Most visitors travel to Shirakawa-go by highway bus from Takayama, Kanazawa, Toyama or Nagoya. There is no railway station in Shirakawa-go, so travellers arriving by train must transfer to a bus at one of these nearby transport hubs. Some services require advance reservations and popular departures can sell out, particularly during weekends, public holidays and peak travel seasons.
It is also important to understand the difference between Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. The UNESCO World Heritage listing includes three historic villages: Ogimachi in Shirakawa-go and Ainokura and Suganuma in Gokayama. Ogimachi is the largest, most frequently visited and best connected by public transport, while Ainokura and Suganuma are smaller and generally quieter.
This guide explains how to reach Shirakawa-go from Takayama, Nagoya, Kanazawa, Toyama, Matsumoto, Nagano, Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. It also covers bus reservations, driving, parking and options for continuing onward rather than returning to your original departure point.
For help planning your visit after arriving, see our guide to 15 Things to Do in Shirakawa-go & Where to Stay.
Based in Nagano and operating all year round, we are the region’s No.1 tour and charter operator. We can arrange transport and tours to any destinations in the region, and as a registered travel agent, we can package transport, accommodation and more together so you save and get the most out of your time in Central Japan – scroll to the bottom for details.
Where is Shirakawa-go?
Shirakawa-go is located in the remote Shogawa River Valley of north-western Gifu Prefecture. Its main village, Ogimachi, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage grouping with Ainokura and Suganuma in the neighbouring Gokayama region of Toyama Prefecture. The villages are famous for their steeply thatched gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which were designed for the region’s heavy winter snowfall.
The main transport gateways are Takayama Station, Kanazawa Station, Toyama Station and Nagoya. Direct buses connect these cities with the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal in Ogimachi, allowing travellers to visit as a return trip or stop in the village while travelling between Takayama and the Hokuriku region.
Shirakawa-go can also be incorporated into a wider journey through Central Japan, connecting destinations such as Takayama, Kanazawa, Toyama and the Japanese Alps.
How to Get to Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go does not have a railway station, so all public transport journeys into the village require a bus for the final part of the route. The following sections explain the best options from each major starting point, including journey times, fares and reservation requirements.
TAKAYAMA --NAGOYA -- KANAZAWA -- TOYAMA -- KAMIKOCHI -- MATSUMOTO -- NAGANO CITY -- JIGOKUDANI MONKEY PARK -- TOKYO -- NARITA AIRPORT -- HANEDA AIRPORT -- KYOTO & OSAKA
We endeavour to keep this information as up-to-date as possible and in recognition that most international visitors will be using the train network to move around Japan, most directions are for using the trains. If there is alternative option i.e. express or local bus, that is notably faster or economical, we also include that information.
FROM TAKAYAMA / 50 to 65 minutes
Takayama is the easiest and most popular starting point for visiting Shirakawa-go. Direct highway buses depart from Platform 4 at the Takayama Nohi Bus Center, located beside Takayama Station, and arrive at the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal in Ogimachi.
The journey takes around 50 minutes and currently costs ¥2,800 one way for an adult. Some departures require advance reservations, while others accept passengers without reservations. Tickets for non-reserved services can be purchased at the bus centre or through the operator’s mobile-ticket service.
Buses can sell out during busy travel periods, so advance reservations are strongly recommended whenever available. Travellers planning to continue from Shirakawa-go to Kanazawa, Toyama or Takaoka should reserve or purchase that onward journey separately.
For current departures, reservation rules and fares, see the official Nohi Bus timetable or our Takayama to Shirakawa-go express bus guide.
Travellers who would prefer to combine transportation with guided sightseeing can join our tour of Takayama and Shirakawa-go, with the option to finish in either Takayama or Kanazawa.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- KanazawaTakayama
FROM NAGOYA / approx. 3 hours
The simplest public transport option from Nagoya is the direct Gifu Bus service from the Meitetsu Bus Center to Shirakawa-go. The journey takes around three hours, requires no transfers and must be reserved in advance. One-way fares generally start from around ¥4,000 but can vary by service and travel date.
The Meitetsu Bus Center is connected to the Meitetsu Department Store beside Nagoya Station. As the terminal is located above street level and serves many routes, passengers should arrive with sufficient time to locate the correct departure platform.
An alternative is to take the Limited Express Hida from Nagoya Station to Takayama and transfer to the Shirakawa-go bus at the Takayama Nohi Bus Center. This route takes longer but is useful for travellers planning to stay in Takayama before visiting Shirakawa-go. The railway portion is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, but the bus to Shirakawa-go is not.
Travellers can also visit both Takayama and Shirakawa-go on a guided day tour from Nagoya, with transportation and an English-speaking guide included.
Recommended Tour: Savor the views of the Japanese countryside as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go. This tour takes you into the famed thatched-roof houses of UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakawa-go as your guide shares the history (and dramas) of Edo-era life in this remote mountain village.
Recommended
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- NagoyaTakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
FROM KANAZAWA / 75 to 85 minutes
Direct highway buses connect Kanazawa Station West Gate with Shirakawa-go. The journey takes approximately 75 minutes and costs ¥2,800 one way for adults.
All services require seat reservations, so booking in advance is strongly recommended, particularly during weekends, public holidays and the winter illumination period. Tickets can be reserved online through Japan Bus Online or via the Hokuriku Railroad reservation centre.
Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go work particularly well as part of an onward journey to Takayama. If travelling this route, reserve the Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go and Shirakawa-go to Takayama journeys separately. For more information about the city, see our guide to the 30 Best Things to Do Around Kanazawa.
Travelling by guided tour removes the need to arrange separate bus reservations while allowing you to visit more of the region. This tour visits the woodcarving town of Inami, a traditional village in Gokayama and Shirakawa-go. Guests can finish the tour in either Kanazawa or Takayama, making it useful for travellers continuing across Central Japan.
Best Selling
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- KanazawaTakayama
FROM TOYAMA / 80 minutes
Direct highway buses connect Toyama Station with Shirakawa-go in approximately 80 minutes. The current adult fare is ¥2,400 one way, with buses departing from the bus terminal outside the station.
Services from Toyama are limited and reserved seating is available, so travellers should book in advance through Japan Bus Online or the Toyama Chiho Railway reservation centre. Toyama is particularly convenient for visitors travelling via the Hokuriku Shinkansen or combining Shirakawa-go with the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. Check the latest timetable and booking information on the official Nohi Bus website.
FROM KAMIKOCHI / approx. 2.5 to 3 hours
VisiTravelling from Kamikochi to Shirakawa-go requires transfers at Hirayu Onsen and Takayama. Take the bus from Kamikochi Bus Terminal to Hirayu Bus Terminal, transfer to a Takayama-bound service, then board the highway bus from the Takayama Nohi Bus Center to Shirakawa-go.
Allow approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the connections. The Kamikochi to Takayama transfer ticket costs ¥3,000 one way, followed by ¥2,800 from Takayama to Shirakawa-go, for a total adult fare of ¥5,800. The first two buses do not require reservations, but some Takayama to Shirakawa-go services do and should be booked in advance.
Kamikochi is only accessible during its operating season, scheduled from 17 April to 15 November in 2026. See our Takayama, Hirayu Onsen and Kamikochi bus guide and the official Nohi Bus timetable before travelling.
Recommended
(Green Season) 4-Day Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa: The Ultimate Central Japan Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyKanazawaTakayamaMatsumotoShirakawagoKamikochi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
FROM MATSUMOTO / approx. 3.5 to 4 hours
There is no direct bus from Matsumoto to Shirakawa-go. The simplest route is to take the highway bus from Matsumoto Bus Terminal to Takayama, then transfer at the Takayama Nohi Bus Center for Shirakawa-go.
The journey from Matsumoto to Takayama takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes and costs ¥4,400. From Takayama, allow another 50 minutes and ¥2,800, bringing the total adult fare to ¥7,200. Including the transfer, the complete journey generally takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Reservations are required for the Matsumoto to Takayama bus and for selected Shirakawa-go services. As the two journeys use separate tickets, reserve both sections in advance and allow sufficient transfer time in Takayama. Check the latest schedule on the official Nohi Bus website.
FROM NAGANO CITY / approx. 2.5 to 3.5 hours
The fastest route from Nagano is usually to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Nagano Station to Toyama Station, then transfer to a direct highway bus for Shirakawa-go. The train takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, followed by an 80-minute bus journey.
Shinkansen fares vary by service and seat type but are generally around ¥7,000, while the bus from Toyama costs ¥2,400 one way. Allow approximately ¥9,400 in total. The train is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Hokuriku Arch Pass, but the highway bus is not. Bus services from Toyama are limited, so check the connection carefully and reserve your bus seat in advance.
Visitors travelling from the Snow Monkey Park should first return to Nagano Station by express bus or train and local bus, then follow the route above. This adds approximately one hour plus transfer time to the overall journey.
FROM THE JIGOKUDANI MONKEY PARK / approx. 3.5 hours
The Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shirakawa-go are separated by a considerable distance, requiring multiple transports to move between one and the other. For that reason, it is best attempted over two days. Visitors have the option of using the Nagaden Express Bus service from the park to Nagano Station, or a combination of local bus to Yudanaka Station followed by train from Yudanaka to Nagano Station. Once at Nagano Station, follow the directions above to reach Shirakawa-go.
Should the enchanting snow monkeys capture your interest, let our '2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano To Takayama via Matsumoto' guide you through Central Japan's scenic wonders. Concluding in picturesque Takayama, this tour serves as your ideal stepping stone to Shirakawago's traditional allure and timeless beauty. To delve further into the region's rich history and enchanting landscapes, join our '1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go.
Small Group
2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano To Takayama via Matsumoto
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTakayamaMatsumoto
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Takayama
FROM TOKYO / VIA NAGOYA / APPROXIMATELY 5 HOURS VIA TOYAMA / APPROXIMATELY 4 TO 4.5 HOURS
VIA NAGOYA / APPROXIMATELY 5 HOURS
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagoya Station, then walk to the nearby Meitetsu Bus Center and board the direct Gifu Bus service to Shirakawa-go. The Shinkansen journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, followed by a bus journey of around 3 hours.
The complete journey generally costs from approximately ¥15,300, including around ¥11,300 for the Shinkansen and fares from ¥4,000 for the bus. The direct bus requires a reservation and should be booked in advance.
Japan Rail Pass holders can use Hikari services between Tokyo and Nagoya without an additional charge, although the journey takes slightly longer than the Nozomi. The bus from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go is not covered by the pass. See our Tokaido Shinkansen guide for further information.
VIA TOYAMA / APPROXIMATELY 4 TO 4.5 HOURS
The fastest public transport route from Tokyo is usually to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo or Ueno Station to Toyama Station, then transfer to a direct highway bus for Shirakawa-go. The train takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, followed by an 80-minute bus journey.
A reserved-seat Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Toyama costs approximately ¥12,960, while the bus costs ¥2,400, bringing the total adult fare to around ¥15,360. The Shinkansen is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Hokuriku Arch Pass, but the bus is not. As Toyama bus services are limited, reserve the bus first and then choose a train that provides sufficient transfer time.
From Narita Airport, take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station and allow approximately one additional hour. From Haneda Airport, travel to Tokyo or Shinagawa Station using the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line and allow approximately 30 to 45 additional minutes. Travellers arriving late in the day may find it easier to stay overnight in Toyama, Kanazawa or Takayama before continuing to Shirakawa-go.
FROM NARITA AIRPORT / 4.5 to 6 hours
If heading to Shirakawa-go straight from Narita Airport, you will first need to head into central Tokyo to either Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station. The Narita Express (NEX) runs from Narita to both Tokyo Station and Shinjuku Station. It takes 55 minutes to reach Tokyo Station (depending on the service) and costs JPY3070 with trains departing every 30 to 60 minutes and 90 to 105 minutes to reach Shinjuku and costs JPY3250. Once at Tokyo Station, follow the directions above. Again, we recommend using the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Toyama and taking the bus from there - a total journey time of around 4.5 to 6 hours (depending on connection times).
Alternatively, for visitors wanting to use the bus from Shinjuku to Takayama (and then onto Shirakawa-go), you can also take the Keisei Skyliner to Nippori Station, transfer to the Yamanote Loop Line bound for Osaki and disembark at Shinjuku - a journey of 70 minutes / JPY2720. Once at Shinjuku, follow the directions above onto Takayama and from there, take the bus to Shirakawa-go.
FROM HANEDA AIRPORT / 4.5 to 6 hours
From Haneda Airport visitors also need to head into Tokyo to make their way onto Shirakawa-go. You have two options: head to Shinjuku Station from the airport and take the bus to Takayama and then onto Shirakawa-go or head to Tokyo Station and take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Toyama or Kanazawa and then take the bus to Shirakawa-go. We recommend using the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Toyama and taking the bus from there - a total journey time of around 4.5 to 6 hours (depending on connection times).
To use the bus from Shinjuku, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station and then take the Yamanote Line to Shinjuku - a journey of 45 to 50 minutes / JPY700. Once at Shinjuku, follow the directions above onto Shirakawa-go. Alternatively, to access Shirakawa-go via Tokyo Station and the Hokuriku Shinkansen, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatasucho and then head onto to Tokyo Station - 30 minutes / JPY660. Once at Tokyo, switch to the Hokuriku Shinkansen bound for Toyama or Kanazawa and once at your chosen stop, follow the directions above.
FROM KYOTO & OSAKA / 4 to 4.5 hours
From Kyoto or Osaka, take the Limited Express Thunderbird to Tsuruga Station. Transfer there to the Hokuriku Shinkansen for Kanazawa Station, then board a direct highway bus to Shirakawa-go.
The train journey to Kanazawa takes approximately 2 hours and 10 to 30 minutes. Regular reserved-seat fares are around ¥7,720 from Kyoto and ¥9,410 from Osaka. Adding the ¥2,800 bus fare, expect to pay approximately ¥10,520 from Kyoto or ¥12,210 from Osaka.
The Thunderbird no longer operates directly to Kanazawa, following the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga in March 2024. The rail journey is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Hokuriku Arch Pass, but the bus is not. Reserve the Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go bus in advance and allow enough time to transfer at Kanazawa Station.
15 Things to Do in Shirakawa-go & Where to Stay
Shirakawa-go is best known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, but visitors can also explore historic houses, temples, museums, viewpoints and seasonal events throughout Ogimachi. Staying overnight offers a quieter experience after most day visitors have departed.
For recommendations on what to see, seasonal highlights and accommodation options, see our guide to the 15 Things to Do in Shirakawa-go and Where to Stay.
Best Tours and Itineraries in Takayama & Shirakawa-go
A guided tour is a convenient alternative when highway buses are fully booked or when you want to explore more than Ogimachi alone. Tours are available from Takayama, Kanazawa and Nagoya, with selected departures allowing guests to finish in either Takayama or Kanazawa.
Options include combining Shirakawa-go with Takayama, visiting the smaller World Heritage villages of Ainokura and Suganuma, or including the woodcarving town of Inami. See our guide to the Best Tours and Itineraries in Takayama and Shirakawa-go to compare the available options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the easiest way to get to Shirakawa-go?
Direct highway buses from Takayama and Kanazawa are the easiest options. Takayama has the shortest journey at approximately 50 minutes, while Kanazawa takes around 75 minutes. Direct buses are also available from Toyama and Nagoya.
Is there a train station in Shirakawa-go?
No. Shirakawa-go does not have a railway station. Visitors travelling by train must transfer to a highway bus in Takayama, Kanazawa, Toyama or Nagoya.
Do I need to reserve the bus to Shirakawa-go?
Reservations are required for all Kanazawa services and the direct Nagoya route. Some buses from Takayama also require reservations, while others use non-reserved seating. Check the operator’s timetable carefully and book ahead whenever possible.
Can I visit Shirakawa-go as a day trip?
Yes. Shirakawa-go can be visited as a day trip from Takayama, Kanazawa, Toyama or Nagoya. Travellers coming from Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka should start early and confirm their return connection before travelling.
Can I visit Shirakawa-go while travelling between Takayama and Kanazawa?
Yes. This is one of the most popular ways to visit. Reserve separate tickets from Takayama to Shirakawa-go and from Shirakawa-go to Kanazawa, or in the opposite direction.
Can I store luggage at Shirakawa-go?
Yes. Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal has coin lockers available from 08:00 to 17:00. Small and medium lockers cost ¥500, while large lockers cost ¥1,000. Staffed luggage storage is also available nearby when the lockers are full.
Is the bus to Shirakawa-go covered by the Japan Rail Pass?
No. The Japan Rail Pass may cover the train portion of your journey to Takayama, Kanazawa, Toyama or Nagoya, but separate tickets are required for buses to Shirakawa-go.
Can I drive to Shirakawa-go?
Yes. Visitors should park at the village-operated Seseragi Park Parking Area, which costs ¥2,000 for an ordinary car. Winter tyres or tyre chains are necessary when driving during periods of snow or ice.
Do buses operate during winter?
Buses operate throughout the year, but heavy snow, road closures and traffic congestion can cause significant delays. The annual winter illumination events have separate admission and transport rules, with advance reservations required.
Are guided tours available to Shirakawa-go?
Yes. Snow Monkey Resorts operates guided day tours from Takayama, Kanazawa and Nagoya. Selected tours also allow guests to finish in either Takayama or Kanazawa.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- KanazawaTakayama
Best Selling
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- KanazawaTakayama
Recommended
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- NagoyaTakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Book With Us! Nagano's No.1 Tour & Charter Operator
Central Japan offers many, many reasons to visit. Operating all year round, we are Nagano’s No.1 tour and charter operator, offering a range of services including group tours, private tours and charters. We can arrange transport including a private vehicle and driver to transport you to, from and between any destinations in the region.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are fitted with a protective screen – separating the driver from passenger and luggage area – and our drivers wear protective masks, allowing you to move between your destinations in comfort and safety.
We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Why choose us?
Awarded a 2022 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for our 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour – recognised as one of the Top 10 Experiences in Japan – we have the local knowledge and experience to help you get the most out of your time in Japan.
Got a question about visiting Shirakawa-go and Central Japan? Contact us and let’s get planning together!