How to Get from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go

The most convenient way to reach the village is by highway bus. Direct buses depart daily from the Meitetsu Bus Center near Nagoya Station. The journey takes approximately three hours through beautiful mountain scenery. You should book your seats several weeks in advance for winter travel.

Gifu Bus and Meitetsu Bus operate several round trips every single day. A round-trip ticket usually costs around 8,000 yen for one adult. These buses are modern and offer comfortable seating for the long ride. Check the official schedules provided by JR Central for timing updates.

Another option is taking a train to Takayama first. You can use the Hida Wide View express train for this leg. From Takayama, you then take a local Nohi bus to Shirakawa-go. This route is ideal if you want to see two towns. Many travelers choose winter bus tours from Nagoya for a stress-free experience.

Driving yourself is possible but not recommended for most tourists. The mountain roads are often icy and very narrow in winter. Heavy snowfall can cause sudden road closures or dangerous driving conditions. Stick to the professional bus services to ensure a safe journey. Most buses arrive at the village terminal by mid-morning.

Top Things to Do in Shirakawa-go in Winter

Start your visit by walking to the Shiroyama Viewpoint. This spot offers the most famous view of the entire village. You can see the steep thatched roofs clustered together below. A shuttle bus runs to the top for a small fee. Walking up takes about twenty minutes on a snowy path.

Explore the inside of a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse like Wada-ke. These houses are over three hundred years old and very sturdy. You can see how families lived in the harsh winter climate. The wooden structures are held together without using a single nail. Entry fees are usually around 400 yen per person.

Cross the Deai-mon Suspension Bridge to enter the main village area. The bridge spans the Shokawa River and offers great photo spots. Be careful as the wooden planks can become quite slippery. The river banks are often piled high with fresh white snow. This walk sets a magical tone for your whole day.

Warm up with local snacks at the small village stalls. Try the toasted rice cakes known as gohei mochi with miso. Hida beef skewers are another delicious treat found near the bus stop. Many small cafes offer hot tea and views of the snow. These breaks are essential for staying warm during your tour.

Nagoya to Shirakawa-go Winter Day Trip Guide Tips

The temperature in the mountains is much colder than in Nagoya. You must wear high-quality thermal layers to stay comfortable all day. A windproof and waterproof outer jacket is highly recommended for snow. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and a thick scarf. Temperatures often stay below freezing during January and February.

Footwear is the most important part of your winter gear. Wear waterproof boots with good grip to avoid slipping on ice. Many paths in the village are not cleared of snow. You can buy clip-on ice spikes at Nagoya Station shops. These small tools make walking on frozen paths much safer.

Most shops and cafes in the village prefer cash payments. While some larger places accept cards, smaller stalls usually do not. Carry enough yen for food, souvenirs, and the viewpoint shuttle. There are very few ATMs available once you reach the village. Plan your budget before leaving the city in the morning.

Daylight hours are quite short during the Japanese winter season. The sun often sets behind the mountains by late afternoon. Plan to arrive by 10:00 AM to maximize your sightseeing time. Most tourists head back to the bus station by 4:00 PM. This timing ensures you get back to Nagoya for dinner.

2026 Shirakawa-go Winter Light-Up Events

The winter light-up events are truly spectacular to witness in person. During specific Sundays in January and February, the houses glow at night. This event creates a dreamlike atmosphere against the dark snowy backdrop. You can find more details in our guide to Nagoya winter events 2026. These nights are very popular and require early planning.

Access to the village during light-up nights is strictly controlled. You must have a confirmed reservation to enter after dark. Reservations are usually handled through a lottery system months in advance. This includes parking spots, bus seats, and overnight village stays. Check the Japan National Tourism Organization website for official lottery dates.

If you cannot get a reservation, visit during the daytime. The village is still beautiful without the artificial evening lights. You can enjoy the scenery and depart before the event begins. Many people prefer the daytime for better photography of the architecture. The crowds are also much smaller during regular daylight hours.