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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 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.

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.

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)

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 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!

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

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

October 10th:
Festival Float Display: 9AM~4PM [Location: here]
Marionette Show: 11PM~11:20PM (1st show), 1PM~1:20PM (2nd show) [Location: here]
Shrine Procession: 8:30PM ~ 12:30PM , 1:30PM ~ 4PM

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:

  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 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!

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

  • 2025.06.11

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



  • 2025.04.01

Cheapest way from Kyoto to Takayama by Bus

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)

Boarding time (from Kyoto)Arrival time (in Takayama)PriceReservation link
9:50 AM2:02 PMAdult: 6,000 yen
Child: 2,750 yen		Reservation
11:50 AM (From 7/19～ 10/23)4:02 PMAdult: 6,000 yen
Child: 2,750 yen		Reservation
4:45 PM8:57 PMAdult: 6,000 yen
Child: 2,750 yen		Reservation

*Note: If you want to also go to Shirakawago, you will have to board from Takayama Nohi Bus Center. (Reservations in advance are recommended)

Save 4,710 yen when going to Kamikochi from Takayama!

This one day, limited time offer takes you through Takayama, Kamikochi, and Matsumoto, a gateway hub with transfers to Tokyo. Tickets are limited, so act fast!

Read more

How to board the Takayama Bus from Kyoto Station

Aim for Hachiko West Exit

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.

Bus route schedule:
Kyoto Station (8:40AM departure)
Kanazawa (1:10~1:50PM) [40mins]
Shirakawago (3:10PM~4:40PM)
[1hr 30mins]
Takayama (ETA 5:40PM)

Price: 16,000 yen (both adult/child fare)
Check the website/ make a reservation

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.

Transportation MethodTime TakenCost
Bullet train (Shinkansen) + Express Train (Hida Express)~3hr 30 mins12,420 yen
Bullet train (Shinkansen) + Bus (from Nagoya)~3hr 30 mins9,720 yen
Direct bus from Kyoto to Takayama~4hr 10 mins6,000 yen

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
Shirakawago Observation Deck View in the Winter
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.

You can check the following bus routes here.

 








  • 2024.12.20

TOP 10 Historical Nagoya Day Trips

Topic: Nagoya day tours / Nagoya Day Trips

Nagoya Day Tours/Trips

While Nagoya is a huge metropolitan hub, it’s also surrounded by some of the most rich history in all of Japan! Gifu Prefecture, one hour from Nagoya is culturally rich in Samurai culture, and just west to Nagoya is Kansai with famous cultural capitals such as Kyoto and Nara. If you’re interested in old Japan, or deep nature and cultural history, Nagoya is a great option as a base for you to explore these places. Being the third largest city in Japan, there are countless of transportation methods to reach all of these places in around 2-3 hours or less.

Aichi Area

1. Inuyama Castle Town

Inuyama Castle Street

Located in Aichi Prefecture, Inuyama is home to one of Japan’s oldest and most well-preserved castles, Inuyama Castle. The castle town is charming, with a traditional atmosphere and several historical buildings, including merchant houses and shrines. Inuyama-jokamachi, a shopping street leading to the castle, is lined with delicious udon shops and souvenir areas to browse through. The castle offers stunning views of the Kiso River and the surrounding landscape. At Kiso River, from August 1st-August 10th there is a fireworks festival with fireworks being set off every 10 minutes from 8PM.

Nagoya Station ➞ Inuyamayuen Station
By train: ~30 minutes
Cost: 690 JPY
*This Meitetsu Limited Express bound for Inuyamayuen Station departs every 30 minutes.

2. Meiji Mura Museum

Meiji Styled Building


The Meiji-Mura Museum is an open-air museum that showcases architecture from the Meiji era (1868-1912). It features a real Meiji era train that runs through town and buildings that were relocated and restructured from all over Japan, allowing visitors to not only enjoy looking at Meiji styled buildings and interior, but also experience the life during that period (Meiji era clothing is also available for rental). It’s great for history lovers and also makes for a great photo-op! Meiji-Mura occasionally offers interactive events including a roleplaying, period themed mystery solving game that takes place at the museum’s school (in Japanese only).

Meitetsu Nagoya Station ➞ Inuyama Station ➞ Meiji-Mura
By train & bus: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Cost: 1,130 JPY
*At Meitetsu Nagoya Station, take the Inuyama Line on Platform 1.
*After you arrive at Inuyama Station, take the Meijimura Bus 「明治村行き」 (it stops services at 4:30PM)

Kansai Area

3. Nara

Known for its historical sites and friendly, free-roaming deer, Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital. Key attractions include Todai-ji Temple, housing a massive bronze Buddha, and Nara Park, where visitors can interact with the deer. Nara is also home to several other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Kofuku-ji Temple. A site less known by travelers is Mt.Wakakusa, a beautiful mountain point that overlooks all of Nara. This can be reached by bus or bus tour. Visitors can also roam the streets similar to the deer and eat hand made mochi or delicious Nara pudding!

For more details click here.

Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center ➞ Kintetsu Nara Station
By bus: 2 1/2 hours
Cost: 3,000 JPY
*The Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center is on the third floor of the Meitetsu Nagoya building and the boarding stop for Nara is #8.

Gifu Area

4. Gifu Castle

Gifu Castle’s Panoramic Scenery

Gifu castle, which dates back to the 16th century, was the home of famous samurai lord Oda Nobunaga and sits on a mountain top overlooking all of Gifu prefecture. Visitors can hike or take a cable car to reach the base of the castle ground where you can find food, drinks, and even a small squirrel park! At the observatory is a gorgeous panoramic view over the entirety of Gifu Prefecture. If you look hard enough, you can even see into Aichi prefecture, home of Nagoya.

Nagoya Station ➞ Gifu Station ➞ Gifu Park ➞ Gifu Castle
By train + bus + ropeway: ~1 hr 20 mins
Cost: 1,510 JPY (train and bus) + 1,300 JPY (ropeway for adults) / 650 JPY (ropeway for children)
*From Gifu Station, take bus No.45 「岐阜大学病院行き」. It is headed towards the Gifu Uni. Hospital.

5. Tsumago-juku

Post Town of Tsumago Juku

This historic post town on the Nakasendo Trail was a former highway that connected Kyoto and Edo (modern Tokyo) during the Edo period. The Nakasendo Trail stretched between modern Tokyo to Kyoto, and was where most delivery men made their rounds between capitals. It’s a popular destination for those wanting to experience old Japan, as there are interactive buildings and a special post office where you can send messages with limited edition stamps. Tsumago-juku has preserved its traditional wooden buildings and picturesque streets, allowing visitors to feel as if they’re traveling through traditional Japan.

Nagoya Station ➞ Nakatsugawa Station ➞ Nagisoeki Station ➞ Tsumago Juku
By train: ~2 hours
Cost: 1,990 JPY
*At Nagisoeki Station, take the Magome Line or Hogami Line and get off at Omatabashi.

6. Takayama

Takayama Festival Bridge

Located in the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a peaceful city hidden in the mountains and known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets and carpentry. The town is famous for its traditional wooden houses, bustling morning markets, delicious local wagyu beef, and the Takayama Matsuri (a popular festival in Japan). For anime lovers, it is also the inspiration for the anime, Hyouka. Takayama also serves as a gateway to explore the nearby mountainous regions including Shirakawago and the hot spring town of Okuhida, making it a perfect countryside escape.

For more details click here.

Nagoya Station (or Nagoya Meitetsu Center) ➞ Takayama Station
By bus: ~2 1/2 hours
Cost: 2,400 ~ 2,700 JPY
*You can book the bus here: highwaybus.com

7. Shirakawago

Shirakawago Observation Deck View in the Winter
Shirakawago in Winter

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, built with steep thatched roofs and designed to withstand heavy snowfalls. Located in Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawago offers a glimpse into rural Japan’s past and is beautiful all seasons round. Visitors can relax being surrounded by the beautiful mountains while experiencing the slow life people of the past once lived. One of the most popular times to visit is during the winter when the village is covered in snow.

For more details click here.

Nagoya Meitetsu Center ➞ Shirakawago
By train & bus: ~2 hours 40 mins
Cost: 4,200 JPY
*Direct buses to Shirakawago can only be made through the Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center.
You can book it here: highwaybus.com

8. Hida Furukawa

This town’s picturesque streets, traditional buildings, and beautiful natural surroundings make it a popular destination for photographers. Located only 20 minutes from Takayama, it makes a popular half day trip for those already in the region. A popular attraction is feeding hundreds of carp in the river that flows through town. It is also popular for inspiring the hit anime movie, “Your Name”. Spots such as the train station, library, and Wakamiya Shrine are famous points in the movie.

Nagoya Station (or Nagoya Meitetsu Center) ➞ Takayama Station ➞ Hida Furukawa Station
By train & bus: 2 hours 40 mins
Cost: ~3,000 JPY
You can book the way to Takayama here: highwaybus.com
*Either take the train (once an hour) or bus to Hida Furukawa from Takayama Station. Please schedule accordingly.

Mie Area

9. Ise Jingu

Town Area Surrounding Ise Jingu

Located in Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines where the imperial family often visits. Annually, thousands of visitors come here to pray for good luck or health. The shrine complex is surrounded by beautiful nature and is considered a spiritual site. The inner shrine, known as Naiku, is particularly significant and is rebuilt every 20 years as part of the Shinto tradition. It’s known as a powerful place to go pray!

Nagoya Station ➞ Ujiyamada Station ➞ Naiku-mae bus stop
By train & bus: ~2 hours
Cost: 3,390 yen
*You can also choose to get off at Ujiyamada Station if you would like to walk and enjoy the surrounding tourist town of Ise.

Shiga Area

10. Hikone Castle

Hikone Castle in the Spring

Located in Shiga Prefecture on the shores of Lake Biwa, Hikone Castle is one of the few original castles remaining in Japan. The castle grounds are beautiful, especially during cherry blossom season, and the castle’s interior offers a glimpse into feudal-era life. It is also home to one of the top 5 famous mascots in Japan, “Hikonyan”.

Nagoya Station ➞ Maibara Station ➞ Hikone Station
By train: ~1 hour 10 mins
Cost: 3,610 JPY