Hida Craftsmanship and Onsen Serenity: A 2-Day Journey through Takayama and Gero

Course Highlights

A Masterclass in Heritage and Relaxation

Experience the refined beauty of the Hida region. From Nagoya Station, the scenic Limited Express Hida takes you through lush valleys to the Edo-period streets of Takayama. Savor highly regarded Hida Beef, explore the historic Jinya, and conclude your day with a soak in the legendary waters of Gero Onsen. A perfect blend of heritage and relaxation.

Course Overview

  • Duration: 2 Days (1 Night)
  • Target: Couples, History Buffs, & Wellness Seekers
  • Start: Nagoya Station
  • Finish: Nagoya Station

Highlights

  • Wander through Takayama's "Sanmachi," famous for its black lattice-door merchant houses.
  • Step inside the Takayama Jinya, the only remaining Edo-period government office in Japan.
  • Indulge in premium Hida Beef sushi and local sake tasting in the historic district.
  • Rejuvenate in Gero Onsen, one of Japan's top three hot spring destinations.

Day 1 Morning: Journey to the "Little Kyoto" of the Alps

Depart from Nagoya and travel through the breathtaking Hida river valleys to reach a town where the spirit of the Edo period lives on.

08:43 - Depart Nagoya Station (Limited Express Hida)

Connect from the Shinkansen to the Limited Express Hida. The approximately 2-hour-and-20-minute ride is one of Japan’s most scenic, following the curves of the pristine Hida River toward the mountains.

Day 1 Afternoon: Time Travel and Culinary Delights

Immerse yourself in the craftsmanship of Takayama. Walk through history and treat your palate to the region’s legendary Wagyu beef and sake.

11:30 - Takayama Sanmachi & Jinya Exploration

Arrive at Takayama Station and walk to Sanmachi-suji. Explore the black-lacquered merchant houses and water channels. Visit the Takayama Jinya to see the grand gate and serene tatami rooms. For lunch, enjoy Hida Beef steak or sushi—a true melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Day 1 Evening: Healing Waters of a Legendary Onsen

Travel south to Gero Onsen to experience the silky-smooth waters that have comforted travelers for over a millennium.

16:30 - Check-in at Gero Onsen

Take the train from Takayama to Gero (approx. 45–60 mins). Check into a traditional ryokan. Before dinner, enjoy the soft, alkaline waters of Gero, famous for making skin feel incredibly smooth.

Click here to book activities in Gifu, including Gero Onsen.

Day 2: Riverside Strolls and the Return Journey

Spend your morning breathing in the fresh mountain air as you explore the riverside charms of Gero before heading back to the city.

10:00 - Gero Riverside Stroll & Foot Baths

Enjoy a relaxing morning. Visit the open-air "Funsenchi" pond or try various free foot baths scattered around the town. Browse local shops for "Gero-purin" (pudding) before taking the Limited Express Hida back to Nagoya in the afternoon.

Tour maps