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  • 2025.10.07

Tokyo to Hakuba Travel Options 2025-2026

The ski season in Hakuba this year is from Dec 2025 ~ April 2026. There are three ways to reach Hakuba from Tokyo this winter season: express train, shinkansen, and highway bus. Most transportation requires you to make a transfer and take a shuttle bus to the ski grounds around Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. In the winter (around December), these shuttle buses will require a reservation especially during busy seasons, so please plan ahead.

1. Train (using the Shinkansen or Azusa Express)
2. Direct bus
3. Bus (with a transfer)

More detailed information about the shuttle bus from Matsumoto to Hakuba: here

Comparison Chart

The closest station to the ski slopes is Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. If you get off at Hakuba Station, you can either walk 35~40 minutes or take the shuttle bus to the slopes. The following times include getting to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal.

Means of TransportationTime RequiredNumber of TransfersTotal CostLuggage StorageBoarding Area
Shinkansen

Online Reservation		3hrs 1 time11,640 yenLimitedTokyo Station
Platform 20 & 23 (headed for Nagano Station)
Azusa Limited Express
(once a day)
Online Reservation		3hrs 35mins 1 time8,410 yenLimited Shinjuku Station
Platform 9 & 10
(direct train to Hakuba St. is at 8AM only)
Azusa Express
Online Reservation		4hrs ~ 4hrs 20mins3 times8,150 yenLimitedShinjuku Station
Platform 9 & 10
(headed for Matsumoto Station)
Direct Highway Bus

Online Reservation		5hrs 13mins0 times5,800 yen ~ 7,000 yenGuaranteedShinjuku Bus Terminal (4th floor)
Highway bus
Online Reservation		5 hours1 time7,700 yen ~ 8,600 yenGuaranteedShinjuku Bus Terminal (4th floor)
or
Ikebukuro Station East Exit

Boarding points for the shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal:
• Nagano Station → Hakuba Happo Station: boarding area (Bus stop #26 at the East Exit)
• Matsumoto Station → Hakuba Happo Station: TBA Mid-November

Different Transportation from Tokyo to Hakuba

■Shinkansen

The fastest way to reach Hakuba is by boarding the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tokyo Station and transferring at Nagano Station. Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal is the closest station to the slopes, so a transfer from Nagano Station via a shuttle bus is necessary. Please note that the shuttle bus will require reservations in the winter which can be made: here

① Tokyo Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 8140 yen + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 3hrs
Transfers: 1

Hakuba Shinkansen Reservation

■Train

The Azusa Limited Express (which departs only once a day) and the Azusa Express depart at Shinjuku Station and stops at Matsumoto Station. From Matsumoto Station, take the JR Oito Line to Hakuba Station and then a local bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. The JR Oita Line runs once an hour. Alternatively there is a shuttle bus run by Alpico Group from the slopes, but times are TBD until mid November.

More detailed information about the shuttle bus from Matsumoto to Hakuba: here

①Shinjuku Station (Azusa Express) → Matsumoto Station → (JR Oito Line) → Hakuba Station → (Local Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 7790 yen + 360 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 4hrs ~ 4hrs 20 mins
Transfers: 3

Azusa Express Online Reservation

②Shinjuku Station (Limited Express Azusa | One departure a day) → Hakuba Station → (Local Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 8050 yen + 360 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 3hrs 35mins
Transfers: 1

*The Limited Express Azusa departs at 8AM daily and arrives at Hakuba Station at 11:40AM.

Limited Azusa Express Online Reservation

■Direct Bus

The direct highway bus is a cheaper and more convenient option compared to the Azusa train and Shinkansen. Since it’s a direct bus, there are no transfers making the total arrival time potentially faster than the Azusa train if you factor in transferring times. It is also 1,000~3,000 yen cheaper and includes spacious luggage storage for your ski gear.
.
① Shinjuku Bus Terminal → (Highway bus) → Shimano Omachi Station / Hakuba Goryu / Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 5,800 yen ~ 7,000 yen (depending on high season)
Total time: 5hrs 13mins
Transfers: 0

Bus Reservations

■Highway Bus

The regular highway bus requires one transfer (for the shuttle bus to the slopes) and is 40 minutes slower than taking the Azusa Express train, but requires two less transfers. It can also be up to 1,000 yen cheaper depending on the season. You can board from either the Shinjuku Bus Terminal or Ikebukuro Station.

① Shinjuku Bus Terminal → (Highway bus) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 4,200 yen ~ 5,100 yen (depending on high season) + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 5 hours
Transfers: 1

Bus Reservations

②Ikebukuro Station → (Highway bus) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle Bus) →Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 4,200 yen ~ 5,100 yen (depending on high season) + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 5 hours
Transfers: 1

Bus Reservations

Where to board the highway bus:

Highway buses depart from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku), located directly across Shinjuku Station’s South Exit on the 4th floor. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window or online in advance. However, we highly recommend buying the tickets in advance online.

Address: 5 Chome 24-55 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0051, Japan
Opening hours: 6:30 AM ~ 11PM
Waiting room opening hours: 3:30 AM ~ 1 AM (the next day)
Official Website

Direct Bus Reservation
Highway Bus Reservations

Azusa Express Train Additional Information

  • The Limited Express Azusa direct train runs once a day at 8 AM
  • The storage on the Azusa is similar to the shinkansen, and is not always guaranteed
  • Luggage storage is on cars: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12
  • Car 9 is a Green car and requires a special ticket, so do not place your luggage here unless you have a reserved seat
  • Compared to the shinkansen, the Azusa Express train can be a bit shaky, so we recommend the shinkansen or bus for motion sick passengers.


Official website

Direct Night Bus Services

Starting early December, all types of buses increase their frequency during high season. Amongst them is the direct night bus which departs at Shinjuku Bus Terminal around 11PM and arrives in Hakuba around 5AM.

Official website

Other Tips/Advice

The easiest and cheapest way to get to Hakuba is via direct bus due to its guaranteed storage and direct drop-off by the slopes. When it comes to transfers, there may be long lines, so budget to spend extra time waiting. If you are transferring to Hakuba from Nagano or Matsumoto Station, around December shuttle buses to Happo Hakuba Station are necessary and will require a reservation.

Shuttle buses from Hakuba Station to Happo Hakuba Station runs once or twice an hour. If you hold the Hakuba Valley Day Pass, you can ride the shuttle bus an unlimited amount of times between different slopes.

Hakuba Happo Station Shuttle Timetables
-Check here for the official shuttle times between Happo Hakuba Station and Nagano Station.
-Check here for the official shuttle times between Happo Hakuba Station and Matsumoto Station.


  • 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)

Alternatively, you can book through OTAs such as KLOOK.

Bus from Osaka → Takayama
Bus from Kyoto → Takayama

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.

 








  • 2025.02.28

Kamikochi Opening Date: Spring 2025

Topic: Kamikochi Spring Forecast/ Kamikochi Reopening Date

How to get to Kamikochi by bus:

Boarding AreaTime Taken Price (one way/ adults)Reservation Site
Tokyo (Shinjuku Station)~5 hours8,000 yenDirect bus
Takayama (Nohi Bus Center)~1hr 25 mins3,000 yenDirect bus
Takayama (Hirayu Bus Terminal)~25 mins1,500 yenDirect bus
Matsumoto (Matsumoto Bus Terminal)~2 hours4,000 yenDirect bus
*Note: All bus services resume reservations when the park opens again. Some reservations cannot be made until March or April.
*If you are departing from Takayama, you must buy the ticket for the shuttle bus in person.
Bus Reservation Site/ Information

Money Hack from Tokyo

If you are planning to do a round trip journey from Tokyo, there is actually a cheaper way to get to Kamikochi if you make one transfer via bus. It can save you up to 10,000 yen.

Read More

What to do in Kamikochi’s Green Season:

Kamikochi is one of the most popular national parks in all of Japan, located in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture. Annually, visitors flock to the area to enjoy the park’s pristine clear waters, fresh air, and hiking routes. Kamikochi can be reached in around 5 hours by bus from Tokyo and 1 hour by bus from central Takayama. Once a year the park closes during the winter season and reopens in spring due to the high amounts of snow. Spring in Kamikochi can still be a bit cool, but flowers and greenery start to take light again. Kamikochi is beautiful year-round, but spring offers unique sights that set it apart from other seasons.

Enjoy Nirinso Flowers Blooming

In Kamikochi there is a famous wildflower which blooms in Spring. The Nirinso is a small, delicate flower that blooms in fields around Kamikochi. You can spot these flowers by taking only a five minute walk from Kappa Bridge, the main photo spot in Kamikochi, or a 10 minute walk from the bus parking lot to Konashidaira Campground.

Nirinso

Nirinso is a wildflower that is part of the buttercup flower family, and is native to Japan and commonly found in the woodlands. The flowers can be spotted at Konashidaira Campground, located next to Kappa Bridge, the main bridge in Kamikochi and bloom starting May.

Field of Wild Nirinso in Kamikochi

Enjoy Wildlife Make Their Return

If you’re a fan of birdwatching, in spring, many birds wake from their hibernation and can be seen all around the park. Other wildlife such as monkeys, ducks and weasels can also be seen all around the park as they make their return for spring.

Wild Birds

The Kamikochi area has over 100 variety of birds. Some varieties include the Grey Wagtail, Brown Dipper, Bush Warbler, and Pygmy Woodpecker.

Tips for Spring in Kamikochi:


Cold Temperatures:
Although it is spring, temperatures in Kamikochi can still be quite cold especially during early April. It is advisable to wear thermals and prepare for some snow to still be on the ground. There also instances where you can still see snow on the mountains or on the paths during early spring.

Some Hiking Routes in Kamikochi:

Route
(from Parking Lot)		 Time Taken (one way/way up)
Taisho Pond Trail1 hour
Mt.Yakedake3 hours
Karasawa Hutte5 hours

Opening dates:

Kamikochi reopens April 17th, 2025.

Hotels on the premises will not be opened until later in the month. While day trips are possible, if you truly want to enjoy the Japanese Alps, we recommend booking a hotel on the premises or staying in the nearby onsen area, Okuhida or in Takayama City so you can take your time in Kamikochi. For those with more time on their hands, we recommend staying 2 or more days as the area has many breathtaking hiking routes spread throughout the Nagano and Gifu regions. Okuhida also offers many ryokan (Japanese Inn) and onsen (hot spring bathing) for nature lovers. Buses from Okuhida (Hirayu Bus Terminal) to Kamikochi have resumed on the 17th.

Nearby Attractions/ Hiking Routes


Mt.Norikura

Mt.Norikura is the highest mountain that can be reached by bus (and bicycle!). The mountain is only a 1 1/2 hours away by bus from Kamikochi. To get here, depart from Hirayu Bus Terminal for Honokidaira Bus Terminal. From Honokidaira Bus Terminal, there are buses once an hour that take you to Mt. Norikura.


Okuhida Onsengo

Okuhida Onsengo is a onsen resort area 20 minutes from Kamikochi. Some popular hiking routes include: Mt.Kasagatake, Mt.Yake, and Nishihotakadake.

 
  • 2025.01.29

Going to Shirakawago by Bus (Timetable from Toyama, Kanazawa, Takayama, and Nagoya)

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

Takayama Shirakawago time table. The departure times are 7:20, 7:50, 8:10, 8:50, 9:35, 9:40, 10:50, 11:20, 11:50, 12:10, 12:50, 1:10, 1:20, 1:50, 2:30, 3:50, 4:20, 4:30. Make reservations at japanbusonline.com


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.

Reserve Bus Tickets Here

Departs from:
Takayama Nohi Bus Terminal
Platform #4

Google Maps:
Map link

Price:
2,800 yen (one way)

Route #2: Nagoya to Shirakawago by Bus


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.

Reserve Bus Tickets Here

Departs from:
Meitetsu Bus Center (3F)
Platform #4

Google Maps:
Map link

Price:
4,200 yen (one way)

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 explain in detail how transfer to Shirakawago, Takayama, and even Nara in the cheapest way possible from Nagoya below.

More Details

Route #3: Kanazawa to Shirakawago by Bus

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.

Reserve Bus Tickets Here

Departs from:
Kanazawa Station West Exit Bus Stop
Bus stop #4

Google Maps:
Map link

Price:
2,800 yen (one way)

Route #4: Toyama to Shirakawago by Bus

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.

Reserve Bus Tickets Here

Departs from:
Toyama Station
Bus stop #1

Google Maps:
Map link

Price:
2,400 yen (one way)


Departs from:
Takaoka Station (in Toyama)
Bus stop #7

Google Maps:
Map link

Price:
2,200 yen (one way)

Gokayama (Ainokura Village), a less busy alternative to Shirakawago

Gokayama Village

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)

Read more and book: here

What to do in Shirakawago?

  • 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.

Set discount ticket + transportation

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)

Set discount ticket + transportation

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

Nagoya to Takayama Train

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.

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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

Nagoya to Shirakawago Bus

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