All Gifu Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Discover the city of Takayama your own way by booking this private and personalized tour. Enjoy the flexibility of creating your own customized itinerary to ensure that you only spend time visiting places that you are interested in, such as Sanmachi Suji and Hida-Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market. As you explore the city, your private guide will fill you in on all the city's fascinating history and culture.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a hands-on Mochi Making Experience in Takayama. At this unique workshop, you'll learn the art of transforming steamed glutinous rice into chewy mochi, a symbol of celebration and good fortune. Guided by a local host, you'll pound rice using traditional tools, shaping it into delightful treats complemented by toppings like kinako and sweet red bean paste. Set in a tranquil temple, this activity fosters community and joy, allowing you to connect with Japan's culinary heritage while creating delicious memories with loved ones.

Embark on a walking tour around Takayama and discover parts of the city you'd likely miss on your own. At a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities to stop to ask questions, follow your guide through both the old and new parts of town.You'll see such landmarks as the Yamazakura Shrine and Nakabashi Bridge and learn all about Takayama's unique culture and history.

This is a regular sightseeing bus that visits the world heritage sites of Gassho Village in Gokayama Aikura and Shirakawago guided by a bus guide. We will guide you through the Gokayama and Shirakawago Gassho settlements, which are difficult for individuals to reach, by a safe and comfortable chartered bus. Please eat your lunch at Gassho Village in Shirakawago. This tour is a regular sightseeing bus guided by a Nohi Bus bus guide. We offer you a comfortable bus journey to the next level, sharing information about the charms of the World Heritage Site, how to spend your time there, and seasonal information about foods and dialects in the Hida region that are not found in guidebooks. You can join on the day of departure if you have a seat. (However, we may refuse if the seats are full.) ※This tour will be shared with other guests.We operate by medium or large bus.The maximum number of participants on the application form is the maximum number of people who can apply at one time. ※Please beware of fake site products. Regular sightseeing bus tours of Nohi Bus on Viator are only here.

See more of Japan in less time with this guided tour that checks off Takayama and Shirakawago in a day. To save time organizing car rental, transport between sites is included, as well as guided walks to elevate the trip. Places showcased on the route include a morning market, the traditional district of Sanmachi, and Takayama Jinya.

Japanese Cutlery Factory Tour Embark on a fascinating journey of the most advanced kitchen knife factory tour. You can see the highest technology, offering you an in-depth look into the history and technology of Japanese cutlery, rooted in the rich tradition of Samurai sword craftsmanship. Craft Your Custom Pocket Knife Under the expert guidance, you will create a pocket knife tailored to your preferences. This hands-on experience allows you to delve into the meticulous process of knife-making. Discover Samurai Sword History Learn about the legendary history of Samurai swords and how their craftsmanship has influenced modern Japanese cutlery. Explore Advanced Japanese Cutlery Technology Witness the highest level of Japanese cutlery technology, a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Join us for a tour that promises not only the creation of a unique pocket knife but also a deep appreciation for the enduring legacy and advanced technology of Japanese cutlery craftsmanship.

Travel conveniently from Takayama to Kanazawa in our air conditioned buses. Along the way, stop for two hours in UNESCO village Shirakawago, famous for its beautiful natural scenery and gassho houses. Finally, arrive at Kanazawa. Avoid the hassle of planning and navigating public transportation, as we take care of the logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip. Store up to two pieces of luggage beneath the bus, and one carry on item in the bus (per person).

Travelers who enjoy hiking but don’t have time for the full 5-day Nakasendo Trail will love this day hike between Magome and Tsumago, two post towns on the route. Avoid the risk of getting lost by going with a private guide. Learn more about Japanese history and culture from your guide and get plenty of time to explore the two historical villages.

Go off the beaten track to parts of Hida missed by most travelers on this guided biking tour. Pedal at a relaxed pace through a historic tow and past farming villages and rice fields, and get a taste of local daily life in the Japanese countryside as your guide shares insights into the history and culture for the area. This small-group tour is limited to eight people to ensure a personal experience.

[PRIVATE TOUR] If you're seeking an authentic connection with a local family, this is for you! We are a warm, fun-loving family of four, deeply rooted in Takayama. Here, you won’t just learn to cook Japanese food—you’ll experience how locals live and savor life together. Our 200-year-old wooden townhouse stands on Old Town’s main street, yet stepping inside feels like entering a quiet world where time slows down. Its small quirks remind us of its beauty and history. We’ll welcome you with Japanese tea and snacks before guiding you in preparing a traditional meal in our kitchen. As we cook side by side, we’ll share stories of life in Takayama and living in harmony with nature and the seasons. Hisa and Bob pour their hearts into every class. This is more than a cooking lesson—it’s a moment of connection, culture, and feeling at home far from home. Feel free to write us your request on food or any restrictions, we are happy to accommodate as much as possible!

Enjoy an otherworldly nature experience on this private tour that is customized to your preferences. Follow your guide deep into the snow-covered forest, experiencing the Japanese art of *shinrin-yoku,* or "forest bathing." Before you know it, a tower of blue ice stands before you. Soak in the scene, feel Japan's ethereal side, and find yourself one with Mother Nature.

Explore the rural and historic Hida region on a small-group e-bike tour. Pedal around the Maze village with ease on your electric bike and enjoy the passing views of the Japanese countryside, without any tourists around. Learn about the history, culture, and daily life in the Japanese countryside. This tour is ideal for those who want to escape touristic areas and be truly immersed in the local region.

Learn more about traditional Japanese sake on a brewery tour in Takayama. While the city is home to several sake breweries, you’ll visit the oldest, which is also the largest. See how the alcoholic drink is made, and learn some of the tricks that go into making it. This is a great rainy or snowy-day activity in the mountains.

Embark on an enchanting exploration that combines the thrill of the Shinhotaka Ropeway, and the serene beauty of Kamikochi. Our ‘Alpine Splendor’ tour is a captivating journey from the heights of the Northern Japan Alps to the tranquil depths of Kamikochi, with a unique stop to witness the majestic bears at Okuhida. This full-day experience from Takayama is a perfect blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, wildlife encounters, and serene nature walks, offering an immersive journey into the heart of Japan’s alpine wonders. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a diverse outdoor experience, this tour presents the opportunity to admire Japan’s alpine grandeur from above, interact with fascinating wildlife, and explore one of the country’s most pristine natural areas.

Shirakawa-go is known for its abundance of stunning outdoor sights—from hot springs to waterfalls and fantastic places to go hiking. With this tour, avoid potential language barriers as a private guide accompanies you to show you around and translate. Highlights on the itinerary include the Gassho-style houses of Shirakawa-go, Hirayunomori hot springs, and Hirayu Falls.

Craft your own professional Damascus kitchen knife in the legendary sword town of Seki, Gifu! Guided by a master blade-smith who have experience over 50years, you’ll sharpen, polish, and engrave your own knife — then test its sharpness on fresh vegetables. As a limited-time bonus, you’ll receive a handcrafted mini knife souvenir, a signed certificate, and enjoy a delicious Japanese lunch. ・Personalized Damascus knife-making experience ・Hands-on polishing, sharpening, engraving and assembly ・Test the sharpness of your finished blade ・Free mini knife souvenir (limited availability) ・Signed certificate of completion Delve into the rich history of Japanese Samurai swords and Seki City. Gain a deeper appreciation for the value of traditions. Whether you’re a knife enthusiast, a samurai fan, or simply looking for a unique cultural activity in Japan, this experience offers an unforgettable journey into traditional craftsmanship — and you’ll take home a blade that’s truly one of a kind.

Experience Japan’s greatest battle at Sekigahara from the perspective of the samurai. A local guide will lead you to key sites like Ishida Mitsunari’s and Tokugawa Ieyasu’s camps, explaining the strategies and stories of the warriors in an easy-to-understand way. Stand at reconstructed camps, memorials, and vantage points to feel the battle’s intensity firsthand. You’ll also visit the modern, multilingual Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum, designed to help international visitors grasp the full story. This isn’t just sightseeing — it’s a unique chance to truly feel history come alive.

We walk and the guide will explain about the local history of Takayama and let you taste Japanese local sake! One of the best in Takayama. Takayama and its surrounding with traditional houses and history and sake breweries all around. Here there are more than six within downtown. We are going to taste local sake, the history of sake and this town, how sake is made and much more. The guide will explain in detail how sake is made in a clear, simple and step by step explanation. For sake lovers, for Takayama lovers!

Step back in time on this 2-hour private guided walking tour of Takayama’s beautifully preserved old town. Your journey begins at Takayama Jinya, the only remaining government office of its kind from the Edo period, where you explore tatami-lined rooms and learn how officials oversaw regional governance under the Tokugawa shogunate. From there, wander into Sanmachi Suji—Takayama’s iconic old town district filled with wooden merchant houses, traditional crafts and atmospheric sake breweries. Enjoy opportunities to photograph the centuries-old streetscapes and learn how the town prospered as a key mountain settlement. To complete your experience, visit a historic brewery for a sake-tasting session featuring locally brewed varieties. Your guide explains how Takayama’s cold climate, clear water and long-standing craftsmanship influence the flavors. Combining history, architecture and food culture, this private tour offers a rich and personal introduction to Takayama.

Simplify your travel around Japan with a one-way private transfer from Takayama to Kanazawa, stopping en route at UNESCO-listed Shirakawa village. Instead of rushing through and missing the sightseeing highlights, this private transfer gives you time to get out of the car and explore the sights. Make the most of a travel day and arrive at your destination feeling ready for the next adventure.

Discover Japan's rich cultural heritage on this one-day tour from Takayama to the UNESCO World Heritage villages of Gokayama and Shirakawa-go. Visit the serene Ainokura village, participate in a traditional papermaking experience, and explore the charming streets of Suganuma. The tour culminates in Shirakawa-go, famous for its unique thatched-roof farmhouses, where you'll get stunning views and enjoy free time to soak in the atmosphere. With an English-speaking guide sharing insights about the area's history and architecture, this tour provides an enriching glimpse into Japan's rural life. - Visit three UNESCO World Heritage villages: Ainokura, Suganuma, and Shirakawa-go - Engage in a hands-on traditional papermaking workshop in Ainokura - Explore Shirakawa-go, with options to enter a farmhouse and enjoy the lookout point views - Tour runs year-round with a 9:00 A.M. start from Takayama Station, returning around 5:30 P.M.

Our onigiri-making and miso soup experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japanese culture in an authentic and hands-on way. Unlike typical cooking classes, this activity takes place in the tranquil setting of a historic temple, allowing you to enjoy not only the art of making onigiri but also the peaceful atmosphere that Japan is known for. You’ll have the chance to personalize your own onigiri plate, experimenting with various fillings and flavors, and learn the process of creating a delicious miso soup from scratch using locally renowned Hida miso. This special blend of culture, culinary skill, and tranquility is something you won’t find in just any cooking class. Plus, our experience is entirely vegan-friendly, making it accessible for everyone. Join us to create lasting memories, nourish your body and soul, and take home a unique slice of Japanese culture.

Discover the cultural heart of Gero Onsen, a renowned hot spring town in Japan, known for its soothing alkaline waters and rich heritage. This guided walking tour dives into the significant role hot springs play in Japanese culture, history, and daily life. Start in the town center to learn about Gero’s evolution as a healing destination, visit the Gero Hot Spring Museum for insights into the science behind the springs, and hear the enchanting White Heron Legend at Onsenji Temple. Conclude your journey with local onsen street food, bringing a taste of Gero's vibrant hospitality to life. - Explore Gero Onsen’s unique history and cultural significance - Visit the Gero Hot Spring Museum and learn about bathing customs - Discover the White Heron Legend at Onsenji Temple - Enjoy local onsen street food with your guide, embracing Gero's hospitality