Tucked away in the mountains of northern Gifu Prefecture, Hida-Furukawa is a beautifully preserved castle town known for its white-walled storehouses, tranquil canals, and strong cultural traditions. Often seen as the quieter counterpart to Takayama, the town offers an authentic atmosphere where history and local life blend seamlessly.
Visitors are drawn to its peaceful streets, the iconic sight of colourful carp swimming in the canals, and lively festivals that showcase centuries-old traditions. Hida-Furukawa also gained international attention as one of the real-world settings that inspired scenes in the hit anime Your Name (Kimi no Na wa).
Whether you come for a day trip or an overnight stay, Hida-Furukawa promises a mix of culture, history, and charm. Here are the best things to do when visiting this hidden gem of the Hida region.
Where is Hida-Furukawa?
Hida-Furukawa is a small town in northern Gifu Prefecture, located just 15km north of Takayama. Sitting along the JR Takayama Line, Furukawa Station is only a 20-minute train ride from Takayama, making it an easy day trip from the larger city. From Nagoya, the Limited Express Hida runs directly to Takayama and Furukawa.
The town is also accessible by highway bus from Takayama and other regional hubs, or by car via the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway. Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, with most attractions clustered around the historic town centre.
Thanks to its close proximity to Takayama yet quieter atmosphere, Hida-Furukawa is an excellent destination for travellers wanting to experience traditional streets and local culture away from the crowds.
Best Things to Do in Hida-Furukawa
From tranquil canals filled with carp to lively festivals and hands-on crafts, Hida-Furukawa blends historic charm with authentic cultural traditions. Here are the best things to do when visiting this quiet yet captivating town.
1 / EXPLORE THE HISTORIC WHITE-WALLED STOREHOUSES & STREETS / all year round
The town’s distinctive white-walled storehouses (kura) and wooden merchant houses line its central streets, creating one of the most picturesque townscapes in the Hida region. Walking these narrow lanes gives a sense of old Japan, with many buildings still in use as shops, cafes, and sake breweries. The area is especially beautiful in winter, when snow adds to the nostalgic atmosphere.
2 / SEE THE CARP SWIMMING IN THE SETO RIVER CANALS / April to November
Running through the town are clear-water canals where hundreds of colourful koi carp swim during the warmer months. Watching the carp glide beneath willow trees and stone bridges has become one of Hida-Furukawa’s signature sights.
The carp are moved to a separate pond for the winter to protect them from the cold, making spring through autumn the best time to see them swimming in the canal.
3 / EXPERIENCE THE HIDA-FURUKAWA FESTIVAL & DRUM FESTIVAL / April
Held annually on 19 and 20 April, the Hida Furukawa Festival is one of the region’s most important cultural events. The festival is included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage listing for Japan’s traditional float festivals and features ornate festival floats, processions, music and ceremonies.
One of its most dramatic events is the Okoshi-Daiko, held on the evening of 19 April. A large drum is carried through the streets while competing groups attempt to bring their smaller drums as close to it as possible, creating an energetic atmosphere that contrasts with the elegant float processions.
The festival attracts large crowds, so visitors should reserve accommodation and transport well in advance. Outside the festival dates, its history and traditions can be explored at the Hida Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall.
4 / WALK THROUGH THE OLD TOWN’S TEMPLES & SHRINES / all year round
Just a short walk from the main streets, a collection of temples and shrines offers a quieter side of Hida-Furukawa. Honkoji Temple, Enkoji Temple, and other small sites invite visitors to stroll among old wooden gates, gardens, and peaceful courtyards. The area is especially atmospheric in autumn, when the trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold.
5 / VISIT THE HIDA-FURUKAWA FESTIVAL FLOAT MUSEUM / all year round
Visitors unable to attend the Furukawa Festival in April can learn about its history and traditions at the Hida Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall. Located near the historic centre of town, the museum displays festival floats, traditional equipment and other objects connected to the event.
Exhibitions and audiovisual presentations introduce the ornate floats, music and dramatic Okoshi-Daiko procession, providing a closer look at one of Hida-Furukawa’s most important cultural traditions.
6 / ENJOY LOCAL CUISINE: HIDA BEEF & REGIONAL SOBA / all year round
Food is another highlight of Hida-Furukawa. Restaurants around town serve top-quality Hida beef prepared as sushi, grilled yakiniku, or in hotpots, while handmade soba noodles showcase the flavour of locally grown buckwheat. Seasonal side dishes, pickles, and mountain vegetables round out meals, offering a true taste of the Hida region.
7 / DISCOVER HIDA-FURUKAWA’S CONNECTION TO YOUR NAME / all year round
Fans of the hit anime Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) will recognise several real-life locations in Hida-Furukawa. The most famous is Furukawa Station, which closely resembles the one featured in the film. Other spots around town inspired scenes in the movie, making it a fun destination for anime enthusiasts and photographers alike.
8 / VISIT THE HIDA CRAFTS MUSEUM & DISCOVER TRADITIONAL WOODWORKING / all year round
The Hida Crafts Museum, also known as Hida no Takumi Bunkakan, introduces the exceptional woodworking skills for which the Hida region has been recognised for centuries. The museum was constructed using traditional techniques and without nails, making the building itself part of the exhibition.
Inside, visitors can examine carpenters’ tools, wooden joints and displays explaining how generations of Hida craftspeople contributed to temples, shrines and other important structures throughout Japan. Hands-on wooden puzzles also allow visitors to explore the precision behind these traditional construction methods.
9 / ENJOY SEASONAL NATURE WALKS AROUND THE TOWN / spring to autumn
Beyond the historic streets, Hida-Furukawa is surrounded by gentle countryside and forested hills. Walking trails around the town lead past rice fields, shrines, and viewpoints that change beautifully with the seasons. Spring cherry blossoms, lush summer greenery, and vivid autumn colours all make the area a rewarding place for a short hike or stroll.
10 / SHOP FOR SAKE & LOCAL SOUVENIRS / all year round
Hida-Furukawa is home to traditional sake breweries where visitors can sample and purchase locally brewed varieties. Small shops in town also sell regional crafts, sweets, and other handmade goods. Picking up sake or a handcrafted souvenir is the perfect way to remember your visit and support the local community.
Where to Stay in Hida-Furukawa
Hida-Furukawa offers a more intimate atmosphere than larger towns like Takayama, with a small but charming selection of accommodation. Many visitors choose to stay in traditional guesthouses or boutique inns set within the preserved townscape, where wooden interiors, tatami rooms, and warm hospitality create an authentic experience.
For those seeking comfort with a local touch, several small hotels and ryokan offer modern amenities while still reflecting the character of the town. Staying overnight allows you to enjoy Furukawa’s quiet evening streets and early-morning atmosphere, when the canals and historic storehouses are especially peaceful.
Given the short 20-minute train ride between the two towns, staying in Takayama is also a convenient option. Many travellers base themselves there and make an easy day trip to Hida-Furukawa, while enjoying the wider range of accommodation available in the larger city.
Tours & Charters to Hida-Furukawa
Hida-Furukawa can be easily explored as a day trip, but joining a guided tour makes the experience even more rewarding. With direct transport and an English-speaking guide, you can relax and discover the history, culture, and hidden highlights of this charming town.
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Delve into Hida-Furukawa’s Cultural Treasures
Discover Hida-Furukawa’s history and craftsmanship on this guided day tour from Takayama. Explore the white-walled storehouse district, visit the Hida Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall and follow part of the traditional Santera temple route before taking part in a hands-on weaving experience.
Highlights:
- Explore Hida-Furukawa’s historic streets, canals and cultural landmarks.
- Visit the Hida Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall with a knowledgeable guide.
- Create a traditional woven item during a hands-on cultural experience.
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore the Hida Locations of 'Your Name'
Follow the story of Your Name on a guided journey through the real locations that inspired scenes from the film. Visit Hida-Furukawa Station, Hida City Library and Keta Wakamiya Shrine while learning about their connections to Mitsuha and Taki’s journey. The tour also includes a traditional kumihimo braiding experience inspired by one of the film’s central motifs.
Highlights:
- Visit Hida-Furukawa locations associated with Your Name.
- Explore Hida-Furukawa Station, Hida City Library and Keta Wakamiya Shrine.
- Create your own kumihimo braided cord during a hands-on cultural experience.
Private Charters to Hida-Furukawa
Private charters provide flexible transport to Hida-Furukawa for families, private groups and travellers who prefer to explore at their own pace. Pick-up can be arranged from Takayama, Nagoya or other locations in Central Japan, with an itinerary tailored to your group.
Highlights:
- Travel directly to Hida-Furukawa in a private, licensed vehicle.
- Arrange convenient pick-up and drop-off locations.
- Combine Hida-Furukawa with Takayama or another nearby destination.
Private charters include a professional driver but not a tour guide. Visitors who would like guided explanations and cultural experiences should select one of the guided tours above. Please contact us to discuss your preferred route, travel date and group requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to visit Hida-Furukawa?
Hida-Furukawa can be visited throughout the year. The carp return to the Seto River in spring, summer brings green countryside, autumn offers colourful foliage and winter covers the historic town in snow. The Furukawa Festival is held annually on 19 and 20 April.
How do I get to Hida-Furukawa?
Local trains connect Takayama and Hida-Furukawa in approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Selected Limited Express Hida services also stop at Hida-Furukawa, but travellers should check the current timetable because not every service continues beyond Takayama.
What is Hida-Furukawa famous for?
The town is known for its white-walled storehouses, Seto River canals, traditional carpentry and the UNESCO-listed Furukawa Festival. It also gained international attention through its connection to the anime film Your Name.
Can I visit Hida-Furukawa as a day trip?
Yes. Its compact historic centre and short journey from Takayama make Hida-Furukawa an easy day trip. Staying overnight provides more time to enjoy its quiet streets after most day visitors have left.
Where can I learn about the Furukawa Festival?
The Hida Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall introduces the festival through floats, artefacts and audiovisual displays. It can be visited throughout the year and is included in our Hida-Furukawa cultural tour.
Can I visit locations connected to Your Name?
Yes. Locations associated with the film include Hida-Furukawa Station, Hida City Library and Keta Wakamiya Shrine. Our guided Your Name tour visits these locations and includes a traditional kumihimo braiding experience.
