The winter season in Hakuba this year is from December 2025 to April 2026. If you find yourself spending a few days in Hakuba, there are plenty of activities to enjoy from beautiful sceneries, cozy restaurants, hot springs, and the newly established Pokemon Hakuba Park that opened early 2025 in honor of the game Pokemon Sleep at Hakuba Valley.
Are you a Pokemon fan? For those with children or fans of Hakuba, you can visit Pikachu and friends around several play parks and photo spots scattered around Kashimayari Ski Resort! From taking pictures in an igloo with Slowpoke, to hanging out with Psyduck and friends in a Pokeball Igloo, there are plenty of cute sleepy Pokemon to be seen around the slopes! Most of the Pokemon attractions are located in beginner friendly children areas, but there are also more advance ski slopes for adults at the resort.
There are also limited edition Pokemon rental gear for children, ranging from Pikachu snowboards, skis, and even snow wear. Unfortunately there are no Pokemon rentals for adults…but that doesn’t have to stop you from looking at the attractions in the area!
The Kashimayri Ski Resort is located south of central Hakuba, and be accessed via the shuttle bus at Happo Bus Terminal that runs through the area. If you hold the Hakuba shuttle bus pass, you can ride this and other buses between the Hakuba area and several ski resorts an unlimited amount of times. The Pokemon area includes a thrilling snow tube area and playland area where children can sled and play in the snow.
Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field is part of the Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort in Kitaazumi District. From the resort, you can take an 8 minute gondola to the summit (at 1289m) where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Northern Alps at the 360 degree terrace! There is also a stylish cafe where you can get hot food and overlook the mountains at the seating areas or the YOOHOO! Swing!
There is an admission fee included which is cheaper online than buying it in person. A free shuttle bus to the resort runs from JR Hakuba Station or Happo Bus Terminal.
Lake Aoki is the third largest lake in Nagano Prefecture located roughly 20 minutes south of Hakuba by car. It is one of the Three Lakes of Nishima and is well known for its serene beauty and clear waters which reflect views of the Northern Alps. Adjacent to the lake is also a stylish cafe, ao LAKESIDE CAFE and a sauna where you can overlook the lake.
Address: 398-0001 Nagano, Omachi, Taira, Kagura Cafe Instagram: here
3. Unwind at Echoland
Echoland is a vibrant village located next to the Happo One ski resort and is scattered with trendy shops, cafes, bars, and onsen (hot springs). The central district includes a vibrant nightlife and most of the eateries in the area can be found here. You can find a variety of foods from not only Japanese but also Mexican, Italian, French, Italian food!
A perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes is at one of Hakubas many hot springs. Natural water is sourced from the local rivers with several health benefits, so its definitely worth the trip for some extra relaxation after a long day. All of the hot springs listed below are one-day hot springs, meaning you can enter them even without staying at the facilities they may be connected to.
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
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.
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.
Shinjuku 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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
Awa Pass is a popular road used to cycle to Kamikochi and to reach the parking lot to reach Kamikochi. The ascent is very steep with an elevation of 1790m in height, but is possible to bike through with e-bike assist. Currently the road is also open to cars and is expected to close around October 31st.
Autumn foliage prediction
As of late September, the foliage at Awa Pass is still very much green, with incredibly refreshing and cool temperatures around Hirayu in Okuhida. The warm season is lasting longer in Japan this year, compared to last year when the peak autumn foliage in Hirayu was around October 20th. As of late September and early October the weather is cool around 20 deg celcius.
Abo Pass (Matsumoto Border) as of 9/29/2025
Photo taken September 29th, 2025.
Abo Pass Hirayu birch grove as of 9/29/2025
Photo taken September 29th, 2025.
Abo Pass Chayato (View point) as of 9/29/2025
Photo taken September 29th, 2025.
Where to rent an e-bike
E-bikes can be rented at a small e-bike station called Okuhida Base in Hirayu, Takayama, around a 3 minute walk from Hirayu Bus Terminal. It is connected to the pizza shop and cafe AWAWA HIRAYU. E-bikes can be retrieved contactless starting from 7AM with bookings made completely online. For more detailed information about the bicycles and reservations, you can visit the Okuhida Base website.
Akadana Parking Lot is a large 24HR parking lot with shuttle buses departing to Kamikochi. The first 30 minutes at the parking lot are free and there are bathrooms on the premises. Please be aware that this parking lot closes around the same time Kamikochi closes, November 15th.
*The shuttle bus first stops at Hirayu Bus Terminal where you can take the shuttle bus to Kamikochi, running every 30 minutes.
How to book a bus ticket online
Reservations for buses departing from Hirayu Bus Terminal can be made online in advance, in case the ticket window is not open. There is a ticket office and ticket machine inside the bus terminal waiting room, however please note that tickets to local stops such as Takayama, Kamikochi, Mt.Norikura, and Shinhotaka Ropeway can only be purchased on the same day at the bus terminal. If you would like to purchase an e-ticket, in some cases the local bus company, Nohi Bus also offers set ticket deals which can be displayed on your phone: here.
A special experience to enjoy the Japanese Alps in autumn by air!
If you are planning a trip from Hida Takayama to Matsumoto, Shinshu in October, there is one spot you definitely shouldn’t miss– the Shin Hotaka Ropeway. The Shin Hotaka Ropeway is the most popular ropeway in Japan.
The second half of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in all of Japan. It’s a special experience where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Japanese Alps from the air.
The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Autumn offers the most beautiful scenery of the year. Located at an elevation of 2,156 meters, the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform offers a panoramic view of the Japanese Alps in the brilliant red and golden colors of the autumn leaves.
As the trail rises more than 1,000 meters in elevation from the foot of the mountain to the summit, visitors can enjoy the changes in autumn foliage at different elevation zones. This is a must-visit spot in autumn, where you can enjoy both a breathtaking photo-worthy view and Japanese autumn foliage viewing at the same time.
Takayama Departure – Matsumoto (one way) via [a limited time] Bus Tour
Fee: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch)
If you participate in this bus tour, you will be: -Free from transferring baggage -Free of complicated transfers -Free of stressful timely arrangements
This special limited bus tour will save you 4,710 yen in transportation costs alone and also includes admission fees to Shinhotaka Ropeway and Matsumoto Castle!
Save yourself from the hassle of transferring buses and paying extra costs!
This tour includes a round-trip ticket for the Shin Hotaka Ropeway! The Shin Hotaka Ropeway round-trip ticket is 3,800 yen alone, but on this tour you will receive it absolutely free of charge.
Limited number of people! First-come, first-served.
A trip with a spectacular view starting at the morning market in Takayama
Takayama Morning Market, one of the three major morning markets in Japan
Start your trip with the Takayama morning market. Known as one of the three major morning markets in Japan, the Takayama morning market is a great place to enjoy fresh local finger foods, crafts, and local produce. Taking in the crisp morning air and leisurely browsing the stalls makes for a wonderful start to experiencing traditional Hida life.
Access to Shin Hotaka Ropeway from Takayama
After enjoying the morning market, head to the Shin Hotaka Ropeway from the Takayama Bus Center. A direct bus service runs to the Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of the first Shin Hotaka Ropeway, arriving at the site in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Important Note: Due to the extremely crowded fall foliage season, it is strongly recommended to arrive early at the Alpine Bus Center to get in line.
Aerial views on the Shin Hotaka Ropeway
The second part of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in Japan, offering a special experience to enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Northern Alps from the air. The view from the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform at the summit station is breathtaking. The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
[Attention] If you come by bus, please leave your large luggage in the coin locker at Shin Hotaka Onsen Station. The ropeway requires an extra charge for luggage over 6 kg. Luggage tickets are 1,000 yen/piece for round trip.
Since the capacity of the ropeway No. 1 is small (45 passengers), it may take some time to get on the ropeway when it is crowded. We recommend that you drive to the Shirakabadaira parking lot at the second ropeway stop. If you use the local bus, only Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of Daiichi Ropeway is available.
After enjoying the spectacular autumn scenery of the Japanese Alps, head to Matsumoto, a city of history and culture. For transportation, you will need to change buses at the Hirayu Bus Terminal.
Travel Routes and Fees
Shin HotakaRopeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station) → Hirayu Bus Terminal
Departure from Takayama – Matsumoto (one way) by a limited Bus Tour
If you participate in this bus tour, you will be: –Free from transferring baggage -Free of complicated transfers -Free of stressful timely arrangements
This special limited bus tour saves you 4,710 yen in transportation costs alone and also includes admission fees!
Fee: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch) **Save 4,710 yen in transportation costs alone compared to individual travel! Furthermore, a boxed lunch and Matsumoto Castle admission fee* are also included! * Same-day ticket for admission to Matsumoto Castle by yourself is 1,300 yen.
With this tour, you can enjoy the attractions of both cities efficiently without having to worry about complicated transfers and reservations, while leaving your luggage in the chartered bus. In addition, you will be accompanied by a professional guide to learn more about the history and culture of each region.
Limited number of people! First-come, first-served.
The base of Shinhotaka Ropeway
Around early October, the lines for Shinhotaka ropeway were not long at all, and almost everyone who lined up could board without waiting for the next shuttle.
Although the foliage at the bottom of the ropeway was not yet developed, as you step out to the 1st station ropeway, suddenly the season completely changes from summer to fall! Though not fully developed, the vibrant fall leaves along with the crystal clear skies looked like a postcard and almost unreal.
Shirakabadaira Station (Ropeway 1)
Just one year ago, Shirakabadaira Station was renovated to include a new and stylish gift shop, bakery, and dining area. At the bread store, they sell a variety of freshly baked breads, craft drinks (including an amusing curry and melon bread cider), gelato, and other local specialties.
After walking around and doing some light souvenir shopping, you can leisurely relax or take a stroll around the grounds in time for the gondola which arrives twice an hour. Depending on high winds or other weather aliments, the gondola usage may be postponed.
Alpscape Observation Deck and Itadaki no Mori
Finally making it to the second ropeway exit, you will have to walk a few flights of stairs until reaching the observation deck. The scenery of the mountains from the second ropeway is completely different from the base of the ropeway and is completely colorful. The view especially from Itadaki no Mori is the best as you can get a very clear view of the autumn foliage.
Around the station are also several hiking trails along with trendy restaurants, cafes, and places to sit and rest. Its a perfect place to just relax and stare into the distance. The temperature is not too cold (around 15C) and is very comfortable around this time.
Matsumoto Castle at Night (Fall)
While Matsumoto Castle is stunning during the day due to the backdrop of the Japanese Alps, the night time view is arguably even more breathtaking. Every night from sundown until 10PM, Matsumoto Castle is lit up creating a mesmerizing glowing image. During special holidays they also display more colorful light shows on the castle walls.
Matsumoto Light Up Hours: ~6PM to 10PM
Takayama to Matsumoto Timetable
If you are traveling on your own from Takayama to Matsumoto, up to two transfers by highway bus may be necessary. Since there are no trains connecting the two areas, your only options other than renting a car is by taking the bus. The direct bus to Matsumoto departs from Hirayu Bus Terminal, a bus terminal 1 hour from Takayama City proper.
Takayama Bus Center → Hirayu Bus Terminal [times]: 6:00, 7:00, 7;40, 8:40, 9:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:40 Total price: 1600 yen
Hirayu Bus Terminal →Matsumoto Station [times]: 7:50, 11:50, 1:50, 2:50, 4:50 Total price: 2,800 yen
If you take the bus tour on October 8th, you can reach Shinhotaka Ropeway (with expense fees included), Kamikochi, and Matsumoto for around the same price. As the buses to Matsumoto are limited, its an ideal way to maximize your time and is really an unbeatable deal!
Summary
A trip from Takayama to Matsumoto is a special route that allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of autumn in Japan. The aerial walk on the Shin Hotaka ropeway is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether it be going on your own or going via a convenient bus tour, take time to enjoy this wonderful autumn scenic route according to your travel style.
Google Map (Takayama – Shin Hotaka Ropeway – Matsumoto) Location
Google Map (Takayama Station→Shin Hotaka Ropeway)
Google Map (Shin Hotaka Lowway→Hirayu Bus Terminal)
Google Map (Hirayu Bus Terminal→Matsumoto Bus Terminal)
Why is the Nagano and Gifu area the best place to travel to Japan in October?
October is the most beautiful season in Japan for autumn foliage. The Kamikochi area in Nagano Prefecture and the Takayama area in Gifu Prefecture in particular are ideal destinations for foreign travelers who want to both enjoy jaw dropping autumn scenery and authentic traditional Japanese culture at the Takayama Autumn Festival.
Down below, we’ll introduce a 3-day model plan that starts with historical exploration in Matsumoto City, followed by breathtaking autumn foliage in Kamikochi and the traditional autumn Takayama Festival (held on Thursday and Friday, October 9th and 10th, 2025).
A Model Planfor Enjoying Spectacular Autumn Scenery and Cultural Experiences in 3 Days
Matsumoto, Kamikochi and the Takayama Festival in Autumn Foliage!
Day 1: October 7th (Tuesday) – Enjoy history and art in Matsumoto
Morning: Explore Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure
Experience firsthand the history of Japan from the Warring States Period to the present day.
Visit the beautiful Matsumoto Castle, one of the 12 existing castle towers in Japan, designated as a National Treasure.
Taste Nagano’s local cuisine such as Shinshu soba noodles and Sanzokuyaki
Stay at a hotel in Matsumoto City
Day 2: October 8th (Wed) – Spectacular view of autumn leaves in Kamikochi and transfer to Takayama
Early morning: Departure from Matsumoto to Kamikochi
There are two ways to access Kamikochi: by public transportation or on your own
(1) Railroad + local bus Feature: High frequency, access by train and local buses , Matsumoto Station→Shinshimashima Station: Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line (about 30 minutes, 710 yen) From Shinnimashima Station→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus (about 1 hour, 3,000 yen) Buses are available by reservation only. ＞ Details & Reservations
or
Direct route bus Feature: Easy, direct route bus access Matsumoto Bus Terminal→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus (5:30 and 10:15 departures, 4,450 yen) ＞ Details & Reservations
Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line (CAUTION) Caution (1) The Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line cannot be boarded with IC cards. Please purchase a ticket at Matsumoto Station.
Caution (2) The location of the ticket vending machines at Matsumoto Station is the same as for the JR line. Tickets for the Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line can be purchased at the two ticket vending machines on the left. Please pay with cash or a transportation system IC card. Credit cards are not accepted.
Caution (3) The ticket gates at Matsumoto Station are the same as for the JR line. After passing through the ticket gate, please go to “Line 7” on the right side. Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line is on platform 7.
Kamikochi Luggage Information Approximate fees (one day): small 350 yen, medium 400 yen, large 500 yen, extra large 600 yen *Small: about 10 liters, extra large: about 60 liters
Morning – Afternoon: Enjoy the spectacular autumn scenery at Kamikochi
Spectacular view of the Hotaka mountain range from Kappa Bridge
Take a walk to Taisho Pond and enjoy the autumn leaves reflected on the mirror-like surface of the lake.
Enjoy the clean air and beautiful nature in a highland resort at an altitude of 1,500 meters
Afternoon: Transfer from Kamikochi to Hida Takayama
Kamikochi→Hirayu Bus Terminal (20-30 min., 1,500 yen)
Enjoy Hida beef croquettes and other local delicacies at Hirayu Bus Terminal
Hirayu Bus Terminal→Takayama Bus Center (about 1 hour, 1,600 yen)
Evening: Taste the flavors of Hida in Takayama
Taste Hida beef steaks, Takayama ramen, and other specialties of the Hida region
The atmosphere of the old town raises expectations for tomorrow’s festivities.
Convenient and affordable 10/8 (Wed.) limited bus tour: From Matsumoto to Hida Takayama via Kamikochi (one way)
Price: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch)
On this bus tour be: –Free from transferring baggage –Free of complicated transfers/arrangements –Free of stressful timely arrangements Also, the value can’t be beat! **Save about 33% compared to taking the train or local bus on your own
The most difficult part of the model plan above is going from Matsumoto to Kamikochi on the second day and then from Kamikochi to Takayama. To go on this route, you will need to take a train and three different types of local buses. Moreover, advance reservations are required for some bus routes. This route is easily confused by even seasoned Japanese travelers.
Once you have booked the bus tour, all you have to do is go to the Alps Exit of Matsumoto Station (the meeting place), at 7:45 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8th, leave your luggage in the trunk of the chartered bus, and board the bus.
A guide will accompany you, making it easy and safe even for first-timers.
Moreover, you save about 33% compared to taking the train or local bus on your own!
Price: 5,000 yen (with a box lunch)
Save up to 33% compared to traveling individually from Matsumoto to Takayama via Kamikochi! Most convenient for those with large luggage! We highly recommend this limited bus if you are planning to travel from Matsumoto to Takayama on Wednesday, October 8th!
Day 3: October 9 (Thursday) – The Autumn Takayama Festival has finally arrived!
All day: Experience the traditional Takayama Festival
The Takayama Festival is one of the “Three Great Beautiful Festivals of Japan” along with the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Chichibu Night Festival in Saitama. The October festival is called the “Hachiman Festival” and features the following attractions:
Gorgeous yatai (floats) being pulled around
Karakuri Dedication: Traditional performing arts featuring elaborate puppets dancing
Yoimatsuri: Fantastic night scenery with lanterns lit
Shopping for local products at morning markets
Takayama 2025 Autumn Festival Schedule
Spanning two days, the Takayama October Festival includes the display of festival floats around Sakurayama Shrine, the local’s procession to the local shrine, two marionette shows, and finally the grand finale at night time where all floats are lit and pulled throughout the town. The night time procession is held only on October 9th.
October 9th: Festival Float Display: 9AM~5PM [Location: here] Marionette Show: 12PM~12:20PM (1st show), 2PM~2:20PM (2nd show) [Location: here] Shrine Procession: 1:30PM ~ 3:30PM Night Time Float Procession: 6:15PM ~ 8:30PM
Marionette Locations: Each float has a unique performance. For example, the Shakkyo marionette includes a lion dance and lion transformation while the Ryujin marionette includes a blast of confetti. On the 9th and 10th, the Hoteidai Float will put on the show two times a day in front of Sakurayama Shrine.
Post-Trip Options
After enjoying the Takayama Festival, you can continue your journey by following these routes:
To Kyoto and Osaka area via Nagoya
Kanazawa and Hokuriku area via Shirakawa-go: You can also enjoy the World Heritage Site of Gassho-Zukuri Village.
Fares for public transportation from Matsumoto to Takayama
For general methods:
Matsumoto→Shinshimashima→Kamikochi： 3,710 yen
Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen (transfer set ticket)
Total: 6,710 yen
When using the direct bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi:
Matsumoto→Kamikochi： 4,450 yen
Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen
Total: 7,450 yen
Points to note when making reservations
Reservations are required for buses to Kamikochi. Early reservations are recommended, especially during the fall foliage season when the buses are crowded!
Accommodations in Takayama are also crowded during the festival, so advance reservations are required!
Don’t forget to bring warm clothes as it gets cold in the mornings and evenings in Kamikochi in October.
Do you find it troublesome to move around? Then this tour is for you! Transport from Matsumoto to Takayama via Kamikochi can be complicated, as you have to take a train and three buses. Plus, some bus routes require advance reservations.
But with this tour…
You can leave everything to us for a peace of mind & comfort! You can even leave your luggage on the bus for easy access.
-No transfers & no reservations required. -Accompanied by a guide, so you won’t get lost. -Includes a boxed lunch. -Up to 33% cheaper than connecting on your own!
Meet at Matsumoto Station Alps Exit at 7:45 a.m. on 10/8 (Wed.) All you need to do is to take the bus and move to Takayama while enjoying Kamikochi♪
The Nagano and Gifu areas in October are the best destinations for foreign tourists to experience both the beauty of Japanese autumn and traditional culture. The spectacular view of Kamikochi with its autumn leaves and the solemnity of the Takayama Festival with a history of over 400 years, will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Please take this opportunity to experience the charm of autumn in Japan to your heart’s content!
