Tucked away in the mountains of the Japanese Alps, Shirakawa-go is one of Japan’s most picturesque and best-preserved traditional villages. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is famous for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses, built with steeply pitched thatched roofs to withstand heavy snowfalls in winter.
Whether blanketed in snow, framed by vibrant autumn foliage, or surrounded by the lush greens of summer, Shirakawa-go offers breathtaking scenery year-round. With Snow Monkey Resorts, you can explore this remarkable destination on a guided group tour, private tour, or charter from multiple starting cities — including the flexibility to start in one city and end in another, making it easy to connect your visit with other locations in the region.
Getting to Shirakawa-go with Snow Monkey Resorts
Reaching Shirakawa-go is simple and stress-free with Snow Monkey Resorts. We offer tours and private travel options from three key starting points — Takayama, Kanazawa, and Nagoya — allowing you to choose the departure city that best fits your itinerary.
Our flexible transfer options mean you can start your journey in one city and end in another, making Shirakawa-go the perfect stop on a multi-city trip through the Japanese Alps. Whether you’re exploring at a relaxed pace or connecting several destinations in one day, our transport and guiding services ensure a smooth and comfortable experience from start to finish.
From Takayama
Takayama is one of the most convenient gateways to Shirakawa-go, with a short and scenic journey through the mountains. Departing from Takayama allows you to combine a visit to Shirakawa-go with other local highlights, or to connect onward to Kanazawa without backtracking.
Our guided group tours are the easiest and most affordable way to visit Shirakawa-go. Travelling with a small group and an English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the village while enjoying a comfortable journey through the Japanese Alps.
Group Tours
TAKAYAMA & SHIRAKAWA-GO TOUR FROM TAKAYAMA / all year round
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Hidden away in the middle of the mountains of Central Japan, but also an easy 2 hour trip from Kanazawa, Nagoya, Toyama and Matsumoto, Takayama is a popular destination for its traditional old town and surrounding natural beauty. The tour starts from Takayama Station and we head to the Takayama Jinya, the former headquarters of the Shogun's government in the city. It was made from the materials of the castle that used to exist on a mountain nearby. After learning more about the history of the city and region, we will walk down the historical merchant street lined with traditional Japanese buildings. You can eat and shop here in the atmosphere of a 200 year old market district. The morning market is also nearby and there are lots of local handicrafts, fruits and other foods. Following lunch in the area, we will get on the bus and head to Shirakawa-go, the historical village with the traditional thatched-roof houses. You will be able to see stunning views of the town from above, go inside one of the homes and learn about village life and have time to enjoy the town by yourselves.
Private Tours
Our private tours to Shirakawa-go are perfect for travellers who want a more personal experience with the flexibility to move at their own pace. With a dedicated guide and vehicle, you can enjoy the village without the constraints of a group itinerary, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
[START FROM TAKAYAMA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour / all year round
[START FROM TAKAYAMA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Immerse yourself in a deeply personalized exploration with our Private Tour to Shirakawa-go from Takayama, a journey that promises an intimate encounter with Japan's cultural heart. Tailored exclusively for you, this tour offers an unrivaled opportunity to delve into the enchanting worlds of Takayama and the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go at your own pace, guided by an expert dedicated solely to your experience. Discover the historic Takayama Jinya, revel in the serene beauty of Shirakawa-go's traditional Gassho-zukuri houses, and savor the flexibility and privacy that only a private tour can offer. This is your unique voyage into the essence of Japanese heritage, designed to provide a profound and personalized connection with each destination. Ready to embark on an unforgettable private journey that highlights the best of Takayama and Shirakawa-go? Reserve your exclusive tour today and step into a journey tailor-made for lasting memories.
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit Shirakawa-go, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalised experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
Click the banner below or here for more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
TAKAYAMA → SHIRAKAWA-GO (3HRS) → TAKAYAMA
- Duration:
- 5-6 Hours
- Spots:
- Takayama, Shirakawago
From Kanazawa
Kanazawa offers a perfect starting point for visiting Shirakawa-go, combining your trip with the city’s famous samurai districts, gardens, and geisha tea houses. Travelling from Kanazawa gives you the flexibility to end your day in Takayama or return to the city after exploring this UNESCO World Heritage village.
Group Tours
Our guided group tours are the easiest and most affordable way to visit Shirakawa-go. Travelling with a small group and an English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the village while enjoying a comfortable journey through the Japanese Alps.
SHIRAKAWA-GO, GOKAYAMA TOUR FROM KANAZAWA / all year round
Best Selling
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
One of the most visited attractions in the region is the thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. On this tour you will hop on one of our charter buses and on the way there stop at a hidden gem of the area, Inami. This small town is famous for wood carving, something you can see on display throughout the main thoroughfare that lead to Inami's crown jewel Zuisenji Temple. The carvings on this temple were done by a master carver over 200 years ago. We will then continue on to Gokayama to see some of the thatched-roofed house and get an excellent view of the small town. A paper-making experience is also waiting for you, using materials harvested in the town and techniques perfected over centuries. The last stop is Shirakawa-go where you can see the beautiful townscape and go into one of the homes to learn about the townspeople's way of life. There are also plenty of shops and stalls to enjoy!
Private Tours
Our private tours to Shirakawa-go are perfect for travellers who want a more personal experience with the flexibility to move at their own pace. With a dedicated guide and vehicle, you can enjoy the village without the constraints of a group itinerary, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
[START FROM KANAZAWA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour / all year round
Embark on an exclusive journey with our private tour starting from Kanazawa to the serene landscapes of Shirakawa-go and the historic streets of Takayama. This unique tour offers a deep dive into Japan's traditional heart, with the convenience of starting and ending in your chosen city—Kanazawa or Takayama. Travel in comfort with a dedicated vehicle, ensuring a seamless and personal experience. Discover the charming thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go and delve into the rich history of Takayama's old town. With our knowledgeable English-speaking guide, unravel the tales and traditions that define these picturesque locales. Store your luggage on board, easing your travel worries, and immerse yourself in a day filled with cultural exploration and scenic beauty. Opt for a personal and intimate journey into Japan's past with this private tour, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the country's heritage. Book now and tailor your exploration of Japan's enchanting countryside to your own pace and interests.
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit Shirakawa-go, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalised experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
Click the banner below or here for more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
KANAZAWA → SHIRAKAWA-GO (3HRS) → KANAZAWA
- Duration:
- 5-6 Hours
- Spots:
- Kanazawa, Shirakawago
From Nagoya
Nagoya is a great departure city for travellers coming from Japan’s major hubs such as Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto. Starting from Nagoya, you can enjoy a comfortable journey into the mountains, visit Shirakawa-go at your own pace, and continue onwards to Takayama or Kanazawa for a seamless multi-city itinerary.
Group Tours
Our guided group tours are the easiest and most affordable way to visit Shirakawa-go. Travelling with a small group and an English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the village while enjoying a comfortable journey through the Japanese Alps.
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go / All Year Round
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaNagoyaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Hidden deep within the mountains of Central Japan, the historic towns of Hida-Takayama and Shirakawa-go provide an excellent retreat into the scenic countryside and an authentic example of life during Edo-era Japan.
Wander the charming streets of Takayama’s old town, where history comes alive, and taste local delicacies including premium wagyu beef. Experience the enchantment of Shirakawa-go and delve into the village’s traditional way of life with the unique chance to enter one of these picturesque homes.
Step into the past and savor the views of the Japanese countryside as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide on this full-day tour from Nagoya.
Private Tours
Our private tours to Shirakawa-go are perfect for travellers who want a more personal experience with the flexibility to move at their own pace. With a dedicated guide and vehicle, you can enjoy the village without the constraints of a group itinerary, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
[START FROM NAGOYA] Private Takayama & Shirakawa-go Tour / all year round
New Tour
[START FROM NAGOYA] Takayama & Shirakawa-go Private Tour
- Spots:
- TakayamaNagoyaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Embark on an exclusive Private Tour from Nagoya, the perfect gateway for those with limited time eager to explore the historical splendors of Takayama and the UNESCO-acclaimed beauty of Shirakawa-go.
Offering the convenience of a personal exploration without the common constraints of scheduled group tours, this private tour lead is lead by an English-speaking guide and departs from your desired location within Nagoya.
Delve into Takayama's rich heritage and wander through Shirakawa-go's idyllic landscapes at your leisure, all while benefiting from the insightful narratives provided by your dedicated guide. These tour provide a tranquil retreat into the nation’s heritage settings, a world apart from the bustling city life.
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit Shirakawa-go, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalised experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
For more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
From Nagano
Nagano is one of the main transport hubs of the Japanese Alps and a great starting point for reaching Shirakawa-go. Whether you’re travelling on a guided group tour, arranging a private tour, or booking a charter for maximum flexibility, Snow Monkey Resorts makes it easy to connect Nagano with Shirakawa-go and other destinations across the region.
Group Tours
Nagano is another convenient gateway to Shirakawa-go, and the journey from here can be enjoyed as part of a longer adventure through the Japanese Alps. Our multi-day tours from Nagano include visits to some of the region’s most famous destinations — from the Snow Monkey Park and Matsumoto Castle to Kamikochi, Takayama, and finally Shirakawa-go — making it the perfect choice for travellers who want to experience more than a single-day trip.
4-Day Central Japan Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa / April to November
(Green Season) 4-Day Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa: The Ultimate Central Japan Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTakayamaKanazawaMatsumotoKamikochiShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
This “see it all” tour showcases the best of Central Japan, combining stunning scenery, traditional architecture, and unforgettable cultural experiences. With a local guide sharing in-depth knowledge of the region and Japan as a whole, this journey offers both beauty and insight.
Day 1 – Nagano
Starting at Nagano Station, the morning begins with a visit to Zenkoji Temple, followed by sake tasting and lunch nearby. In the afternoon, you’ll head into the mountains to visit the Snow Monkey Park, where you can watch the monkeys play, eat, and bathe in the hot springs—especially lively in the colder months. The day concludes in Nagano City.
Day 2 – Matsumoto & Kamikochi
From Nagano, the tour continues to Matsumoto to explore one of Japan’s 12 original castles, Matsumoto Castle. After strolling along Kaeru Michi (“Frog Street”) with its many shops, you’ll travel to Kamikochi, a breathtaking valley where you can walk along a crystal-clear river beneath the towering Alps. The day ends in the atmospheric city of Takayama.
Day 3 – Takayama & Shirakawa-go
The day begins with a visit to Takayama Jinya, the former regional government office, followed by a walk through the preserved Edo-period merchant streets and a stop at the lively morning market. After lunch, you’ll travel to Shirakawa-go, famous for its thatched-roof farmhouses. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the village, explore the streets, and step inside one of the historic homes before heading on to Kanazawa for the night.
Day 4 – Kanazawa
From Kanazawa Station, the tour explores the city’s rich history and culture. You’ll visit a samurai residence in the Nagamachi district, stroll through Oyama Shrine, and enter Kanazawa Castle. Here, you’ll enjoy matcha and sweets in a traditional garden before exploring the inner castle grounds. After lunch, you’ll wander through Kenrokuen—one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens—before finishing in Higashi-Chayamachi, where traditional teahouses and geisha culture still thrive.
Returning to Kanazawa Station marks the end of this unforgettable journey. Over four days, you will have experienced the landscapes, traditions, and culture that make Central Japan truly unique.
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit Shirakawa-go, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalised experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
For more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
From Hakuba
Famous as one of Japan’s premier ski resorts and a year-round destination for outdoor activities, Hakuba is also a convenient starting point for visiting Shirakawa-go. Travelling from here allows you to combine the natural beauty of the Northern Alps with the charm of a UNESCO World Heritage village, making it a memorable addition to your journey through the region.
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit Shirakawa-go, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalised experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
For more charter options, click the banner below here or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
From Matsumoto
Known for its iconic black-and-white castle and easy access to the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is another excellent starting point for visiting Shirakawa-go. Travelling from here allows you to combine the charm of Matsumoto with the mountain scenery of the region, before continuing on to Takayama, Kanazawa, or Nagoya for a seamless journey.
Group Tours
Matsumoto, home to the famous black-and-white Matsumoto Castle, is another excellent starting point for travelling into the Japanese Alps. From here, you can join our 2-Day Tour from Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto Castle, which includes visits to the Snow Monkey Park, Matsumoto Castle, and Takayama’s atmospheric old town.
2 DAY TOURS FROM NAGANO TO TAKAYAMA VIA MATSUMOTO / all year round
2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano To Takayama via Matsumoto
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTakayamaMatsumoto
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Takayama
This tour cuts through central Japan and offers a good mix of spectacular nature and and traditional culture and architecture. This tour starts in Nagano City, where you will first head with your guide to Zenkoji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Japan and the cultural heart of Nagano City. After enjoying a sake tasting, you will have a filling Japanese-style lunch in a local restaurant. After getting your fill, we will head to the Snow Monkey Park to see the monkeys in their natural environment. They are most likely to be in the onsen during winter, but they are lively and active at any time of year. You will end the day at your hotel, Kokusai 21.
Day 2 of the tour will see you riding our bus once again, this time to Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest castles in Japan. You will even have the chancer to ascend to the top floor with your guide! After some time to explore downtown, the tour will head to the largest preserved post town in Japan, Narai-juku.
The final leg of Day 2 finishes in Takayama, where you can explore the well-preserved and beautiful old town on the next day. The city is also perfectly located for those who want to continue on to Shirakawa-go or other famous locations in Central Japan.
While this tour officially concludes in Takayama, it also provides the perfect connection onward to Shirakawa-go. By combining it with our 1-Day Tour from Takayama to Shirakawa-go, you can extend your journey into a seamless 3-day experience that links Nagano, Matsumoto, Takayama, and finally Shirakawa-go — one of the most scenic and rewarding routes through the Japanese Alps.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Charter Services
Our chartered vehicles are the most flexible way to visit Shirakawa-go, giving you full control over your schedule and itinerary. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a small group, or simply want a private and personalised experience, our charters make the journey easy and comfortable.
For more charter options, or contact us directly if you need greater flexibility.
Why Choose Snow Monkey Resorts for Shirakawa-go
Visiting Shirakawa-go is an unforgettable experience, and travelling with Snow Monkey Resorts ensures you make the most of your time. Whether you join one of our guided group tours, arrange a private tour, or book a charter service for maximum flexibility, we provide everything you need for a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable journey.
- Multiple starting points, including Takayama, Kanazawa, and Nagoya, with the flexibility to end in a different city.
- Choice of small-group tours for a sociable experience, private tours for a more personalised itinerary, or charter transport for complete control over your schedule.
- English-speaking, locally knowledgeable guides who share insights into Shirakawa-go’s history, culture, and seasonal beauty.
- Comfortable, convenient transport so you can relax and enjoy the journey to and from your destinations.
Let us take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying Shirakawa-go — whether you’re visiting for a day or making it part of a longer adventure.
When to Best Visit Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is worth visiting in every season, each offering a different charm — snow-covered farmhouses in winter, beautiful foliage in autumn, fresh mountain greenery in spring, and lush landscapes in summer. Peak autumn colours are a particularly popular time to visit, so booking early during this season is recommended.
Dress for the season and wear comfortable walking shoes, as exploring the village involves some uneven paths and uphill walking for the observation area. In winter, bring warm layers and non-slip footwear; in summer, opt for lighter clothing. Many shops are cash-only, so carrying yen is a good idea to make the most of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long should I spend in Shirakawa-go?
Most visitors find that 2–3 hours is enough to explore the village, visit the observation area, enjoy some local food, and take in a few museums or shops along the way.
Can I start in one city and end in another?
Yes. Many of our tours and private charters allow you to start in one city, such as Takayama, and end in another, like Kanazawa. This makes Shirakawa-go a convenient stop on a multi-city itinerary.
Do your tours run year-round?
Yes. We operate tours to Shirakawa-go in every season, allowing you to experience the village’s unique atmosphere whether it’s covered in snow, framed by autumn leaves, or surrounded by summer greenery.
What’s included in the tour price?
Our tours typically include transport, the services of an English-speaking guide, and entry fees where applicable. Some tours may also include meals — check the individual tour description for details.
Can I book a private tour or charter service?
Absolutely. Private tours and charter services offer the most flexibility, allowing you to set your own schedule and customise the itinerary to suit your interests.