You can access Shirakawago from several major cities in Japan by direct bus. Shirakawago cannot be accessed by train, but you can get there by the following cities without any transfers. Below we’ll show you the different bus timetables departing from Nagoya, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Toyama.
Route #1: Takayama to Shirakawago by Bus
Warning: Tickets for this route is extremely popular. Often you cannot buy a ticket the same day from the station. We advise you to book a mobile ticket on the website above, or buy your tickets in person a day prior. There are two types of tickets: unreserved and reserved. Unreserved means that you can stand in line and pay for the ticket directly, but most likely all seats will already be sold out. There are also special tickets that stops at Ainokura Village and Shirakawago (this is a separate set ticket that must be purchased directly with Takayama Nohi Bus Center).
*Those who hold the “Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass” and ”SHORYUDO Bus Pass” cannot use it to make an online reservation. If you hold either of these passes, please proceed with Takayama Nohi Bus Terminal.
The bus center at Meitetsu Nagoya Station is located on the 3rd floor. To access from Nagoya Station, exit at the Sakura-dori side, and head towards the separate building, Meitetsu Nagoya Station. If you enter Meitetsu Nagoya Station from the basement floor, turn right at the cake store HARBS and board the elevators on the left side only (the right side doesn’t stop at the 3rd floor). There is a small waiting room and a family mart next to the ticket office.
Nagoya is the 4th largest city in Japan. As it is in the center of Japan, it is in an ideal spot to travel from as it is very easily accessible to other areas. We recommend traveling from Nagoya as a base because it is very convenient, affordable, and most importantly, fun. We explain in detail how transfer to Shirakawago, Takayama, and even Nara in the cheapest way possible from Nagoya below.
This bus stop is located outside Kanazawa Station right before the famous wooden station gate. Purchase your ticket online or at the ticket office located next to the bus terminal. This route is useful for those who arrive in Kanazawa via the Hokuriku Shinkansen. You can access Kanazawa station from Tokyo if you take the Kagayaki Shinkansen (~2hrs 30 mins) or the Hakutaka Shinkansen (~3hrs). If you are coming from Kyoto, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line and transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen (~3hrs to get to Kanazawa Station.
This boarding point is convenient if you are coming from Tokyo. To reach Toyama Station from Tokyo, use the Hokuriku Shinkansen. From Tokyo, you can access Toyama Station on the Kagayaki Shinkansen (~2hrs 8mins) or the Hakutaka Shinkansen (~2hrs 30 mins). If you are coming from Nagano, take the Kagayaki Shinkansen (~1hr 20 mins) or the Hakutaka Shinkansen (~1hr 40 mins). There are also special set tickets which take you to Gokayama and Shirakawago (only in Japanese) that can be purchased from convenience store ticket machines.
Gokayama (Ainokura Village), a less busy alternative to Shirakawago
Gokayama’s Ainokura Village & Shirakawago from TAKAOKA STATION
Located ~23km north of Shirakawago, Gokayama (famous for its Ainokura Village) is another thatched roof village so isolated, it can mostly only be accessed by car. It offers a far less busy and more intimate experience than Shirakawago. From Takaoka Station there are also set bus tickets that stop at both Gokayama and Shirakawago. The following set tickets can be purchased at convenience stores (Japanese only). Tickets must be redeemed at the Kaetsuno Bus Ticket Center on the first floor of Takaoka Station.
More information on the set tickets (Japanese only): here
Set tickets: 1. Kaetsuno Bus Gokayama-Shirakawago Free Ticket Ticket from Takaoka Station/Shin-Takaoka Station → Gokayama → Shirakawago. Sale period: January 29, 2025 to March 31, 2025 Price: 3,500 yen (adults) / 1,750 yen (adults)
2. Kaetsuno Bus Gokayama Free Ticket Ticket between Takaoka Station, Shin-Takaoka Station and Gokayama (Sasarakan-mae). Sale period: January 29, 2025 to March 31, 2025 Price: 2,500 yen (adults) / 1,250 yen (children)
3. Kaetsuno Bus Takaoka ⇒ Shirakawago One-way Free Ticket One way ticket from Takaoka Station/Shin-Takaoka Station to Shirakawago. Sale period: January 29, 2025 to March 31, 2025 Price: 2,000 yen (adults) / 1,000 yen (children)
Gokayama’s Ainokura Village & Shirakawago from TAKAYAMA STATION
You can also visit Gokayama from Takayama Nohi Bus Station, with one departure time at 8:30 AM. This set ticket tour runs for 8,000 yen.
This set ticket tour includes: -Roundtrip ticket to and from Takayama Station -Stops at Gokayama (50 minutes) -Stops at Shirakawago (2 hrs & 40 mins)
There are five main ways to access central Tokyo from Narita Airport (New Tokyo International Airport).
1. Express Bus (Airport Limousine Bus) 2. Railways ① Keisei Skyliner (express train with all seats reserved) 3. Railway ② Rapid train on Keisei Line 4. Railway ③ JR’s Narita Express limited express train 5. Taxi
*Please note that there is no Grab or Uber in Japan.
Characteristics of Transportation Between Narita Airport and Central Tokyo
1. Express Bus (Airport Limousine Bus)
Direct service runs not only between Narita Airport and terminal stations such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Stations, but also to major hotels, towns outside Tokyo, regional cities, and various other locations. It is also convenient because it departs from the arrival lobby. Recommended for: those who have a lot of luggage, want to make the most of their time, or are unfamiliar with Tokyo.
2. Railways ① Keisei Skyliner (express train with all seats reserved)
This is an all-seat limited express train that connects Narita Airport to Nippori Station and Ueno Station (Keisei Ueno Station) in approximately 40 minutes. The buses run approximately every 20 minutes from approximately 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM Recommended for: speed and comfort
3. Railway ② Rapid train on Keisei Line
This conventional line connects Narita Airport with Nippori Station and Ueno Station (Keisei Ueno Station). It is an inexpensive and stable way to travel, although it may take longer and requires transfers. Recommended for: cheapness and punctuality
This is an all-seat limited express train operated by JR East connecting Narita Airport with Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, and Shinjuku stations. Recommended for: those who wish to go to Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station, Shibuya Station, Shinjuku Station or Yokohama Station without changing trains on schedule.
5. Taxi
Many cabs are waiting at the airport. It is possible to board a cab without a reservation and go anywhere you wish. In addition to regular metered cabs, there are also fixed fare airport cabs. Flat fare cabs (airport cabs) are also available without a reservation. The fare from Narita Airport to central Tokyo costs approximately 30,000 yen.
* There is no Grab or Uber service in Japan.
Ranking of Popular Sightseeing Spots in Tokyo
Number of visitors 1st Shibuya 2nd Shinjuku/Okubo 3rd Ginza
Satisfaction 1stShibuya 2nd Akihabara 3rd Ginza
*Source: From the 2023 Survey Report on the Behavioral Characteristics of Foreign Travelers by Country/Region.
Most travelers stop at Shibuya as their first destination.
Underground Because there is no station at *T3, Please board the train from T2.
Cab
1 hour and 30 minutes
0 times
Approx. 30,000 yen
N/A
Arrivals Lobby
Highway Bus (Airport Limousine Bus) Experience from Narita Airport to Shibuya
Flights departing the night before from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport, or Singapore’s Changi International Airport all arrive at Narita Airport around 7:00AM to 8:30AM one after another. The flight I boarded from Bangkok also took about 6 hours to arrive at Narita Airport. By the time I arrived in Japan, it was only 8:00 AM.
The flight was short and I felt sleep deprived. After getting off the plane, we proceeded through immigration, baggage claim, customs, and arrived safely at the arrival lobby of Terminal 1 (T1) before 9:00. There’s so many ways to get to Shibuya, but should I take a bus? the train?
Since I wanted to sleep a little longer and had a lot of luggage, I decided to take an express bus (airport limousine bus) that goes directly to Shibuya, which I could board right in front of the arrival lobby. As you can see in the photo, there was an express bus ticket sales counter right in front of me as I exited the arrival lobby. It is located right in front of Narita Airport Terminal 1 (T1) North Wing, or South Wing, depending on which one you arrive at.
After arriving, I immediately purchased a highway bus ticket to Shibuya. There was only a 9:20 AM. highway bus bound for Shibuya available.
Route: Narita Airport Terminal 3 (T3) ↓ Terminal 2 (T2) ↓ Terminal 1 (T1) ↓ Shibuya Station (Shibuya Fuclas) ↓ Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel The bus stopped at Shibuya Mark City (Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu) in that order.
Express bus tickets can be purchased at a manned counter or from an automatic ticket vending machine, which is available in English, Korean, and Chinese as well as Japanese. Tickets should be bought at the machine by credit card.
Purchase a boarding pass and go outside the arrival lobby. Go to Terminal 1, bus stop No. 10, which is the bus stop for the highway bus to Shibuya. For North Wing arrivals, exit from the North Exit (N2) in front of you and you will see the express bus stop #1. After that, walk along the street to stop #10 (about 2 minutes). For South Wing arrivals, exit from the South Exit (S2), and bus stop No. 10 will be right in front of you.
(See the overall map of the T1 bus stop for a clearer view.)
As I waited for the express bus bound for Shibuya to arrive at Terminal 1, Bus Stop No. 10, people began to line up.
The photo on the left shows a convenience store in the South Wing arrival lobby. You may want to shop here for water and snacks, just in case! Credit cards were also accepted here, so there is no need to worry even if you haven’t exchanged your currency yet. To exchange money into Japanese yen, the Tourist Information Center at the Shibuya Fukuras Bus Terminal is convenient.
As the attendant was making her rounds with the passengers, I realized more and more people were showing up for the Shibuya bus. Bus stop No. 10 doubled as both a bus stop for express buses bound for Shibuya and Tokyo Station, separating customers bound for Shibuya (the first bus to arrive) and Tokyo Station (the second bus to arrive) into two rows. The attendant will ask you if you want to go to Shibuya, and if you say “Shibuya,” he or she will direct you to the Shibuya-bound line. The bus bound for Shibuya comes first, so they put the suitcases to be checked in the trunk of our bus closer to the road. Each person can leave up to two suitcases in the trunk of the express bus bound for Shibuya. (As shown in the photo on the right, two lines will be formed. The line closer to the road is for Shibuya.)
9:18 AM A high speed bus bound for Shibuya entered platform 10. Suitcases left on the side of the road will be placed in the trunk of the bus by the attendant, so you only have to board the bus with your hand luggage.
Seats are unreserved; passengers who boarded from T3 or T2 were already seated, so I sat in an empty seat.
9:21 AM Departure was 1 minute behind schedule. The train was equipped with Wi-Fi and restroom facilities, but with a little sleep deprivation and the comfortable shaking of the bus, I fell asleep quickly. The seats were also equipped with electrical outlets, so I charged my phone before I slept.
10:30 AM I was awakened by an announcement. It appears that we will be arriving at Shibuya shortly.
10:40 AM The express bus from Narita Airport had almost no traffic and arrived at the Shibuya Fukurusu Bus Terminal right in front of Shibuya Station at around 10:40 AM, 15 minutes earlier than the scheduled time. The ride was so comfortable that I slept through the whole bus ride. I felt so refreshed afterwards despite my sleep deprivation. I think the best thing about taking a highway bus is that you can take your time to rest! Next, mot of us got off at the Shibuya Fukuras Bus Terminal. The highway bus will then head to Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel → Shibuya Mark City (Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu).
When you get off the bus, the tourist information center “shibuya-san” will be right in front of you. It offers a variety of services related to sightseeing, including luggage storage, currency exchange, tourist information (with multilingual staff), Wi-Fi rental, smartphone charging service, and ticket sales for express buses and other services. Next door was also Starbucks to my relief!
When I went to the back of the tourist information center, I found a café space and next to it, many suitcases. Many tourists left their luggage here. This is very convenient if you immediately want to start sightseeing in Shibuya! The staff also seemed to speak English and other languages, so I was able to talk to them easily.
We still had some time before our hotel check-in, so we decided to look around the Tourist Information Center. There was a place to rest and it was warm and heated.
At the info center, we learned about the ” SHIBUYA STREET RIDE ” sightseeing bus, an open-top bus that tours around the Shibuya area! This sightseeing bus allows you to see Shibuya in a different way and is fun for the family.
Conveniently, the departure time was also from the Shibuya Fukuras bus terminal where we are now! And the departure time is 11:25 AM, which was perfect! I immediately left my luggage as the tourist information center and bought a ticket! Tickets for “SHIBUYA STREET RIDE” are more economical to purchase on the web vs. at a ticket vending machine, so purchasing tickets on the web is recommended! → Discover the official website
The person at the counter was kind enough to tell us this tip, and there was also a QR code to the website on the counter, as shown in the photo. Of course, you can also purchase tickets from a ticket machine.
“SHIBUYA STREET RIDE” is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except for national holidays. Please be careful.
The photo on the right shows the fee for baggage storage. Many people checked their baggage.
Business hours: 10:00-19:30 Large luggage: 1,000 yen per piece per day Small luggage (55 cm high x 40 cm wide): 500 yen per piece per day
Around 11:00 AM An open-top bus with a lively design entered the terminal. Since I was there, I took pictures of the open-top bus from various angles to commemorate the event. I quickly showed my ticket to the crew and boarded the train!
11:25 AM And we were off for downtown! After a long overnight journey, we finally arrived at Shibuya. It felt quite unique to experience the known spots such as Scramble Crossing and Hachiko from the open-top bus (SHIBUYA STREET RIDE). It gives you a different perspective of the area.
Walking around Shibuya afterwards became more enjoyable, and can be fun for the whole family. You can also enjoy just sitting on the bus, which was nice after long flight and trip.
After enjoying Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Harajuku, Takeshita Street, Jingu Gaien, National Stadium, Omotesando, etc. on the bus for about an hour, we returned to the Shibuya Fukuras Bus Terminal.
After getting off the bus, passengers can enjoy sightseeing in Shibuya while looking at their smartphones with the “SHIBUYA STREET RIDE” passengers-only city walking guide, which picks up the highlights of the Shibuya area!
We took the daytime bus, but if you take the evening bus (6:20 PM), you can see the Omotesando illumination from the second floor of the open-top bus during the winter season. You romantically move under the lights at a leisurely pace; I wanted to try it the next time I come!
Around 12:30 PM We returned to the Shibuya Fukuras bus terminal.
What should we have for our first lunch in Japan? We once again consulted with the tourist information!
Shibuya is the most popular and often the first stop for foreign tourists in Tokyo. In Shibuya, you can feel the energy and dynamism of Tokyo.
Shibuya is home to Tokyo’s leading terminal station and is one of Tokyo’s most popular downtown areas. It is also a popular and fashion and culture destination for young people comparable to Times Square in New York, Piccadilly Circus in London, and Siam in Bangkok.
What are popular places for foreign tourists near Shibuya Station and Shibuya Bus Terminal?
Shibuya Scramble Crossing: This is a world-famous intersection and a photo-op spot for many tourists.
Hachiko: A symbol of fidelity and love, Hachiko’s story is known not only in Japan but also around the world.
Shibuya 109: The center of Japanese fashion, where you can enjoy the latest trends.
SHIBUYA SKY: This new symbol of Shibuya is popular for its spectacular view from the rooftop observation deck 229 meters above the ground, from which you can see as far as Mt.Fuji.
SHIBUYA STREET RIDE: This is a regular sightseeing bus that allows passengers to enjoy the streets of Shibuya and the Shibuya area on a double-decker open-top bus.
Upon arrival in Japan, we recommend that you first head to Shibuya to enjoy the Shibuya area!
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!
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 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.
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 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.
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 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
Topic: Nagoya day tours / Day trips from Nagoya / Nagoya Travel/ Shirakawago Day Trip Itinerary
Why Nagoya As A Base for Day Trips?
Thatched roofs in ShirakawagoDeer in Nara
Nagoya as a Base
Nagoya is the 4th largest city in Japan. As it is in the center of Japan, it is in an ideal spot to travel from as it is very easily accessible to other areas. We recommend traveling from Nagoya as a base because it is very convenient, affordable, and most importantly, fun. We’ll explain how to get to Shirakawago, Takayama, and even Nara in the cheapest way possible from Nagoya below.
Benefits of Nagoya include:
Easy Day Tours Day trips from Nagoya include “Shirakawago”, “Takayama”, “Nara”, and “Kyoto”. Each of these sightseeing spots can be accessed comfortably, allowing you to have a fulfilling day. By highway bus, you can conveniently go to Shirakawago in about 2 hours and 40 minutes one way, Takayama in about 2 hours and 50 minutes one way, Nara in about 2 hours and 30 minutes one way, and Kyoto in about 2 hours and 50 minutes one way.
Convenience Nagoya is one of Japan’s major cities, and there are many restaurants open late at night and early in the morning. Whether it be early in the morning or late at night, you can always find a place to eat.
Great Shopping With an abundance of department stores and bustling shopping streets, Nagoya is a perfect shopper’s paradise. You can find everything from the latest fashions to traditional souvenirs.
Popular Theme Parks Nagoya has a variety of theme parks that you can enjoy with your family and friends, such as Ghibli Park and Legoland. They are perfect for making memories.
Cheap Lodging Compared to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, lodging costs in Nagoya are often cheaper. You can enjoy sightseeing and shopping while keeping travel costs low.
If you use Nagoya as your base, you can easily go to famous spots such as: Shirakawago, Takayama, and Naraall in less than 3 hours. We highly recommend you reserve bus tickets in advance as they often sell out!
Shirakawago, registered as a World Heritage site, is a beautiful thatched-roof village built in the Gassho-zukuri style. The scenery is breathtaking no matter what time of year you visit. With its old townscape, strolling in Takayama is like stepping back in time to old Japan. You can enjoy various local specialties as well as the infamous wagyu grade Hida beef.
Recommended one day trip route from Nagoya (1) Shirakawago and Takayama
Shirakawago in SummerShirakawago with Snow
Getting to these two spots from Nagoya is fairly easy. You can get there by train, bus, or car, but going by bus is by far the cheapest method. We’ll teach you how to get to Shirakawago and Takayama by bus below.
Shirakawago
Shirakawago is a picturesque village which preserves a glimpse of ancient Japan with its traditional gassho-zukuri houses. Once remote and inaccessible, its preserved history and buildings eventually earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even today, it is not possible to go there directly by train, but with the opening of the expressway, going by express bus has become quite popular.
Takayama
Known as “Little Kyoto,” Takayama has a charming townscape that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. Lined with traditional townhouses and beautiful wooden buildings, visitors will feel as if they have stepped back in time.
* If you also want to go to Takayama, please book a one-way highway bus from Nagoya to Shirakawago. * If you wish to go ticketless, please select Keitai Ticket as the ticket type. * Keitai tickets will be sent to the e-mail address entered at the time of reservation. * Web tickets must be printed.
Bus to Shirakawago and Takayama from Nagoya
Around 7:30AM
I arrived at the Meitetsu Bus Center, located in the Meitetsu Department Store building near Nagoya Station.
The bus bound for Shirakawa-go departs from the third floor at bus stop 7.
Since I didn’t have much time, I bought breakfast at a convenience store on the third floor of the Meitetsu Bus Center and waited for the buses to arrive at the waiting room on the same third floor.
There is also a cafe (Doutor Coffee) on the 4th floor, but please note that it is only open from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
Around 7:40 AM
A bus bound for Shirakawago enters bus stop No. 7. Show your mobile ticket to the crew and board the bus. All seats are reserved, so sit in your seat indicated on the ticket and wait for the departure. The bus is fully equipped with AC power and free Wifi for all seats, and a restroom at the end of the bus.
Around 7:50 AM
Use the Meitetsu Bus to get to Shirakawago.
Next to Nagoya Station is the Meitetsu Bus Center.
(From Meitetsu Bus Center, 3rd floor, bus stop #7) Depart for Shirakawago.
This bus terminal is exclusively for local and highway buses and is conveniently located for sightseeing in Shirakawago. It is convenient for visiting Gassho-zukuri villages and the Shirakawago Observatory.
Hours of operation: 8:30AM – 5:30PM Facilities: waiting room, restroom, tourist center, large coin lockers, luggage storage, automatic foreign currency exchange, bus reservation counter, WIFI
For a detailed report of Shirakawago’s luggage storage (including measurements) click here.
Upon arrival in Shirakawago, we recommend first visiting the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory, which offers a panoramic view of Shirakawago.
After viewing Shirakawa-go from the observatory, next visit Hagi-cho, the center of Shirakawa-go. Hagi-cho is a wonderful place where beautiful natural scenery and rich history are in harmony.
Distance by foot (from the bus terminal)
It is 15 minutes walk from Shirakawago Bus Terminal to the Shirakawago Observatory Details (Google map)
Other Shirakawago Attractions
Gassho-zukuri Houses Hagicho is lined with approximately 30 historic gassho-zukuri houses. These houses are a precious reminder of the traditional architectural style of the past, and are astonishing in both their beauty and functionality. Hagicho is part of the Shirakawago World Heritage Site area. It resembles the Edo Period (1603-1868) in Japan.
Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine is an ancient and historically significant Shinto shrine believed to have been founded in the 17th century. Surrounded by huge cedar trees, its known as one of the oldest areas of Shirakawago.
Traditional Food and Fashionable Cafes In Hachigo you can cafe hop between the gassho-style houses. One of the famous foods in Shirakawago is soba noodles, and there are a lot of restaurants that serve it here. You can also buy a variety of snacks and walk through the streets as if you were living in old Japan.
Interactive Shirakawago Map
After enjoying Shirakawago, take the express bus to Takayama.
A 1 hour trip from Shirakawago ⇒ Takayama
It takes about one hour from Shirakawago to Takayama. This bus is available by reservation or by non-reservation. We recommend making a reservation as this is a busy route.
Upon arrival in Takayama, enjoy the atmosphere of Little Kyoto with its old streets and camps, and Takayama’s gourmet food such as Takayama ramen and Hida beef.
After enjoying Takayama, take a highway bus back to Nagoya.
Nara is the oldest capital city in Japan and is renowned for its many historical legacies. In Nara Park, you’ll be greeted by friendly deer. Beautiful and famous temples like the Great Buddha and the Five-Story Pagoda also create a calm and historic atmosphere. Walking along the old streets, you can also find a lot of stylish cafes and traditional souvenir shops scattered throughout the area. Nara sells a lot of local delicacies such as Nara zuke (pickles) and kakinoha sushi (persimmon leaf sushi).
Express buses connect Nagoya (Meitetsu Bus Center) and Nara (Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station) in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering good value and convenience.
A less known one day trip from Nagoya is Nara, the ancient capital of Japan. By bus it only takes 2 1/2 hours to get to Nara from Nagoya. There are four round-trip express buses that run directly from Nagoya to Nara every day, providing easy and inexpensive access. This makes it easy to enjoy Nara as a day trip. Places to visit in Nara
World Heritage Sites (cultural, natural, etc.) Nara is home to eight World Heritage sites including: Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Simply visiting these historically and culturally rich sites truly showcase Nara’s ancient history.
Nara Park In Nara Park, you will be greeted by cute deer roaming freely. Interacting with the deer is one of the major attractions of sightseeing in Nara.
Old town In Naramachi, you can enjoy the traditional atmosphere of the old town. While strolling around, stop by stylish cafes and traditional souvenir shops. A day trip from Nagoya to Nara is a wonderful way to experience history, nature, and healing. We hope you will visit Nara!
First, head to the Meitetsu Bus Center, located in the Meitetsu Department Store building near Nagoya Station. The bus bound for Nara departs from the 3rd floor at bus stop 8.
Nagoya (Meitetsu Bus Center, 3rd floor, #8) 7:40 AM ↓ Arrive at Kintetsu Nara Station
at 10:05 (JR Nara Station at 10:15)
If you are heading for Nara Park, we recommend getting off at Kintetsu Nara Station.
Nara Park is about a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
We also recommend that you purchase a bus pass, which allows you to freely get on and off local buses in Nara City.
The bus pass is available on the opposite side of the road when you get off the express bus at Kintetsu Nara Station. Available at ” NARAKOTSU BUS INFORMATION “.
Nara Day Trip Recommendation
First time in Nara/ Basic Sightseeing Course (about 4 hours)
Todaiji Temple Todaiji Temple, registered as a World Heritage site, is a symbol of Nara. Visit the Big Buddha and stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Kofukuji Temple Like Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple is a World Heritage Site and is lined with buildings from the Nara period. You can feel the history in the still and quiet atmosphere.
Nara Park Nara Park is famous as a place where you can spend time with deer. Relax and enjoy nature in this spacious park.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a World Heritage Site, is a cultural asset of the ancient capital of Nara. Approaching the shrine, you will see old architectural structures and stone monuments scattered throughout the area. The deer fortune is also popular, and an English version is also available.
Visit Kasuga Taisha, a World Heritage Site 15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station to the main shrine of Kasuga Taisha by bus.
Hike to the summit of Mt.Wakakusa It takes about 5 minutes by foot from the main shrine of Kasuga Taisha to get to the base gate of Mt.Wakakusa. It is about a 40-minute walk from the foot gate to the summit. At the peak of Mt.Wakakusa, you can see a panoramic view of Nara, with its surround temples, shrines, and even mountains in the distance. You can also enjoy interacting with cute wild deer. *Hours of entry are from 9:00 to 17:00 *Closed during winter (mid-December to mid-March).
Naramachi: Shopping/ A Gourmet Stroll (about 2 to 3 hours)
Naramachi is an area with a traditional townscape in the central part of Nara City. The narrow streets are lined with many historical buildings called machiya. There are also many restaurants and souvenir stores where you can enjoy gourmet food and shopping unique to this area.
1. [Hirayu Bus Terminal (Hirayu Onsen) Route] How to take a highway bus from Basta Shinjuku to Hida Takayama and transfer at Hirayu Bus Terminal next to Kamikochi.
2. via Matsumoto Take a highway bus from Basta Shinjuku to Matsumoto Bus Terminal and transfer at the Matsumoto Inter-mae bus stop.
First, let’s look at the Hirayu route. Although it takes about 30 minutes longer than the direct bus from Shinjuku to Kamikochi, the round-trip fare is more than 10,000 yen less than the direct bus from Shinjuku to Kamikochi. In addition, you can enjoy Okuhida Onsenkyo (hot spring resort) such as Hirayu Onsen.
Click here for the version via Matsumoto via Matsumoto Interchange bus stop and Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line.
Kamikochi is always restricted to private cars and cannot be entered by private cars.
The only ways to enter Kamikochi are by bus, licensed cab, on foot, or by bicycle. Therefore, the highway bus is by far the most convenient way to get to Kamikochi from Tokyo!
However, since highway buses are convenient, they are popular and crowded, making the price somewhat more expensive. Save a little money! Here is a guide to a backstage technique that makes it easier to make reservations.
Niijima Station ｜ (local bus ) about 1 hour 15 minutes
Kamikochi Bus Terminal
■ For express buses ■ 8,000 – 16,000 yen (adult one-way) Main price range 12,000 – 14,000 yen
Basta Shinjuku / Shibuya Bus Terminal (Mark City) / Yaesu South Exit of JR Tokyo Station ｜ (Express Bus, Sawayaka Shinshu-go ) about 4 hours 30 min~5 hours ｜ Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Buses from Shinjuku are especially convenient and numerous. However, highway buses from Shinjuku (Basta Shinjuku) to Kamikochi are very popular, so reservations are difficult to obtain and the fares are a bit expensive. So, here is a backdoorhighway bus routethat is relatively inexpensive and easy to book,
Shinjuku (Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal) | (Highway Bus to Hida Takayama ) about 4 hours and 40 minutes ｜ Hirayu Bus Terminal ｜ ( local bus ) about 25 min. ｜ Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Express bus routes are available. The fare is approximately 6,500 yen (one-way for adults).
Hirayu Bus TerminalHirayu Bus Terminal
Hirayu Bus Terminal is the gateway toKamikochi, Mt. Norikura, and Shin Hotaka Ro on the Gifu Prefecture (Takayama City) side. Hirayu Bus Terminal is also the stop for highway buses from Basta Shinjuku to Takayama, with 5 to 7 round trips being made daily.
If you head to Kamikochi via this Hirayu bus terminal, you can save more than 10,000 yen round trip.
Location of Kamikochi and its surroundings
If you are going to Kamikochi by car: On the Matsumoto City side in Nagano Prefecture, park at Sawatari Parking Lot, and on the Takayama City side in Gifu Prefecture, park at Akandana Parking Lot (Hirayu Onsen) and transfer to a bus for a 20-30 minute ride.
If you are going to Kamikochi, going via Hirayu Bus Terminal is not only economical but also healing. The reason…
(1) Save more than 10,000 yen round trip via Hirayu!
Shinjuku ⇔ Kamikochi 【By direct round-trip bus】About 26,000 yen
Shinjuku⇔Hirayu⇔Kamikochi [Round trip, via Hirayu] Approx. 14,200 yen, a savings of over 10,000 yen
Shinjuku→Hirayu→Kamikochi→Shinjuku [If you take a direct one-way bus, one way via Hirayu] about 21,000 yen and save about 5,000 yen.
Another trick is to take a highway bus from Shinjuku to Matsumoto, get off in front of the Matsumoto Interchange, and transfer to the Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line from Oniwa Station . This is also very economical and convenient. Click here for more details…
(2) Healing in a famous hot spring. So what kind of place is Hirayu Onsen?
This is the gateway to Okuhida Onsenkyo. It is the largest hot spring resort near Kamikochi, with about 30 accommodations of various sizes. The town spreads out around Hirayu Bus Terminal, and most of the hot spring resort is within walking distance. In addition to lodging facilities, there are also a variety of day-trip hot spring facilities and restaurants. The hot spring water is abundant and hot. There are about 40 sources, gushing about 13,000 liters per minute of hot spring water at a high temperature of about 90°C.
Tsuyu-kusa A ryokan with a completely private hot spring for overnight stays with no meals. Onsen ryokan located a 3-minute walk from Hirayu bus terminal. Self check-in/check-out, so late arrivals and early morning departures are OK! A popular, small, cost-effective onsen ryokan. Please make reservations as early as possible! >>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
Hirayu-kan This onsen ryokan is a 3-minute walk from the Hirayu bus terminal and has a full range of onsen (hot spring) facilities. The ryokan has a particularly wonderful open-air bath. The ryokan offers a variety of plans, including overnight stays with no meal and one-night breakfast plans. There is also a convenience store inside the inn, which is recommended for consecutive nights or mid- to long-term stays. >>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
Hirayu Onsen Town seen from Awa PassHirayu Onsen Folk Museum
Hirayu Bus Terminal – Kamikochi Bus Terminal Adults 1,500 yen one way, 2,800 yen round trip Children 750 yen one way, 1,400 yen round trip Details/Timetable
Keio Bus LINE official account opened!
Kamikochi Recommended Model Course
*The model course below is based on the summer schedule. Please note that some buses may operate seasonally. Please check the timetable, etc. in advance.
1. hiking & cyclingAn active experience in the great outdoors!
Day 1
Departure from Shinjuku 8:15→(Shakado PA, Suwako SA) → Arrival at Hirayu 12:55
Hirayu Onsen 13:00-14:00Lunch
Hirayu Exploration Path, Hirayu Great Falls, etc. Hiking 14:00-16:30
Hirayu Onsen check-in around 16:30 (overnight stay)
Departure from Nishiho Dokubetsu at 10:30→(trekking)→arrival at Nishihomaruyama at 11:30→(trekking)→arrival at Nishiho Sanso at 12:00
Nishiho Villa Lunch
Nishiho Villa 13:00→(trekking)→Nishihotaka-guchi station 14:45→(ropeway)→Shinhotaka Onsen station 15:10
Shin Hotaka Ropeway 15:55→(Takayama-bound local bus) → Arrival at Hirayu Bus Terminal 16:28
Hirayu Forest Bathing
Hirayu Bus Terminal 18:05→(Suwako SA, Shakado PA, etc.) →Arrive Shinjuku 22:45
5. enjoy the spectacular view of Norikura Tatamidaira at an elevation of 2,702 meters and Kamikochi!
Day 1
Departure from Shinjuku 10:25p.m. → (overnight stay in car)
2nd day
→Arrive at Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 5:20
Kamikochi (breakfast, walk, lunch)
Depart from Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 15:00 → (Awa Tunnel) → Arrive at Hirayu Bus Terminal at 15:25
Check-in at Hirayu Onsen around 16:00
3rd day
Hirayu Bus Terminal 8:00→(Norikura Skyline) -> Norikura Tatamidaira 9:00 arrival
Norikura Tatamidaira (walk and lunch)
Kamikochi Bus Terminal 14:00→(Norikura Skyline) →Hirayu Bus Terminal 15:00
Hirayu Bus Terminal 16:05→(Suwako SA, Shakado PA) →Arrive at Shinjuku 20:45 *You can also enjoy cycling between Hirayu and Norikura-dake (Tatamidaira) on a rental e-bike!
*The above model course is based on the summer schedule. Please note that some buses may operate seasonally. Please check the timetable in advance.
Shinjuku – Hirayu Bus Terminal (to Hida Takayama) Adults 5,800 yen – 6,200 yen Children 2,900 yen – 3,100 yen Details, Timetable, Reservations
Hirayu Bus Terminal – Kamikochi Bus Terminal Adults 1,500 yen one way, 2,800 yen round trip Children 750 yen one way, 1,400 yen round trip Details/Timetable
Hirayu Onsen Recommended Accommodations
Tsuyu-kusa A ryokan with a completely private hot spring for overnight stays with no meals. Onsen ryokan located a 3-minute walk from Hirayu bus terminal. Self check-in/check-out, so late arrivals and early morning departures are OK! A popular, small, cost-effective onsen ryokan. Please make reservations as early as possible! >>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
Hirayu-kan This onsen ryokan is a 3-minute walk from the Hirayu bus terminal and has a full range of onsen (hot spring) facilities. The ryokan has a particularly wonderful open-air bath. The ryokan offers a variety of plans, including overnight stays with no meal and one-night breakfast plans. There is also a convenience store inside the inn, which is recommended for consecutive nights or mid- to long-term stays. >>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
