please pay with cash or a transportation system IC card. Credit cards are not accepted.
Caution (3) The ticket gates at Matsumoto Station are the same as for the JR line. After passing through the ticket gate, please go to “Line 7” on the right side. Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line is on platform 7.
Kamikochi Luggage Information Approximate fees (one day): small 350 yen, medium 400 yen, large 500 yen, extra large 600 yen *Small: about 10 liters, extra large: about 60 liters
Morning – Afternoon: Enjoy the spectacular autumn scenery at Kamikochi
Spectacular view of the Hotaka mountain range from Kappa Bridge
Take a walk to Taisho Pond and enjoy the autumn leaves reflected on the mirror-like surface of the lake.
Enjoy the clean air and beautiful nature in a highland resort at an altitude of 1,500 meters
Afternoon: Transfer from Kamikochi to Hida Takayama
Kamikochi→Hirayu Bus Terminal (20-30 min., 1,500 yen)
Enjoy Hida beef croquettes and other local delicacies at Hirayu Bus Terminal
Hirayu Bus Terminal→Takayama Bus Center (about 1 hour, 1,600 yen)
Evening: Taste the flavors of Hida in Takayama
Taste Hida beef steaks, Takayama ramen, and other specialties of the Hida region
The atmosphere of the old town raises expectations for tomorrow’s festivities.
Convenient and affordable 10/8 (Wed.) limited bus tour: From Matsumoto to Hida Takayama via Kamikochi (one way)
Price: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch)
On this bus tour be: –Free from transferring baggage –Free of complicated transfers/arrangements –Free of stressful timely arrangements Also, the value can’t be beat! **Save about 33% compared to taking the train or local bus on your own
The most difficult part of the model plan above is going from Matsumoto to Kamikochi on the second day and then from Kamikochi to Takayama. To go on this route, you will need to take a train and three different types of local buses. Moreover, advance reservations are required for some bus routes. This route is easily confused by even seasoned Japanese travelers.
Once you have booked the bus tour, all you have to do is go to the Alps Exit of Matsumoto Station (the meeting place), at 7:45 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8th, leave your luggage in the trunk of the chartered bus, and board the bus.
A guide will accompany you, making it easy and safe even for first-timers.
Moreover, you save about 33% compared to taking the train or local bus on your own!
Price: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch)
Save up to 33% compared to traveling individually from Matsumoto to Takayama via Kamikochi! Most convenient for those with large luggage! We highly recommend this limited bus if you are planning to travel from Matsumoto to Takayama on Wednesday, October 8th!
Day 3: October 9 (Thursday) – The Autumn Takayama Festival has finally arrived!
All day: Experience the traditional Takayama Festival
The Takayama Festival is one of the “Three Great Beautiful Festivals of Japan” along with the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Chichibu Night Festival in Saitama. The October festival is called the “Hachiman Festival” and features the following attractions:
Gorgeous yatai (floats) being pulled around
Karakuri Dedication: Traditional performing arts featuring elaborate puppets dancing
Yoimatsuri: Fantastic night scenery with lanterns lit
Shopping for local products at morning markets
Takayama 2025 Autumn Festival Schedule
Spanning two days, the Takayama October Festival includes the display of festival floats around Sakurayama Shrine, the local’s procession to the local shrine, two marionette shows, and finally the grand finale at night time where all floats are lit and pulled throughout the town. The night time procession is held only on October 9th.
October 9th: Festival Float Display: 9AM~5PM [Location: here] Marionette Show: 12PM~12:20PM (1st show), 2PM~2:20PM (2nd show) [Location: here] Shrine Procession: 1:30PM ~ 3:30PM Night Time Float Procession: 6:15PM ~ 8:30PM
Marionette Locations: Each float has a unique performance. For example, the Shakkyo marionette includes a lion dance and lion transformation while the Ryujin marionette includes a blast of confetti. On the 9th and 10th, the Hoteidai Float will put on the show two times a day in front of Sakurayama Shrine.
Post-Trip Options
After enjoying the Takayama Festival, you can continue your journey by following these routes:
To Kyoto and Osaka area via Nagoya
Kanazawa and Hokuriku area via Shirakawa-go: You can also enjoy the World Heritage Site of Gassho-Zukuri Village.
Fares for public transportation from Matsumoto to Takayama
For general methods:
Matsumoto→Shinshimashima→Kamikochi： 3,710 yen
Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen (transfer set ticket)
Total: 6,710 yen
When using the direct bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi:
Matsumoto→Kamikochi： 4,450 yen
Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen
Total: 7,450 yen
Points to note when making reservations
Reservations are required for buses to Kamikochi. Early reservations are recommended, especially during the fall foliage season when the buses are crowded!
Accommodations in Takayama are also crowded during the festival, so advance reservations are required!
Don’t forget to bring warm clothes as it gets cold in the mornings and evenings in Kamikochi in October.
Do you find it troublesome to move around? Then this tour is for you! Transport from Matsumoto to Takayama via Kamikochi can be complicated, as you have to take a train and three buses. Plus, some bus routes require advance reservations.
But with this tour…
You can leave everything to us for a peace of mind & comfort! You can even leave your luggage on the bus for easy access.
-No transfers & no reservations required. -Accompanied by a guide, so you won’t get lost. -Includes a boxed lunch. -Up to 33% cheaper than connecting on your own!
Meet at Matsumoto Station Alps Exit at 7:45 a.m. on 10/8 (Wed.) All you need to do is to take the bus and move to Takayama while enjoying Kamikochi♪
The Nagano and Gifu areas in October are the best destinations for foreign tourists to experience both the beauty of Japanese autumn and traditional culture. The spectacular view of Kamikochi with its autumn leaves and the solemnity of the Takayama Festival with a history of over 400 years, will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Please take this opportunity to experience the charm of autumn in Japan to your heart’s content!
Every year the Takayama Festival (Spring) is held on April 14th and 15th. April 14th is where most of the major festivities are held including the night festival. If you missed the festival on the 14th, don’t fret! You can still see the floats another day. On the 15th, the parade returns to the main shrine and several dances and puppet shows are held throughout the day. Depending on the weather, there are cases where the festival finishes early or is cancelled due to the fragile nature of the floats so please keep this in mind.
How to get to Takayama from Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka
April 15th: On this day, a procession makes its way back to Hie Shrine where they departed the day before. There are also puppet shows put on through different times throughout the day. At the procession locals dress up in traditional wear and play music as they march back to Hie Shrine. There are also Shishimai (lion) dances that take place in front of the Takayama Historical Government House.
Takayama Spring Festival April 15th Schedule
Note: This is the basic schedule, however often schedules can be completely changed due to weather conditions so pay attention to live updates.
Marionette Performance #1
10:00 AM (around 15 mins)
Procession starts (in front of Takayama Historical Government House )
12:30 PM
Marionette Performance #2
2:00 PM (around 15 mins)
Procession ends at Hie Shrine
4:00 PM
The schedule is subject to change depending on weather (such as rain).
Takayama City decides and has live updates on which events are cancelled the day of found on their Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Takayama Float Locations (for the marionette dances)
*Each float has a unique performance. For example, the Shakkyo marionette includes a lion dance and lion transformation while the Ryujin marionette includes a blast of confetti. Floats in red show which ones are putting on shows.
12:30 PM
Get off at Takayama Nohi Bus Center adjacent to Takayama Station. I missed the lion dance earlier, but the streets were lively with a lot of tourists.
1:20 PM
Around Honmachi street, there are festival food and game stalls selling classic festival foods like chocolate bananas, sugar coated fruits, fried foods and more! Many local children were out with their friends playing games.
Similar to the Ponshukan Sake Museum in Niigata Prefecture, Takayama also opened a sake sample bar located in the souvenir store Maryuhyaku where you can sample 100 different typesof the areas award winning sake, which is proudly produced in the area.
1:50 PM
After walking through the main streets and even doing some shopping, people started to make their ways to several different float stalls. I arrived 10 minutes early and was already far behind in the crowd!
Not all Takayama floats have puppets on them–my best advice is to see where the Japanese crowds migrate to (lol). Those with puppets will have a protruding stage in front of it for the doll. Floats with dolls on them are: Ebisu, Ryujin, Sanbasou, Shakkyo, Koukondai.
2:00 PM
The puppet dances start at each respective stall at 2PM and lasts around 15 minutes. This particular float (Shakkyo) was located right in front of the Takayama Municipal Government Memorial Hall. It did some pretty nifty tricks that were totally unexpected.
Hotels/ Lodging
Most guests opt to stay the night in Takayama to enjoy the festival and area at a more leisurely pace. The area is abundant in nature activities, luxurious foods like Hida beef, and natural hot springs. To truly experience the hot springs and hiking, the Okuhida region of Takayama has hiking trails, hot springs, and access to the national park Kamikochi. Next door is also Hida Furukawa famous for inspiring the anime movie, “Your Name” where many people enjoy riding bicycles by the rice fields. Lastly, the Kamioka region is a retro town famous for its outdoor bicycle experience on an old abandoned railway track!
Check more detailed information about the bus routes/ prices in the area: here
Publish date: April 1st, 2025 Topic: Transportation to Takayama, Takayama Bus
Going between Kyoto and Takayama can range from around 3 1/2 hours to 5 hours. There are currently two direct buses departing from Kyoto Station, one in the morning, and one in the afternoon. From July to October, one more bus is added and departs around lunch time and can be seen in the table below. If you want to visit Shirakawago or Kanazawa on the way to Takayama, there is also a tour bus that runs once a day, but it costs significantly more.
Kyoto to Takayama Bus Departure Times (direct bus)
If you’re arriving from the Kyoto Tower side of the station, follow the signs for Hachiko West Exit. After passing the shinkansen (bullet train) entrance, keep walking straight passing the Kintetsu train entrance until you are outside.
Sit in the waiting area
Right outside the station exit is a waiting area with plenty of seating and a roof. There is no bathroom, but a smoking area. Take the stairs or escalator down and head for bus stop F3.
Board the bus
At bus stop F3, the bus driver will check your reservation. If you did not book a ticket in advance, if there are still seats available, you can pay the driver directly in cash and still board.
Morning Kyoto Bus
In both Kyoto and Takayama, many stores and restaurants don’t open until 10 or 11AM, which can be inconvenient at times. If you board the 9:50AM bus, there are convenience stores, bread stores, and McDonalds at Kyoto station for breakfast. By taking this bus, you will arrive in Takayama in time for dinner.
Afternoon Kyoto Bus
If you want to spend time in Kyoto and reach Takayama at night, the 4:45PM bus is ideal as it gives you time to eat lunch beforehand. We recommend buying a dinner to-go as when you arrive in Takayama (around 9PM), most restaurants have already been closed.
Kyoto to Takayama via the Lemon Tour Bus (with stops at Kanazawa and Shirakawago)
There is a bus that makes a brief 40 minute stop in Kanazawa and a 1 hour 30 minute bus stop in Shirakawago. This bus is not a guided tour but instead transports you between each location.
NOTE: If you want to make all the stops in one day, this is a good option as getting to Shirakawago from Takayama takes 1 hour one way and departs only once an hour (5,600 yen roundtrip).
Price Analysis: Bus vs Train
Other methods to get from Kyoto to Takayama are by train and bus, or train, and shinkansen. Express trains such as the Hida Express or buses may depart only once an hour, so you may have to align your departure times. Reservations are recommended for the bus and express trains.
From Takayama you can also easily get to places like: Shirakawago, Okuhida, Kamikochi, and Kanazawa.
Okuhida Onsen Resort Town 1 hour from Takayama City
Kamikochi National Park 1hr 20 mins from Takayama City
Observation Deck View at Shirakawago 1 hour from Takayama City
Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa 2hrs 30 mins from Takayama City
If you use Takayama as a base, getting to these locations take only 2 hours or less. The Takayama area offers a lot of outdoor activities such as hiking, nature bathing, and natural hotsprings. Nearby are also popular tourist towns such as Hida Furukawa, Kamioka, and Gero.
