Japanese Alps & Gifu Prefecture 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive & Car Pickup

Arrive at Komatsu Airport (KMQ), complete immigration formalities, and pick up your pre-booked rental car.

Ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving conditions.

Pre-book your car rental with winter tires and 4WD if possible for mountain driving. Check the car for a local ETC card (toll road card) for convenience.

Natadera Temple Visit

Explore the historic Natadera Temple, nestled in a serene natural setting.

This ancient temple offers beautiful grounds, rock gardens, and caves for contemplation.

One of the most important temples in the Hokuriku region, less crowded than major city temples.

Local Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant in Komatsu or the Kaga Onsen area, sampling regional specialties.

Tojinbo Cliffs

Drive to the dramatic Tojinbo Cliffs in Fukui Prefecture, a designated natural monument featuring unique columnar jointing formations along the Sea of Japan coast.

The cliffs can be very windy and cold in February, so dress warmly. There are local shops selling seafood snacks.

Drive to Kaga Onsen

Enjoy a scenic drive to the Kaga Onsen area, known for its historic hot springs and traditional ryokans.

Onsen & Ryokan Dinner

Check into your ryokan, relax in the natural hot springs (onsen), and enjoy a traditional multi-course Kaiseki dinner.

Kutaniyaki Ceramics Village

Visit the Kutaniyaki Ceramics Village to learn about the traditional Kutani ware, watch artisans at work, and perhaps try painting your own pottery.

This offers a glimpse into local craftsmanship away from typical tourist trails.

Many shops offer hands-on experiences for a fee. Great for unique souvenir shopping.

Drive to Gujo Hachiman

Embark on a scenic drive eastward into Gifu Prefecture, heading towards the charming castle town of Gujo Hachiman.

This route will take you through beautiful rural landscapes.

The drive may involve some mountain roads; check weather and road conditions before departure.

Gujo Hachiman Lunch

Savor local cuisine in Gujo Hachiman, known for its freshwater fish dishes and unique 'food replicas' (Gujo Hachiman is a center for making plastic food samples).

Explore Gujo Hachiman

Wander through the picturesque streets of Gujo Hachiman, often called the 'City of Water' due to its intricate canal system. Visit Gujo Hachiman Castle, explore traditional houses, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

The town is very walkable. Don't miss the water shrines and small, local museums.

Dinner in Gujo

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery in Gujo Hachiman, experiencing the town's quiet evening charm.

Skiing at a Local Resort

Drive to a nearby ski resort such as Dynaland or White Pia Takasu in Gifu Prefecture.

Enjoy a morning of skiing or snowboarding on less crowded slopes, catering to various skill levels.

Rental equipment is available on-site. Check snow conditions beforehand. This offers a more local skiing experience.

Lunch at Ski Resort

Have a casual lunch at one of the restaurants or cafes located within the ski resort.

Drive to Shirakawa-go

Take a picturesque drive through the snowy mountains to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique gassho-zukuri (praying hands) farmhouses.

Explore Shirakawa-go

Wander through the charming village of Shirakawa-go.

While popular, visiting in the late afternoon during winter offers a magical experience with fewer crowds. Visit some of the open farmhouses.

Drive to Takayama

Continue your journey to Takayama, a beautifully preserved Edo-period town known as 'Little Kyoto' of Hida.

Dinner in Takayama

Enjoy dinner at one of Takayama's renowned restaurants, perhaps trying the famous Hida beef or local soba noodles.

Takayama Morning Market

Visit the Jinyamae or Miyagawa morning markets to experience local life and sample fresh produce, snacks, and crafts.

Great for a light breakfast.

Operates daily, even in winter, but check specific hours.

Explore Takayama Old Town

Stroll through the well-preserved Sanmachi Suji district, admiring the traditional wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and craft shops. Visit the Hida Folk Village if time permits.

Many shops offer sake tasting and local delicacies. The Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum showcasing traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

Hida Beef Lunch

Indulge in a delicious Hida beef lunch, a local specialty known for its exceptional marbling and tenderness.

Drive to Gero Onsen

Enjoy a scenic drive south through the mountains to Gero Onsen, one of Japan's three most famous hot spring towns.

Gero Onsen Relaxation

Check into your ryokan in Gero Onsen.

Spend the afternoon relaxing in the rejuvenating hot spring waters, known for their skin-beautifying properties. You can also take a stroll along the Hida River.

Many ryokans offer private baths. There are also public footbaths around town.

Ryokan Dinner

Savor another exquisite Kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, featuring local seasonal ingredients.

Morning in Gero Onsen

Enjoy a leisurely morning.

Perhaps take a final dip in the onsen, visit the Onsenji Temple, or explore the small town before departing.

Scenic Drive through Gifu

Embark on a beautiful drive through the rural landscapes of Gifu Prefecture, heading south-east. Enjoy the tranquility and winter scenery away from major highways.

Focus on prefectural roads for a more intimate view of the Japanese countryside.

Lunch near Ena Gorge

Stop for lunch at a local restaurant in a charming town near Ena Gorge, trying regional dishes.

Ena Gorge Exploration

Visit Ena Gorge, a beautiful river valley known for its unique rock formations and tranquil waters.

You can take a short boat cruise (weather permitting) or explore the walking trails. This spot offers natural beauty without the crowds of more famous destinations.

The boat cruise typically operates year-round, but check schedules in winter. Dress warmly for outdoor activities.

Drive to Tajimi

Conclude your day by driving to Tajimi or Toki, towns famous for their Mino ware ceramics.

This positions you well for exploring more of Gifu and Aichi in the next chunk of your trip, while still being outside Nagoya.

Dinner in Tajimi

Enjoy dinner in Tajimi, perhaps at a restaurant offering local specialties or a cozy izakaya.

Scenic Drive to Inuyama

Enjoy the picturesque winter landscapes as you drive from the Gifu countryside towards Inuyama in Aichi Prefecture, offering a glimpse into rural Japan.

Inuyama Castle & Urakuen Garden

Explore Inuyama Castle, one of Japan's oldest castles and a national treasure, offering panoramic views of the Kiso River.

Afterwards, stroll through the tranquil Urakuen Garden, home to the Jo-an tea house.

Admission fee for the castle and garden. Comfortable shoes are recommended as there are stairs and walking.

Local Lunch in Inuyama

Savor local specialties in Inuyama's charming castle town, with options ranging from traditional Japanese eateries to cozy cafes.

Soothing Onsen Experience

Relax and rejuvenate in a traditional Japanese hot spring bath at a lesser-known local onsen facility.

This is a perfect way to unwind after driving and immerse yourself in Japanese bathing culture.

Research a specific onsen based on your driving route for the day. Many onsen have day-use options. Remember onsen etiquette.

Drive to Nagoya & Hotel Check-in

Complete your drive to Nagoya and check into your accommodation.

Take some time to settle in before dinner.

Nagoya Dinner Experience

Enjoy your first dinner in Nagoya, sampling some of the city's unique local dishes ('Nagoya-meshi') like Miso Katsu or Hitsumabushi.

Toyota Automobile Museum

Discover the global history of the automobile industry, featuring a vast collection of classic cars from around the world and showcasing Toyota's significant legacy.

The museum is located in Nagakute, a short drive from central Nagoya. Ample parking available. An excellent blend of history and engineering.

Lunch near Toyota City

Enjoy a casual lunch in the area surrounding the Toyota Automobile Museum or in nearby Toyota City.

Japanese Calligraphy & Tea Ceremony

Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture by learning the art of calligraphy and participating in a serene tea ceremony at a traditional house in Nagoya.

This intimate experience provides insight into ancient customs.

Booking required. Please arrive on time. You will receive hands-on instruction.

Osu Kannon Temple & Shopping

Visit the historic Osu Kannon Temple, then explore the vibrant Osu Shopping Street, known for its unique shops, anime stores, and local eateries, offering a glimpse into Nagoya's eclectic sub-culture.

Osu is a lively district and a great place for people-watching and finding unique souvenirs. It's less 'touristy' than some other shopping areas.

Dinner in Osu

Enjoy dinner at one of the many diverse restaurants in the Osu area, known for its variety of cuisines.

Nagoya Castle & Local Flavor Walk

Step back in time with a guided walk around Nagoya Castle, home to golden shachihoko, learning about its samurai heritage and enjoying local street food along Kinchachi Yokocho.

Booking required for the tour. This tour combines a major historical site with local culinary exploration, offering a unique perspective.

Street Food Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch sampling the street food offerings discovered during your morning tour near Nagoya Castle.

MIRAI TOWER & Hisaya Ōdōri Park

Ascend the iconic Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER (formerly Nagoya TV Tower) for panoramic views of the city, then enjoy a leisurely stroll through the adjacent Hisaya Ōdōri Park, a green oasis in the city center.

Tickets required for the observation deck. The park is a pleasant area for relaxation and people-watching.

All-You-Can-Drink Sake Tasting Tour

Experience Nagoya's vibrant Izakaya culture with an all-you-can-drink sake tasting, coupled with fresh local food.

A perfect way to immerse yourself in Japanese nightlife.

Booking required. This tour will introduce you to different types of sake and local pairings.

Farewell Dinner in Nagoya

Enjoy a final dinner in Nagoya, reflecting on your trip.

Consider trying another local specialty or a restaurant you've wanted to visit.