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  • 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.

Limited to October 8th, 2025! [Special bus tour offers!]

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!

This tour includes a round-trip ticket for the Shin Hotaka Ropeway!
The Shin Hotaka Ropeway, which offers spectacular views of the Northern Alps, is available at no extra charge.

Details & Reservations

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.

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:

[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.

There is also a bus tour to Shirakaba-daira, the second ropeway stop, by chartered bus.
　

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.

Limited to October 8th, 2025! [Special bus tour offers!]

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!

Tour Overview:

  • Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 (day trip)
  • Route: Takayama → Shin Hotaka Ropeway (second ropeway) → Matsumoto
  • 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.

Included in the tour:

  • Charter bus fare
  • Guide fee
  • Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Second Ropeway) round trip ticket
  • Lunch (Bento)
  • Matsumoto Castle Entrance Fee
  • Various toll road and parking fees

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.

Details & Reservations

Limited number of people! First-come, first-served.

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 will surely be an unforgettable experience. You can take your time and enjoy your trip on your own, or you can take a budget bus tour for a more efficient tour. You can take your time and enjoy this wonderful autumn scenic route according to your travel style.

Please come and see the carpet of autumn leaves woven by the Japanese Alps in autumn with your own eyes. You will surely be captivated by the beauty of Japanese nature!

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)

Limited to October 8th, 2025! Special bus tour offers!

Takayama Departure – Matsumoto (one way) Bus Tour

Enjoy Takayama, Shin Hotaka Ropeway, and Matsumoto Castle, with lunch, transportation, and admission fees included!

**Save 4,710 yen in transportation costs alone by going via this tour!

Details & Reservations

  • 2025.08.13

If you come to Japan in October, don’t miss this area! Autumn foliage in Kamikochi and the Autumn Takayama Festival

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 Plan for 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.

Google Map

Afternoon: Visit the World of Yayoi Kusama at Matsumoto City Museum of Art

The exterior of the museum also features polka dots designed by Yayoi Kusama and is a popular photo spot.

Immerse yourself in the world of world-renowned artist Yayoi Kusama in her hometown of Matsumoto, Japan.

Google Map

Evening: Enjoy Matsumoto’s local delicacies

  • 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

  1. Kamikochi→Hirayu Bus Terminal (20-30 min., 1,500 yen)
  2. Enjoy Hida beef croquettes and other local delicacies at Hirayu Bus Terminal
  3. 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.

From Matsumoto to Kamikochi & Kamikochi to Hida Takayama!
[Special bus tour] for Affordable and Convenient transportation

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.

Therefore, we recommend the Bus tour from Matsumoto to Takayama via Kamikochi from Matsumoto to Takayama via Kamikochi.

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 8, 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 recommended this limited bus if you are planning to travel from Matsumoto to Takayama on Wednesday, October 8!

Details & Reservations

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

Post-Trip Options

After enjoying the Takayama Festival, you can continue your journey by following these routes:

  1. To Kyoto and Osaka area via Nagoya
  2. 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.

[October 8th, 2025 only] Easy Travel from Matsumoto → Kamikochi → Takayama
Special bus tour (5,000 yen one-way, including box lunch)

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♪

Details & Reservations

*Number of people limited, early birds win!

Summary:


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 Festiva 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!

Tour reservations and more information:

Location of Matsumoto – Kamikochi – Takayama
Google Map (Matsumoto Station→Kamikochi Bus Terminal)

Google Map (Kamikochi Bus Terminal→Takayama Station)

Matsumoto/ Kamikochi/ Takayama Bus Tour

  • 2025.05.23

Nagoya Chubu Centrair Airport Access | Route Access from Nagoya and Gifu, Takayama


If you are trying to get to Nagoya Chubu Centrair Airport, the most common way is to transfer there via the Meitestu Line from Meitetsu Nagoya Station. Currently the only way to get there is by train or by taxi/rental car. If you are boarding from Takayama, the discounted set ticket can only be bought in person from the Takayama Nohi Bus Center. Below, well show you detailed instructions on how to get to Nagoya Centrair Airport.

TypeTime RequiredTransfersCostBoarding Area
By bus (from Takayama)3 hours14400 yen (one way)①Nohi Bus Center Platform 3
②Meitetsu Gifu Station Platform 2
By train
(from Meitetsu Nagoya Station)		40-50 minutes (Rapid Limited Express Train)0980 yen (one way)Meitetsu Nagoya Station Platform 4
By taxi (from Nagoya Station)76 minutes0~18,600 yen (toll fees included)Nagoya Station

Make bus reservations in Japan at: highway-bus.jp


By Taxi


In Japan, the apps for taxis are called GO and DiDi. You can make reservations and pay by card directly through the app without speaking to anyone. The cost of a taxi ride from JR Nagoya Station to Chubu Airport may cost around 18,600 yen with the toll road fare included. Please check the app for a more precise estimate. Most of the time there are no bigger sized cars for rental.

By Train


There are two types of trains headed to the Nagoya Centrair Airport. There is the Rapid Ltd. Exp., Limited Express (RED, cheaper, and can purchase from the ticket machines) and the SKY Limited Express (BLUE train with reserved seating, faster service) and other express/local trains. We rode the Rapid Ltd. Exp. and will explain how to do so below.

How to use the train:

Step ①
The train leading to Nagoya Centrair Airport is located at Meitetsu Nagoya Station. Follow for signs pointing to the Meitetsu Line. If you exit JR Nagoya station, Meitetsu Nagoya Station will be on the right side of the station past the Starbucks.

Step ②
At the ticket machine, you can purchase the ticket by:

  1. Change the language to English
  2. Press “Ticket”
  3. Press the green button “Select by line name”
  4. Press “Cent Japan Int’l Airport”
  5. Pay 980 yen

Step ③
Enter the Central gate and follow the signs for Platform 4. At platform 4 there are seats by the vending machine, a Family Mart convenience store, and even Yoshinoya restaurant.

Step ④
To board on the train headed for the airport, line behind the green line. You will know your train has arrived when the green sign saying Cen. Japan Airport begins to flash. Board the train and you’re set!

By Bus (from Takayama)

If you are departing from Takayama, the best kept way to get to the airport is through Gifu City (at Meitetsu Gifu Station). This is the very first train stop before the airport, meaning you get first dibs on seating before the train reaches Nagoya. It also means less commute time and walking and is generally less crowded and confusing than Nagoya Station, so I highly recommend this route.

How to use the bus and train:

Step ①
Purchase a ticket online heading for Meitetsu Gifu (LOFT) here. You can also go to the ticket office at Takayama Nohi Bus Center and buy one there. The reception opens as early as 6 AM. After buying the ticket board the bus at bus stop #3.

Step ②
Upon reaching Meitetsu Gifu, buy a ticket at the machines or from the ticket office by the Central Gates. There is a family mart and resting area after entering the gates.

Step ③

  1. Change the language to English
  2. Press “Ticket”
  3. Press the green button “Select by line name”
  4. Press “Cent Japan Int’l Airport”
  5. Pay 1,150 yen


Step ④
Head towards Platform #2. There will be signs that say “for Central Japan Int`l Airport”. It will be nonstop so stay on board until they announce the final stop!

TIP:

Car #1 and #2 of the train are by reservation only (including an extra fare) and the rest are for regular passengers. The other cars are standard seats but if you go to car #3 there are single and double seats that can be adjusted.

Departing from Nagoya Airport

Nohi Bus provides a discounted set ticket which covers the bus fair to Meitetsu Gifu where you can board the train to Nagoya Centrair Airport. To use this set ticket you can purchase it from the ticket counter. If you purchase this ticket set, you will have to get off at Meitetsu Gifu and transfer by bus to get to Takayama.

How to board the train from Nagoya Airport

Step ①
If you are coming from Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, make your way for the main lobby where you can buy tickets. Buy a ticket for Nagoya Station or Gifu Meitetsu Station.

Step ②
If you are going to Nagoya or Gifu, take Track 2 which is on the left side and marked as red.

Step ③
Depending on your stop, get off at Meitetsu Nagoya Station or if you’re trying to go to Takayama, get off at Meitetsu Gifu Station (the last stop).

Step ④
After exiting the gates, turn left and go down the escalators. Across the street to the left is bus stop #6 in front of the Gifu Bus Information Office. To make a seat reservation, go into the office and reserve a seat. If already done, you can line up and board the bus for Takayama!

Hotels near Nagoya Airport

In the case that you have an early flight, Nagoya Airport has a actually very clean and modern capsule hotel called Tube Square, located on the B1 floor of Terminal 1. Rooms are separated by gender and come with a shower. You can book a room in time increments of 9 hours or 12 hours and reception runs late so you don’t have to worry about rushing! Off the premises are also a few hotels close by if you want a bigger room.

 

Nagoya as a Base

Nagoya is an ideal spot as a base to travel to famous towns such as Takayama, Shirakawago, Kyoto, Nara, and more! It’s abundant transportation network, central location, and cheap hotel prices make it a great option for savvy travelers.

Read more

Nagoya Chubu Airport Shopping/Dining


Before the boarding gates, located in Terminal 1 is a large shopping and dining area with a European/Japanese outdoor theme. You can grab your last minute souvenir snack shopping on the first floor while the second floor has a dining area with kebabs, curry, ramen, sandwiches, onigiri and even a Uniqlo! The spacious area boasts local food stalls, stage, a piano, and plenty of seating. Outside the dining you can even step onto the outdoor deck and watch planes fly off.

Nagoya Flight of Dreams

Nagoya Flight of Dreams is located in Terminal 2 of the airport. There are fewer flights departing here (often domestic flights). We recommend to budget an extra 30 minutes to get to this terminal because it is quite a lot of walking! The Flight of Dreams is a stylish area with bars, shopping, and a starbucks overlooking a massive real life sized airplane!

The airplane is available for all visitors to get close to. You can even enter the airplane and view the cockpit. It’s a great way to pass time in case you get there too early!