Traveling from Takayama to Shirakawago is one of the most scenic and rewarding journeys you can take in Japan. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay in this picturesque UNESCO World Heritage village, this guide provides all the essential details, travel options, ticket prices, and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip in 2025.
In the Japanese Alps lies the charming heritage village of Shirakawa-go . This mountain village is known for its traditional wooden farmhouses with characteristic gassho-zukuri roofs.
These thatched roofs have an angle between 45 and 60 degrees and are built like this to prevent snow from piling up on the roof during the winter.
Shirakawa-go is a popular and easy day trip from Takayama and a very worthwhile place to visit. This step-by-step guide includes everything you need to know about traveling from Takayama to Shirakawago.
Takayama to Shirakawago
Table of contents
- Takayama to Shirakawago
- Top 3 hotels in Takayama
- Takayama to Shirakawago ways to travel
- How to Travel from Takayama to Shirakawa-go by Bus
- Taking a Shirakawa-go Tour from Takayama
- Top Shirakawa-go Tours from Takayama
- How to Choose the Right Tour?
- Ochudo (おちゅうど) – Best for Hida Beef & Local Dishes
- Irori (いろり) – Best for Traditional Meals
- Coffee House Hina (コーヒーハウス雛) – Best for Snacks & Coffee
- Shiraogi (しらおぎ) – Best for Quick Hida Beef Burgers
Top 3 hotels in Takayama
Takayama, a city rich in history and culture, offers exceptional accommodations that blend traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. Here are two top-rated hotels to consider for your stay:
Takayama, a city rich in history and culture, offers exceptional accommodations that blend traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. Here are two top-rated hotels to consider for your stay:
1- Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan (本陣平野屋 花兆庵)
A traditional ryokan located in the heart of Takayama's historic old town, offering personalized hospitality, exquisite kaiseki meals featuring Hida beef, and relaxing hot spring baths.
Nestled along the Miya River, Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan is a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) renowned for its exceptional service and authentic cultural experience. Guests are greeted with warm hospitality, including a welcoming drum ceremony, and can choose from various room types, some featuring private open-air baths. The on-site restaurant serves meticulously prepared kaiseki meals highlighting local specialties like Hida beef. The ryokan's prime location offers easy access to Takayama's historic sites, including the Takayama Jinya Morning Market and preserved old town streets. Guest reviews consistently praise the attentive staff, exquisite cuisine, and immersive traditional atmosphere.
Book a room with WayAway.io or Trip.com
2 - Eph Takayama
A boutique hotel just a minute's walk from Takayama Station, featuring modern rooms with hinoki wood baths, a diverse breakfast buffet, and close proximity to major attractions.
Conveniently located just a minute's walk from JR Takayama Station, eph TAKAYAMA is a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends modern design with traditional Japanese elements. Each room is thoughtfully designed, featuring hinoki (Japanese cypress) wood baths that provide a soothing and aromatic bathing experience. The hotel offers a nutritious breakfast incorporating local ingredients, and its on-site café serves a variety of beverages and light meals throughout the day. Its proximity to major attractions, such as the historic old town and morning markets, makes it an excellent base for exploring the city. Guests have lauded the hotel's cleanliness, friendly staff, and contemporary comforts.
Book a room with WayAway.io or Trip.com
Both of these accommodations provide unique experiences that cater to different preferences, ensuring a memorable stay in Takayama.
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Takayama to Shirakawago ways to travel
Traveling from Takayama to Shirakawa-go is straightforward, with multiple transportation options available:
1. Nohi Bus (Most Convenient & Popular)
- Time: ~50 minutes
- Cost: ~¥2,600 one-way / ~¥4,600 round trip
- Schedule: Operates multiple times a day
- Booking: Advance reservations recommended (Nohi Bus website)
The Nohi Bus is the most convenient way to reach Shirakawa-go from Takayama. The bus departs from Takayama Nohi Bus Terminal (next to JR Takayama Station) and arrives at Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal, which is just a short walk from the famous Gassho-zukuri houses.
2. Rental Car (Flexible & Scenic)
- Time: ~50 minutes
- Cost: Varies (~¥6,000–¥10,000 per day for car rental + toll fees)
- Route: Via National Route 158 & Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
Renting a car allows for flexibility in exploring the region. However, note that winter driving (December–March) can be challenging due to heavy snow, so rental cars should be equipped with snow tires or chains.
3. Taxi or Private Transfer (Comfortable but Expensive)
- Time: ~45-50 minutes
- Cost: ¥12,000–¥15,000 one-way
- Booking: Can be arranged through hotels or taxi companies
If you prefer a private, hassle-free trip, you can book a taxi or private car transfer. Some services also offer English-speaking drivers and guided tours.
4. Cycling or Hiking (For Adventurers)
- Time: Cycling (~3–4 hours), Hiking (~7–8 hours)
- Cost: Free (except bike rental fee if applicable)
- Difficulty: Moderate to high
While not common, cycling or hiking from Takayama to Shirakawa-go is possible for adventure seekers. The journey offers beautiful mountain scenery, but it requires proper preparation, especially in winter.
Best Option?
- For convenience: Nohi Bus
- For flexibility & scenic views: Rental Car
- For comfort: Private Transfer
- For adventure: Cycling or Hiking
How to Travel from Takayama to Shirakawa-go by Bus
The most convenient way to travel from Takayama to Shirakawa-go is by Nohi Bus, which offers frequent direct services. Here’s everything you need to know:
Nohi Bus Information
- ✅ Travel Time: ~50 minutes
- ✅ One-Way Fare: ¥2,600 (Adults) / ¥1,300 (Children)
- ✅ Round-Trip Fare: ¥4,600 (Adults) / ¥2,300 (Children)
- ✅ Departure Point: Takayama Nohi Bus Center (next to JR Takayama Station)
- ✅ Arrival Point: Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal (a short walk from the Gassho-zukuri houses)
- ✅ Reservation: Advance booking is recommended (buses can fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons)
Bus Schedule (Subject to change)
Buses run multiple times per day, typically every 1–2 hours from morning to late afternoon.
Example Schedule (Outbound Takayama → Shirakawa-go)
- 08:00 AM
- 09:10 AM
- 10:50 AM
- 12:00 PM
- 1:40 PM
- 3:00 PM
- 4:30 PM
- Example Schedule (Return Shirakawa-go → Takayama)
- 09:00 AM
- 10:10 AM
- 11:30 AM
- 1:00 PM
- 2:50 PM
- 4:00 PM
- 5:30 PM
Check the latest schedule & book tickets here:
Nohi Bus Official Website
How to Book Tickets
- Online Booking: Through the Nohi Bus website (recommended in peak season).
- At Takayama Bus Terminal: Buy tickets at the Nohi Bus Center counter.
- Hotel Concierge: Some hotels in Takayama can assist with bookings.
Tip: Round-trip tickets are cheaper and ensure you have a return seat, especially during peak seasons like winter (for the Shirakawa-go Light-up event).
Additional Tips
✔️Arrive 15-20 minutes early to find your seat and store luggage.
✔️Luggage storage is available at Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal.
✔️Winter Travel: Roads can be snowy, but buses are well-equipped for winter conditions.
Taking a Shirakawa-go Tour from Takayama
If you want a hassle-free and informative trip to Shirakawa-go, joining a guided tour from Takayama is a great option. Many tours include round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and sometimes meals or extra stops at nearby attractions like Gokayama.
Travel Made Easy
✈️ Via WayAway.io: Score the best deals on flights, hotels, and transportation options to make your trip hassle-free! Start here
🏨 Via Trip.com: Find top-rated accommodations and convenient travel packages for your Takayama to Shirakawago adventure! Click here
Top Shirakawa-go Tours from Takayama
Half-Day or Full-Day Bus Tour (Most Popular)
- ✅ Duration: 4–6 hours
- ✅ Includes: Round-trip bus transport, English-speaking guide, free time in Shirakawa-go
- ✅ Price: ¥5,000–¥8,000 per person
Our Itinerary
- Depart from Takayama Nohi Bus Center
- Arrive at Shirakawa-go (guided walking tour)
- Visit Observation Deck for panoramic views
- Free time to explore the village
- Return to Takayama
Best For: Travelers who want an easy, guided experience with free time to explore.
Book: Nohi Bus Tour or through agencies like WayAway or Trip.com
Shirakawa-go & Gokayama World Heritage Tour (Cultural & Scenic)
- ✅ Duration: ~8 hours (Full Day)
- ✅ Includes: Round-trip transport, English guide, entry fees, lunch
- ✅ Price: ¥10,000–¥15,000
Our Itinerary
- Visit Ainokura Village (Gokayama) – a smaller, less crowded Gassho-zukuri village
- Explore Shirakawa-go with a local guide
- Lunch with Hida beef or traditional local cuisine
- Free time for photos and shopping
- Return to Takayama
Best For: Those who want to see both UNESCO-listed villages in one day.
Book: Tours available through agencies like WayAway or Trip.com
Private Tour with a Local Guide (Customized Experience)
- ✅ Duration: Flexible (Half-Day or Full-Day)
- ✅ Includes: Private vehicle, personal guide, custom itinerary
- ✅ Price: ¥20,000–¥40,000 per group
Options Include:
- Exclusive access to less crowded viewpoints
- Visit to Wada House, a historic farmhouse
- Stop at Hirase Hot Spring for relaxation
- Learn about Gassho-zukuri construction & history
Best For: Families, photographers, and those who prefer a personalized experience.
Book: Through travel agencies like WayAway or Trip.com
How to Choose the Right Tour?
Short on time? → Half-Day Bus Tour
Want a deeper cultural experience? → Full-Day Shirakawa-go & Gokayama Tour
Prefer flexibility? → Private Tour
Best Places to Eat in Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go offers a variety of local specialties, especially Hida beef, soba noodles, and mountain vegetables. Here are some great places to eat during your visit:
Ochudo (おちゅうど) – Best for Hida Beef & Local Dishes
- What to Try:
- Hida Beef Rice Bowl (Hida-gyu Donburi) – Premium local beef over rice
- Gohei Mochi – Grilled rice cake with a sweet miso glaze
- Sansai Soba – Handmade buckwheat noodles with mountain vegetables
- Location: Near Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal
- Price Range: ¥1,000–¥2,500
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed on some weekdays)
Why Go? Cozy traditional setting with delicious Hida beef and a friendly atmosphere.
Irori (いろり) – Best for Traditional Meals
- What to Try:
- Hoba Miso Set Meal – Grilled miso on a magnolia leaf with rice & side dishes
- Hida Beef Skewers – Juicy, grilled on charcoal
- Tempura & Soba Set
- Location: In the village center, near the Wada House
- Price Range: ¥1,500–¥3,000
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Why Go? Authentic Irori-style (hearth) dining, traditional flavors, and great atmosphere.
Travel Made Easy
✈️ Via WayAway.io: Score the best deals on flights, hotels, and transportation options to make your trip hassle-free! Start here
🏨 Via Trip.com: Find top-rated accommodations and convenient travel packages for your Takayama to Shirakawago adventure! Click here
Coffee House Hina (コーヒーハウス雛) – Best for Snacks & Coffee
- What to Try:
- Hida Beef Croquette – Crispy outside, soft & flavorful inside
- Matcha Latte – Served with wagashi (Japanese sweets)
- Homemade Cheesecake
Location: 5-minute walk from the Observation Deck
Price Range: ¥500–¥1,500
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Why Go? Warm & cozy café with great views and friendly service.
Shiraogi (しらおぎ) – Best for Quick Hida Beef Burgers
- What to Try:
- Hida Beef Burger – Juicy patty with a soft bun
- Hida Beef Skewers – Grilled & smoky
- Ice Cream with Hida Milk
Location: Next to the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal
Price Range: ¥800–¥1,800
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Why Go? Great fast food option if you're in a hurry but still want to try Hida beef.
Pro Tips:
- Peak Lunchtime (12:00–1:30 PM) gets crowded – go early or late!
- Try local specialties like Hida beef, Gohei mochi, and Hoba miso for an authentic taste.
- Some restaurants close early (around 3 PM) – plan your meal accordingly.
I hope this guide to visiting Shirakawago from Takayama has given you all the information you need to plan a trip to this beautiful village in the Japanese Alps.
If you have any questions, leave a comment below or send me a message! Read my other posts about Japan for more Japan travel inspiration!
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