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Gokayama

Gokayama, Ainokura, Nanto, Toyama , Japan

Gokayama

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Gokayama

Welcome to Gokayama! This charming village in Nanto, Toyama, Japan is a hidden gem that will transport you back in time. With its traditional gassho-zukuri houses, Ainokura takes you on a whimsical journey. The breathtaking thatched roofs, lush fields, and beautiful mountains provide endless photo opportunities. Don't forget to immerse yourself in the rich local culture and taste the delicious regional cuisine.

Recommendations

Landmark4.4/5

Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village

Culture4.8/5

Ainokura Traditional Industry Center

Culture4.4/5

Ainokura Folklore Museum

Discover the charm of Ainokura Folklore Museum, where traditional gassho-zukuri architecture and captivating exhibits bring the rich cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site to life, making it a must-visit destination in Toyama.

Landmark4.5/5

Washi Paper Workshop

At the Washi Paper Workshop in Ainokura, visitors can experience the art of traditional Japanese papermaking, immersing themselves in a craft that blends history and nature in the enchanting setting of Toyama's charming mountain village.

Landmark4.5/5

Ainokura Village Observation Deck

Offering breathtaking views of traditional gassho-zukuri houses, the Ainokura Village Observation Deck is an iconic spot that captures the serene beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Transport4.1/5

Ainokura parking lot

Transport4.2/5

Ainokuraguchi Bus Stop

Eat4.1/5

Matsuya

Eat4.2/5

Gokayama Gorobei Restaurant

Eat4.2/5

Yohachi

Stays

Stay4.7/5

Minshuku Goyomon

Stay4.5/5

GUESTHOUSE KAZURA

Nestled in the scenic Nanto region, GUESTHOUSE KAZURA offers a charming blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comforts, making it an unforgettable retreat amidst stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Stay4.3/5

Gokayama Onsen Gokasansou

Nestled in the scenic Gokayama region, Gokayama Onsen Gokasansou offers soothing hot springs with breathtaking mountain views, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and a taste of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Stay4.9/5

与茂四郎

Nestled in the scenic Ainokura village, 与茂四郎 offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage, featuring stunning thatched-roof houses and breathtaking natural landscapes that transport visitors back in time.

Stay4.8/5

Nakaya Thatched-Roof Guesthouse

Nestled in the picturesque village of Ainokura, Nakaya Thatched-Roof Guesthouse offers an enchanting glimpse into traditional gassho-zukuri architecture, providing an unforgettable cultural experience amid serene natural beauty and rich historical charm.

Stay4.7/5

長ヨ門

Stay4.7/5

合掌のお宿庄七

Stay4.2/5

Ainokura Camping Ground

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5

Takayama and Shirakawago/Photoshoot by professional photographer

Up to 7 people private tour + PHOTOSHOOT by professional photographer!! Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories in Japan. You will be taken to the Japan's most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

$500.82
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5/5
3 h

Kanazawa private half day/Photoshoot by professional photographer

Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories to our beautiful city of Kanazawa. You will be taken to the city’s most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments in Kanazawa, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

$143.83
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5/5
9 h

Takayama Explore Gokayama and Shirakawa go

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.

$178.50
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5/5
4 h

Private Tour of Shirakawago from Kanazawa (Half Day)

Explore the world heritage hamlet of Shirakawa-go on our 4-hour package tour with access to a private vehicle exclusively for you and your fellow travelers. Our English-speaking driver will take you to the World UNESCO site of Shirakawa-go. We collect you from your hotel lobby and whisk you off to the UNESCO village of Shirakawago. Our morning or afternoon driving tours are designed for those looking for convenient access to this beautiful but remote mountain village

$253.54
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5/5
5 h

Private transfer Kanazawa to Takayama Including Shirakawago

Our exceptional tour service will transport you in style and comfort from Kanazawa to Takayama. Take in the beautiful UNESCO village of Shirakawago on your way and at your leisure. Our professional English speaking driver guide will take you through the fairytale village on your way to Takayama.

$380.31
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5/5
9 h 30 mins

Hida Takayama & Shirakawago Small Group Tour from Nagoya

Experience two of Japan's most beautiful historic destinations in one unforgettable day. This guided small-group tour from Nagoya visits UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go and the preserved merchant town of Hida Takayama, with transportation, professional guiding, and time to explore included. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Japan, couples, and families, as we'll take care of all transportation (including luggage storage on our tour vehicles) and provide expert insight so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey into the Japanese countryside. Whether you're returning to Nagoya or continuing your journey to Takayama, Shirakawa-go, or Kanazawa, the tour offers the flexibility to fit a variety of travel itineraries. With transportation, luggage storage, and a knowledgeable guide included, you can focus on exploring these historic destinations and taking in the beauty of the Japanese countryside.

$188.13
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5/5

Noto peninsula 1 day/Photoshoot with professional photographer

Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories in Japan. You will be taken to the Japan's most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

$205.47
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5/5
5 h

From Takayama: Shirakawa-go Half-Day Tour by Bus

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the must-see destinations when visiting this region. On this guided half-day tour, you will travel from Takayama to Shirakawa-go and enjoy a walk through the beautiful traditional village surrounded by rich nature. A local guide will introduce you not only to Shirakawa-go, but also to Japanese culture, history, and local life. Your guide will meet you at Nohi Bus Center in Takayama at 7:30 AM. After visiting Shirakawa-go, the tour will return to the same location at around 12:30 PM. This tour requires a minimum of 2 participants. Our regular tour is conducted in English. Please contact us in advance if you would like to request a Chinese, Italian-speaking guide. We can also arrange other private tours, such as Kamikochi, Takayama city walking tours, and more.

$146.39
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5/5
9 h

1 Day Tour from Kanazawa Tedori Gorge White Road and Shirakawa Go

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Japan on this full-day tour from Kanazawa. Begin your journey at Shirayama Hime Shrine, dedicated to sacred Mt. Haku, then venture through the picturesque Hakusan Shirakawa-Go White Road, known for its stunning valley views and waterfalls. Conclude your adventure in Shirakawa-Go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can walk through historical thatched-roof houses and immerse yourself in local culture. Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, this tour includes guided insights and captivating sights. - Start the tour at 9:00 A.M. from Kanazawa Station - Visit the ancient Shirayama Hime Shrine and then Tedori Gorge - Travel along the scenic White Road with multiple sightseeing stops - Explore the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-Go

$205.47
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5/5

Kanazawa and Shirakawago/Photoshoot by professional photographer

Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories in Japan. You will be taken to the Japan's most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

$254.26
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5/5
8 h

ENGLISH SPEAKING Private Full Day Tour Shirakawago/ Takayama

Experience the charm of Japan’s countryside with a private full-day tour from Kanazawa to Shirakawago and Takayama. Explore the historic village of Shirakawago, renowned for its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses and stunning mountain scenery. Then continue to Takayama, a beautifully preserved town known for its traditional streets, local craftsmanship, and regional cuisine. This tour is fully customizable to suit your interests—whether you’d like to focus on history, food, scenic views, or a mix of everything. Travel in comfort with a private vehicle for up to 6 guests, enjoy the flexibility of your own schedule, and take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Japanese Alps at your own pace. The tour lasts up to 8 hours including driving time and is a round-trip returning to Kanazawa. If you wish to finish your tour in Takayama instead, please contact us for a separate arrangement, as luggage space is limited.

$706.29
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5/5
96 h

4 Days Central Japan Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa

In recent years Central Japan has become increasingly popular as a stop along the Tokyo to Kyoto “Golden Route”. The reason for this, simply stated, is that Central Japan offers every experience the traveler could desire from Japan, while also being located close to some of Japan’s largest cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. From majestic mountain peaks to delicious local sake, and of course the famous Snow Monkeys, our multiple day group tour of this amazing region of Japan will bring you to every location you dreamed of, and many you may not have heard of yet. Starting in Nagano and ending in Kanazawa, this tour is perfect for those wishing to move through central Japan and removes the necessity of dealing with train and bus transfers. While accommodation is not included, transport between all destinations and an English speaking guide are provided on every day of the tour, so you do not have to worry about the small things and can instead focus on enjoying your vacation time.

$699.87
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5/5
10 h

Shirakawago and Hida Takayama Guided Tours by Private Car

Skip the buses. We come to you. Your Nagoya hotel is the starting point. No trains, no transfers, no stress — just you, your private vehicle, and an English-speaking guide ready to show you two of Japan's most extraordinary destinations in a single day. What makes this tour different : ・ Door-to-door pickup & drop-off from your Nagoya hotel 100% private — just your group, no strangers ️・ English-speaking driver-guide throughout · Flexible pace — we adjust to what YOU want to see ・ Leave your luggage in the car and explore hands-free Shirakawa-go — a UNESCO World Heritage village frozen in time, famous for its dramatic thatched-roof farmhouses (gassho-zukuri). Every season brings a different kind of magic — cherry blossoms in spring, lush green in summer, fiery foliage in autumn, and a snow-covered wonderland in winter. Takayama — Edo-period merchant streets, craft sake breweries, Hida beef, and a morning market where locals have gathered for centuries.

$931.02
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5/5
48 h

Shirakawago and Takayama 2 Days Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

This 2-day itinerary allows travelers to soak up the sights of both popular destinations without the rush or crowded tours. A guide points out local specialties along the traditional food street and explains the significance of the gassho-style (thatched-roof) homes in well-preserved Shirakawago. Visit the best parts of Takayama and Shirakawago on a private 2-day tour. Learn about the history of Japanese traditional buildings at your leisure . Personalized attention is guaranteed with a dedicated guide at your side . Overnight accommodation, lunch, and transport from designated meeting points

$1,027.33
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5/5

Fukui private full day/Photoshoot by professional photographer

Fukui private full day tour + PHOTOSHOOT. Regardless of whether you are coming to Japan for the first time, or you’re an obsessed Japan lover, this intimate, private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories in Japan. You will be taken to the Japan's most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

$250.41
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5/5
11 h 45 mins

Shirakawa-go from Takayama/Nagoya One day Bus ticket

Immerse yourself in the special charm of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the history and architecture of its iconic gassho-zukuri houses. As it is a self-guided tour, you can enjoy meals and sightseeing at your own pace. Enjoy a hassle-free journey from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go, with non-stop direct bus service. Please select an option with one-way or round trip bus tickets. One-way ticket from Nagoya to shirakawa-go: 6:45 AM from Nagoya 10:35 AM at Shirakawa-go One-way ticket from Shirakawa-go to Nagoya: 2:15 PM from Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal 6:10 PM in Nagoya One-way ticket from Nagoya to shirakawa-go: 9:40 AM from Takayama green Hotel 10:35 AM at Shirakawa-go One-way ticket from Shirakawa-go to Takayama: 2:15 PM from Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal 3:15 PM in Takayama

$21.83
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5/5

Suzu/Noto private 1 day Photoshoot by professional photographer

Especially designed for nature lovers! This private tour will be a unique experience to enhance your treasured memories of Japan. You will be taken to the city’s most beautiful places, guided by a local English-speaking professional photographer. During the tour I will capture your magical moments, leaving you free to take in the sights without worrying about the best angles and light, or asking a stranger to take your picture! I am experienced in portrait and travel street photography, and my work has been published in many magazines, guidebooks including Lonely Planet and the city guides of tourism boards. A day out with me ensure you will have a knowledgeable, funny, local professional photographer, and Insta-worthy travel photos will be guaranteed!

$255.55
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5/5
4 h

ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE - Private Half-Day Tour to Shirakawago

Enjoy a seamless, fully customizable journey to Shirakawa-go, with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Kanazawa. Travel in comfort with a private vehicle and guide, exploring the village at your own pace. Visit the famous gassho-zukuri farmhouses, stroll through Ogimachi Village, and take in panoramic views from scenic viewpoints. Whether you want to visit a traditional farmhouse, enjoy local cuisine, or focus on photography, your itinerary is tailored to your interests. Experience the beauty of Shirakawa-go stress-free, in any season, with a tour designed just for you.

$449.46
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5/5
9 h

Takayama & Shirakawa-go Private Tour – Guide & Car from Nagoya

Step into old Japan on a private tour of Takayama and Shirakawa-go, two towns rich in tradition and charm. Stroll Takayama’s historic streets, then head to Shirakawa-go to see its iconic thatched-roof farmhouses. Discover folk culture, taste local flavors, and enjoy mountain views on this unforgettable journey. Travel in comfort with a nationally licensed guide who picks you up in a private car from Nagoya—making your journey smooth, safe, and personal from start to finish. Few reviews here yet, but I have many 5-star reviews on other platforms—book with confidence! Highlights: ・Stroll Takayama’s timeless streets, where nature and history blend seamlessly. ・Discover Shirakawa-go’s thatched roofs and tranquil mountain scenery. ・Experience the peaceful village atmosphere, like stepping back in time. ・Trusted as a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (Cert. No. EN00703). ・Comfortable travel with a private car and 10+ years professional driving.

$642.08
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5/5
8 h

Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Kanazawa by Car, Licensed Guide

Deep in the Japanese Alps, the historical and beautiful old thatched houses of Japan stand strong. These houses are over 150 years old and still are lived in today. These homes stand tall in the natural scenery. Several of these houses are open to the public. Join one of our tours guides to this area and learn about history and culture in a way that you would have never been able to on your own! This private and customizable tour will allow you to take in the beauty of Shirakawago at your own pace. Once you place your reservation, a guide will be in touch with you to plan out the details of your tour. Be sure to let your guide know where you would like to visit and your interests so they can plan out an itinerary for you! If you will not have time to visit all the sights on your must-see list, contact us directly regarding extension fees. Learn about this world heritage site with us! We hope to guide you soon!

$539.99
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