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  • 2025.04.21

Takayama Festival | April 15th Information


Every year the Takayama Festival (Spring) is held on April 14th and 15th. April 14th is where most of the major festivities are held including the night festival. If you missed the festival on the 14th, don’t fret! You can still see the floats another day. On the 15th, the parade returns to the main shrine and several dances and puppet shows are held throughout the day. Depending on the weather, there are cases where the festival finishes early or is cancelled due to the fragile nature of the floats so please keep this in mind.

How to get to Takayama from Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka

Boarding AreaTime TakenBus FareReservation link
Tokyo (Shinjuku Station)~7 hoursAdult: 8,000 yen
Child: 4,000 yen		Direct bus
Nagoya Station~2 1/2 hoursAdult: 3,600 yen
Child: 3,600 yen		Direct bus
Kyoto Station~5 hoursAdult: 6,000 yen
Child: 2,750 yen		Direct bus
Osaka Station~6 hoursAdult: 7,000 yen
Child: 3,550 yen		Direct bus

Festival Schedule for April 15th (Tentative)


April 15th: On this day, a procession makes its way back to Hie Shrine where they departed the day before. There are also puppet shows put on through different times throughout the day. At the procession locals dress up in traditional wear and play music as they march back to Hie Shrine. There are also Shishimai (lion) dances that take place in front of the Takayama Historical Government House.

Takayama Spring Festival April 15th Schedule

Note: This is the basic schedule, however often schedules can be completely changed due to weather conditions so pay attention to live updates.

Marionette Performance #1　　　10:00 AM (around 15 mins)
Procession starts
(in front of Takayama Historical Government House )		　　　12:30 PM
Marionette Performance #2　　　2:00 PM (around 15 mins)
Procession ends at Hie Shrine　　　4:00 PM
The schedule is subject to change depending on weather (such as rain).

Takayama City decides and has live updates on which events are cancelled the day of found on their Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Takayama Float Locations (for the marionette dances)


*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. Floats in red show which ones are putting on shows.

12:30 PM

Get off at Takayama Nohi Bus Center adjacent to Takayama Station. I missed the lion dance earlier, but the streets were lively with a lot of tourists.

1:20 PM

Around Honmachi street, there are festival food and game stalls selling classic festival foods like chocolate bananas, sugar coated fruits, fried foods and more! Many local children were out with their friends playing games.


Similar to the Ponshukan Sake Museum in Niigata Prefecture, Takayama also opened a sake sample bar located in the souvenir store Maryuhyaku where you can sample 100 different types of the areas award winning sake, which is proudly produced in the area.



1:50 PM

After walking through the main streets and even doing some shopping, people started to make their ways to several different float stalls. I arrived 10 minutes early and was already far behind in the crowd!

Not all Takayama floats have puppets on them–my best advice is to see where the Japanese crowds migrate to (lol). Those with puppets will have a protruding stage in front of it for the doll. Floats with dolls on them are: Ebisu, Ryujin, Sanbasou, Shakkyo, Koukondai.

2:00 PM

The puppet dances start at each respective stall at 2PM and lasts around 15 minutes. This particular float (Shakkyo) was located right in front of the Takayama Municipal Government Memorial Hall. It did some pretty nifty tricks that were totally unexpected.

Hotels/ Lodging

Most guests opt to stay the night in Takayama to enjoy the festival and area at a more leisurely pace. The area is abundant in nature activities, luxurious foods like Hida beef, and natural hot springs. To truly experience the hot springs and hiking, the Okuhida region of Takayama has hiking trails, hot springs, and access to the national park Kamikochi. Next door is also Hida Furukawa famous for inspiring the anime movie, “Your Name” where many people enjoy riding bicycles by the rice fields. Lastly, the Kamioka region is a retro town famous for its outdoor bicycle experience on an old abandoned railway track!

 

Check more detailed information about the bus routes/ prices in the area: here

  • 2025.04.01

Cheapest way from Kyoto to Takayama by Bus

Publish date: April 1st, 2025 Topic: Transportation to Takayama, Takayama Bus


Going between Kyoto and Takayama can range from around 3 1/2 hours to 5 hours. There are currently two direct buses departing from Kyoto Station, one in the morning, and one in the afternoon. From July to October, one more bus is added and departs around lunch time and can be seen in the table below. If you want to visit Shirakawago or Kanazawa on the way to Takayama, there is also a tour bus that runs once a day, but it costs significantly more.

Kyoto to Takayama Bus Departure Times (direct bus)

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

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

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.

 








  • 2025.01.29

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 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 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 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.

2. Meiji Mura Museum

Meiji Styled Building


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

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

Kansai Area

3. Nara

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

For more details click here.

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

Gifu Area

4. Gifu Castle

Gifu Castle’s Panoramic Scenery

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

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

5. Tsumago-juku

Post Town of Tsumago Juku

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

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

6. Takayama

Takayama Festival Bridge

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

For more details click here.

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

7. Shirakawago

Shirakawago Observation Deck View in the Winter
Shirakawago in Winter

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

For more details click here.

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

8. Hida Furukawa

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

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

Mie Area

9. Ise Jingu

Town Area Surrounding Ise Jingu

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

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

Shiga Area

10. Hikone Castle

Hikone Castle in the Spring

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

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

  • 2024.11.19

Going from Nagoya to Shirakawago and Takayama Day Tour

Topic: Nagoya day tours / Day trips from Nagoya / Nagoya Travel/ Shirakawago Day Trip Itinerary

Why Nagoya As A Base for Day Trips?

Shirakawago Day Trip from Nagoya
Thatched roofs in Shirakawago
Nara Day Trip From Nagoya
Deer 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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 Nara all in less than 3 hours. We highly recommend you reserve bus tickets in advance as they often sell out!

Table of Contents

  1. Recommended Route ① Shirakawago and Takayama
  2. Recommended Route ②「Nara」

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 summer
Shirakawago in Summer
Shirakawago in winter
Shirakawago 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.

Nagoya ⇌ Shirakawago Highway Bus Online Reservation

Reservation screen for a highway bus to to Shirakawago from Nagoya
Confirmation screen for a highway bus to to Shirakawago from Nagoya
QR code screen for a highway bus to to Shirakawago from Nagoya
mobile ticket overview 1
mobile ticket overview 2
mobile ticket overview 3

* 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 7:30 AM

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.

meitetsu bus center nagoya

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.

　

meitetsu bus stop 7 going to Nagoya

Around 8:40 AM

Take a 10-minute break at the Hirugano service area.

Meitetsu Bus

Around 10:32 AM

Arrive at Shirakawago Bus Terminal.

Shirakawago bus terminal

Shirakawago Bus Terminal Information

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.

Coin lockers at Shirakawago bus terminal
shirakawago bus terminal
people lining at shirakawago bus terminal
shirakawago bus terminal outside
shirakawago bus terminal reception desk
shirakawago bus terminal sign

Nagoya → Shirakawago Highway Bus Online Reservation

Travel time: ~2 hours and 40 minutes
Fare: 3,400 – 4,200 yen/person, one-way

Shirakawago Observatory

Upon arrival in Shirakawago, we recommend first visiting the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory, which offers a panoramic view of Shirakawago.

Shirakawago Observation Deck View in the Winter


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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
Shirakawago street
shirakawago museum

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.

By reservation only:

Shirakawago 12:35 → Takayama 13:25
Shirakawago 13:30 → Takayama 14:20
Shirakawago 13:50 → Takayama 14:50

Non-reserved regular (first-come, first-served):

Shirakawago 13:15 → Takayama 14:05

Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal

Fare: 2,600 yen/one-way (revised in December 2024, to be confirmed)

Shirakawago → Takayama Highway Bus Online Reservation

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.

"Little Kyoto" - Takayama

After enjoying Takayama, take a highway bus back to Nagoya.

It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes from Takayama ( Takayama Nohi Bus Center ) to Nagoya ( Meitetsu Bus Center) by direct bus.

Takayama → Nagoya Highway Bus Online Booking

Reservation recommended:

Takayama 17:30 → Nagoya 20:15
Takayama 19:00 → Nagoya 21:45

Takayama → Nagoya
Fare: 3,400 yen
Time required: approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes

Nohi Bus Center Takayama

Remember to take a break at your hotel after your trip!

Express Bus Online Reservations

Highway bus waiting at Nagoya Station

Shirakawago from Nagoya
　Fare: 3,400 yen to 4,200 yen
　Travel time: ~2 hours and 40 minutes
Shirakawago to Takayama
　Fare: 2,600 yen
　Time required: ~60 min.
Takayama to Nagoya
　Fare: 3,400 yen
　Travel time: ~2 hr. 50 min.

Another day trip from Nagoya is Nara

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).

Meitetsu Bus waiting at Nara Station

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.

Nagoya → Nara Highway Bus Online Reservation

Recommended day trip route from Nagoya (2)
Nara

Todaiji Buddha
Deer standing in front of a shrine in Nara
Deer omikuji in Nara
Mt.Wakakusa view

Nagoya to Nara by Bus

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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!

Nagoya → Nara Highway Bus Online Reservation

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)

Meitetsu bus center bus stop 8

Kintetsu Nara Station

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.

Local Nara city bus pass

We also recommend that you purchase a bus pass, which allows you to freely get on and off local buses in Nara City.

Bus Pass Details

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 outside
Nara deer in front of shrine
Deer omikuji (deer fortune)
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Nara Park
    Nara Park is famous as a place where you can spend time with deer.
    Relax and enjoy nature in this spacious park.
  4. 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.

Wakakusa, Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Todaiji Daibutsuden Course (approx. 7 hours)

Mt.Wakakusa
Buddha at Todaiji
  1. Visit Kasuga Taisha, a World Heritage Site
    15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station to the main shrine of Kasuga Taisha by bus.
  2. 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).
  3. Todaiji Temple
  4. Naramachi (shopping district in Kyoto)
    Visitors can enjoy strolling, shopping, and dining.

Naramachi: Shopping/ A Gourmet Stroll (about 2 to 3 hours)

Naramachi

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.

Other recommended spots

Bus from Nara back to Nagoya

Bus at Nara Station
Bus at Kintetsu Nara Station

Commuting Time in Nara
For about 4 hours and 30 minutes

Kintetsu Nara Station, Bus Stop No. 20 Departure at 14:55
(Depart from JR Nara Station, Bus Stop #4 at 14:50)
↓
Arrive at Meitetsu Bus Center (Nagoya) at 17:25

Commuting Time in Nara
Around 9 hours

Kintetsu Nara Station, Bus Stop No. 20 Departure at 19:15
(Depart from JR Nara Station, bus stop #4 at 19:10)
↓
Arrive at Meitetsu Bus Center (Nagoya) at 21:45

Highway Bus Facilities
Restroom, AC power supply, free WiFi

Where to board the train in Nara
Kintetsu Nara Station, Bus Stop No. 20
JR Nara Station, No. 4 bus stop

Nagoya → Nara Highway Bus Online Reservation

< This content was produced in cooperation with Meitetsu Bus Co. >