Top Gifu Prefecture Holidays

Discover the Art of Japanese Sake in Takayama Join a guided tour of historic sake breweries in the heart of Takayama’s old town. Learn the traditional brewing process, explore normally off-limits areas inside the breweries, and enjoy tastings of carefully crafted sake, from time-honored classics at Hirata Brewery to modern flavors at Funasaka Brewery. With an English-speaking guide, deepen your appreciation for Japan’s iconic drink in a truly immersive setting.

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Takayama through its most iconic festival traditions. This half-day walking tour takes you through the history and artistry behind the Takayama Festival, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful celebrations. Explore the elaborate festival floats at the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Museum, learn about the intricate craftsmanship that brings them to life, and visit Hachimangu Shrine, the spiritual home of the festival. Walk through the Old Town, where merchant houses and sake breweries reflect the enduring legacy of Takayama’s past, and start the day at the Takayama Morning Markets, where local flavors and crafts set the scene for this culturally immersive experience. Led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide, this tour is perfect for those looking to discover Takayama’s cultural treasures in just a few hours.

What makes this tour unique is its blend of cultural immersion and culinary excellence. From the once-in-a-lifetime chance to attend the Shimotsuki Festival with locals to savoring one of the region’s finest winter gibier dinners, every moment is designed to be truly unforgettable.

A skilled guide will give you this tour of the taverns and charming Takayama nights that only locals usually enter. You will learn about the local culture and history as well as the nightlife of the locals. You may also take this opportunity to ask your guide any questions you have about Japan or anything else you would like to know. The tour will stop at no less than 3 Izakaya or Bar. For safety reasons, we cannot accept groups of men only when a female guide is available. Sometimes Izakaya or bar we are planning to visit is not open, in which case we will go somewhere else. Please contact us in advance if you have any allergies or food restrictions or the case only table seat available.

2 Masterclass Brewery Tastings. From Meiji-era bubbly Nigori cloudy sake to a rare, ruby-gold Koshu aged premium sake. Your Own Masu Cup. Get a complimentary wooden Masu cup from Japan's No. 1 producer, use it for tastings today, keep it as a lifetime souvenir. 70-Year Tradition Sushi Lunch. Indulge in a premium sushi lunch, hand-crafted with fresh market seafood. Door-to-Door Private Transport. Skip the trains and relax with your dedicated English-speaking driver.

Hirata Sake Brewery, which celebrates its 130th anniversary this year, offers tours of its new brewery, which relocated in 2024. Each tour is limited to a small number of participants, and staff members will guide you through the brewery and offer tastings, allowing you to learn more about sake brewing up close. The roots of Hirata Sake Brewery were put down way back in 1769 during the Edo period. It was started by a merchant who ran a bintsuke oil and candle shop in the center of Hida Takayama. In 1895, during the Meiji era, the 5th generation owners converted this to a sake brewery which then was the beginning of Hirata Sake Brewery. The source of Japanese spiritual culture and the distinct advantage of Hida with its severe winters and rich tradition of sake making brings forth a fine range of exquisite sake. That is Hirata Sake Brewery.

Visit skilled artisans whom you normally wouldn't have the chance to meet and learn about traditional crafts. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on experience painting your favorite design on a Gifu Lantern or a mini Gifu Japanese Umbrella made by the artisans. The finished piece will be an unforgettable souvenir from your trip.

If you’re interested in learning how sake is made, then this is the tour for you. In the company of an English-speaking guide, you'll visit the historic Tenryo Sake Brewery, one of the oldest sake breweries in the Hida region. A sake brewer will show you the step-by-step process of making sake, and take you on a behind-the-scenes tour. A highlight is being able to taste different sakes; all tastings are included in the tour cost.

You can experience not only History and culture but also local food & Sake brewery of Takayama. include food fee and experience of making Rice cracker and Sake tasting in Hirase brewery. sometimes Rice cracker factory suddenly rest, so we need confirm if it's possible to do making rice cracker This is walking tour around in Takayama city. local guide could satisfy you! If you need other language guide, please let us know. If you wanted to private tour let us know. Not less than 2 person. Please call us if you want to do our tour within few hours. If it's raining possible to do this tour.

Discover the authentic nightlife of Gero Onsen on this guided bar hopping tour. Experience the charm of local bars and eateries where Gero residents unwind over drinks and conversations. Tailored to your preferences, the tour adapts to your tastes, whether you prefer beer, sake, or light snacks. Visit two unique bars, each offering a distinct atmosphere, with a food and drink allowance of 1,500 yen per venue, so you can enjoy the local cuisine without worry. Gain cultural insights from your guide and connect with the warm hospitality of this quaint hot spring town. - Guided tour exploring two local bars in Gero Onsen - Personalized experience based on your drink and food preferences - Enjoy up to 1,500 yen allowance for food and drinks at each venue - Learn about local customs and bar culture from your guide

Discover the timeless charm of Takayama after sunset on this enchanting guided night walking tour. As evening falls, the historic streets glow under soft lantern light, revealing a peaceful and magical side of the city rarely seen during the day. Stroll through the beautifully preserved Sanmachi Suji district, where traditional wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and artisan shops line narrow streets. The warm glow of lanterns creates the perfect setting for atmospheric photography and quiet exploration. Visit the historic Takayama Jinya, an Edo-period government building that looks especially captivating when illuminated at night. Away from daytime crowds, this tour offers a serene and intimate experience of one of Japan’s most charming historic towns. Ideal for culture enthusiasts, photographers, couples, and travelers seeking a meaningful evening activity, this guided walk blends history, heritage, and tranquil nighttime beauty.

Experience Takayama’s spiritual heart on this private walking tour. Begin at Daiou Temple, a serene spot perfect for reflection. Continue to Koryuzan Sogenji Temple, where Zen gardens invite calm contemplation. Visit Myogenzan Tensho and Joeizan Hokke Temples, discovering historical artifacts and tranquil surroundings. Stroll along the Higashiyama Promenade, lined with temples and seasonal landscapes. Conclude at Zennoji Temple, where lush gardens and peaceful grounds provide the perfect moment for meditation. This private tour offers a quiet, immersive experience, blending Takayama’s history, spirituality, and scenic beauty.

Rather than simply visiting sake breweries, this experience offers a deeper understanding of “jizake,” or locally rooted sake culture. Your guide tailors the tour to your preferences, selecting breweries based on your interests and curiosity. You will step inside working breweries, including areas not typically open to the public, and gain insight into traditional brewing methods and seasonal processes. At one brewery, you will taste multiple varieties in the place they were made, with guided explanations that help you understand differences in flavor, style, and craftsmanship. This is not just a tasting, but an experience that connects what you drink to where you are. As a fully private tour, it also allows you to explore at your own pace in a relaxed and personal setting.