Takayama is a small but modern and busy station servicing the historic old town of Takayama. It is the nearest major station to the villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, as well as the alpine valley of Kamikochi. On this page you will find the following information:
-- Train Lines / Services to Takayama Station
-- Rail Passes Covering Travel to Takayama
-- Purchasing & Activating a JR Pass
-- Bus Services at Takayama Nohi Bus Center
-- Group Tours/Private Tours in Takayama
-- Hida Takayama Tourist Information Center
-- Accommodation Nearby the Station
-- 25 Things to Do Around Takayama & Where to Stay
-- Book With Us! Nagano’s No.1 Tour & Charter Operator
Takayama Nohi Bus Center adjoins the station, from where regular services connect Takayama to the nearby attractions of Kamikochi and Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. Most famous for its old town and thriving food scene, Takayama is one of Central Japan's most popular destinations which can easily reached from nearby Toyama or Kanazawa or even further afield from Nagoya using the Limited Express Hida service.
Navigating the station is easy. Access to the platforms is from the second floor with only one set of ticket gates. A convenience store directly next to the gates sells snacks, drinks and ‘bento’ (lunch boxes), while a café, coin lockers and Tourist Information can be found on the first floor, just outside the station’s East Exit / Entrance.
TRAIN LINES / SERVICES TO TAKAYAMA STATION
It is important to note that Takayama Station is not on any Shinkansen line. The nearest Shinkansen stations are: 1. Toyama Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line and 2. Nagoya Station on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line. There is only one line running to and from Takayama, heading south through Gifu to Nagoya Station and north to Toyama Station.
LIMITED EXPRESS HIDA
Originating at Nagoya Station, the Limited Express Hida service allows easy access to Takayama with services stopping at the following stations:
Nagoya – Owari-Ichinomiya – Gifu – Unuma – Mino-Ota – Shirakawaguchi – Hida-Kanayama – Gero – Hida-Hagiwara – Kuguno – Takayama – Hida-Furukawa* – Inotani* – Etchu-Yatsuo* – Hayahoshi* – Toyama*
*These stations are only stops on services to and from Toyama Station. Most services start and finish at Takayama Station so if you are intending to board or disembark at one of these stations make sure to check the specific service includes a stop at your preferred station.
Some services run all the way from Nagoya to Toyama via Takayama, and likewise from Toyama to Nagoya via Takayama. However, most services terminate at Takayama. It takes approximately 145 minutes to travel between Takayama and Nagoya or 85 minutes from Takayama to Toyama. For the schedule, please refer to our 'Limited Express Hida Timetable' page.
RAIL PASSES COVERING TRAVEL TO TAKAYAMA
There is no escaping the fact that travel using the Shinkansen and other rapid services is expensive. Given the speed and distances covered by these trains, travelers should think of them much like taking a flight, with tickets accordingly priced. International visitors to Japan have the option of purchasing one of several passes which allow for unlimited use of the Hokuriku along with other services:
JAPAN RAIL (JR) PASS
Covering all 9 Shinkansen lines in Japan and many other train services, the JR Pass is a great option for visitors planning to use the Shinkansen more than a handful of times and/or travel large distances. Travelers have the option of 7, 14 and 21-day passes covering either Ordinary or Ordinary and Green Cars. The JR Pass allows for use of almost any Shinkansen service and most major rapid services at no additional cost but noting that should holders wish to have a reserved seat, they are still required to book a seat at the ticket office (at no additional cost). It also covers the Limited Express Hida service to and from Takayama.
PURCHASING & ACTIVATING A JR PASS
Passes can be purchased via the official website or via a JR-affiliated overseas sales office. Once you have completed payment, you will receive an exchange order. This is a proof of payment and looks almost like a flight ticket with your personal details, type of pass, and validity (three months from the date of issue). It is important to note that the exchange order is not your actual pass and will need to be exchanged for your pass once in Japan. Whatever you do, do not lose the exchange order and prioritise exchanging it for your pass when you arrive. For full details please refer to the specific page for each pass (as listed above).
Prior to using your pass, you must actually get your hands on it by exchanging the order/proof of purchase you received online. This can be done a numerous JR Pass Exchange Offices found at any major train station or airport including Narita Airport and Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Chubu Centrair International Airport in Nagoya, and Kansai International Airport in Osaka. If you have time to do so before leaving the airport, you can use the pass immediately. Tokyo Station is another popular place to exchange and activate a JR Pass at either of these offices:
-- JR East Travel Service Center (Marunouchi North Exit): 07:30 to 20:00
-- JR Central Ticket Office (Yaesu North Exit): 07:30 to 20:00
To exchange/activate your pass you will need your exchange order and passport. Make sure you allow adequate time to exchange and activate your pass if you are intending to use it on the same day or do so a day or two before you plan to start using it (you can always nominate a later activation date). Please note, passes cannot be exchanged/activated at Takayama Station. However, once your pass is activated, it can be used to travel to and from Takayama.
BUS SERVICES AT TAKAYAMA NOHI BUS CENTER
Adjacent to Takayama Station, the Takayama Bus Terminal (also known as the Nohi Bus Center) serves as the primary transport hub connecting Takayama to iconic destinations like Shirakawa-go, Kamikochi, Shinhotaka Ropeway, Gujo Hachiman, and more. Whether you’re embarking on a scenic day trip or planning onward travel to Kanazawa, Matsumoto, or Takaoka, the terminal provides convenient access with frequent departures.
With designated platforms for each route, purchasing tickets is simple, and travelers can rely on regular bus services. For those exploring the Japanese Alps or seeking cultural gems in Gifu Prefecture, the Takayama Bus Terminal is the starting point for countless adventures.
For more information, including routes and schedules, visit our comprehensive guide to the Takayama Bus Terminal. Below are some of the most popular destinations accessible from the terminal:
TO SHIRAKAWA-GO & GOKAYAMA
The Nohi Bus company operates multiple daily services to and from the village of Ogimachi. Roundtrip tickets are available to Ogimachi only or with the option of all three villages, including Suganuma and Ainokura, with options of multi-day tickets. The bus journey from Takayama to Ogimachi takes approximately 50 minutes. Suganuma can be reached from Ogimachi using the local bus head for Shin-Takaoka – it takes around 30 minutes. Ainokura can also be reached from Ogimachi using the local bus headed for Shin-Takaoka Station – it takes 45 minutes from Ogimachi. Please see the following page for information including the express bus Shirakawa-go timetable to and from Takayama. For suggestions of what to do once there, see our '15 Things to Do in Shirakawa-go & Where to Stay' page.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
TO KAMIKOCHI
Kamikochi can be accessed by frequent direct bus service from the Takayama Nohi Bus Center. Taking approximately 1 hour, this bus will take you as far as Hirayu Onsen where you will need to disembark and board the bus headed into Kamikochi – another 25 to 30 minutes. Visitors coming to Kamikochi by their own car and approaching form the Takayama side will use the Akandana public car park and board the bus or taxi headed for the Kamikochi Bus Terminal. Please see the following page for information including the local bus Kamikochi timetable to and from Takayama. For suggestions of what to do once there, see our '15 Things to Do in Kamikochi & Where to Stay' page.
Instead of navigating public transport, consider indulging in a stress-free day with our (Seasonal) 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Alpine Splendor - Shinhotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi. Experience the charm of a double decker gondola and the serene beauty of Kamikochi with direct transportation, expert local guides, and an itinerary that blends cultural exploration with natural splendor. For a relaxing and enriching journey, book your tour today.
GROUP TOURS/PRIVATE TOURS IN TAKAYAMA
Our Group and Private Tours in Takayama offer a diverse array of experiences, perfect for delving into the region's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're seeking a comprehensive group tour to iconic landmarks or a more intimate private tour tailored to your interests, we have options that cater to every traveler. Each tour is designed to immerse you in the unique beauty and cultural depth of Takayama and its surroundings, ensuring a memorable and enriching journey. Explore our offerings and embark on a tour that resonates with your sense of adventure.
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
Experience our most popular tour in Takayama and embark on a journey through the heart of traditional Japan. Immerse yourself in a blend of history and nature. Witness Takayama's timeless streets and Shirakawa-go's iconic thatched roofs, a scene straight out of a Japanese folktale. This tour offers a glimpse into the heart of traditional Japan, enriched with cultural depth and scenic beauty.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida's Hidden Gems - Caves, Bears, and the Shinhotaka Ropeway
Adventure awaits in the mysterious caves and rugged landscapes of Hida. Encounter the region's wildlife, including majestic bears, and ascend the Shinhotaka Ropeway for awe-inspiring alpine views. This tour is a journey through Hida's natural wonders, revealing its untamed beauty and secrets
Recommended
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida's Hidden Gems - Hida Folk Village, Limestone Caves and the Shinhotaka Ropeway
- Spots:
- TakayamaShinhotaka
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- Takayama
Click here to explore more Takayama tours! And delve into a world of diverse experiences, from historical explorations to breathtaking nature trails, and find the journey that captures the essence of your adventurous spirit.
Explore Takayama and beyond with our 'Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour' from either Takayama or Kanazawa. This private tour offers a pre-planned itinerary, showcasing the best of the region. You'll enjoy the exclusivity and convenience of a private guide and vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and insightful journey through Takayama's cultural landmarks and the picturesque Shirakawa-go.
[START FROM TAKAYAMA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Also, you can discover Takayama your way with our Charter Service. Design your own itinerary or let us create one suited to your interests. Enjoy the flexibility and comfort of a private vehicle guided by local expertise, ensuring a personalized exploration of Takayama's unique charms.
HIDA TAKAYAMA TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE
Located outside the station’s East Exit/Entrance, the Hida Takayama Tourist Information Office is open from 08:30 to 18:30 (Apr.-Oct.) and from 08:30 to 17:00 (Nov.-Mar.). General information, accommodation and transportation enquiries, and other services including baggage storage are available. Full-time English-speaking staff are also on-hand to assist.
ACCOMMODATION NEARBY THE STATION
Most people heading to Takayama are drawn to the city by its beautifully preserved buildings, traditional craft scene and great food. As such, many travellers also want to stay in the old town and enjoy a traditional guesthouse. Takayama offers some great accommodation in and around the old town however don’t feel it’s your only option when staying there. It is a small city and the old town can be reached on-foot from most popular hotels while outside of the city, there are some great alternative accommodation options. For accommodation listings, see our 'Takayama City Area' hotel page.
25 THINGS TO DO AROUND TAKAYAMA & WHERE TO STAY
When people talk about the beauty of Takayama and encourage you to visit, they are speaking of the city’s beautiful historic centre – one of Japan’s best remaining examples of an Edo Period (1603-1868) town. Through that time, Takayama was renowned for the skill of its carpenters, timber craftsmanship and other artisans. Today, that mastery can still be seen in the charming streetscape of Takayama’s old town. The city is equally well-known for its thriving food scene including its famous Hida beef and Takayama ramen, while outside of the city, visitors can access some of Japan’s most rewarding destinations including the World Heritage-listed villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama and the beautiful alpine valley of Kamikochi. For tips and suggestions of what to do while there, including accommodation listings, see our ’25 Things To Do Around Takayama & Where To Stay’ page.
HOW TO GET TO TAKAYAMA
Lying deep in Central Japan, Takayama takes time to reach but given the efficiency of the Japanese transport network, that journey is usually simple. The Limited Express Hida service runs from Central Japan’s largest city of Nagoya, to Takayama and onto Toyama in the north. Bus services also connect Takayama to Toyama and Kanazawa to the north and the popular alpine valley of Kamikochi and onto Matsumoto to the west. For information on how to reach the city, see our ‘How To Get To Takayama’ page.
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO JAPAN
Takayama Station is just one part of Japan’s fantastic rail network. Unfathomable in its size and efficiency, moving around the country by train is easy and comfortable opening-up all regions of Japan for exploration. Our ‘Plan Your Visit’ page has everything you need to know about visiting Japan – from tips on the best time to travel, times to avoid, entering and exiting the country, money matters, staying connected, accommodation, staying safe and healthy and plenty more to ensure that you get the most out of your time here.
BOOK WITH US! NAGANO’S NO.1 TOUR & CHARTER OPERATOR
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, along with an English-speaking guide, to transport to, from and between any destinations in the region including Takayama, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, Kamikochi, Matsumoto and Nagano. 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 Takayama and Central Japan? Click on the INQUIRY button below or contact us and let’s get planning together!