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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Tottori to Matsumoto?
The direct drive from Tottori to Matsumoto is 320 mi (515 km), and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 21 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Tottori to Matsumoto, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Kyoto, Takayama, Shirakawa-mura, Inuyama, Tateyama-machi, Toyooka, Miyazu, Hikone, Otsu, and Gifu, as well as top places to visit like Takeda Castle Ruins and Kinosaki Onsen Tourism Association, or the ever-popular Engyoji.
The top cities between Tottori and Matsumoto are Kyoto, Takayama, Shirakawa-mura, Inuyama, Tateyama-machi, Toyooka, Miyazu, Hikone, Otsu, and Gifu. Kyoto is the most popular city on the route. It's 3 hours from Tottori and 4 hours from Matsumoto.
Toyooka is a city located on Japan's northern coast and is famous for the stunning rock formations of San'in Kaigan Geopark, which includes the impressive Genbudo Cave with its basalt caverns. The Konotorinosato Park boasts beautiful wetlands that are home to Oriental white storks. In the southern part of Toyooka, visitors can explore Izushi, an Edo-era town featuring castle ruins and a striking stone stairway adorned with red torii gates.
1% as popular as Kyoto
4 minutes off the main route, 17% of way to Matsumoto
Miyazu, situated in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, is home to approximately 16,988 people residing in 8,348 households across its 172.74 square kilometers. This city boasts a rich history and offers various tourist attractions and curiosities waiting to be explored. Whether you're interested in historical sites or natural wonders, Miyazu has something for everyone to enjoy.
1% as popular as Kyoto
6 minutes off the main route, 26% of way to Matsumoto
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Kyoto, a city on the island of Honshu in Japan, was once the country's capital and is renowned for its classical Buddhist temples, gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. The city also boasts formal traditions like kaiseki dining and geisha entertainment in the Gion district. Additionally, Kyoto has been a hub for pioneering artists like Kobayashi Masakazu who created three-dimensional textile pieces that gained international acclaim.
Most popular city on this route
17 minutes off the main route, 39% of way to Matsumoto
Ōtsu, the capital city of Shiga Prefecture in Japan, has a population of around 343,991 people. It is known as "The Birthplace of Tokachi" and its name comes from the Ainu language, meaning "The place where giant butterburs grow." The city is situated between Mount Hiei and Lake Biwa's western coast and offers enchanting temples and shrines nestled in forested mountainsides.
1% as popular as Kyoto
17 minutes off the main route, 42% of way to Matsumoto
Hikone is a municipality situated in the Shiga Prefecture of Japan. According to estimates as of August 1st, 2021, it has around 111,958 inhabitants and a population density of approximately 570 individuals per square kilometer with an area covering nearly 196.84 square kilometers. This city comprises almost fifty thousand households and is recognized for its rich culture and history.
1% as popular as Kyoto
16 minutes off the main route, 51% of way to Matsumoto
I'll never travel to Matsumoto without this trip planner again
Gifu is a metropolis located in the heart of Japan. The city boasts Gifu Castle, which stands on top of Mt. Kinka and offers stunning views of the surroundings. A cable car links the castle to Gifu Park situated at the base of the mountain, where visitors can explore Nawa Insect Museum with its vast collection of butterflies and beetles. On Kawaramachi Street, tourists can stroll past traditional wood-latticed craft shops that line up along this famous street.
1% as popular as Kyoto
14 minutes off the main route, 61% of way to Matsumoto
Inuyama, a city in central Japan, is home to the historic Inuyama Castle and the serene Urakuen garden with its ancient Jo-an teahouse. The Museum Meiji-mura showcases well-preserved buildings from the late 19th century Meiji era, while Little World features traditional houses from various countries. During summer, local fishermen demonstrate their skill of using trained cormorants to catch fish on the Kiso River.
1% as popular as Kyoto
18 minutes off the main route, 63% of way to Matsumoto
Shirakawa-go is a historical village tucked away in a remote mountainous area that boasts traditional Gassho-style farmhouses. As one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites, it is a must-visit for any tourist. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of the village makes it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
It was nice. Seeing the traditional homes in that region up close was spectacular. There are plenty of shops to visit and buy reasonable priced trinkets. We stopped by the restaurant nearest to the entrance parking lot and had lunch. It was lovely.
Uniquely Yanique — Google review
Beautiful village!!!
It would be best if you can find a place and stay for a night near the village. You can visit it early in the morning next day. No crowded tourist before 8:30am.
There are few restaurant near by but only 1 open after 7:30pm. So be prepare and have your dinner before that.
Trang Bui — Google review
A really scenic and peaceful place. Lots to see and do. There are many tourists that come here, however the place is so big, it's no big deal. As part of our tour, we also had a delicious meal. If you are in the region, definitely add this place to your list.
Daniel Ooi — Google review
Nice, calm, beautiful area. Can have a lot of people walking around, but the vibe is rather pleasant and everyone seems to respect these lovely surroundings. We have a room with a back window looking right out over a wonderful stream. If you do your research and set the right expectations, I think you will love including a visit here within your regional travel plans.
Keith Hunter — Google review
I was amazed at this well presented Heritage town! The houses still accommodate the locals & stay over tourists. That was us!😊
The locals are early morning risers due to the thousands of tourists that converge during the day. I observed the locals dog walking, gardening & general outdoor cleaning in the early morning hours.
If you stay overnight, you really must arise early, you will have the village streets to yourself! We had a fabulous experience!
Maree Downes — Google review
While this place is the most beautiful in wintertime, covered with snow, it is still very nice place to visit anytime of the year.
I visited Shiragawa-Go during Autumn and didn't disappoint. This place/village is very attractive. You can see why it is UNESCO world heritage site. People preserved old architecture, and village very well so you can feel like you warp to the past.
Tanachai Thosa — Google review
Great heritage area. Lots to look at and learn about how the locals lived. Went in early April and it was a clear fresh day. Could be done in a t-shirt except for the strong winds when crossing the foot beidge. Highly recommend if you have at least 3+ hours in the area
Jason Chen — Google review
Came here on late spring.
One of the Unesco World Heritage. A must visit.
A historical village that secluded beyond the mountain. It was a calm, serene, peaceful.
You need to go up to the hill to see and enjoy the whole village area from above. It was too beautiful.
The river and the water ditch sorround is super clear and clean as crystal
Miranti Vidyasari — Google review
This is a traditional japanese village. It takes about 3-4 hours to cover the entire village. We visited here during early autumn. There is a bus to the observatory point. Cost is 200 JPY. But there is also a foot path to climb there. We used the bus to go uphill and used the footpath to come down. River side is very beautiful. Try to visit the museums if you are interested to see the historical things.
Chamal Perera — Google review
Well worth the bus ride (or rental car drive) to see these amazing houses built hundreds of years ago in a picturesque location. Spend at least 2-3 hours here to walk around and view the village, and grab a bite to eat or a souvenir. Visited on May 22, 2023.
Matty Hammo — Google review
You will need to buy a bus ticket in advance if you come with public transport. Also to go back. And keep in mind that everything closes at 4pm so it would be best to eat lunch around 12-1pm.
Shantal — Google review
Nice little tourist area, deserted at night so make sure you get dinner early! We had a lovely quiet time there in the morning before the crowds started to com at around 9am when the museums open
M S — Google review
Amazing place, it transports you to another time period almost. The people there were so welcoming to us, we had something to look at every step of the way around the village. Make sure to respect and follow the rules of the place (no trespassing, no littering, etc.)
Jennifer Vioniwinata — Google review
Absolutely love this place! When going when its less crowded, it is very peaceful and tranquil feeling the cold wind on your skin while looking at the surrounding green mountains and the old fashioned village. Drain water is so clear and clean that there are fishes swimming in the drain! Definitely recommend to go up to the observatory either through hiking or a shuttle to observe and really appreciate the beauty of the landscape aswell as the village in its entirety! Definitely should go!
Myth Boi — Google review
Amazing place, big snow and magical scenario. Christmas time must go place. If you go with car, must need snow chain. All restaurants open and not over crowded. Way better to enjoy then any other season.
Thomas Szabo — Google review
A little town with all the good feels.
The houses are lovely. Everything is walkable. Homes are fascinating too.
Homes have no signal nail and are known for their roof structure that look like praying hands.
I particularly loved the cafe where you see the Shirakawago scenery whilst drinking coffee.
There was also a lunch menu for 2000 Yen with hida beef set super yummy.
Everything is great and amazing in this lovely town.
Japan 🇯🇵
Everyday is a Wonder — Google review
Love the small village feel and the unique high pitched thatched roofed houses and the river nearby. Has a couple of houses that you can pay (400Y) to go inside and experience the past (Myozinji house built since 1748). Need at least 6 hours here for visit. Kids will love the trouts living in the gutters along the streets.
David EB — Google review
We made a three hour stop here on our way to Kanazawa by bus. It's a bit of a tourist spot and good for a one hour stop only. It has lots of toilets around the town and two small cafes if you want a coffee. We found one restaurant which was open. A very nice town with a lot of original houses and you can also go up to the observatory. When we went there was a very large number of tourists.
Keith Saunders — Google review
We were lucky to see some snow when we visited this unique village in the north of Gifu.
Very unique house design and there were shops and restaurants around the village.
It's such a famous tourist attraction spot that at the time when I visited, there were more tourists than locals living in this area.
I would definitely recommend coming here when it's snowing a lot more than the pictures here.
Nicholas Tan — Google review
We have visited this place before and I have also reviewed this place previously and so I will keep this one "short and sweet".
This time round, we allocated more time here as previously we only stopped by here for about an hour (after our visit to Takayama Old Town) but didn't have much time to roam the place.
We arrived slightly before 3pm. Weather was cold (but it was much colder later on when the sun set) but the river had not fully frozen like in our previous trip. It was quite comfortable to walk under the sun and yet very cold condition.
More shops were opened as it was weekday (our previous visit was on a Sunday and many shops were closed then). So we could walk around and shop for local foods and souvenirs.
We loved the scenery, lots of greenery and beautiful cottage houses, and our mother nature was just right around us!
Surely it was a wonderful revisiting trip on this UNESCO World Heritage site! Definitely worth it!
Ed Chung — Google review
A very quiet place for tourists to appreciate the old Japanese culture and architecture. The place is close to a number of local restaurants. We drove there on a weekday in March. Need to go through a lot of tunnels to reach there. Better equip with sun glasses because its tiring to drive among mountains with remaining snow. Both parking and restaurants are not too full. Kids can still hv snowball fights and build up snowman though we no longer could see snow on roof any more. Houses are close to each other and we could do some walking while not being too exhausted. Suggest to stay there for 2.5 hours including lunch. Love the place, being something different to visit in Japan.
Little Rach — Google review
A magical experience in this winter wonderland! It was snowing on Christmas Day! We had so much fun building a snowman. Many beautiful farm houses are covered in snow for great photos. Lots of souvenirs shops and little restaurants and dessert shops. The road leading up the observatory deck has turned icy, so need to walk slowly and carefully. The view from the observatory deck was breathtaking. It was an incline going up. Need to take breaks along the way. Don't forget to take pictures!
Jen Chan — Google review
Very nice old town of thatched roof houses. All made with wood and ropes, no nails used in the construction.
It was snowing which added to the magic.
We were there relatively early with our car but there were already lots of people around. It's nice and you spend an hour going around and up to the observatory point. Don't take the bus, use the short walkway by the side, much better views of the village.
Seb Camborieux — Google review
gorgeous ghasso town, we got so lucky with the snow (early march) - go to だんご屋 ゆたか on your way to the observation deck and try the sweet sake! so many places to eat in town and lots of cute souvenirs! make sure you buy a bus ticket back to where you’re going in advance (we got stranded for a few hours but we were lucky to get seats on the last bus)
Brit Thew — Google review
Visit in the winter peak so temperature was -5. Beautiful and fairytale-like village, make sure you have your time after 3pm or before 10am as all same day tourists would arrive from 10am and leave by 3pm. Observation deck has beautiful view but extremely crowded most of the time.
Truc Nguyen — Google review
Ranks high in my favorite places visited so far. Went for a day trip (winter season) and instantly fell in love. Regretted not staying longer and will definitely visit again.
I am in awe at how the locals protect this heritage site. The town looks mystical from afar. If you’re into heritage tourism then this is a place you shouldn’t miss.
There are food stalls and souvenir shops available.
Kid Carter Wagang — Google review
Magical and historical place.
We arrived there with the first bus from Kanazawa.
A few hours should be enough to walk around the entire area. It’s really beautiful and special.
Mor T — Google review
2% as popular as Kyoto
19 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Matsumoto
Tateyama is a charming town nestled in Nakaniikawa District, Toyama Prefecture, Japan. With an estimated population of 26,212 people residing in 9452 households and covering an area of 307.29 square kilometers, it offers a tranquil setting with a population density of 85 persons per km².
1% as popular as Kyoto
39 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Matsumoto
Takayama, situated in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture in Japan, boasts its Sanmachi Suji historic district with narrow streets and wooden merchants' houses dating back to the Edo Period. This charming city is renowned for its biannual Takayama Festival that has been celebrated since the mid-1600s. The festival includes parades featuring extravagant gilded floats and puppet shows during spring and fall.
5% as popular as Kyoto
3 minutes off the main route, 84% of way to Matsumoto
Best stops along Tottori to Matsumoto drive
The top stops along the way from Tottori to Matsumoto (with short detours) are Kinkaku-ji, Gion, and Shirakawa-go. Other popular stops include Nijō Castle, Hida no Sato Open Air Museum, and Hikone Castle.
Engyoji, a large Buddhist temple complex founded in 966, is situated on the mountaintop of Mount Shosha, surrounded by lush forest. The area offers a serene hiking trail and boasts impressive temple structures dating back over 1000 years. Known as the "Hieizan of the West," Engyoji features numerous halls and pagodas amidst verdant greenery.
One of the most beautiful mountain temple we have seen. The architecture is simply stunning and remind us of Kiyomizu-dera. The site has been selected as a film location for The Last Samurai with Tom Cruise. It is a place of peace and the mountain trail up to the temple is majestic. Explore the site early morning and take the time to enjoy every building and the surrounding nature.
Eric Meulien — Google review
Temple complex with amazing history. The surrounding environment is peaceful. Filming location of The Last Samurai.
Leslie Lim — Google review
I came here despite the rain on that day as I was very curious about its history and the fact that this was one of the filming spots of Tom Cruises The Last Samurai. It was such a peaceful and pleasant walk seeing all the buildings and structures. Such amazing history set in such wonderful surroundings up on the mountain.
I bought the combination ticket of the bus and ropeway which was now ¥1500 and the entrance to this place was another ¥500. If you really want to immerse yourself in this place I’d recommend walking from the ropeway station to the various temples. But if you’re pressed for time they do have a shuttle bus for another ¥500. I highly recommend going here since you’re at Himeji already and come visit this place after visiting the Himeji Castle. Enjoy the tranquility of this place before it gets more and more popular.
Mike A. — Google review
This is an amazing place - a wooden temple complex spread out on top of the mountain. It has a mysterious, peaceful, ancient atmosphere, 2 temples look majestic. I highly suggest taking the hiking trail to the top, check out the views of the interesting landscape on the way. Along the top part of the road heading towards the entrance, there are probably 30+ statues circa 25 meters apart. You can take the city bus there (to the Rope-way, the hiking trail start there as well) from Himeji castle.
Patrik Pinde? — Google review
One of the most beautiful places I've ever been in my life! I always wanted to go there since I saw it in The Last Samurai when I was 14yrs old. The cable car was out that day so I had to hike up the mountain, the path was hard to find as the entrance is in the little village to the left of the cable car area but the hike up is nice! You can spend a couple hours up there walking around and taking in the scenery, the buildings are just beautiful and everything is so calm there! I can wait to get back to Japan and come here again!
Steve Brooks — Google review
In order to get to this temple, you will need to go on the lift up the mountain. There is a machine where you can buy the tickets. It only takes a couple minutes to get to the top and has a nice view. Once you get to the top start walking, there is another entrance fee to get into the area to hike or take the bus. If you have small kids or you are not well enough to walk (especially in the middle of summer), take the bus (also costs extra). We took the bus and glad we did as we walked more once we got there. If you are trying to see the scene from "The Last Samurai," then you will need to walk some more to get there (about 5 minutes from Maniden Temple). It was very cool to see and dont forget to see the gravesites right next to the Hall as that was also in the movie. I am very glad we were able to stop here. The entrance fee was 500 yen and the bus was another 500 yen (discount for children). Dedicate about two hours here if you just want to see the Main Hall and leave, you can spend more as there are other places to see and walk to
I C — Google review
Beautiful temple in the midst of a huge forest. Unlike other zen gardens of Japan, this one may not be that well maintained but it's definitely zen. The shrine has a long history of about 100 years. The trek to cover all the shrines is definitely tiring,I was not up for it but the main temple was great. There is also a bus ticket to cover the whole place, if you wish but I don't recommend if you get motion sick as the terrain is rough. If you have watched Avatar - Last Airbender, then this temple does look like one of those air temples.
Mrudula Chandrika — Google review
It was such a nice experience to see the temple from The Last Samurai. I liked how peaceful everything was and the view of the city was amazing. The cost was very reasonable. I liked being able to get the shrine stamps for this place for my shrine stamp book.
Scott Combs — Google review
Beautiful place to track and see the amazing shrines. Adult for 1,000 Y up the Ropeway and 500 entrance fee
Galit Mass — Google review
Must visit when you in Himeji! Absolutely beautiful surrounding area and a nice walk from the ropeway. We tried the little restaurant next to the temple too.
Kinga Vincze — Google review
My daughter was very excited to ride on cable car to the temple. After you ride on top of the mountain, you can choose to pay 1000en for walking pass or pay 2000 en for shuttle bus to the temple directly. I personally prefer take the bus because you have to enjoy the driving skill of the Japanese ‘Oojisan’😂 . Finally, the temple shows the vibes of history and the surrounding area is worth to stay for 2 hrs.
Ngai Lee — Google review
Omg.
I love this place the most.
Luckily manage to come here.
So peaceful and feel great.
The buildings are amazing, jaw drop.
Beautiful architecture and they are still so good and beautiful after more than 1000 years!
Amazing.
Must must come if you are here.
Nana Jjj — Google review
We took bus number 8 to Mount Shoshan. There is a bus-stop opposite the tourist information center near Himeiji Castle. It is great that the last stop is the ropeway station which makes it easy to get to the ropeway station. After reaching the mountain, the walk up to the temple is enjoyable which takes less than 30 minutes. It is worth the climb and it is a rather big area to explore asides from the main hall Maniden.
Do walk around to explore as this is a very serene environment with number of big and small temples. Food/drinks are also available around the temple. I believe it will look very beautiful during autumn and definitely worth the 500yen, the time and effort to visit the temple.
Hanna Fong — Google review
This is a beautiful and peaceful place.
The main hall is build on the side of the slop.
The balcony is supported by huge wooden pillars. (similar to kiyomizudera)
It is less crowded and nice place to take photos and enjoy the view. During Autumn, all the leaves around the main hall will turn red, and it's a wonderful experience to view from the top of the main hall.
Recommended to get the cable car ticket, entrance ticket and the shuttle bus ticket. As there are more walking after Engyoji.
Kam Hoe Chaw (Super Good) — Google review
Autumn and Spring are the best times to visit this stunning temple complex, but honestly, any time is well worth it! The temple was also a filming location for The Last Samurai movie starring Tom Cruise and Ken Watanabe.
Les Lyon — Google review
This place is extremely underrated. The serene beauty, traditional buildings and nature work in harmony to create a peaceful experience. Combined with the very little amount of people around during a weekday it's a must see. You can take a cable cart up the mountain. It takes around 2 hours to tour all the buildings.
Takeda Castle Ruins, a mountaintop fortress with breathtaking vistas, offers an unforgettable journey for those in search of spiritual enlightenment. Although quite a distance from Osaka Station via train, the lush greenery and picturesque views make it well worth the trek. For those who crave physical activity, Takeda Castle Ruins is a great place to run up and be rewarded with stunning scenery at the top. The ideal time to visit is early spring when mist shrouds the entire mountain range.
Simply put: If you want to experience being within or on top of the clouds go to Takeda Castle ruins early morning. If you want to see the clouds envelope the castle go to Ritsuunkyo parking lot.
Joyce Mejia — Google review
Take a bus from Takeda station to the Takeda ruin stop and you have to take a 20mins hike up to the entrance of the ruins where you can purchase your ticket with a machines. Recommended that you bring 1000yen or coins for the bus rides, bigger notes are okay for the ticket but not the bus.
Be prepared to walk alot up and also inside the ruins, to exit the ruins it’s using stairs but they are pretty steep. We came abit too early for the cherry blossom and too late timing for the clouds, so you can plan your trip for it but expected a crowd at those peak periods too.
zhenyan tan — Google review
Stuning view. You can take a bus from a station and then short walk to the castle or start hiking from the back of Takeda station.
I arrived there at 8.10 am after climbing down from Rutsunkyo in the morning and the clound had already fade away, hope I can come back and see the clound from the castle someday.
Don Kitti — Google review
Absolutely fantastic spot that reminds me of Machu Picchu on its ruins layout and perched atop a mountain. The bus from the visitor centre departs with quite a wide gap in timing so do time it well if you are visiting, else walking or taxi is the only option. The bus takes you near, but still an uphill walk for 900m is still required.
As you walk uphill, there's a turn left where the signboard says not to enter from, and that is actually the exit point. Technically if you go through there, then it's free entry? As there is no ticket checks within the ruins itself. However, the ticket price is not at all hefty and I will recommend that we all do our part to preserve this fantastic monument.
At the end of the monument, you can see a sweeping view of the Takeda town below.
Rtexal Tan — Google review
A few days ago, I travelled with my family to visit the "Takeda Castle Ruins" in Asago-shi, Hyōgo-Prefecture-Japan. It's a bit of a drive from Kyoto, about 21/2 hours to be precise. There are a few options available on maps, and we opted for driving most of it through the countryside. Time-wise, it hardly made a difference. About halfway in, we stopped at an udon restaurant for lunch.
Our first stop was high up on NR 163; it's a winding road to the top and easily accessible by car. On the top, there is a spot from where you can see Takeda Castle Ruins. The distance to the castle is just under 3.00 kilometres or 1.8 miles. I used a 70-200 telelens with a 2X extender. The weather was not at its best, with slight rain and dark clouds; still, it was a fun experience. Of course, the prime time to shoot a legendary picture is in late autumn when there is fog in the morning.
There is a second spot that is very popular with photographers. Located on the opposite side of the castle, you'll need to hike up between 10 and 30 minutes. There are three observation spots, with number one the hot place and the highest. Because it was getting dark, I opted for the third observation spot. The shooting distance to the castle is just under 2.00 kilometres or 1.2 miles.
There is a path, but it is steep and rugged. This area is famous for its clusters of cherry trees during the sakura season. I definitely would like to go back in autumn to see the castle in a sea of clouds.
Kyoto Dream Trips — Google review
Takedajō-seki) is a ruined castle in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, that is also known as the "castle floating in the sky" because of the way it appears to be floating on a sea of clouds on foggy autumn mornings.
The castle was originally built in 1411 and was later conquered by Toyotomi Hideyoshi on one of his western campaigns to reunite Japan. The castle's forces fought against the Tokugawa clan during the battle of Sekigahara in 1600, and the castle was abandoned not long after. It then gradually disintegrated over the centuries until the ruins were restored in the 1970s and 80s and the castle opened as a tourist site.
Igor Yefimov — Google review
Took the train from Osaka station, it was quite a long train journey but the views from Takeda castle ruins made me forget about it. A special memory, lots of green and beautiful views of the landscape. Very powerful spot for the spiritually aware.
For the fit like me, you can run up it in 20mins. Great exercise & the beauty at the top will rewarding.
Best time to visit I was told was really early morning spring, when the whole mountain is covered in mist.
Apollonia Sakae — Google review
A few tips that I could‘t find any information on in advance: (1) The bus that runs from the second car park / visitor center is infrequent and if too many people line up, the bus will be full and you can‘t get on. However, there are two taxis available that you can take and it‘s only ¥650 to go further up. You can also easily walk that short distance on the paved road - it‘s not steep. Check my photo for bus times. (2) There are toilets by the visitor centre and the ticket gate by the entrance. (3) The entrance was actually ¥500. (4) It‘s absolutely beautiful to visit during cherry blossom season! (5) I seems that the main way up (when you follow the signposted path to Takeda Castle) is paved, not steep and easy to walk on. There are other hiking trails on the sides from the town that are much more challenging. Walking on the castle grounds has a few steps, but is fairly easy. (6) Even though it‘s a fairly well-known spot, it doesn‘t have an touristy feel about it. This place is absolutely amazing with some of the best views I‘ve had in Japan!
Jitensha Adventure — Google review
There is no way to drive up to the ruins other than either taking a bus and walk 20 mins up or taking a taxi and walk 20 mins up. The place is quite nice with awesome view of the surrounding. Just be prepared to walk up the mountain.
Kinosaki Onsen, situated in northern Hyogo Prefecture along the Sea of Japan, is a charming onsen town renowned as one of the top destinations in the Kansai Region. The streets are lined with willow trees and traditional wooden and tiled buildings. Visitors can stroll around in yukata attire and enjoy unlimited access to various bath houses with a day pass. The outdoor hot springs are beautifully designed, while the indoor ones are standard.
One of the smaller names when you think of onsen town, but if you are staying in Osaka as a tourist I recommend taking a day and night trip to this small town! Very beautiful and serene. The public baths are great and the atmosphere of the town when you just walk through it is amazing.
Sam Park — Google review
駅前にある外湯の瓦屋根にあるオブジェについて質問したところ、どういうわけか、2つの答えが来た。一つは別に意味がないとの答え、もう一つは、よく調べて解凍するので時間が欲しい、との答え。もうあれから3ヶ月。いい加減なところだということはよくわかった。ゆくたびに減点材料が増える温泉。もうゆくことはないだろうね。野々村氏は何が魅力だったのかな?
(Translated by Google)
When I asked about the object on the tiled roof of the public bath in front of the station, I somehow got two answers. One answer is that it doesn't make sense, and the other answer is that it needs more time to unpack after careful research. It's been three months since then. I knew well that it was a sloppy place. A hot spring where demerit points increase every time you go. I will never go again. What attracted you to Mr. Nonomura?
Muneyuki Moriyama — Google review
コロナ禍で無ければ是非オススメしたい場所になります。
町に風情があり歩いてるだけでも楽しいです。夜は景色が綺麗だし、昼は店もやってて食べ歩きもオススメです。
めぐり湯は必ず行ったほうがいいです。泉質はどこも同じになります。
御所の湯、1の湯を周りましたがとても良いです。雰囲気ある温泉を探してみて下さい!
行って損無し!
(Translated by Google)
If it is not a corona misfortune, it will be a place I would definitely recommend.
The town has a nice atmosphere and just walking around is fun. The scenery is beautiful at night, and the shops are open during the day, so we recommend eating while walking.
You should definitely visit Meguriyu. The spring quality will be the same everywhere.
I visited Gosho-no-Yu and No. 1-Yu, but they are very good. Please try to find a hot spring with atmosphere!
Go without loss!
akihisa unou — Google review
Probably the best onsen town I've been to. The streets are very traditional, along with the bath houses. Everything is wooden and tiled. Many people wander the streets in yukata to easily change in and out for the hot springs. Visitors can buy a day pass which gives you unlimited access to any of the bath houses. Towel rental at each bath house costs around 300 yen. The outdoor hot springs are designed very beautifully, while indoor ones are very standard. I would definitely like to come again!
Chris Chan — Google review
川を挟んで両側の道をお店が並び、浴衣を着て歩く観光客が多いです。柳の木と橋がとてもいい雰囲気で、夜もライトアップされ違った感じが楽しめます。狭い道で車も通るし、工事もしていて気をつけて歩く必要があります。雪景色もいいのかなあ。
(Translated by Google)
Shops line the streets on both sides of the river, and many tourists walk in yukata. The willow trees and the bridge create a very nice atmosphere, and you can enjoy a different feeling when they are lit up at night. Cars pass through the narrow roads, and there is construction going on, so you need to walk carefully. I wonder if the snow scenery is good too.
????TT2 — Google review
This is one of the first places in Japan where I got to experience warm hospitality, natural beauty and culture.
A very romantic and peaceful side of the country.
Authentic Onsens are really must-try in the area.
Plus is the Kinosaki International Arts Center were the people are not just talented but are also friendly.
Ibwill surely get back to this place when I have the chance and means. I'm constantlybpraying for that.
Benster Comia — Google review
Beautiful little town. Would have loved to have stayed longer. Nice boutique shops and independent restaurants serving local food. You must try the beef!
Alex Garner - Personal — Google review
This place so peaceful... known have 7 onsen (hot spring) you can relaxing there or just look around too see the views
jian hao — Google review
Beautiful scenery. Especially during winter.
Suitable for winter vacation 🥰
Jason Jusli — Google review
Would not help due to us not being nationals. The only tjing they said to us was "japanese only" several times before we even got to ask a question.
Sigrid Beck — Google review
If your weary and your in search of some rejuvenation this place is the right place to unwind.
thomas gian — Google review
4.1
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78 Kinosakicho Yushima, Toyooka, Hyogo 669-6101, Japan
Amanohashidate Viewland is an amusement park that offers visitors monorail and chairlift access to a seaside summit, where they can enjoy classic theme park rides and stunning views of a sandbar. It is one of two places where tourists can view the famous sandbar via chair lift or funicular. During early June, the park features rhododendron, adding to its picturesque scenery.
It's a great town to be at. We took the lift chair up the slopes and felt the cool autumn breeze upon our faces. The trip up was quick, approx 10mns.
Up on the hills, we could see a panoramic view of the town. There were kiddy rides up there.
One could also walk along the beach side, very soothing and enjoyable.
weichee tan — Google review
It is a really nice place. The view is beautiful and the water clear.
You can enjoy the view of the dragon land bridge from the view land. There is unfortunately not hiking trail but the ride (be careful of operating hour) is not expensive and there is not waiting if you use the chairlift. There is no safety belt so if you have children have them on your lap or take the monorail. There is a tiny amusement park on top, a restaurant. ...
Then you can take a walk on the bridge to get to the otherside by foot or bicycle. Be careful, things close early. You can also relax on the beaches.
Around 5:00, depending of the season, you can hear the bell for the change of fishing type : day vs night.
Did not try it but if you are into cycling, there are cycling courses in that area.
H? D? — Google review
One of the two places to view the famous sandbar by chair lift or funicular. There were rhododendron in early June.
????? — Google review
It's a great scenery on top of the mountain . You can bring your kids and even pets are allowed. Try to visit during non Holiday season to avoid a long line .
jonie monterona — Google review
A great place to view sand bar. U can take chair lift or monorail. An amusement park when u reach up. Plenty of photo taking spots. Remember to turn your body upside down to look at the sand bar! There s a free park up and certain paid games eg sky bicycles, go kart and shooting games. A few hundred yen for one or two rounds. Restaurants available with curry rice and sashimi rice bowl and clams bowl. Not expensive given that spot with air con and views. Overall it s a special place to visit but toll was quite expensive.
Little Rach — Google review
A real joy to be able to take a chair or a monorail and to see the beauty of Amanohashidate from up top. It cost 800 Yen for both ways and if you have children they can enjoy the top amusement park.
Galit Mass — Google review
Also known as Heaven's bridge, this place is definitely worth a visit in Kyoto.
Even though it is between a 1.5-2hrs train journey, I do think the views make it worthwhile. Not too crowded too.
Recommend to take the monorail up, and chairlift down for a scenic view! You can also rent a bike (can be one or two way) from any shops for 500 yen to cycle across the sandbar.
Celestine Kau — Google review
We took the cable car up and the lift chair down. Offered the best views. At the summit there were some amusement rides, mostly for young kids. View was very good up there, but besides that really nothing else. Standing on the bench and looking at the sand bank upside down was over rated.
Mihwa Lee — Google review
Very nice chair lift and very nice view. Have some games you can play too like shooting, go cart, Farris wheel.
It is great to spend some time there
Happy happy — Google review
There is a choice of taking monorail or chairlift. However, the monorail comes every 20 mins or so while the chairlift needed no waiting time. I was abit scared at first as there was no safety belt but realized that the chair is quite close to the ground so it wasn't too bad. Very nice view of Amanohashidate and there are games and rides for kids (and adults). We walked around and entertained ourselves at the shooting gallery and had a an ice cream cone before leaving. Took lots of pictures too! Should be beautiful in spring as I saw the cherry blossoms budding.
HL — Google review
SUPERB view of the sandbar over here! The weather was perfect and there were little theme park rides you could do above as well. Super fun!! Must do the chairlift down btw!!
Lee Wen Qi — Google review
Worth the drive from Osaka. You can experience chairlift going up to the viewland and get nice view from the top.
Wei Chong — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyable attraction. Park at the bottom of the slope when you arrive. Parking fee is 700 yen. Buy your tickets at the booth here - 850 yen per adult.
Only the chairlift was working today. Single seater conveyor belt ski lift gets you to the top in 5min.
At the top, marvel at the views and enjoy the attractions and cafes. The must do view is looking backwards between your legs at the scenery of the bay. You get carnival style games here too, a "cycle park" which is a 2 seater bicycle 🚲 on a fixed rail route or bumper car ride.
Good to put aside 2 hours for this visit.
liu yijie — Google review
Spent more than half a day here as my kid enjoyed the attractions even though it's few and simple. Adults enjoy the view, of course. Chairlift is an awesome experience as well. Take this both ways.
Argel Cruz — Google review
We visited the site through a tourist group picking us up from Kyoto Station. So, there was no waiting for anything. 850 yen per person to ride on the chair lift.
It was snowing when we were there today. We couldn’t see any view from the top, but the snowing is just a different experience. Still beautiful 😻
Recommended. We’ll come again the next time we visit Kyoto so we can have a view when it’s sunny.
Nadihan Mohamed — Google review
Must visit place. 680¥ for a round trip, you can choose a 15-minute frequency cable car or lift that runs all the time with no lines. Fantastic view from the top.
Traveler — Google review
We ride on a chairlift up to the top of Mt. Monju. The view of Amanohashidate here is so spectacular. There is also amusement park and restaurant up there. Our family has a very good time here.
Amrn H — Google review
You can get absolutely wonderful pictures of amanohashidate from view land. The ticket price for roundtrip is 850yen but if you have a jr pass you can get a ticket for 700yen. I took the chairlift down and up because the car was crowded on weekends.
All the attractions at the top cost about 300yen per person except the view walkway which is free but short.
Worth it for the views.
Amanohashidate is a sandy stretch spanning 3.6km, famous for its stunning coastline, exquisite beaches and countless pine trees. It's one of Japan's top sights and was studied in Japanese class. However, it's not easily accessible as you need to take a Highway Bus from Kyoto Station which takes around 2 hours to reach there. You can reach the top either by foot or cable car.
It is one of Japan's three scenic views. The sandbar is located in Miyazu Bay in northern Kyoto Prefecture.
Viewed from the mountains at either end of the bay, the Amanohashidate Sandbar (which roughly translates to "bridge in heaven") looks like a pathway between heaven and earth.
Vince Tan — Google review
Cute little town. Definitely worth a day trip. It’s really only a day trip. There isn’t much to do other than the beautiful views and waterfront. No restaurants were open before 10am and are closed after 3 until dinner. They are building and adding so it should only get better!
Julie Valdez — Google review
Studied in our Japanese class also known as 日本三景 it means Japan's top 3best scenes.
During the stay at kyoto , we planned to visit Amano Hasidate.
However access to is very difficult.
You have to travel through Highway Bus from Kyoto station and takes about 2hours to reach there.
You can go to the top either by feet or you can take a cable car also.
As we travel in rainy season, our expectation was very high but in reality was not a good experience.
May be in summer or autumn would be perfect time to travel.
Rainy season is not recommended.
Santosh Shrestha — Google review
Very peaceful and relaxing day at Amanohashidate. Make sure to checkout the amusement park at Amanohashidate as well renting a bike to go through the landscape. The ocean breeze and air are refreshing. Great seafood around the train station as well as relaxing atmopshere overall.
David Tsui — Google review
I marked this on my map five years ago and finally got the chance to visit. We rented bikes from the hotel (¥550/day) and rode across the “bridge to heaven”. It’s a beautiful area and the weather was perfect. Light breeze coming from the west. The water on the west side is a lake and the water on the right is a bay (ocean). It was surprisingly warm. This was definitely worth the 2 hour plus train ride from Osaka, but really wish we had stayed more than one night.
Timo Scott — Google review
A 'must-visit' location in Japan!
It's one of the 3 great views in the country, and it's easy to see why! I definitely recommend taking the chairlift up to the view point, visiting the temple, and walking along the sand bar.
It would be easy to spend at least half a day here exploring. Best experienced in good weather, and even more beautiful in cherry blossom season! 🌸 🌊
Sasha — Google review
This is a small strip of land with one side ocean and another side sea. There are a lot of people sitting on the ocean side with cleaner water and beach sand. There is parking nearby, and you can also rent bicycles to ride along the way and come back using the motorboats. You can camp alongside the beach. It takes almost 1 to 2 hours to complete the strip in a leisure walk. There are shops just before entry, but they usually close by 5 pm.
Krishna K — Google review
Came on a day where the weather was superb. The water was very clear and it's a perfect place for picnic and cycling. Enjoyed seeing the revolving bridge too!
HL — Google review
It is one of “The three scenic views of Japan”. I walked a 6 km round trip on the sand bar yesterday. Unique experience.
Charles Zhu — Google review
Simply unique & amazing place to visit! Not crowded probably further away from the usual tourist spots in Japan! Worth the time & experience!
thuanteng wan — Google review
Translated as bridge of heaven (?)
Very unique place to find beach(es) planted with pine tree. You can rent a bike here to cross the island for about 40 minutes or just walk around enjoying the nature and also the sound of eagle. Other entertainment also provided such as ferry and theme park.
Rifqi Riyanto — Google review
I’m so glad I prolonged my stay in Kyoto so that I could make a day trip to Amanohashidate! The view from the top is stunning and a walk through the park is great too! Plus you can cool off and take a dip in the sea! I went during the week so it wasn’t crowded at all.
Michaela Bednarova — Google review
The walk from one end of the land bridge to the other, at a leisure pace, is about an hour.
The path is shared by other walkers and bicyclists. There are surprisingly very few birds, no squirrels 🐿️ or any other wildlife. Perhaps in late Spring or early Summer, there may be mosquitoes and other insects.
Surrounded by water on both sides, with the sounds of the lapping sea, the few birds in the area and the sound of the boats crossing the channel, the walk is relaxing and rejuvenating.
It’s a wonderful space.
Winnie ThePooh — Google review
Went on March 2024 and the cold and clear weather was perfect for viewing very far distance.
Not many tourists and the ride up/down were easy without Q and the area was not crowded for appreciating the uniquety to fully enjoy the nature.
Khoo HT — Google review
This is truly a scenic place. You will never be disappointed that you went here. And it is also a kind of place where you want to come back. There are a lot of activities that you can do while you’re here. A place where families, friends, and loved ones will definitely enjoy..
Looking forward to go to the the other 2 scenic places of Japan. 😊
Kuya RJ — Google review
A very nice place, must visit if your trip allow. Travel 3hrs from Osaka by train or can opt for Klook one day tour which cover Ine attraction as well.
Take the chair lift up to he mountain can view the entire dragon view👍🏻 Really amazing.
SY Chia — Google review
The view from the top hill of Amanohashidate is very beautiful. You can come here to take pictures. There is a ropeway lift to go up there. There is one chair ropeway also. Do not let younger kids sit on chair ropeway as it doesn't have seat belt. There are some rides and attractions for kids at the top of the hill.
Abhishek — Google review
February was grey and chilly but there were very few tourists. You can walk the 2.5 km each way and take the gondolas on both sides for spectacular views. Wonderful, fresh seafood in Miyazu!
Scott Rossiter — Google review
A delightful journey up North from Kyoto through picturesque landscape. The "Bridge to Heaven," lived up to its name with its stunning sandbar that stretches across Miyazu Bay. The tour provide ample time to stroll along the Amanohashidate View Land and take in the panoramic views from the Kasamatsu Park viewpoint.
The highlight of the tour was the visit to Ine Funaya, a charming fishing village famous for its traditional boathouses called "funaya." These unique structures built over the water were not only visually captivating but also offered a glimpse into the lives of the local fishermen. The boat tour through Ine Bay allowed us to appreciate the beauty of the funaya from a different perspective, but almost everyone was busy feeding the birds. Seamless and enjoyable experience, convenient transportation to each destination. Amanohashidate is worth a day or two in future to explore further.
Johnny Neo — Google review
One of my favorite places in Japan. The nature and view are incredible. The one downside is the lack of options for food and stay. There weren't many restaurant or cafes open at either of the times I was there and most hotels were kind of far. On one hand it makes it less touristy, which is good, but makes it a bit more inconvenient.
Mariana Soziopoulos Steiner Nakajima — Google review
Amanohashidate means "bridge in heaven" and this is one of the most celebrated views in Japan. The sandbar is covered with pine trees and it will take you ~45 minutes one-way to explore one end to the other end.
There are two options where to see the sandbar from bird's eye view -- either Amanohashidate View Land or Kasamatsu Park.
Anne Fernando — Google review
Nice peaceful little town to stay for a hop to Ine. But be warned, come nite a lot of shops are closed. No family mart or 7-11 within walking distance to train st. Only one store that is not 24hrs.
Arashiyama is a serene district located at the foot of the Arashiyama Mountains on the western edge of Kyoto. It offers a peaceful escape from the city center, surrounded by nature and featuring attractions such as the ethereal Bamboo Grove and the opportunity to feed wild Japanese macaques at Iwatayama Monkey Park.
1 of the top 5 highlights in Kyoto, and beautiful year round, this bamboo forest is easily one of the best sights in all of Japan.
The Arashiyama area is surrounded by Buddhist and Shinto shrines as well as wonderful traditional Japanese neighborhoods with shops and vendors to sell foods and souvenirs.
TIP: Take the JR line from Kyoto Station, and be prepared to spend a whole day in the beautiful outskirts of Kyoto.
WINTER RECOMMENDATION: If you are in Japan in December, make a visit to this location.
10-19 December (from 1700-2030 hrs) the lantern festival illuminates this forest into a magical/otherworldly environment to feast your eyes (and Instagram 😅) upon.
You might also get to witness snowfall coat the bamboo forest in yet more beauty.
Paul Simonik — Google review
A must visit if you are touring Kyoto. Easy access by rail or bus. Beautiful scenery starts at the river before you get to the Main Street. Lots of Temples and trails nearby. Too much food to comprehend.
R.W. Sinclair — Google review
Very scenic and serene! I recommend going early to around sunset. It does get busy, by 7:00am, there were a fair amount of visitors taking photos. There’s a lot more to see besides the bamboo forest!
Andy L — Google review
Crowds are crazy silly at the moment but who wouldn't go to get a big green hug from this Giant Bamboo Forest! Truly spectacular!
The temple is worth a visit to get away from the crowd and to see the picture-perfect Zen garden everywhere around it. The temple is a wonderful example of traditional ancient house construction so it's worth the extra time.
Go, you won't be disappointed in the area.
T P — Google review
This is a top place to visit. So much exciting things to do here. The bamboo forest is a main attraction. It will take around 30 mins to walk through the bamboo forest. And then there is a temple too. The boat ride along the river is highly recommend. For a 3 person boat, it cost 1500 Jpy per hour. If you are hiring a big boat, it wil cost around 5000. The vibe here is very exciting
Chamal Perera — Google review
Nature lovers, history fans, and wanderers go to Arashiyama, a peaceful area on Kyoto's western edge. This charming region, surrounded by beautiful woods and the tranquil Hozu River, provides a break from city life. I just visited Arashiyama, which changed my spirit.
You first see the Togetsukyo Bridge across the Hozu River as you arrive at Arashiyama. This medieval bridge is stunning during cherry blossom season, with pink flowers against the green bamboo gardens and mountains. A leisurely walk over this bridge is like entering a picture.
Arashiyama's bamboo groves are famous, therefore visit the bamboo forest. Bamboo stems form a cathedral, and their rustling leaves make a peaceful melody. This spot inspires reflection and great photos. The atmosphere of the Sagano Bamboo Forest will amaze you.
History buffs should visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The well-kept Zen gardens and peaceful ponds of this temple evoke tranquility. Walking around the temple grounds and seeing the Dragon Pond Garden will take you back in time.
You may also take a traditional rickshaw ride through Arashiyama's charming lanes and bamboo gardens with pleasant and knowledgable pullers. It's a fun way to explore this district's history and charm.
The Arashiyama or Iwatayama Monkey Park delights animal enthusiasts. Enjoy hilltop views of Kyoto and mingle with Japanese macaques in a semi-wild habitat. This wonderful experience connects you to nature.
Finally, take a leisurely Hozu River boat trip. Arashiyama's beauty is shown differently by the tranquil waterways, abundant flora, and sheer cliffs. Seasonal vistas await you as you float down the river.
Finally, Arashiyama's charm encapsulates Kyoto's natural beauty and historical importance. You may relax in bamboo woods, admire Japanese gardens, and connect with nature. The dreamlike experience of Arashiyama will stay with you long after you leave. Arashiyama is a lovely place for nature lovers, cultural lovers, and those seeking a calm escape
Manpreet Singh — Google review
The vibe here in red leaves 🍁 autumn was phenomenal. Breathe taking. I would recommended November. Nice view&weather. River walk and the activities about the river was a must. From the classic romantic train 🚂 go up and boat 🛶 down the stream. Wow 🤩 Unforgettable.
ペミーんPre — Google review
Wonderful place to visit. We were able to go as part of a tour group and we walked through the shops, the kimono forest and the bamboo forest. Honestly the walk along the River front might have been my favorite part. It can be crowded but with patience it’s manageable.
E. H. — Google review
***Color Correction Photos***
I love very close to the mountain in Taiwan where there are lots of bamboos and this place doesn’t seem so special. I think lots of people are using color correction and other settings to make their photos look more bright green. In reality, it is more of an ashy green color.
We liked walking around in the early morning but we were one of the first to arrive in the morning train. By the time we looped the area the main area was packed with people and not so enjoyable.
Yu-Ting — Google review
Beautiful landscape! Nice weather and river flow. Don't missed it when you are Kyoto
Circle W102 — Google review
🌳📿🆓 Great visit if you are in Kyoto and want to see several of the most iconic spots in Japan. It features the bridge, the bamboo grove and the bamboo kimono forest, which are all photo worthy but beware, crowds populate the streets like hords of zombies in walking dead.
✅ Great place at the outskirts of Kyoto. Residential place where you can find some peace and quiet if you go off the beaten path
🌳 Beautiful scenery to give your eyes a treat
🆓💴 Aforementioned attractions are for FREE
⚠️ If you really want to enjoy I strongly recommend going early, your bamboo grove pic memento will be way more amazing
Damien Shost — Google review
Thought this is a must go place if you’re here in Kyoto! There are a couple of places within this area that you should visit - Bamboo forest, Canoe at a lake, horse rice and rice field.
Recommend to take the red railway train till the end (approximate 20mins) where you’ll arrive at the horse riding place. (Typically people stop at the second stop to go to the bamboo place).
From the horse riding place, you can get a boat back down to the bamboo place and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Lastly, do drop by the lake and canoe at a lake downstream.
Foodie and Travel — Google review
Too crowded!
The bamboo line is beautiful but it’s not worth a visit inside so we decided to take tourist photo here only & move to the other temple to have the authentic “zen” feels.
Quynh Chau Pham — Google review
This bamboo forest is extremely popular with tourists. I arrived there at 3 pm, which is nearing sunset time and there are still plenty of tourists who trying to get inside the forest. It's already starting to get dark once we're inside, but because it's crowded, we're not spending too much time inside. Rather we moved to the garden behind the forest which leads to the river. We genuinely enjoy this part way better than the forest as it has more space and not as cramped as the forest. We ended up strolling towards the river and enjoy ourself there. For a first timer, it might worth to visit this place out of curiosity, but I don't think it will worth the second time especially with that amount of tourist. I will suggest visiting this place in an off season, because I can imagine the crowd on its peak season and it might not be for everyone.
Rakhma Leana — Google review
This place is enchantingly beautiful. Seeing the greenery, the autumn leaves, and the water filled my heart with joy. Highly recommended for anyone who visits Kyoto. It is not that far from the city area and it is totally worth it.
Tee Ponsukcharoen — Google review
We got up early to head out to Arashiyama to hopefully avoid crowd buildup (that was unsuccessful as we got a bit lost going there). Partially we were in awe at the site seeing just walking to there (we felt the views walking to the bamboo forest was better than being in the bamboo forest itself!). We definitely recommend coming here when visiting Kyoto. Just the area surrounding the bamboo forest is beautiful.
Overall Kel rating: ★★★★★/5
The good: Views views views
The decent: Bring good walking/running shoes
The ugly: Can get super crowded quickly.
Kelvin Leung — Google review
Cherry blossom trees as of 27 March 2024. Not a tree blooming or some with very very small buds.
Most restaurant or eateries open ard 11am… so if u go there early, remember to bring along drinks and food . Area getting crowded past 9am compare to before pandemic, where the area still not so crowded before 10am
Alex C — Google review
Went on a Saturday, loads of ppl. Arrived around 11am. It’s quite a long walk from the train station to the entrance of the bamboo forest. You can most probably follow the crowd, but just in case use your google maps. There will be many ppl along the path, so photo opportunities will be difficult. There is a quiet cul de sac of bamboo trees further in, if you can find it. We chanced upon it (we were a bit lost!😅) and found this treasure, because there was hardly anyone there! So we had great photos taken here. Once you pass the main pathway, the crowd sorts of disperses to many different walkways. The romantic sagano train is also here, but we couldn’t take it during winter as it was closed. Other little temples (some required an entrance fee) around the area as well.
Later on we went around Arashiyama town. The Main Street was bustling with loads of shops, eateries, souvenirs etc… there is a main bridge with a nice river running where you can hire boats. We rented bicycles and cycled all over the town and along the river banks. Could easily spend a day trip here.
Cyn Dee Too — Google review
Arashiyama is worth visiting if you are in Kyoto!
The Bamboo Grove 嵐山竹林 あらしやま is one of top sights and standing amid these soaring stalks of bamboo is like being in another world.
There are many buses that go to Arashiyama.
Must try this Yuba & Cheese stick is so yummy.
Avelynn — Google review
The natural scenery in autumn is extremely wonderful. Although quite crowded on weekends, this is one of the most beautiful places to see red and yellow leaves in Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a serene and historic temple located in Kyoto. Originally constructed as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the 14th century, it has since been transformed into a Zen Buddhist temple. The top two floors of the pavilion are adorned with gold leaf, symbolizing purification and freedom from negativity associated with death.
The grounds here are breath taking! There will always be tons of people here, especially school field trips, but everybody is generous. You can still get some awesome pictures of the place. The shrines, zen gardens, and history is spectacular. This is a must see stop if you are in Kyoto!
Wade Brinton — Google review
Well, what can you say that hasn’t already been said about this iconic Japanese landmark? Everyone has to tick it off the Japan ‘to do; ‘ list. Personally, I think it is overrated in terms of both historical significance and the beauty of its surroundings. There are far better gardens to be seen in Japan. It is however striking, and to be seen at least once. The gold has both spiritual meaning (purity) but was probably also a product of the ego of its previous owners. A somewhat ostentatious status symbol, if you like. As with many temples, it has been burnt down and rebuilt a few times, which explains its ‘current newish’ look. The Phoenix atop the roof is believed to be original, and is a symbol of divine favour, virtue, and harmony. Within the complex bit of fun can be had watching people attempting to throw coins into a well hole placed at a distance from the throwing spot. Give it a go – it might bring you luck! Don’t miss the 600 year old pine planted by a previous shogun (ancient ruler of Japan). It is shaped as a boat and is a metaphor for passage to the Pure Land following death. On a cheerier note, I include in the pictures some of the admonishing posters you see around Kyoto giving guidance on appropriate behaviour…
Robert T — Google review
One of the most famous spots in Kyoto, temple of the Golden pavilion. Actually, it’s a Buddhist temple which is covered with golden leaf giving an iconic mirror view. Usually, the area is crowded and I recommend you to go there early morning. You can enjoy a relaxing walk through the wayside. The entrance fee is 400 yen.For road direction, both English and Japanese language are indicated. Highly recommended this place for people who like traditional and historical view.
Rohatash Chaudhary — Google review
A lovely temple indeed. The ground were beautiful and serene despite being right in the city. This temple has a unique history and I enjoyed seeing it.
There's a touristy feel about it though. Many shops along the way to get a piece of your pocket. Kind of steals from the spiritual aspect.
Kathi Davidson — Google review
Great place that require little time to be done. Can be a bit complex to get there but if you organise your trip well it is a good place for photos and just enjoy been "away" from the center and still be in Kyoto.
Do not come with pushchairs or if you have difficulty to walk. It is not long but you need to use stairs and climb a bit. A pleasant spiritual place with a tourist twist.
SHYLIE ROCKNROLL — Google review
Amazing Buddhist temple that is truly unbelievable. The views of the temple from the well maintained gardens is well worth the ¥600 (I think, it could be ¥500) admission fee. This is one of those places you can't miss if you are visiting Kyoto! My pictures do not do this place justice this is something you have to see for yourself.
James Remley — Google review
Visiting this temple was the highlight of our trip to Japan so not to be missed.
The temple opens at 9:00 AM and there was already a long line when we arrived at 8:50 AM. Fortunately, the line was processed quickly once the ticket booth opened (admission is 500 yen per person).
The temple is located on an island so we cannot get close but we can still manage to get good photos from a distance by following the path circling it. We just have to be patient and wait our turn as the place is packed with tourists.
Other than the temple there is not much to visit. We went through the garden quickly since there are more beautiful gardens to explore in other temples.
Overall the visit should take less than one hour.
JP Bouchard — Google review
One of the most famous spots in Kyoto, temple of the Golden pavilion. Actually, it’s a Buddhist temple which is covered with golden leaf giving an iconic mirror view. Usually, the area is crowded and I recommend you to go there early morning. You can enjoy a relaxing walk through the wayside. The entrance fee is 400 yen.For road direction, both English and Japanese language are indicated. Highly recommended this place for people who like traditional and historical view.
Arifa Jannat — Google review
A beautiful and picturesque temple in shining gold. The whole tour is about 45min if you walk slowly and take some pictures.
It is definitely worth a trip if you are in Kyoto and have some time to visit the temples. I'd love to to be able to sit and have more opportunity to enjoy the park and temple a bit more. It feels a little 'rushed' with the only way leading around the temple up the hill to some gift shops and a shrine and then back out.
F. ?Pastito? Fux — Google review
A must see if you are in the area. It is one of the iconic temples of Kyoto for a reason.
The gold layers on the structure gives it a powerful aura. Make sure to read the pamphlet to learn a bit more about this place!
The gardens are not that special in my opinion, but they definitely still enjoyable to walk along.
F?lix Potvin (???) — Google review
This is definitely one of the most iconic place to visit if you go fist time in Kyoto region. Beautiful architecture and color you can just shoot picture from far away as it is sitting on a swamp area with no tourist access. You will need to walk a bit to get there so it is quite hot during summer. There is a spot where you can drop coins for luck and ring the bell used originally to summon people for prayer time
Cyril BECKER — Google review
It's a beautiful temple, the gold is very exceptional and you won't see this anywhere else. However it is a small place to visit (you will be in and out within 20-30 minutes if you take it slow), it is only 500Yen so pretty doable. Very busy during the day though.
Lars van Dorst — Google review
I only rate it so low because if you have limited time in Kyoto, I'd rank this last. Its honestly nothing great, just the temple in the middle, and you take a walk around and see rock formations. If you're a massive history buff and this was on your list for a while, sure, but again, with limited time on hands, I'd rank this last. The buses to get here are not as frequent, so you will definitely be waiting a while and with other tourists, cause google suggests we all take the 205 or 204 so be prepared to be packed into a bus both ways. It's a 1000¥ to enter but the park its situated in is a nice little walk
Shan F — Google review
Temple is open from 9am to 5pm so I reached about 325pm. Paid admission fee of 600 yen for adult and 300 yen for children (6 to 15 years old) to enter the temple. Gets quite crowded and alot of people will stand near the fence to take photos. Most people are considerate enough to take photos quickly. Quite a small place and can cover it in about 45mins. The golden building looks really nice with the red autumn leaves.
K Jacelyn — Google review
A beautiful temple with picturesque surrounding gardens. It will be very busy upon opening, but with patience, everybody is guaranteed a nice photograph of the scenery. After traversing the circuit, there are tasty food stalls which sell cheap snacks. Highly recommend!
Lachie S. — Google review
I think this temple is the most beautiful temple we came across but you have to be there at the right time. The right time is when the sun just rises and the rays illuminate its golden wall. It was just beautiful. There must be lots of gold leaf used to cover it. Pictures don't do the justice. You just have to be there to witness it. We were here during winter. I think it may be more beautiful during the autumn season.
Agung Challis — Google review
Nothing special. This temple was re-built completely in the 1950s, so it is basically very "modern". You cannot get in the temple and have to look at it from like 20-30 meters away. It is very crowded there and sometimes I feel even difficult to breathe. For Westeners who want to get a glimpse of how Asia look like, that may be fine, but for Easterners who have some exposure with Oriental culture and Buddhism before, this temple is nothing special.
Quang Hải Trương — Google review
Visited 2yrs ago before the pandemic.
You have buy a ticket of 400yen to enter.
The ticket price is not worth to be have 400yen.
Due to its beauty,historical image, price should be high.
The iconic golden temple of Japan is also one of the oldest temple.
The golden color is very fascinating.
Always crowded so its very difficult to get a good picture.
Located in a very peaceful environment.
One of the masterpiece of Japan's Historical Culture.
Highly Recommended.
Santosh Shrestha — Google review
Beautiful grounds and the Golden Temple is immaculately well kept. After walking around for bit I enjoyed a hot macha before completing my walk around the grounds. Get there early if you want to avoid the crowds...I, sadly, did not. None the less, it is more than worth enjoying the sights of this historic area.
Neptune Spear — Google review
I expected the Golden Pavilion to be just a little sparkly, but it wasn't at all. It was absolutely shiny and sparkling!
It was so amazing to see. I'm truly impressed by the people from the past who created such a magnificent structure. I highly recommend everyone to check it out.
Entrance fees : 500 ¥ , cash only.
Louis L. — Google review
ほんとに綺麗でした!金閣寺も立派で素晴らしかったです。もし、行ってみたい方は是非、十分な時間をとって行くことをおすすめします。金閣だけでなく、ほかの神社や地蔵なども鹿苑寺の中に一緒になって入っているので、1時間、少なくとも45分はかかると思います。しかし、ほんとに行ってみて時間がかかっても後悔しないので、是非、京都に来た方は行ってみてください!
(Translated by Google)
It was really beautiful! Kinkaku-ji was also splendid and splendid. If you want to go, we recommend that you take enough time to go. In addition to Kinkakuji, there are other shrines and Jizo statues in Rokuonji, so I think it will take an hour, or at least 45 minutes. However, you won't regret it even if it takes a long time to actually go there, so if you come to Kyoto, please go there!
中野義玄 — Google review
A very beautiful pavilion wrapped in gold leaf. Somehow to me it felt like the lavishness and ornate decorations of the temple were our of sync with the teachings of letting go of material things. Unfortunately it was extremely crowded and full of noisy people, which detracted from the peacefulness of the experience. Despite the crowds, the building is still undeniably beautiful.
James Henderson — Google review
A very beautiful area with an exquisite gold covered temple. I'm not sure if there is another one like this in Japan. There are really a lot of visitors, but you don't have to wait in lines. At the exit from the temple, there are places where you can buy icecream with gold also sake with gold and other interesting things.
Liudas Vitartas — Google review
Absolutely stunning and a definite must see. However, as with most other main attractions, absolutely avoid going on weekends or holidays if at all possible. Also try to beat the crowd by being early.
The view is stunning, but your experience will heavily depend on how crowded it is.
I went when it wasn't really crowded and it was spectacular
Daniel Boos — Google review
One of the must visit temples in Kyoto. Its main attraction is its golden walls which is very eye catching especially when the sun shines on it. Dazzling. Its comparatively small compared to some large size temples but size doesn’t matter. However it is closed and no entry allowed inside. So everyone crowds around nice photo taking spots. Its crowded even on a Friday morning. Not surprising as there is a huge tour bus parking lot beside it. And there is also a long row of vending machines too to cater for whatever you wish for. It would be a nice relaxing spot if there is less crowd but wishful thinking.
ken ngai-foong — Google review
This temple is well worth the visit. There are many temples and shrines around Kyoto and this one is harder to travel to, but it is well worth it. The setting, architecture, and gardens are stunning. There are taxi stands just outside the gate, and that is the easiest way to reach this one. Come early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. Take your time enjoying the beautiful scene.
Richard Torbett — Google review
We came here while it was pouring rain. But the temple was still very beautiful to look at. It cost 600 yen to get in per person. There are lots of great options of charms to get here as a souvenir for friends and family! What was interesting that we haven’t seen from other places is that there were a blue and pink charms for good health for your pets!
Addison Chen — Google review
Thé view is really beautiful. A must visit. You can see the famous model for literature work by Japanese writer and feel the beauty of golden pavilion. It is incredible. You need to be aware of the weather. Good weather is a must. The golden wall will shine over the lake.
Christina Liu — Google review
Kinkaku-Ji Temple is one of popular Temple in Kyoto Japan. This ancient temple is surrounded By lush JAPANESE style Garden makes the ambience more quiet and peaceful. It is easy to reach the Temple By bus no 205 from Kyoto station cost 230 Yen. The Temple is open from 8 am to 6 pm and the ticket entrance is 500 yen. By visiting this Temple you Will Learn about JAPANESE culture more. Once you in Kyoto you should visit this Temple. Highly recommended 👍👍👍
The BALI Journey — Google review
This is a beautiful temple complex that features the golden temple in the middle of a lake. The surrounding complex is dotted with numerous buildings and gardens. Overall, this is a must visit while we n Kyoto.
Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in 1603 and served as the residence of shogun Ieyasu. It played a crucial role in protecting the Imperial Palace and the Shoguns' residence in Kyoto. The castle is famous for being the place where the Edo period ended when power was returned to the Imperial court.
Amazing history and restorations! I love all of the painted murals and sliding doors. The garden is also beautiful and everything as well organized there is a lot of information in both English and Japanese, and I recommend trying the audio guide. Stop by the Café and gift shop at the end for some nice rest and refreshment. Be sure to explore the extensive gardens area is even more beautiful during Cherry Blossom time. Sadly you are not allowed to take pictures inside the building but there are some nice postcards you can purchase afterwards to remember some of the beautiful architecture.
Lauren Shannon — Google review
I enjoyed the tour of the shogunate place. I was amaze of the structure, stepping into a 400 year old place where once a shogun live his life. The castle is so amazing, the garden is so huge, the whole area is vast!
I will go back here to spend my day. You can read the details of each room in the castle. To know what is it use for by the shogun and the lords.
Dexter — Google review
As an American architect in a country with virtually no specifically unique style or American school other than that of perhaps the prairie style, and perhaps art deco, it's refreshing to see the Asian styles and understand their origins. What strikes me the most about the interior spaces is their simple use of post and beam where the art is not only the infill coffers, door panels, but the wood joinery being covered with a gold decorative cover. The Japanese seem to respect the structural function but embellish the connections. Their use of rhythm and repetition in the vertical wainscot door panels and rectangular joinery of vertical and horizontal pieces used almost everywhere you look.
The allusion of bringing the outdoors inside is a primary reason many cultures consider art as mimicking life. They do this here incredibly well and even consider the 4 season in that representation. Much like the ancient Egyptians compartmentalizing of things from very small to very large, the politics of the time is framed here in wood with sliding panels allowing movement between the first and second etc rooms. All of these boundaries create the physical manifestation that defines classes and their access to the shogunate regimes. This is done very well and much more simply than the complicated European versions, and with a reverence to nature. A definite must see. Unfortunately you can't take pictures inside. So you must see for yourself.
Peter Lagomarsino — Google review
Nijojo castle was a last minute gem. Just looked at places to visit in Kyoto and this place show, not expecting anything I was blast away not only by the size bit as well by the beauty and the historical side of the site. The visit of the whole place was just rich and amazing at the same time. Try to come early if in the summer because very hot (bring water and good walking shoes).
Great site as well for people with some mobility restrictions, friendly and accommodating staff.
It was really a gem.
SHYLIE ROCKNROLL — Google review
We got here shortly before it closed so it wasn’t crowded which was nice. It was so beautifully lite. The flower exhibit was so cool to see. At different places there was short videos of flowers with nice music.
Liz W — Google review
This is a fascinating place to learn the history of the Edo period. Some of the most historic events of the Edo period occurred at this castle. The castle has been restored. The gardens are beautiful. Plan to spend some time wandering the grounds and admiring the architecture and beauty.
Richard Torbett — Google review
We happened to visit during Cherry Blossom bloom week, and there was a night time festival dedicated to Cherry Blossoms -- though they hadn't quite blossomed yet. Nonetheless, the night event was a pleasant experience, with projected light shows along certain areas. It would have been stunning had the Cherry Blossoms been in bloom, but oh well. All of night event took place outside the main castle. See the attached videos and photos.
Kien Lam — Google review
You have to pay about 1800yen.
The area is huge and the castle is beautiful as well.
Visited about 3yrs ago during the illumination, the art of lights was very beautiful.
The access to it is very simple, the local transportation is easy to access.
Santosh Shrestha — Google review
The beautiful display of the naked flowers show for the cherry blossom season was something to be seen. No words can describe the vast trees within the castle grounds. I also had the sake tasting within the small cafe inside the castle which was delicious and some of the best sake I have ever had.
Paul Murphy — Google review
Although the keep section of the castle burned down long ago and was never rebuilt, the structures that remain are still quite impressive. The walls and moat are well maintained, and there are various gates, gardens, and storehouses around the complex which are worth seeing.
The ticket here is pretty pricey compared to some of the other tourist locations in Kyoto, but it's worth it in my opinion. Centrally located in Kyoto so it is easy to get to by public transportation, it is worth visiting if you aren't pressed for time
Gunnar Caya — Google review
The least enjoyable moment to visit this place is on a sunny summer day between 11 AM and 4 PM. Most of the itinerary is outdoors and the gardens are nowhere as picturesque in the summer heat as they probably are in spring and the autumn (maybe winter as well?).
On top of that, there is a good number of visitors around the aforementioned time window, and that inevitably impacts the atmosphere.
Another suggestion: no need to visit the additional gallery for ¥100, there is little to see and what is actually there feels like a repetition of what you already saw inside the main building.
Éamon M — Google review
Splendid views from the castle. One of the favourite destinations for the locals and foreigners, famous for its rich history and structures. Worth the value paid for. The area is very calm and you can enjoy the walk through the garden and castle.
Ing Kien Wong — Google review
Nijo castle was interesting. The interior you aren’t allowed to photograph (standard)
But you won’t forget in a hurry. The gardens are beautiful also . If your into Japanese history then this is worth a look
Kojin_Wolf — Google review
The castle where there is no Keep to climb but has surviving palaces. One of the gates is so beautiful. The inside of the palace is very beautiful as well. Plan for a trip of between 2 to 3 hrs at least else you may miss places or would have walk in a rush.
Saurabh — Google review
A wonderful and tranquil place to spend a morning when in Kyoto.
The rooms were available to view and the wall coverings were exquisite.
Plenty of staff to guide you around.
Food and drink reasonably priced.
Walk from Kyoto station is manageable but a subway stop is just on the edge of the park
Definitely worth the visit
Gary Jelks — Google review
The castle itself is under repair so it was completely off limits and covered by tarps. There were other areas and buildings that were still accessible and walking the grounds was lovely! We had a snack in the tea house that was absolutely delicious!
Brandy Roberts — Google review
I went to Nijo castle on a Saturday afternoon. It’s one of the top attractions in Kyoto and it was worth visiting. Very clean area, nice architecture. One can learn about the history. I liked the most about this place is the park, it was very well maintained. A place where one can sit and relax. The day I visited this castle, it was not crowded at all.
Sunny Ghosh — Google review
The castle grounds are massive—much more than you might anticipate once you step inside than how it looks from the outside. While it’s very simple looking once inside, there are intricacies in the details that await the observant visitor. This is a must visit while in Kyoto for a dose of history and beauty.
Jonathan Cottrell — Google review
Beautiful castle and very interesting story.
It says on Google that the closing time is 17, but if you want to visit the main hall, you have to be there before 16. I recommend getting inside the main hall and walking on the nightingale floor planks.
Frederik Falk — Google review
Pretty and serene castle. Probably nicer in Spring and Autumn than in Winter when some of the greenery isn't quite so green. But if you're in Kyoto with a couple of hours to burn, definitely worth the time.
Adrian Heng — Google review
The area is huge.
Inside the palace you have to remove the shoes, but in Feb is so cold and your feet gets frozen.
The park is big and so well maintained.
All the staff are so polite and helpful.
Beta Braka — Google review
Loved it. But be aware that taking pictures inside the building is not permitted and you will need to take off your shoes. All rooms are painted in beautiful shiny gold with each room being dedicated to a different scene of nature. Some feature puppets as to show what daily life might have looked like. The gardens are gorgeous too. I am glad I went. The plum tree grove was in bloom and the sweet fragrance of citrus and pear filled the air around them.
Edía Paff — Google review
Good place for taking pictures with sakura. It's very big inside. The castle is maintained well. I think it's worthy to buy ticket to see inside if you wanna discover the Japanese history. They have coffee shop and ice cream inside also. However, since there are so many tourists there, the toilet is definitely stinky 🤢 First time in Japan I saw that stinky toilet.
Linne — Google review
The best thing is the garden and the aqueduct surrounding the second palace. The walk inside the larger first palace is nice but not too exciting. You see mostly empty rooms with a lot of wall paintings. The garden is impressive, and the walk around is nice, and there's a tower watch that's worth the short climb.
Yuval K — Google review
We went to visit the night time light show experience. It was beautifully done with a cherry blossom theme and gave many lovely photo opportunities in a less crowded environment than when visited during the day.
Highly recommend
Paul Sciberras — Google review
The Most beautiful place on Osaka, I was really impressed, to see where the Shogun lived and all the History!! Fantastic! I am very glad that inside was not aloud to film/ take pictures so that you can experience this fully! Amazing Garden and all around very clean and nice!👍
Improved Gaming — Google review
I highly recommend coming here. You’re able to go inside the building and see all the beautiful artworks and how original Japanese interior looked. Wasn’t able to make it in time to see the cherry blossoms bloom but still a few trees had the beautiful pink flowers. You can t
Fernando Garcia — Google review
4.4
(33953)
•
4.5
(7073)
541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan
Nishiki Market is a 400-year-old market located in downtown Nakagyo, Kyoto. It spans five blocks and is known for its wide variety of Japanese food offerings, including raw ingredients, alcohol, side dishes, and snacks. The market houses over a hundred shops, each specializing in a specific type of food. Many of these shops have a long history and offer locally-grown and sometimes organic products.
This is a tourist must! My family spent hours walking up and down the market going in every shop trying most foods and just absorbing this lively market. The shop owners were very kind and happy to help. We went for lunch and there was no shortage of food, but you could definitely find restaurants in this area for dinner too. Bring Yen because most of the places don't take card.
Morgan Bayrasli — Google review
An absolute must if you’re in the area. So many great shops and foods. The grilled scallops with soy sauce and butter were exquisite. The salmon sushi was excellent. Make sure to take home a bottle of sake or at least sample it for 100 yen. There is a bakery that had a match macadamia nut cookie that I loved. We had so much fun we went back for lunch again the next day.
Rachel Rose — Google review
Run, don't walk to this market. An incredible number of shops and restaurants. But the best part is the stalls of vendors a mile long of amazing food. It's a chance to find those incredible souvenirs and grab a grilled squid on a stick. Just one of the highlights of this wonderful city.
And EVERYONE of the many vendors I interacted with were all so friendly and helpful.
Eric Young — Google review
It’s more like a tourists spot than for real local market. Anyway I love this cleanliness and the vibes of “The city bakery & coffee shop” in the morning most recommend! You could find lot of tourists thing here instead of just fresh fish likes Matcha, chopsticks, flowers, local fruits, etc. Quite a long straight walk through than you will end up with Kyoto biggest shopping area start with ABC shoes shop on you right.
Supriya Jitrahatchai — Google review
Great market with a vibrant atmosphere. We came here just before lunch time so everything was open and there were items being sold and cooked freshly in front of you. We even found a bar selling 100 yen sake shots. Really would recommend if your looking for a market to wonder around in.
Kara Harrison — Google review
Nishiki Market is undoubtedly one of my favorite places to visit in Kyoto. It has tonnes of interesting shops ranging from local cuisine, desserts, dried goods, preserved foods, tea leaf shops, sweet & savory snacks, tableware & knives etc. A must go for anyone who is new to Kyoto!
Ed Seng — Google review
This is a very interesting market. Run mainly by mum and pa shops, family owned business. They sell fresh seafood and a lot of other produces. From dried fish to preserved vegetables and street food and other delicious stuffs.
The pricing are cheap. So it is worth to go there.
However, similar stuffs can also be found in Kyoto's local super market if you know where to go to find, and it can be cheaper.
Matthew Ng — Google review
Utter foodie heaven! I was so full after leaving this market, not to mention I came back to the hotel and completely filled up my suitcase with all the snacks, sweets and pickles sold here. I love that many places offer tastings so you know what you're buying.
Cecilia Tran — Google review
We visited at around 5pm (closes at 6) on a Friday evening; it was quite busy but not too bad. A good selection of nice food stalls at reasonable prices. The octopus & quail egg seems to be a local speciality... an acquired taste, maybe?
Stephen Hornsey — Google review
The sale of fish started in the area around 782, thanks to available cold groundwater, that kept meats fresh.
In 1615 the place officially received official permission to conduct the sale of fish, being this the first step for becoming a renowned market it is today. In 1883 due to the strong competition between establishments the number of shops was reduced to only 7.
The market saw a renewed vitality in 1911 after new association promotion of the marketplace. It decreased again when the Central Wholesale Market of Kyoto was opened in 1927 and some stores moved there. In 1928, a new association promoted the opening of shops offering fruits, vegetables, meats and other food products. The market began to be known as “Kyoto’s kitchen”. The cobblestone floor was installed in 1984 and arcade canopy added in 1993. In the year 2005 “Nishiki Market” was registered as a trademark.
The place became very popular with tourists and it is almost always very crowded. There are many shops where one may try different types of local food (specially seafood), but the amount, quality and prices reflect that this is a place for tourists. One may eat cheaper and better someplace else.
Anna Krzak — Google review
This place is huge! We visited on a Sunday afternoon, and it was packed. So crowded that it is difficult to walk. We enjoyed selecting different seafood from the stalls and eating it fresh. We tried eel, squid, and shrimp. There are lots of stores for shopping.
Richard Torbett — Google review
(Trip was made back then on 30 Nov 2019, 2 years before the Covid-19 Pandemic hit)
Our first stop was Nishikori Market Shopping Street upon reaching Kyoto in the early morning 2 years ago on this very day.
The market caters to both locals and tourists, offering a wide variety of goods for sale, ranging from street food snacks, to merchandise and eateries, as well as fresh seafood and preserved vegetables.
There were so many choices but we decided to only try a few and save room for lunch. The street food snacks ranged from decent to tasty, but nothing was really an attention grabber.
During pre-Covid-19 times, manoeuvring down the street proved to be challenging due to the large crowd of people being crammed into a narrow street.
It’s an interesting place to visit as a first timer but Kyoto has many more interesting attractions and Nishiki lacks the attractiveness to entice us to revisit anytime soon.
Shingo Sae-Lim — Google review
Crowded and buddy! Better closer to closing (~4:30 to 5pm - yes most steals are starting to close around 4:30 or have sold out signs. There are some outliers that stay open longer.)
Overall very good experience. Lists of fun things. We tried two different crepe stores. Both very good. Taiyaki was good and there are multiple stalls for it. Restraints get packed quickly and lines go into the walkways. It is a very long market and goes into a mall-like space. Lots of fun and interesting things to see. Multiple temples and historical information.
Overall a must see! Nice light day of culture.
We went on two different days and still didn't cover it all.
Veronica Kimes — Google review
So much fun. A feast for your eyes and your stomach. Also clothing, eyeglasses, wigs, cup arcades and more. You can buy fish shrimps oysters fresh and chopsticks and bowls all in the same place. There is truly something for everyone. I tried ice cream and just wandered around staring and pointing. Easy to reach. You can find t shirts, purses, and sorts of fun items to take home. Big area with sit down restaurants too!
Barbara Lindner (Travelling Wife) — Google review
Unique food market for foodies 🍜
Stall after stall of street food, sea food and souvenir shops.
Most of the food is traditional street food so it’s for the adventurous but there are many shops with other fun items to try if you don’t eat weird seafood or meat.
Prices are reasonable and it’s very easy to order if you are foreign.
Bring cash 💰
Katie Kansas — Google review
Great way to experience the local market in Kyoto. It has variations of seafood to Sake and many souvenir stores. We thoroughly enjoyed browsing this market and believe it to be a must see place when visiting Kyoto
Sherif Ahmed — Google review
Great market that isn’t as busy as Osaka and Tokyo’s equivalent. Had Kobe beef skewers here for the first time and that was great. We tried so much different food and everything was great and fresh. Some stores do seem like tourist trap and overpriced, but overall it had a way more relaxed atmosphere and it’s easier to just stop and try things. Definitely worth a visit.
Martin — Google review
Went there at around 10am and it was already quite packed. Lots of food, snacks, tea, kitchenware. Overall a good one-time only experience for tourists. Be ware of pickpocket thief and keep your valuables close with you!
Gion, the most prominent geisha district in Kyoto, is a charming area located between Yasaka Shrine and Kamogawa River. It's known for its high-end shops, traditional tea houses, and restaurants where geishas and maikos entertain visitors. The neighborhood features well-preserved machiya houses along Hanami-koji Street and upscale ochayas and restaurants overlooking the Shirakawa Canal in the Shirakawa Area.
4.5
(7319)
Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
I'll never travel to Matsumoto without this trip planner again
The Hachiman-bori Canal is a historical and traditional waterway in Japan, surrounded by charming traditional Japanese merchant houses and scenic cherry trees. Despite the rainy weather, its beauty was still appreciated by visitors who can take boat tours or stroll along its banks for a lovely walk. Additionally, this beautiful old town offers cool old style cafes to relax in. For an all-encompassing experience, one may also go up the ropeway to see a 360-degree view of the area.
This place is wonderfully calm and peaceful, perfect for getting away from the city crowds. Just keep in mind that if you miss the boat for the scenic ride, there might be a 30-minute wait. On rainy days, it's even quieter here.
00Y — Google review
LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PLACE.
Don’t have a lot of tourists. (Very important) You can enjoy quietly the history behind the stone walls. And emerged yourself into the history … the past … the season of Autumn. You may ride the boat if you have plenty of time.
pennny L — Google review
A perfect weekend gateway. Take approx 40 min from Kyoto station
Arpan Samanta — Google review
Nice canal for a serene walk in the morning (on a good weather too!). There's a few shops in the vicinity and definitely do not miss out the iconic and well preserved high school building built in 1800s. The main area is a pretty small site and a pretty short walk on both sides of the banks.
Rtexal Tan — Google review
Fun canal, with boat rides throughout the day. About 1,500 yen per person
Farhan Irani — Google review
Such a serene place , night in the cold winter . You can feel the warmth it transmits. Location wise , far from the bustling towns...best to stay a night and enjoy omihachiman
Aryl sKy — Google review
Great vibes around the place. A lot of good dining places around the area as well.
Algef Almocera — Google review
Hachiman-bori Moat is one of the signature visitor spots in Ōmihachiman. You can either walk alongside the canal or take a boat ride to enjoy the view. The canal offers a decent view of the surrounding area and is a great place to relax and unwind.
Javin Yam — Google review
Great memory visiting here, especially when the sakura blooming, the canal and the old building provide the background culture essence, the sakura rains another aesthetic beauty. save one star for next visiting.
Armond Chen — Google review
Very picturesque location, we strolled over the bridge after taking the rope way to the temple.
Anthony Buratovic — Google review
I had a boat ride around the moat in autum and It was very nice. Highly recomend
The Hikone Castle is a renowned 17th-century castle located in the scenic town of Hikone. It boasts a beautiful garden, an on-site museum and offers public tours for visitors to explore its rich history. Though parking can be limited, the castle grounds are still worth exploring with their small buildings and trees. A particular highlight is the must-see garden which provides an excellent view of the castle.
Hikone Castle is on the smaller than the 4 other national treasures but it has its own charm. There isn’t much on the inside to see but if you’ve been to other castles in Japan, climbing up this 3-tiered castle is the most challenging because of the incline of the stairs. The surrounding area of the castle is expansive and you can go in some of the turrets on the outer wall surrounding the castle. Be prepared for a little climb up the castle keep. If you’re visiting before 9:00 am, try to make your way to the time keeping bell that they ring every 3 hours between 9:00 am to 6:00 pm to tell the time. If you visit during a holiday, try to be at the ticket counter before it opens to avoid the rush
Linor B — Google review
This is a pretty nice, famous castle that sits in the picturesque town of Hikone. There is fairly heap parking opposite the castle although it does fill up quickly. The castle grounds are fairly small but it is still nice to explore them and wander around the buildings and trees. The best part of this area is the garden which is included in the best ticket. I highly recommend the garden for a good view of the castle.
Joshua Clubley — Google review
Definitely something to see in Hikone if you’re around. It’s really nice you get to actually go inside the castle. It’s a short tour but the view is great and was a good experience. The walk around the castle is calm and relaxing too. Hikonyan was at the castle and is a funny character and it’s cool to see the towns attachment to him.
Nick_txnbtj — Google review
I’m partial to castles with interiors that reflect the original design and Hikone does not disappoint. Beautiful both outside and in, prepare for the unique considerations of being in a castle that reflects the original design: super steep stairs (ladders), breezy interiors, cold floors in the winter, and no shoes allowed! Great views of the lake and snow-capped peaks if you go during the right season.
Josh Diddams — Google review
It might be a smaller castle than something like Osaka, but the fact that it hasn’t been renovated in the interior to resemble a modern museum makes this place far more authentic. If you want the real thing, away from the crowds, Hikone Castle is a must see.
You will have to climb quite a bit though. The climb uphill to the walls, and then to the castle itself, is quite steep and strenuous. The castle interior requires you to climb 3 stories of ladders. You don’t need to be an Olympian, but you want to be in decent shape.
800 per person, cash only for tickets. That includes the garden. There’s an option to go into the Museum but I skipped it so I have no review.
I loved this place, and went on a Wednesday. There were effectively no crowds. Maybe 10 or so people wandering. Given how beautiful the location is, I’m going to be telling folks to go to Hikone from now on.
Anthony Bao — Google review
This is a lovely castle with a beautiful garden and an informational museum. It has not been reconstructed, so it gives an accurate impression of how castles looked when they were originally used. Seeing everything requires a lot of walking up and down stairs.
Liz Matiska — Google review
As lovely as can be. Like other originals, the steps couldn't be steeper. Tip: the plastic bag for shoes is not optional. Grab one! Great views of Biwa and the Hira Mountains with an exceptional historic treasure. A must-do!
Richie Henry — Google review
Beautiful castle and surrounding grounds. The castle ticket includes the garden ticket so make sure you buy that one first. Great spot in autumn! One word of caution: the castle has these super steep wooden staircases inside, so not for everyone! It’s still worth buying the ticket though to see the first floor and walk around the castle grounds. It’s quite physically demanding to walk on the pebble stones outside that can be slippy, so this place is best for those who can walk well and have a good balance.
Jitensha Adventure — Google review
The complex has castle, plum orchard, garden, museum, (free) park including kids playground. All these with beautiful view of lake biwa attached to them. We visited on 19 March and sakura flowers had bloomed in one of the trees facing the castle.
There was a long queue before entering the castle. Probably because it’s weekend.
Habiba Nabila Ihlasuddini — Google review
This is one of the 12 original castles remaining in Japan, and it is certainly worth a visit. While not as large or famous as Himeji Castle, the moat, buildings, stonework, blooming cherry trees (at the end of April) and adjacent garden are quite impressive.
Rory Rosszell — Google review
Everything about this place is magical. Honestly, aside from Himeji Castle, this is one of the most beautiful castles I've been to. For 800 JPY, you get a combination ticket for both the castle and the garden. You can spend almost the whole day here! It is very chill too and you get very many perspectives of Lake Biwa.
Karl Raymond Roque — Google review
Lovely castle and surrounding gardens. Nice to spend a few hours exploring the grounds - the museum and next door Japanese garden.
Matt C — Google review
It’s a wonderful experience to enjoy the night session of the castle, national treasure, you can deeply feel its history by all the original foundation stones and woods, the traditional architecture is amazing alongside with the modern projection mapping , + interaction with qr code that allow u to put ur name mapping on the facade …. But i see same organisation also holds another event at Kyoto, the scale seems much more exciting ><
Wilson Cheung — Google review
This was one of my favorite spots in Lake Biwa, Shiga prefecture. The castle area is impressive. Not as large as Himeji or Osaka, but therefore a bit more manageable on foot. The views are immaculate in all directions. The site was chosen strategically where the mountain range in the east just reaches the edges of Lake Biwa coming up in the west forming a natural gateway. The main keep is nowhere near as large as Himeji, but it manages to be just as fascinating, as it is all original, in particular, the bending curves of the massive trunks of wood that still support the structure of the main keep. Be aware that you will need to walk up plenty of stairs, and inside the main keep the stairs are very steep.
Adjacent to the main keep on the west side reaching a smaller keep is a large park-like area that is gorgeous red in autumn.
The beautiful gardens, large garden with tea houses belonged to the Feudal Daimyo as part of his residential domain, included in the ticket.
Kyle Wit — Google review
One of the most coolest castles in the world. From the double mout systems to the interior walls to the ramparts to the baileys to the arrow and gun ports. Hikone Castle is one of the coolest castles in Japan in terms of Feudal Japan Shogunate engineering. Seems like a pain to attack as ninja or charging as samurai.
Chris Nagasako — Google review
We came here by Train from Kyoto and it took about 45 min.
From Hikone Station it is a 30 min walk to the Castle. The entrance fee was 1200 Yen for the museum, castle inside and the beautiful garden combined.
The museum had some interesting things like ancient swords, armours and paintings. You can walk through the complete inside of the castle and the view from up there is very stunning (with clear weather).
My personal highlight was the big garden with a huge pond and lots of green. You can even see the castle throning above it. I can not imagine that there is any better castle in Japan to visit. The complete route took about 2 hours.
The town is beautiful too, it is quiet and not very touristy. They have a beach on lake Biwa too.
Great experience all in all.
Kai Liesbrock — Google review
Hikone Castle stands as a majestic testament to Japan's feudal history. The well-preserved architecture and stunning panoramic views from the castle grounds transport you to another era. Exploring the castle's interior provides a fascinating glimpse into the samurai lifestyle. The surrounding gardens are beautifully landscaped, offering a serene contrast to the castle's imposing presence. Hikone Castle is a captivating destination, rich in history and architectural splendor. Truly a must-visit for history enthusiasts! 🏰🍃 #HikoneCastle #HistoricalGem
The Maruoka Castle, situated atop a hill, is a three-story fortress that dates back to around 1600. Despite being rebuilt following an earthquake, the castle still retains its original and authentic feel, providing visitors with a glimpse of history. Although smaller than most castles and challenging to access from major cities, the friendly and helpful staff made up for it. Despite language barriers, they did everything possible to make tourists feel welcome.
A lovely castle with beautiful dark woods and one of the oldest donjon in Japan. Originally built and used by Shibata Katsutoyo a famous general of the Sengoku era. The castle and museum come on a ticket together with a folk history building with various items of the Sengoku era. The castle has ropes next to the hand rails which make the climb up the three levels easy and fun. The views are spectacular. I will let you see those for yourself. The ice cream shop in the parking lot has excellent ice cream as well.
Shan Baker — Google review
From Kanazawa, took the local train for Fukui and got off at Maruoka station. From there took the bus to Maruokajo station.
It was a small yet nice looking castle. Climbing stairs inside the castle is a bit of an exercise :)
c0Rr dUMp — Google review
📖 This is one of the “12 remaining Tenshu” (historical castles). In there you will be able to get to know more about its unusual techniques to build it, history of how they restored the castle after earthquake, and most importantly to touch and feel the building yourself, from the base of well-fitted stones up to the wooden structures, it’s literally an art given the technology back then 400+ years ago.
🎟️ Entry ticket contains castle visit along two other indoor museums (History museum and the “Brief message from the heart museum”)
It’s definitely an underrated castle to visit in Japan, highly recommended.
🅿️ Parking: It’s easy to get a parking slot down at the entrance during weekdays, there’s 40 parking space. Further parking spaces are located at the other museum which is just 3mins walk away. (You may visit the official website to find out more)
Edward C. — Google review
The castle was neat to visit, even if it was small and not easy to get to from most major cities. The great thing was how friendly and helpful the staff and local residents were, even though it was clear we were taxing their English (way better than our Japanese will ever be). We had to visit late on a bad weather day, but they were doing everything they could to make us feel welcome. Although it lacks some of the detailed historical and museum content and displays that other castles have (the original layout diorama was the highlight), it has all the original and authentic feel you should expect from visiting a piece of 450-year old history.
Paul Mazzeno — Google review
This castle has a beautiful park with the koi fish pond. The ticket entrance is 450¥ for adult. There is free parking area in this place.
asrul sudiar — Google review
"Maruoka Castle (丸岡城) stands as a testament to Japan's rich feudal history, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's storied past. Nestled amidst lush greenery in Fukui Prefecture, this well-preserved castle boasts impressive architectural features and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. From the imposing stone walls to the elegant wooden structures, every corner of Maruoka Castle exudes an aura of ancient grandeur. Whether you're exploring its historic grounds or admiring the cherry blossoms in spring, a visit to Maruoka Castle is an unforgettable journey back in time."
Rem Remillo — Google review
It was a small castle, worth visiting if you are in the area and usually there's no crowd. Keep in mind that you must not have issues with steep steps (see the picture of what u need to climb up to reach the highest level). The main significance is that this is one of the 12 remaining castles in its original form in Japan. It seems like there's a light display at night too!
Rtexal Tan — Google review
Maruoka Castle may be small, but it's meticulously maintained, and the staff are incredibly friendly. However, be mindful of the steep stairs inside; wearing skirts may not be advisable unless you're prepared for the climb.
Their souvenir shop offers a delightful array of local snacks and candies. I bought their onion snack and tonkotsu instant ramen.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy soba and curry stalls with seating available nearby for a relaxing break.
Behind either the museum or the castle, they're building a tour guide information center, which I thought was pretty nice that they are making it more accessible for tourists.
Ronamarie — Google review
Amazing place to see! I can here the right time. The cherry blossom is amazing g and definitely made the place 100x more prettier.
Thank you for maintaining and reporting thai castle.
Tourists, please follow, respect, and take care of this place when you visit so future generations can also see this historic place.
Joanna O — Google review
Beautiful blossoms, should be in full bloom soon, they are really close right now. Delicious festival.
Nathan Duncan — Google review
(visits: 1) (castles 60+) pretty decent castle. More popular than I was expecting. Lots of people there for a castle this size. Had English brochure. But no other English. Nice castle park. The castle itself is 45o yen which is a bit pricey for the amount of stuff to see, but you get a nice book mark type ticket. Pretty nice. I have been to castle ruins that were nothing but a few rocks in the woods and they charged 450 yen.
I heard this is the oldest original castle in Japan and I think that's why it's popular. But I also recently heard they found some construction here that dates much younger than originally thought, and I think this castle has lost its "oldest" it original crown.
Good view at the top, but sorry, Fukui doesn't look that awesome from here. No rivers or close up mountains like you would see from the top of Inuyama castle.
Robert Dykes — Google review
Maruoka castle is one of the twelve original castles left in Japan and maybe one of the least visited due to its location. There is only a model of the castle on the first floor of the keep, the rest of the building is empty. You have to take off your shoes when you enter but slippers are provided. The staircases are really steep, there are ropes to help you. From the top you can see over the whole of Sakai City.
Judy OBrien — Google review
[Maruoka Castle] This is one of the oldest castle in Japan with history back to 1576. It is a small castle surrounded by a quiet community. Foundation of this castle was built by stacked rocks. These rocks were stacked with mild curvatures on the four sides of the castle foundation. That provided better durability bearing the three-floor building on the top.
Don’t forget to make a stop at "Brief Message from the Heart Museum" just across the street.
CS Kuo — Google review
Smaller than some other Japanese castles, but still offers a beautiful view of Fukui and the grounds are great to explore. The museum close by can be accessed with a combination ticket and is a quick but fun way to learn some of the local history
Molly Minamyer — Google review
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1 Chome-59 Maruokacho Kasumicho, Sakai, Fukui 910-0231, Japan
The Natadera Buddhist temple, established in 717 by a monk to honor a revered mountain, is well worth the 800 yen special ticket for access to stunning nature and caves. Visitors can spend up to 7 hours taking photos of the beautiful interior and massive idols or discovering their luck with Omikuji. The observatory adds another layer of interest to this picturesque destination.
This place is extremely beautiful. So much history and completely out of the radar for most tourists means you can have it more or less to yourself if you time it correctly.
Enjoyed it more than any place in Kyoto.
Vinura De Silva — Google review
A Japanese Buddhist temple not far from Komatsy Airport , quiet and serene, built on a small hill. Spent 60 mins here .
William K C Sun — Google review
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Yu-122 Natamachi, Komatsu, Ishikawa 923-0336, Japan
The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is a magnificent museum filled with reconstructed dinosaur bones, fossils, and outdoor excavations. It is highly recommended for people of all ages, especially children who will enjoy the wide range of collections. Although it might be challenging to access without a car and requires advanced booking for time slots, it remains a popular destination in Fukui. During the visit, there were numerous exhibits on display that took about three hours to explore leisurely.
I wasn't expecting the museum to be this large, but it was very big and has a wide of collections from dinosaur fossils to geological samples. highly recommended for people of all ages, especially for children. The only problem is the access which might be quite difficult without cars. At the time, we had to book the time slots for entry in advance. Seems like a very popular destination in Fukui.
Johannes Nicolaus Wibisana — Google review
An entertaining and expansive collection of dinosaur skeletons, fossils and research. Extensive information about the exhibits offered in Japanese and English as well as the wider context of palaeontology in Japan and the rest of the world.
Easily the most exhaustive display of dinosaur specimens I have ever seen and arranged in a way that makes the visit entertaining for all ages. (I just wish it were closer to Fukui city then I could visit more than once in this trip!)
The museum also boasts a thorough exploration of the evolution of life, from the very beginnings of life on Earth to the advent of modern humans.
Definitely recommended.
Gareth Morris — Google review
My toddler and I had a great time! Tickets and food were reasonably priced. Food is good. Accessibility is great. Bathrooms on every floor. Strollers are free to use inside the building. The permanent exhibit is amazing! So much to see! Most of the exhibit has English translations. There is a huge playground nearby to help young ones release energy. There is also a fossil dig experience available. Re-entry is free all day! The dinosaur park ( separate ticket) next door is fun and geared towards kids. While both are so cool the museum is more educational, while the dino park is more just for fun. It also has a huge playground next door.
Adrienne Najera — Google review
Very informative place about Dino fossils and as well as kids favorite.
However, cost of Dino park is high specially for kids.
BBQ site is worthy for kids.
Anamul Towfiq — Google review
I am one of dinosaur fans and I enjoyed looking at many fossils and exhibits in the museum. There were hundreds of them and I was satisfied with that. The fossil hunting training rooms were also really enjoyable and educational. However, I felt dismayed by the fact that some of the information were outdated. For example, the skull fossil of Deinonychus is supposed to be narrower, but the museum showed it as a broad and wide skull, which was previously thought because experts believed it was relatively close to Allosaurus, which has a broad skull. Also, the life restoration models next to the fossil and at the new exhibit had NO PLUMAGE. Recently scientists found quill knobs, which are evidence of feathers, in a forearm of a Velociraptor fossil. I understand that fossils, even replica ones, are extremely expensive and hard to reconstruct. However, I think the museum should at least put plumage on the dromaeosaurid models or even just mention about it.
Alisa Kanno — Google review
I had a great and really fun experience at the dinosaur museum. The staff were really nice and the food at the restaurant was decent. The museum contained a HUGE variety of fossils and various artefacts found around the world and in Japan. There extensive information for each artefacts in the museum. There is also kids faculties in and outside the museum. It is about an hour and half train and bus ride to the dinosaur museum from the Fukui station terminal. I would highly recommend going to the museum as a day trip.
Alex Wright — Google review
First visit and we really enjoyed it especially my 9 year old. So many things on display it took about 3 hours to see them all at a leisurely pace. Definitely recommend trying your hand at the fossil dig too.
K H — Google review
Highly recommended. You can take a look at (and in some areas even touch) many different dinosaurs. They not only have dinosaurs, but also many interesting stones and the like. Nearly all of the signs come with an English translation, enabling you to make your way through the museum easily. In case you didn't purchase your ticket prior to your arrival, there is a very easy to use ticket machine and some friendly staff at the museums entry.
Sora Kasugano — Google review
My third-grade self was excited to go to the museum. My attention was held throughout the earth science exhibit leaning and relearning about tectonic plates and subduction. The fossils, the original point to go, were less exciting failing to hold the attention of someone 50 years past 3rd grade.
The evolutionary charts before many of the fossils were engaging and is what kept me traveling between the old bones.
T. J. Ivinjack — Google review
I have visited natural history museums in many countries and can say this is one of the best dinosaur museums in the world. It is a great place for young children and adults to enjoy and learn about dinosaurs. Pre-booking is required.
Motoki Makita — Google review
We went here during near Chriatmas & outside was all covered in snow. Good place to bring kids & can easily spend 2 hours here. The museum is well structured & very informative.
Steven Tan — Google review
Great for bringing your kids. They will surely enjoy the extra-curricular activities here like Fossil excavation (for these activities it is recommended to purchase tickets beforehand). Purchase the 1 day Echizen train and Katsuyama bus ticket at Fukui station to go here for ¥1,700. You can also use the pass to go to other stations if you want to visit other local attractions. There is also a special Dino train but that one is more expensive.
Eri Angeles — Google review
Amazing place and really worth the visit. For english users buying tix to the permanent exhibition was easy. You can not buy the Dino-A-Live event tickets on site and must be bought in advance. Come early (around 8am) as when i left at around 12pm. The queue to go up to the museum by car was horrible. Parking lots are limited as well so you will be routed to further away car parks. Mosy exhibits have English translations, and you can rent an audio guide as well.
Word of advice if you are visiting. Try to go on the weekdays, the weekend is really crowded with families.
Jun Mao Tan — Google review
Nestled in the heart of Fukui, this remarkable museum is a haven for dinosaur enthusiasts. As you step off at Fukui Station, you’ll be greeted by a bipedal dinosaur clad in a white lab coat—a whimsical introduction to the prehistoric wonders that await.
The journey to the museum involves a scenic 75-minute ride via local train and bus, but the anticipation builds with each passing minute. Once you arrive, prepare to be awestruck by the sheer number of skeletal models on display. From towering T. rex replicas to intricate stegosaurs, the collection spans eons and ignites curiosity.
But it’s not just about static exhibits. Witness the meticulous work of paleontologists as they delicately clean fossilized mud from unearthed bones—a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned dino aficionado or a curious traveler, the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum promises an adventure that transcends time. 🦕🌿🔍
For more information and to secure your spot, be sure to reserve your timed entry ticket in advance through the museum’s website. And don’t forget your sense of wonder—it’s the best companion for exploring ancient mysteries! 🌟🦖
Akihiro Yamaguchi — Google review
One of the greatest dinosaur museums in the world. It's very educational. You can spend a whole day there if you are a dinosaur fan. Of course a great place you come with your kida
Andy L — Google review
Great experience, for adults and kids.
Beautiful architecture, you can find an almost whole dinosaur preserved and more.
Highly recommend.
Adam MD — Google review
We came here with family. This museum is a great and a large place to see dinosaurs. There are a lot of dinosaurs world. Children and adults will enjoy this interesting place. The entrance fee for adults is 720¥, for College and high school is 430¥ and Elementary school only 260¥. You can park your car with free, and it has a large of parking area. Recommendation for family holiday.
Asrul Sudiar — Google review
We were at least 30 minutes late (bought tickets 1 day in advance) but still were allowed to enter 👍😃
2-3 dinosaurs move their body, except for the legs. Moving eyes are the most impressive 🙈 - can be scary for kids.
Lots of amazing exhibits 🤩 : dinosaurs 🦕, mammoth 🐘, elk, skeletons of different types of humans.
2-3 hours is not enough. For the whole day visit. All shops and restaurants close together with the museum at about 17:00 - that's a pity 🙄
If you buy a ticket online in advance, you can enter much quicker - it took us about 5 minutes to enter during the weekend.
Дарья Каратаева — Google review
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51-11 Murokocho Terao, Katsuyama, Fukui 911-8601, Japan
Gifu Castle is a reconstructed 16th-century fortress that boasts a wealth of historical significance and breathtaking mountain vistas. This must-see attraction in Japan can be easily accessed by cable car, with a short 15-20 minute hike to reach the castle itself. It's an excellent destination for families, with children sure to enjoy exploring its many fascinating features. The Ukai festival on nearby Nagara river is also well worth experiencing.
It is a reconstructed Castle but it has lots of historic value and what a beautiful view of Japan. A must see, the Cable car made it easy to get to with a 15-20 min hike. The children liked this caste.
Sarah and Chris Elder — Google review
強風の日の天守は怖い。城までの参道が崖に挟まれていて怖い。さすが山の山頂にあるお城でした。城内はさほど広くないですし、階段も普通の階段です。よくある急勾配の階段ではないです。
ロープウェイもしくは登山の2択でしか訪問することは出来ません。ロープウェイ降車後も多少歩きます。寒さ対策は必須だと思います。
(Translated by Google)
The castle tower is scary on a windy day. The approach to the castle is sandwiched between cliffs and is scary. As expected, it was a castle on the top of a mountain. The inside of the castle is not very large, and the stairs are just normal stairs. It's not a typical steep staircase.
There are only two options to visit: ropeway or mountain climbing. There will be some walking after getting off the ropeway. I think measures against the cold are essential.
K Y — Google review
One of the well-known castles in Japan! You need to climb a bit after getting off from the cable car. However, it is worth climbing the mountain for 10-15 minutes! Amazing view and nice cafe-restaurant. You will enjoy one of the greatest views for sure! Need to pay small money for entrance of the castle and the zoo!
Jeon San — Google review
The most beautiful place you should have visit in Gifu. At some moments, you can see the moon right above the castle, and also you can visit Ukai festival in Nagara river.
Noland — Google review
Gorgeous.
Warning, there are a lot of steps to climb even after you get off the ropeway at the top.
The views walking up are stunning, as are the views from the veranda on the top floor of the castle.
Laura Furst — Google review
Climb "Mt. Kinkazan" to reach Gifu Castle towering at the top.
The trail "Meiso no Komichi" is 2.3 km long and can be climbed in one hour.
For your first visit to "Mt. Kinkazan," we recommend that you walk the trail instead of taking the ropeway.
The view from the top of the mountain is spectacular.
Once inside the castle, you will feel like "Nobunaga Oda.
akira goishi — Google review
元旦に初めて訪問しました。
お城に登るためのロープウェイに恐らく1番近いであろう金華山の麓の駐車場に停めるためには、少し待ちました。
岐阜城へはトレッキングでも行けるルートがありますが、ロープウェイで手軽にお城の近くまで行くことが出来ます。
ただ、お城までは石段などを上がる部分もありますので、足腰の弱い方には少しきついかもしれません。お気をつけて上がられてください。
訪問の当日も登山の支度をされて登っている方もいましたが、なかなかきつそうですが、いつか登ってみたいものです。
元旦は天気も良かったので、天守閣からの眺めは最高でした。名古屋駅から伊吹山、御嶽山など遠くまで景色が眺められます。
途中のお店で名物のお団子をいただきました。甘いのとしょうゆのと、両方楽しめて良いです。行かれた際には是非オススメします。
(Translated by Google)
I visited for the first time on New Year's Day.
We had to wait a while to park at the parking lot at the foot of Mt. Kinka, which is probably the closest to the ropeway that takes you up to the castle.
There is a trekking route to Gifu Castle, but you can also easily get to the castle by ropeway.
However, there are some parts of the walk up stone steps to get to the castle, so it may be a little difficult for people with weak legs. Please be careful when going up.
On the day of our visit, some people were preparing to climb the mountain, and although it looks quite tough, I would like to climb it someday.
The weather was nice on New Year's Day, so the view from the castle tower was spectacular. From Nagoya Station, you can see views as far as Mt. Ibuki and Mt. Ontake.
We ate the famous dango at a shop along the way. You can enjoy both sweet and soy sauce. I highly recommend it when you go.
Alice — Google review
Awesome lookout and reproduced historic castle that overlooks the Gifu area. Very scenic and picturesque panoramic views from the observatory deck and castle. Take the cable car up or you can hike 2hrs. Highly recommend cable car.
Jason Chen — Google review
Nice one day picnic with trekking experience in the forests of Gifu. Enjoy food with city views from a great height. Overall fun and adventure.. 😍😍😍
ekta dhingra — Google review
Historical mark in Gifu city.
You can take the ropeway to the top, very nice view of the city. Not exactly a castle more like an observation tower.
Lacking more historical situation. You can learn more about Nobunaga and Japans history at the Historical Museum but anyway can’t skip this monument if you visit the city.
Carla Valverde — Google review
A good view to see the whole area.
In addition, the small hiking trail is also great to visit and feel the favor from the woods and mountain.
Rope car is just no more than 1000yen very worth to visit.
Wayne “waytoko” T — Google review
斎藤道三や織田信長ゆかりの岐阜城は、金華山ロープウェーに乗り大人往復1100円で山には上がり大人200円で入場できる。城は高い山のうえにあり坂道があつた。珍しい城なので1度是非登ってください。城内は信長の資料があり良かった。
(Translated by Google)
Gifu Castle, which is associated with Dosan Saito and Nobunaga Oda, can be accessed by taking the Mt. Kinka Ropeway to the mountain for 1,100 yen round trip for adults and 200 yen for adults. The castle was on top of a high mountain and had a slope. It's a rare castle, so please climb it at least once. It was nice to have materials about Nobunaga in the castle.
福崎哲一 — Google review
Amazing place! The view from the top is breathtaking. You can see the range of hills along side the hill of castle and also the hill and mountains of gifu. You can see the buildings of Nagoya as well. There is gifu museum as well. Another Ticket to go inside castle & museum is required. There is restaurant and toilet with bridges and stone steps along the pathway. You can either hike or go through cable car.
Stha. Modular. — Google review
It’s a very good place to build a castle.
You don’t have to take a chairlift if you can walk two and a little bit more kilometers but if you decide to chairlift be prepared to walk uphill a bit more. Also if you want to go into the castle itself, that’s a couple hundred yen you have to pay. Which is totally worth it anyway the view on the top of the castle is spectacular. The breeze is so refreshing you also have to pay a couple hundred yen for the museum as well. I don’t know what it’s like because I didn’t went there.
Be prepared for our very long line for the chairlift though, could be 30min or more
Sorravit Bunjongpean — Google review
From the Gifu castle you can view the whole Gifu city.. that is a nice place but the wind is strong when we go to the top of the castle.. nice experience
leong gee chun — Google review
There is a lot about the history of Nobunaga inside the castle and the view from the top is really nice definitely worth your 200¥.
Toorano — Google review
Lovely views. We took the cable car up and hiked down and it was a wonderful day. The castle itself has some interesting artifacts but the interior structure is unimpressive. The exterior is very pretty though. Worth the trip!
anthony scott — Google review
Very impressive castle and amazing story behind it. If you are in this area or you are wanting to see any Japanese castle, this one is near the top(literally). You can choose to walk up this mountain and see the beautiful nature views along the way or pay a small charge to ride the rope lift car. Or, walk one way and ride another is an option as well. It is great to learn of this story and also see gifu and other areas of Japan from high on the castle top.
Dan Hayes — Google review
Beautiful and gorgeous view! Amazing place to visit. Very high up and inexpensive.
Inuyama Castle, a remarkable Sengoku-era fortress situated on an easily defensible hilltop overseeing the Kiso River, is one of Japan's five renowned castles. The castle offers astonishing views from its pinnacle, yet climbing the steep and lengthy stairs can be strenuous. Visiting in winter means traveling up the stairs wearing socks since shoes aren't allowed inside.
Awesome castle! I came here during Autumn and I must say the view is breath-taking! 🍂🍁
The stairs to the top of the castle is VERY VERY STEEP AND NARROW! So, I wouldn't suggest this to those who have injured knees and easily sprained ankle.
I also wouldn't suggest coming here wearing a mid-thigh or short skirt. You can do so but please bring a jacket that you can use to tie around your back so it covers your upper legs from anyone climbing the stairs from your back (wouldn't want you to encounter some pervs while you climb the stairs) 🙏🏻
You'll also have to take off your shoes. They'll give you plastic to put your shoes inside.
But most of the toilet here don't have a bidet. So if you have a portable bidet, it'd be very advisable to bring so. If you want a toilet with a bidet, you may try to go to building stores outside of the inuyama castle area.
All in all, even if you don't want to enter the castle, it's fine as there are a lot of other attractions near the castle where you can enjoy and have fun! 🙆🏻♀️🍁
Nina — Google review
Nice place to stop en route Kyoto. There is a shrine at the entrance, and the castle is right behind on a small hill. My first visit to a Japanese castle, very unique. The stair case inside the castle is very steep to reach every floor and I wonder how folks back then climbed up/down 🥲 Gorgeous view from the 3rd floor of the town around.
There is a post town type Street opposite the castle.. To shop, drink and rent a kimono or just take photos. Nice place!
Mithila Kannan — Google review
This is a nice small castle, that has a great views of the river and the near by mountains. This is worth a whistle stop to visit. Do not wear slippery socks when visiting.
Rasseru S — Google review
Great historical castle and wonderful views over the river. Lots of little shops and restaurants, great walking around. Inuyama is generally very nice city. It is an easy trip by train from Nagoya station, there is fast trains that cost slightly more but you can sit in front of the train with good views.
Volodymyr H — Google review
A historic castle, one of the 5 original castles left in the country (not a recreation). Not large but set in a commanding location and surrounded by a shrine and temple. Worth a day trip from Nagoya. Costs 550 yen to get in, but be prepared to climb up and down some steep stairs.
Drifter Travels — Google review
Beautiful and magnificent Japanese castle. Only a few foreign tourists here, most of tourists are Japanese Recommend tourists to buy discount tickets from Nagoya station
Tseng Michael — Google review
Visited on 19th March 2024 on a Tuesday mid afternoon. The castle is quite beautiful and located at small hilltop. The castle is one of 5 National Treasure Castles in Japan.
The entrance fee was 550 yen per pax and is required if you want to take a photo up close with the castle. The entrance ticket also allows entry into the castle itself, where you can learn more about the castle as well as enjoy the view from the top of the castle.
Sean Wong — Google review
Inuyama Castle is 1 of 5 castles that is designated a natural treasure. The walking street towards the castle has many unique and traditional eateries to explore. The castle is small and usually a 30 minutes waiting time to arrive to the top. The views are breathtaking.
Robert Moore — Google review
Unlike most of the rebuilt castles, Inuyama Castle is one of the best preserved Tenshus in Japan. Certainly it was repaired multiple times but the castle exterior and interior are very well preserved. Fantastic view from top floor. Definitely a must visit.
Rex Cheung — Google review
One of the 5 famous castles of Japan. Really beautiful. Great views from the top.
Be warned that the stairs up to the top are REALLY steep and there are A LOT of stairs. You can’t wear shoes inside so if you visit in the winter you will be on socks and have to traverse all the stairs.
J — Google review
It was my second time going to this castle and I enjoyed it as much as I did the first time. The street to the castle is very fun filled with a lot of places to eat and a lot of things to buy. When you actually get to the castle you can go inside up till the very top. You have to take off your shoes and the stairs inside are quite steep so you will need some mobility. The view from the top of the castle is beautiful but a little bit scary because it is quite high. It wasn’t that crowded even though it was a Saturday. I really enjoyed the castle and would like to go back again.
Lisa Yokoe — Google review
Must visit place when in Inuyama. Very serene and enchanting. A lot of tourists but good things must be shared and enjoyed for all. One block away is a street full beautiful shops to see. Please visit the elderly store owners as they are passionately showcasing their beloved hand made products.
Brucy Bebe — Google review
My kids were 7 and 9. I originally thought it would be difficult for them to climb up due to the steep stairs, fortunately it was all good. The view on top had the best view. Love it!
Sagamihara — Google review
Beautiful original castle. One of the 12 original castles of Japan as well as one of the five national treasure castles. Easy to get there from nagoya.
As with other castles, the steps are steep.
One of the few castles where you can walk along the outside balcony on the top floor so you can get great photos.
Inuyama town is so cute and worth spending some time on the shopping street.
Sara Khan — Google review
About 20 minutes from the Meijimura Open Air Museum is a 16th-century castle that is remarkably intact. The Inuyama Castle, 1 of 5 Castles that are National Treasures of Japan, is even more impressive architecturally as it is one of the few castles in Japan that survived wars and natural disasters without being severely damaged. Inayuma Castle is the oldest surviving castle in Japan. It is also the smallest.
Artifacts relating to the Naruse family that once owned the castle are on display. The armory of samurai weapons are nice. Built on top of a hill, the castle towers over the town of Inuyama. According to our guide, all the wood in the castle, except the stairs, are original to the castle. The castle, as built, didn't have stairs. Ladders were used and when the castle was under siege, the defenders merely pulled the ladders thus making the ascent to the next floor that much harder. We climbed the 5 flights of stairs that led us from the ground to the top floor. Even with stairs, it was not an easy climb. And we weren't even wearing any armor or carrying any weapons.
Oliver Santos — Google review
One of the 5 national treasures (castles) in Japan. This castle has an epic history and has been preserved/restored in a beautiful condition. It is a bit small but still gorgeous.
Nicolas weng kan — Google review
It has the bragging rights of being the oldest castle in Japan to have survived in its original form(400+ years). While this itself makes it worth it to visit it you may also like to check out the nearby attractions such as the castle showa alley (old fashioned town with street food and kimono rentals) and theme parks and Japanese gardens. You can enter the castle premises and go all the way up to the top (4th floor). You will find exhibitions all throughout the castle. Be careful while climbing the stairs because they were quite steep and I was constantly afraid that during rush hours if one person slips in the stairs it's going to be a massive disaster. You have to remove your shoes at the entrance so wearing socks can make the stairs even more slippery. Finally when you reach the top floor there is an observation deck with 360 degree view which is really good. However I noticed people were quite afraid of falling off the edge. The hand rails are quite short and the floor has a gentle slope towards the edge. I felt it's so easy to just slip and fall off. It was scary but fun as well. I know they want to preserve the structure as it is but with so many tourists visiting it I unfortunately feel there is a disaster just waiting to happen there.
The wooden fortress of Gujo Hachiman Castle, originally built in 1559 and restored to its former glory, stands atop a hill and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Visitors are advised to make the climb while their joints are still sturdy. Once inside, the castle's architecture is impressive, complete with gun ports of varying shapes along its walls. The castle overlooks Hachiman and serves as a starting point for several hiking trails that lead to nearby destinations.
Hike was manageable on gravel terrain, about 15-20mins. Overall, worth the trip up. View was fantastic on a clear day. Castle was closed during new year period, hence there is not a lot of crowd that would obstruct photo-taking.
Caden Lee — Google review
Just like some of the castles in Gifu, you need to go up to the mountain to reach the castle. It is advisable to visit them while your knees are strong 🙂 The view from the castle is spectacular! Once you enter it, don't be surprised to hear the creeking floors produced by people walking above. Sounds scary but the castle is perfectly safe.
Breughel Macabuhay — Google review
A historical building. Pretty view. Enjoyed the experience.
Cloudy Bogdan — Google review
A crowd lesser compared to the city siblings like Himeji-jo and Osaka-jo. Its completely made of wood and very well preserved for a 3 level castle and it's located up in the hill, thus driving up would be the best choice
Alex Wong — Google review
Visited there in spring and the view was amazing. I went up by cable car. The building is not that big but you can see whole Gifu from the balcony.
Also, on your way you’ll see a little squirrel house and you can feed them for 600¥ if I remember correctly:) Enjoy this great place in Gifu!
Rukiye Aslan — Google review
A beautiful castle on a hill watching over Gujo.
Parking on the top parking spot can be quite difficult to get to with a big car. So be warned!
Bram esendam — Google review
A very cool castle that went under reconstruction in 1933 and it is regarded as the oldest reconstructed castle, the entrance fee is around 400 yen or you can get a ticket that also allows entrance to the museum as well for 750 yen which I think is worth the price of admission. The view is especially beautiful from the top floors of the castle.
Adeeb Qunash — Google review
Worth going in spring and autumn. Winter is nice but roads covered with snow will be challenging especially going up the winding road mountains and be aware its a popular local and foreign tourist spot the parking area is limited and challenging as well..aside the Gujo hachiman castle there are some local souvenir shops and eatery located at the city area.
Yve Marie — Google review
The castle could be half an hour uphill walk from the town centre. Taxis weren't that many, luckily we were in the Tourist information office at that time and the friendly staff managed to book one for us.. We found the Castle was not that interesting, however, the view of Gujo Hachiman town from above made the visit worthwhile.
nizora — Google review
This castle features amazing architecture and some unique features like the different shaped gun ports along the walls. You have a spectacular view of Hachiman from here and there are several hiking trails that connect with other locations nearby.
Thomas Lawler — Google review
Lovely view from the top of the castle. Worth the walk up
ARA Rivadeneira — Google review
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一の平 659, Hachimancho Yanagimachi, Gujo, Gifu 501-4214, Japan
Shirakawa-go is a historical village tucked away in a remote mountainous area that boasts traditional Gassho-style farmhouses. As one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites, it is a must-visit for any tourist. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of the village makes it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
It was nice. Seeing the traditional homes in that region up close was spectacular. There are plenty of shops to visit and buy reasonable priced trinkets. We stopped by the restaurant nearest to the entrance parking lot and had lunch. It was lovely.
Uniquely Yanique — Google review
Beautiful village!!!
It would be best if you can find a place and stay for a night near the village. You can visit it early in the morning next day. No crowded tourist before 8:30am.
There are few restaurant near by but only 1 open after 7:30pm. So be prepare and have your dinner before that.
Trang Bui — Google review
A really scenic and peaceful place. Lots to see and do. There are many tourists that come here, however the place is so big, it's no big deal. As part of our tour, we also had a delicious meal. If you are in the region, definitely add this place to your list.
Daniel Ooi — Google review
Nice, calm, beautiful area. Can have a lot of people walking around, but the vibe is rather pleasant and everyone seems to respect these lovely surroundings. We have a room with a back window looking right out over a wonderful stream. If you do your research and set the right expectations, I think you will love including a visit here within your regional travel plans.
Keith Hunter — Google review
I was amazed at this well presented Heritage town! The houses still accommodate the locals & stay over tourists. That was us!😊
The locals are early morning risers due to the thousands of tourists that converge during the day. I observed the locals dog walking, gardening & general outdoor cleaning in the early morning hours.
If you stay overnight, you really must arise early, you will have the village streets to yourself! We had a fabulous experience!
Maree Downes — Google review
While this place is the most beautiful in wintertime, covered with snow, it is still very nice place to visit anytime of the year.
I visited Shiragawa-Go during Autumn and didn't disappoint. This place/village is very attractive. You can see why it is UNESCO world heritage site. People preserved old architecture, and village very well so you can feel like you warp to the past.
Tanachai Thosa — Google review
Great heritage area. Lots to look at and learn about how the locals lived. Went in early April and it was a clear fresh day. Could be done in a t-shirt except for the strong winds when crossing the foot beidge. Highly recommend if you have at least 3+ hours in the area
Jason Chen — Google review
Came here on late spring.
One of the Unesco World Heritage. A must visit.
A historical village that secluded beyond the mountain. It was a calm, serene, peaceful.
You need to go up to the hill to see and enjoy the whole village area from above. It was too beautiful.
The river and the water ditch sorround is super clear and clean as crystal
Miranti Vidyasari — Google review
This is a traditional japanese village. It takes about 3-4 hours to cover the entire village. We visited here during early autumn. There is a bus to the observatory point. Cost is 200 JPY. But there is also a foot path to climb there. We used the bus to go uphill and used the footpath to come down. River side is very beautiful. Try to visit the museums if you are interested to see the historical things.
Chamal Perera — Google review
Well worth the bus ride (or rental car drive) to see these amazing houses built hundreds of years ago in a picturesque location. Spend at least 2-3 hours here to walk around and view the village, and grab a bite to eat or a souvenir. Visited on May 22, 2023.
Matty Hammo — Google review
You will need to buy a bus ticket in advance if you come with public transport. Also to go back. And keep in mind that everything closes at 4pm so it would be best to eat lunch around 12-1pm.
Shantal — Google review
Nice little tourist area, deserted at night so make sure you get dinner early! We had a lovely quiet time there in the morning before the crowds started to com at around 9am when the museums open
M S — Google review
Amazing place, it transports you to another time period almost. The people there were so welcoming to us, we had something to look at every step of the way around the village. Make sure to respect and follow the rules of the place (no trespassing, no littering, etc.)
Jennifer Vioniwinata — Google review
Absolutely love this place! When going when its less crowded, it is very peaceful and tranquil feeling the cold wind on your skin while looking at the surrounding green mountains and the old fashioned village. Drain water is so clear and clean that there are fishes swimming in the drain! Definitely recommend to go up to the observatory either through hiking or a shuttle to observe and really appreciate the beauty of the landscape aswell as the village in its entirety! Definitely should go!
Myth Boi — Google review
Amazing place, big snow and magical scenario. Christmas time must go place. If you go with car, must need snow chain. All restaurants open and not over crowded. Way better to enjoy then any other season.
Thomas Szabo — Google review
A little town with all the good feels.
The houses are lovely. Everything is walkable. Homes are fascinating too.
Homes have no signal nail and are known for their roof structure that look like praying hands.
I particularly loved the cafe where you see the Shirakawago scenery whilst drinking coffee.
There was also a lunch menu for 2000 Yen with hida beef set super yummy.
Everything is great and amazing in this lovely town.
Japan 🇯🇵
Everyday is a Wonder — Google review
Love the small village feel and the unique high pitched thatched roofed houses and the river nearby. Has a couple of houses that you can pay (400Y) to go inside and experience the past (Myozinji house built since 1748). Need at least 6 hours here for visit. Kids will love the trouts living in the gutters along the streets.
David EB — Google review
We made a three hour stop here on our way to Kanazawa by bus. It's a bit of a tourist spot and good for a one hour stop only. It has lots of toilets around the town and two small cafes if you want a coffee. We found one restaurant which was open. A very nice town with a lot of original houses and you can also go up to the observatory. When we went there was a very large number of tourists.
Keith Saunders — Google review
We were lucky to see some snow when we visited this unique village in the north of Gifu.
Very unique house design and there were shops and restaurants around the village.
It's such a famous tourist attraction spot that at the time when I visited, there were more tourists than locals living in this area.
I would definitely recommend coming here when it's snowing a lot more than the pictures here.
Nicholas Tan — Google review
We have visited this place before and I have also reviewed this place previously and so I will keep this one "short and sweet".
This time round, we allocated more time here as previously we only stopped by here for about an hour (after our visit to Takayama Old Town) but didn't have much time to roam the place.
We arrived slightly before 3pm. Weather was cold (but it was much colder later on when the sun set) but the river had not fully frozen like in our previous trip. It was quite comfortable to walk under the sun and yet very cold condition.
More shops were opened as it was weekday (our previous visit was on a Sunday and many shops were closed then). So we could walk around and shop for local foods and souvenirs.
We loved the scenery, lots of greenery and beautiful cottage houses, and our mother nature was just right around us!
Surely it was a wonderful revisiting trip on this UNESCO World Heritage site! Definitely worth it!
Ed Chung — Google review
A very quiet place for tourists to appreciate the old Japanese culture and architecture. The place is close to a number of local restaurants. We drove there on a weekday in March. Need to go through a lot of tunnels to reach there. Better equip with sun glasses because its tiring to drive among mountains with remaining snow. Both parking and restaurants are not too full. Kids can still hv snowball fights and build up snowman though we no longer could see snow on roof any more. Houses are close to each other and we could do some walking while not being too exhausted. Suggest to stay there for 2.5 hours including lunch. Love the place, being something different to visit in Japan.
Little Rach — Google review
A magical experience in this winter wonderland! It was snowing on Christmas Day! We had so much fun building a snowman. Many beautiful farm houses are covered in snow for great photos. Lots of souvenirs shops and little restaurants and dessert shops. The road leading up the observatory deck has turned icy, so need to walk slowly and carefully. The view from the observatory deck was breathtaking. It was an incline going up. Need to take breaks along the way. Don't forget to take pictures!
Jen Chan — Google review
Very nice old town of thatched roof houses. All made with wood and ropes, no nails used in the construction.
It was snowing which added to the magic.
We were there relatively early with our car but there were already lots of people around. It's nice and you spend an hour going around and up to the observatory point. Don't take the bus, use the short walkway by the side, much better views of the village.
Seb Camborieux — Google review
gorgeous ghasso town, we got so lucky with the snow (early march) - go to だんご屋 ゆたか on your way to the observation deck and try the sweet sake! so many places to eat in town and lots of cute souvenirs! make sure you buy a bus ticket back to where you’re going in advance (we got stranded for a few hours but we were lucky to get seats on the last bus)
Brit Thew — Google review
Visit in the winter peak so temperature was -5. Beautiful and fairytale-like village, make sure you have your time after 3pm or before 10am as all same day tourists would arrive from 10am and leave by 3pm. Observation deck has beautiful view but extremely crowded most of the time.
Truc Nguyen — Google review
Ranks high in my favorite places visited so far. Went for a day trip (winter season) and instantly fell in love. Regretted not staying longer and will definitely visit again.
I am in awe at how the locals protect this heritage site. The town looks mystical from afar. If you’re into heritage tourism then this is a place you shouldn’t miss.
There are food stalls and souvenir shops available.
Kid Carter Wagang — Google review
Magical and historical place.
We arrived there with the first bus from Kanazawa.
A few hours should be enough to walk around the entire area. It’s really beautiful and special.
Mor T — Google review
2% as popular as Kyoto
19 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Matsumoto
The Tenshukaku Observatory offers a stunning panoramic view of a rural landscape consisting of forested hills, rice fields, and village farmhouses. Visitors can have their picture taken for free with the village in the background; however, a larger and clearer copy is available for purchase at 1,800 yen. The observatory also features a souvenir shop and small store selling food and drinks. Additionally, there is an area with heating to keep visitors warm during colder weather.
Best view of the whole village. Must recommend location. And you can visit with your own car.
Owasiul Islam — Google review
There’s an observatory above that will take picture of you with the village in the background for free but it’s small size. To get the bigger and clearer copy is for ¥1,800 and they have it printed out already so you feel bad if you don’t take it. There’s also a souvenir shop and a small store selling food and drinks. There’s an area next to it with a heater to warm yourself up. Toilet and parking area are available.
n ! d z — Google review
Good view of the valley. 20 mins to walk up from the village. A separate observation area reserved for viewing for those who buy food and drink, and can sit on tables provided. JPY400 for a coffee and JPY500 for a hot sake
SL Y — Google review
Highlight of our Japan trip, Shirakawago is a beauty of a place that seems to be frozen in time!
We spend a full day in this village, taking our time and just love the whole vibe and historical buildings. Do make a trip up to this observatory and you have the full view of the village.
Derrick Tay — Google review
This place do nit required ticket to enter.
We took a bus (about 10 minutes trip) from town to here at 290 yen per person.
Upon arrival, there was a team specialising in taking photos for tourists. The team will take a photo first for us without any charges. Then we have the options to buy at 2000 yen or not. After paying the 2000 yen, We received a largo photo with a QR code to download. For those who didn't pay, they still received a small photo free of charge.
We didn't take the bus when downhill as it was an easy walk about 7 minutes. Moreover, we could stop at any point if there was a good photo spot.
There was a selfie photo booth that was quite interesting. 700 yen per play, and we could get a hard copy of the photo and download softcover and some video
Hock Sing Tan — Google review
Best view of the magical village. Take pictures keeping the snow covered village.
You can walk from the bus stop. There is omiyage shop at the top.
Santanu Mahadani — Google review
Eh. Overrated super touristy with a little shop and photo area they try to Upsell you photos at. At least you get a free photo print out but the eay they red tape it felt a little ridiculous. I had to beg to get photos because they put a red line of tape on the view to force you to go to their photo area where they forbid you to use your own phone. Only after begging could I sneak a few photos.
ALSO be advised only one bus that goes up here (200 yen each way) if without a car. Last bus around 3 so you can't see sunset unless you have a car, otherwise your stuck with depending on the bus and its freezing in the winter🚌
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Quiana Berry — Google review
View of Shirakawago is gorgeous here, especially on a clear sunny day. The viewing spot is quite small so be prepared to wait if there are lots of people around. Everyone will be taking photos and selfies.
Randy Ngatimin — Google review
After arriving in Shirakawa, a place where you can view the village from above. 15-20 minutes from the bus stop to the viewpoints, a leisurely climb up the mountain and you are already there. Is one free place where you can see the village from above, but it is not very convenient. In some meters there is a comfortable refreshment area, where are places to sit and this can be done after buying a drink, ice cream or a snack. I would suggest trying the local Shirakawa beer. Delicious beer, beautiful views and a pleasant half-hour of time. A little advice - If you want to avoid the sun directly in your eyes, you should come to this place in the afternoon.
Liudas Vitartas — Google review
This is the first stop, we took the shuttle bus to here and walk down to the village, which is much an easier path. Overall, we spent about 4+ hours here.
sg jh — Google review
Visited in late October 2023, just before full fall foliage came. We started in this observation deck because we couldn't find parking at the main parking lot. The parking lot is much smaller here, maybe 10 to 15 car/ larger vans. We got lucky.
The obersvation deck give you an overview of the entire village. This is where the brochure photo comes from. If you pay for a drink/ food, you get the prime viewing spot. in my opinion, the best 500jpy spent - I get less people shoving me around, hot coffee, and center view of the entire village. Bathroom is free. There is a souvenir shop attached to the cafe where Higurashi stickers littered the area - I had fun searching for my Easter eggs.
From here you can walk downhill to the village and a right turn would end up near Wada House, one of the larger exhibition house. The walk is on slope and about 10mins down or 15mins up. Excellent to burn off your breakfast/early lunch/ ice cream do you can get more snacks when you reach the village and vice versa.
If you are pressed for time, this is a excellent place to visit to get a feel of the historic village.
M Waye — Google review
Only 20 mins walk from Shirakawa-go bus terminal. It offers stunning views of the village.
Cee — Google review
Awesome view of Shirakawa-go village. So glad we walked 15 mins up the hill. The view is absolutely incredible. And there are professional photographers who take pictures of you. Beer and sake are both cold. View is amazing.
Andrew Stephens — Google review
- From the village, hike for around 10-20 minutes to reach the observatory deck. The road going up is paved so it's an easy hike.
You can have your photo taken by the staff with the shirakawa village on the background for 1500-2000yen (hard copy + soft copy)
- Crowded on holidays especially on winter season (I went on the first week of January) Can't get a photo with no people in the background :)
- There are clean toilets around the village and in the parking lots
- There are few restaurants or stores to buy food and it get easily sold out especially on holidays and weekends. Better to eat before going or pack your own bento.
- View from the deck was picturesque! Feels like I'm looking at a snow globe
片野アウドリイ — Google review
We walked up to the observation point instead of getting the shuttle as it isn’t very far but it’s a steep hill for those with walking difficulties or heavy back packs. The views are beautiful and there were cherry blossoms in full bloom still at the end of April and early May.
Adam Nagus — Google review
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2269-1 Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu 501-5627, Japan
Gero Onsen Gassho Village is a cultural museum situated near the Giro station, which showcases folk exhibits, craft workshops and a teahouse. The recreated mountain village looks meticulously preserved and allows visitors to enter inside each house to witness the lifestyle of people in ancient times. A hut house offers free dance performances while others feature displays on traditional living.
Amazing Place, 4 hour max enough. The gift shop is amazing with plenty useful gifts. Autumn is the best here. Recommend to everyone! The entrance fees is ¥800/adults, Parking free
Thomas Szabo — Google review
展示物や展示資料が豊富で、昔の生活の様子について学ぶことができました。雨でしたが貸し出し用の傘を無料で借りられたのでよかったです。心落ち着く雰囲気のある合掌村は、下呂温泉に行ったら訪れてほしい場所の一つです。3月だからか、あっちこっちに土雛が飾られていました。奥の方にローラーコースターがあって3歳以上ならOKです。一回100円で滑れますが結構楽しいようです。
(Translated by Google)
There were a lot of exhibits and exhibits, and I was able to learn about what life was like in the past. It was raining, but I was glad that I was able to borrow an umbrella for free. Gassho Village, with its calming atmosphere, is one of the places you should visit when you go to Gero Onsen. Perhaps because it was March, there were clay dolls decorated everywhere. There is a roller coaster in the back that is suitable for children over 3 years old. You can ski for 100 yen a time, and it seems to be quite fun.
Yのりこ — Google review
The site is small but well protected. Good place to go with onsen trip, can reach there on foot just 15mins walk from the train station.
OK Glue — Google review
It's a wonderful place at walking distance from Giro station. The traditional village looks well preserved and worth time spending. You can enter inside each houses. One of the hut house has free dance performance. Others display the life style of people in the ancient days. There is a nice hot water Onsen. You can use it for free. However, there is one time entry fee.
If you have plan to visit Takayama, drop here on your way for around 1-3 hrs, it's worth the time.
Chandan Kumar Gautam — Google review
下呂駅から歩いて行ける距離です。
白川郷まで足を伸ばせなかったので、合掌造りの建屋を覗けて良かったです。
175m程の滑り台(1回100円)は想像以上にスピードが出るので大人でも楽しめます。
むしろ子供が幼い場合には保護者と一緒の方が良いかと思います。
(Translated by Google)
It is within walking distance from Gero Station.
I wasn't able to go all the way to Shirakawa-go, so it was nice to be able to take a look at the gassho-style buildings.
The 175m slide (100 yen per ride) is faster than you can imagine, so even adults can enjoy it.
In fact, if the child is young, I think it's better to go with a parent.
shez tatin (タルトタタン) — Google review
Amazing architecture!
The movable frames against strong northern winds are superior wisdom.
Informative staff and well preserved huge farmhouses with plenty of appliances.
The accessibility from the downtown is great as well.
The discount tickets are available at hotels.
Nali Yan — Google review
Beautiful view. You can feed the big fishes and ducky at the pond. You can have a walk there. When you go up the slope, you will find a very long and fun slide there. Remember to keep ¥100 coin for the sliding for each people.
Mak M — Google review
Now we know why their Google rating is so low, well below 4.0. This open air museum is very very small and for the ticket price of 800 yen per person is just ridiculous. Just about 3 main Gassho houses only in the area. Wasted our time there. 🤦🏻
Rodney Ong SG — Google review
Must visit when you go Gero. Well preserved history and farmhouse which shows the activities , tasks done during olden days . The bus stop is outside the village so no transport issues. They do have fun ride for 100 jpy and it just boosts energy . Atleast it did for me . Definitely recommended and they do have souvenirs shop.
Fatima Ahmed — Google review
2024年3月に伺いました
変に音楽も流れていなく、のんびり散策しました
雛飾りがあちこちにあり、陶器のお雛様たちが並んでいました
昔の農機具や養蚕の様子など
80を越える両親は懐かしいねと見て回っていました
かえる神社は下呂温泉にあるかえる神社とは違い、お賽銭をいれても○○しません(ネタバレになるので気になる方は下呂温泉のかえる神社でお賽銭を入れてみてください)
それと本坪鈴?が・・・
かえる神社だなぁと思いました
フォトスポットはケータイを乗せる台もあり全員で写真が撮れます
100円のスライダーは行くまでの道のりがずいぶんありそうでしたので諦めました
食事するところもあり、お土産やさんもあります
入場券は宿泊するホテルなどで安く購入できる場合もありますので一度ホテルで確認した方がいいです
JAF割引はありませんでした
(Translated by Google)
I visited in March 2024.
Strangely, there was no music playing, so I took a leisurely stroll.
There were doll decorations everywhere, and ceramic dolls lined up.
Old agricultural machinery and sericulture, etc.
My parents, who are over 80 years old, were looking around thinking it was nostalgic.
Unlike the Kaeru Shrine in Gero Onsen, Kaeru Shrine does not do ○○ even if you put money in it (this will be a spoiler, so if you are interested, please try putting money in at Kaeru Shrine in Gero Onsen)
And Suzu Mototsubo? but···
I thought it was a frog shrine.
The photo spot also has a stand for cell phones so everyone can take photos together.
I gave up on the 100 yen slider because it seemed like there was a long way to go.
There are places to eat and souvenir shops.
Admission tickets can sometimes be purchased cheaply at the hotel where you are staying, so it is better to check with the hotel first.
There was no JAF discount.
uran uran — Google review
It is a small village in an atmosphere very characteristic of old gassho houses. The ticket for the entrance was ¥800, and you can visit a museum of a life in a house and its old utensils. a nice walk with family and friends. Calm and peaceful place.
stouporai sempre — Google review
下呂温泉宿泊の為、寄りました。白川郷に比べると規模が違いますが、全体的にまとまって見る事が出来て良かったです。
雛人形があちこちに飾ってあり、素晴らしかったです。訪問した日が3月だったからか、平日の為かお団子屋さんなど、休みになっているお店があり残念でした。
宿泊するホテルで100円引きのチケットがもらえるのかなー?
私は先に行った為入館料800円で入りました。
(Translated by Google)
I stopped by to stay at Gero Onsen. Although the scale is different compared to Shirakawa-go, it was nice to be able to see it as a whole.
Hina dolls were displayed everywhere and it was wonderful. Perhaps because the day I visited was in March, or perhaps because it was a weekday, some shops, such as the dango shop, were closed, which was a shame.
I wonder if I can get a 100 yen discount ticket at the hotel I'm staying at?
I went there first, so I paid an admission fee of 800 yen.
カズ — Google review
Really great spot to visit while you're in Gero. It's a lot of shops and restaurants inside. There is also a really nice craft shop where the owner will teach you how to make fireworks out of toothpicks. Very fun!
Nik Blach — Google review
下呂温泉で一番有名な観光地の合掌村です。
合掌村内では過去に使われていた農耕具や農具など
歌舞伎人形の歴史館、見晴らし台、足湯など見どころが豊富にある村です。
下呂駅からはかなり離れています
歩いて行くには多少時間はかかります!
僕がここに来たタイミングでは、ゆずの足湯が期間限定でやっていました。
足湯もあってお食事処も複数あります!
合掌村だけで観光を満喫できる場所です
下呂温泉に来た際は行った方が良い場所だと僕は思います。
(Translated by Google)
Gassho Village is the most famous tourist spot in Gero Onsen.
Farming implements and implements used in the past in Gassho Village
The village has many attractions, including a Kabuki doll history museum, observation deck, and footbath.
Quite far from Gero station
It takes some time to walk!
When I came here, the Yuzu footbath was open for a limited time.
There is also a footbath and multiple restaurants!
Gassho Village is the place where you can enjoy sightseeing to the fullest.
I think it's a good place to go when you come to Gero Onsen.
齋藤たけし — Google review
Unlike Shirakawa where the thatch houses are working houses, the ones in Gero have been made into museums and it houses antique dolls, documents, tools and equipment showing what was like living in these houses in the old times.
At the top of the hill in the village museum, there's a fun slide that's about 180m long. Cost 100yen for a quick ride back to the foot of the hill.
There's also a hot water foot bath if you want to rest your feet for a few minutes.
Edmund Lee — Google review
雨で森の滑り台が出来なかったのが残念😂
1番良かったのは、足湯と茶房で食べたみたらし団子が美味しすぎた✨
あと、個人的には円空館も好き!
旧大戸家住宅は、人形がリアルすぎて怖かった💦
ぶらぶらのんびりできたので満足です!
(Translated by Google)
Too bad the forest slide couldn't be done because of the rain 😂
The best part was that the mitarashi dango I ate at the footbath and the tea room was so delicious✨
Also, I personally like Enkukan!
The dolls in the former Ooto family residence were so realistic it was scary💦
I'm satisfied because I was able to relax and hang out!
NAOKI SUGI — Google review
Gassho Mura Village is a must-visit attraction in Gero. It's like a mini version of Shirakawago, but it's more of a museum that showcases how ancient Japanese people used to live. It's an interesting and educational experience that is definitely worth your time.
The highlight of the village is the long slide on the hillside. It's so much fun, and I highly recommend trying it out. It only costs 100 yen, and it's best to bring coins if you want to try it. We made the mistake of not bringing coins, so we had to hike all the way back down to exchange our notes. but the slide was totally worth it!
JJ — Google review
800円の入場料を払いますが、下の観光案内所で10%オフの割引がもらえたみたいです。
合掌造を移転してきたそうです。
昔の農具がたくさん見れるのと、おじさんが草鞋を編んでいるのを見れるし、買えます。
お土産物屋も少し入っていました。ゆっくり回ってます30分くらいですかね?
無料の駐車場もあります。
(Translated by Google)
I paid an entrance fee of 800 yen, but apparently I was able to get a 10% discount at the tourist information center below.
It seems that the Gassho-zukuri building has been relocated.
You can see a lot of old farming tools, see an old man knitting grass sandals, and buy them.
There was also a small souvenir shop. It rotates slowly, about 30 minutes?
Free parking is also available.
jia — Google review
Love Gero so much. gassho village is a must when visiting here. See how life was way back when or enjoy traditional food at one of the cafe. Feed hungry koi, salmon and trout in the many ponds or ride down the roller slides for only 100yen per ride down. Mind you, it's a bit of a walk up hill.
Mcdonald Goh — Google review
合掌作りを展示しています。
交通手段が少々微妙なのと、コンテンツがあまり多くありません。下呂温泉ほとんど唯一の観光施設な気はしますが。
(Translated by Google)
Gassho making is on display.
The means of transportation are a bit strange, and there isn't much content. I feel like Gero Onsen is almost the only tourist facility.
ゆけむり — Google review
Gravel paths wind through beautiful, well-kept, gardens, ponds and thatched-roofed houses.
Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum situated 2km west of Takayama. It showcases over 30 well-preserved traditional houses from the Edo period, characterized by their thatched roofs and wooden construction. The village includes a former village head's house, logging huts, and gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs originating from Shirakawa-go.
I love this place even though I have not much time to spend there. It would be nice to visit during other season. You can come here instead of Shiragawagoe for experience the heritage house and history.
UM-IM MIMU — Google review
This was a very nice attraction showing the different styles houses from the region. It was a very nice walk in autumn and was very interesting, I wish I had more time to look at everything properly. Highly recommend. It took me approximately 20minutes walk from Takayama Station and the entry fee was 700 yen. I got there early and it was nice and quiet.
Paul R — Google review
Definitely recommend visiting if you're in Takayama. You get to learn about how people used to live, work, make and store food, make roofs etc. in the past. There are multiple areas where you can feel like a kid again e.g. learning how to juggle with traditional juggling balls, solve puzzles or shoot a bamboo water gun. It was surprisingly very fun! The park is also simply beautiful, with views of the mountains and the valley too.
Agnieszka Szefer — Google review
A fantastic time capsule of early Japanese history. Beautifully set, give yourself a good 2hrs to explore fully. Shoes must be taken off to explore further inside the houses. Stamps are present in many for your travel book. During winter many paths are shut due to snowfall, many of the houses have alternate paths, so you can still get to them, however some will not be accessible.
Fergus Reaper — Google review
Gorgeous place to take kids and let them run. There’s a ton of little activities for them to do that are free. Nearly everything is also described in English which is super cool!
Jennifer Michael — Google review
Truly amazing.
Personally, I went during the winter and when the village is covered in snow it was absolutely breathtaking. Unfortunately during the winter, certain sections are closed off due to snow and icy conditions, however the majority are still open and accessible. Tickets are cheap and you can easily spend 2ish hours exploring all the buildings and reading about the history.
You can enter basically every building and they have slippers by the entrance of each building. It was quite informative in that the purposes of each building in the village are clearly displayed with many tidbits on their history and function.
Most of the pictures I saw were from spring but somehow it is just as beautiful if not more in the winter. Definitely an amazing visit anytime of year.
Gavin Sim — Google review
Very nice stroll to have among history. The place is very well preserved and gives you the chance to have both a cultural and a naturalistic experience at the same time. Very recommended especially if you visit in summer and you look for a fresher place to spend some nice time. They have a spot by the lake where you can borrow paper umbrellas, a traditional vest and a hat to take a nice picture.
Alberta C. — Google review
Amazing place. It still preserves the essence of a traditional village. The whole area is magic. The main lake in the middle of the houses is very beautiful and you can even take some pictures with some traditional clothes for free.
Carlos Lucena — Google review
Such a great experience to see all these unique buildings in such a beautiful setting. The Koi fish lake was stunning in all of its autumn colours. Set aside a couple of hours for this and if it rains they have umbrellas you can loan for free.
Tony Lorentzen — Google review
Very interesting and historical folk village of one the Japanese ancestors with their unique pointed roof. Amazing use of ropes and knots that hold the whole structure of houses together including special crafted wood and timbers used. Different rooms and floor levels for various purposes. Planting roof top with some greens.
Also the circular and rectangular padi rice fields (miniature) demonstrating their farming days then.
There is a live demonstration of a man crafting various wooden articles and two women doing some sewings for sales.
Worth of ¥700 per person entry fees.
Leong — Google review
Definitely one of my favourite days during our month in Japan. It gives you an idea of how life was during the Edo period with clear explanations in English. Fun activities for the family and a refreshing walk in the woods.
Alessandro Binetti — Google review
Beautiful outdoor area featuring a variety of traditional homes to explore! It was fantastic to see and far less crowded than its more popular counterpart a bit further north. You can pickup a joint admission ticket and round trip bus fare from the main station in town which is convenient and saves 100yen.
Daniel Ruthman — Google review
It was snowing heavily when we went here so didn’t really stay long enough to enjoy the place but we went to almost every “house” If you can’t go to Shirakawa-go, this place will somehow make up for it.
Chit Lacson — Google review
A lovely and quaint folk village complex about 35 mins walk from Takayama or a 15 min bus ride.
We went on a clear autumn day in October and it was a lovely afternoon walking through the buildings and different parts of the grounds.
Entry is 700 Yen per person which was well worth it. The village allows you to explore how life was like for the people living there and the exhibits are really interactive - there are even games you can play as part of your visit. You learn about their living conditions, the farming and building methods as well as historical Japanese cultural references.
One of the highlights was watching a wood carver make an owl out of wood which was incredible to see - an art passed down that was intricate and beautiful.
A worthwhile visit for the price and you could easily spend 2 hours here (the map you're given gives you different routes you can take depending on the time you have, the max of which is 1 hour but I think you could spend longer there if you'd like to) - would highly recommend!
Arash Khosravi — Google review
Fun, educational and interesting. The Hida Folk Village (or Hida no Sato) is an open-air museum where you go back in time about 100 to 500 years. Thanks to about thirty houses, barns, watermills, shrines and so on, you can relive the past of a Japanese village. In addition to the various architectural styles, of which the gassho-zukuri is the most striking, you will become acquainted with utensils that were used in household, work and daily life. And in workshops you can discover how Japan's famous handicrafts are made, such as wood carving, tie-dying, (silk)weaving, and lacquer work. All in all a very interesting and educational destination that I highly recommend.
Koen — Google review
Quiet time exploring the village with much historical features! There were activities for visitors to enjoy and really scenic view.
I would imagine it nicer during winter when the houses are covered in snow but it’s was still a pleasant experience.
Entry fee is 700 yen, and it’s about 10-15 mins bus ride from where the main takayama station is!
But the bus departs in 1-hour interval, it’s either a 1 hour or 2 hour visit.
hs tan — Google review
This place was just wonderful! I walked all the way there from Takayama city centre, and it was a great thing to do. Such a beautiful and interesting part of Japan. Very rich in history and culture.
Highly recommended!
Jo TS — Google review
Amazing place to visit in Takayama. If you do not like crowds, go as soon as they open at 8:30. I had an hour in the morning in which I was the only visitor in sight. Tourists quickly appeared after an hour and it became more difficult to enjoy the property without disruption. There is lots of information on the buildings, the property, and the history of everything on the premises. It was very well taken care of and there are interesting things for children too, like games and viewing stations of the mountains afar. Signage is in Chinese, Japanese, and English. Easy to get there on a local bus.
Pieter Sypesteyn — Google review
A very special destination within Takayama. Beautiful views of traditional Japanese buildings alongside lush greenery. Very immersive and educational. Expect to spend multiple hours wandering the grounds and taking photographs. Bring extra change to feed the fish!
Lachie S. — Google review
Located in Takayama, Hida no Sato or aka Hida Folk Village should be included in your plan if you happen to be near the area. Ticket price is reasonable at 700¥ per adult. The premise of the museum is full of little dashboards and decorated rooms that teach you the history of the buildings and structures. The steep roofs of the houses is made of straw, so it kind of resembles the ones you'd find in Shirakawa-Go, like a mini version of the famous town.
Samuel Wong — Google review
Around 40 minutes walk from Takayama Station. This place is a beautiful village that features traditional houses with a beautiful lake in the middle. Do note that there are busses that go there but they run really infrequently.
Hida no Sato is like a scaled down version of Shirakawago but it doesn’t make it any less impressive.
Went at the end of March but it was snowing heavily that week. So the entire village was covered in a nice layer of white powdered snow. Adding to the whole atmosphere of the place. They have little stations to collect stamps too if you have a notebook for that.
On top of that they have free boots rental to help with walking around the snow.
chee hwa ng — Google review
Really enjoyed this place. Was a bit out of the way to walk to but otherwise was a breath of fresh air to explore and see.
All of the exhibit is well signed in English (and Japanese) so you can read up about the history of what it was like living in Japanese villages. Many other exhibits in Japan don't have this level of detail so it was lovely to see.
You can also go in to most of the buildings and explore, and since it's fairly out of the way there's few tourists.
We visited start of December at about 2pm and found the temperature cold but manageable.
Philip Witowski — Google review
This is a must do if you visit Takayama. It was snowing that day so I could enjoy the Folk Village under a white coat and with a small frozen lake. Simply beautiful. You learn about the old Japanese farming culture, how they were organized in a village like this and how they survived freezing winters.
We were around 10 people in the village in the middle of the afternoon so I think people somehow don’t come here, but you should. Don’t miss this hidden gem.
Arthur Zoia — Google review
It was wonderful to witness the preservation of heritage in the area. My family and I had a great time imagining what life was like in the past as we explored the traditional homes made of straw. Although we did not stay for the illumination, we did try ringing the bell and making a wish.
Charles — Google review
Visited on 18th March. Entrance fee is Y700 per pax.
It is a nice village turned into a museum. The place is very peaceful and beautiful. There are still some snow on the roofs on the traditional houses, enhancing the beauty of the museum. There isn't much towards the museum and mainly we went there mainly for the view.
Sean Wong — Google review
Best to buy the bus ticket combo with the entrance at Nohi terminal counter, this saves you 100yen. So total 800yen 2way bus including the entrance ticket.
The museum opens until 5pm but the last direct bus from there to the bus terminal is at around 4.50ish so it’s best to leave from the terminal, at the latest at 3pm. That way you have more than 1h to explore.
The bus pattern is 9, 9.45, 10, 10.45, 11, 11.45. time it correctly that way you don’t have to wait for 45mins.
Beware that the bust platform 1 is shared with other bus routes! When we were there waiting with other tourists, the bus driver didn’t stop for more than 5seconds and take off without signalling to us that it’s the bus to hida, that pisses all of us as the next bus was 3.45pm, we only had less than 1h to explore, because of this slack bus driver and we needed to wait for another 45mins for the next bus.
Hida village can be covered within 1h at a faster pace if you don’t go in and out of the houses, but ideally 1.5h at least, to give you time to enjoy the scenery, take pictures, use the stamps, going in and out of the houses, take off and put back your shoes (if you go to every house it will take about 2h).
As you need to take off shoes when you enter the wooden area of the house, you want to wear thick socks. Some upper rooms are opened too, so you can go upstairs and see the architecture of the roof.
It can be slippery during winter hence many routes are closed for walking but this does not affect the experience. They were doing it for safety reasons, although it feels like we didn’t get to see some areas.
Overall it’s worth it, especially if you only have a day or two in Takayama, saving you from going to shiragawago.
Since the place is not that big, it’s best to check the crowd level using google map, it wouldn’t be nice having too many tourists there especially inside those small houses.
Line S — Google review
Had a short visit during the illumination. Very beautiful but small museum to visit (I finished the walk within 30 mins) as lots of areas were closed. No public transportation after 6pm so you need to walk 2,5km back to town
Truc Nguyen — Google review
Highly recommend for people who would like to get to know rural Japan. Great for those who plan to go to Shirakawa (as an extension) or those who would like to have the Shirakawa-go experience without the crowds. 10 out of 10, don’t plan it for the end of the day, as there are so many expositions, houses to drop by, that it is worth reserving at least 2-3h for the attraction.
Wioleta Duda — Google review
4.4
(4386)
•
4.5
(1540)
1 Chome-590 Kamiokamotomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0055, Japan
Tourists can visit Takayama Jinya, a restored government building in Japan with a Japanese garden. This historical complex served as the local government office for officials sent from Tokyo and was in use until 1969. Now open to the public as a museum, visitors can explore the traditional tatami mat rooms used for meetings, officers, and residential spaces. Takayama Jinya offers insights into life under the Tokugawa Shogunate and showcases Edo period architecture.
With the entry fee costing ¥440, you will get great experience immersing yourself into Edo Bakufu era (17-19th century). Takayama Jinya was a branch office of the Edo Bakufu (government) from 1692 until 1868 when new government was formed (Meiji government). This place is designated as a National historic site and is the ONLY existing building of its kind in Japan!!!
The winter season in particular is recommended for foreigners who want to enjoy beautiful snow :)
Kentaro Wada — Google review
This is a typical government office of the Edo period very well maintained to give visitors an idea of what administration buildings looked like as regarding their day to day affairs. There are exhibits on the invitation of guests of different ranks with distinctions made in the separate rooms and even entrances for the type of visitor. There’s a part of the building dedicated to hearing out petitions from grieving citizens and a torture chamber for suspected and guilty offenders. There’s also an exhibit or a room and sort of palanquin for messages exclusively from Edo. For adults entry costs ¥400, while ages below 16 pay half that.
Kingston Obike — Google review
Fantastic experience on governor housing. It is very educational and could be boring to some. Enjoy the little garden. Quite a historical moment.
Regu Pillai — Google review
岐阜県高山市の高山駅から徒歩10分程の場所に在る国指定史跡の建築物。
高山城主金森氏がお国替えで移動した際の下屋敷跡を江戸幕府の直轄領として飛騨國を統治する為の拠点で、176年間、代官や飛騨郡代が政治を行った
建物は代官や郡代達の政事の場『執務空間』代官や郡代達の家族の場『居住空間』年貢米を貯蔵する『米蔵』に区別されて居るとの事!
日本で唯一主要建物が現存する代官、郡代所跡、訪問時は平日でしたが外国人観光客が多く来場され華麗な日本美を楽しんで居る様に感じました。
(Translated by Google)
A building designated as a national historic site, located about a 10-minute walk from Takayama Station in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.
The site of the former residence of the Kanamori clan, the lord of Takayama Castle, when they moved to another country, was used as a base for governing Hida Province as a territory under the direct control of the Edo shogunate, and for 176 years, the magistrates and Hida district lords conducted politics there.
The building is divided into ``office space'' where the magistrates and district leaders carry out political affairs, ``living space'' where the families of the magistrates and district leaders live, and a ``rice storehouse'' where annual tax rice is stored!
The only remaining main building in Japan is the ruins of the local magistrate's office, and although it was a weekday when I visited, I felt that many foreign tourists were visiting and enjoying the splendid beauty of Japan.
Yoshinori kageshima — Google review
Very well preserved building. I would recommend waiting for the tour groups to pass for more peace and quiet to read the signs and take in the building. It was nice to see where people did things of old. We came in winter and you have to take your shoes off and carry them around in a plastic bag. Make sure you wear thick socks if coming in winter!
Kikoprincess Li — Google review
its easy to see why people recommend this place a lot!
takayama jinya is an edo period government headquarters. you can buy a ticket with a brochure and go inside. its a really well preserved and beautiful building. its worth the couple hundred yen it costs for admission!
be aware you should wear socks because you must remove shoes to go inside!
mac klemore — Google review
Visited this summer, on a Saturday. Not many people so there wasn't a line at the ticket booth. Learned about how Takayama Jinja is a unique building in all of Japan. Each section has a small English transcript or description of what can be seen. There are also QR code posts that lead to links that talk about specific areas in detail. There is no airconditioner of course, but if you're lucky a slight breeze might just come through while taking a brief rest at the "living room" - this area overlooks the garden and the pond.
At specific dates during summer, a special kabuki performance is held in the big room (3 rooms really, with the sliding doors taken off).
Darlene Toclo — Google review
It was great being able to go into a historical building. Worth the money. Don't forget to get the eki stamp at the resting spot when you finish!
Majo Vs — Google review
「入館料」440円
高山駅からは徒歩10分ほど。
「陣屋」として主要な建物が現存しているのは日本中でここだけとのことなので、貴重な史跡として見ごたえがある、歴史好きにはたまらない場所です。
江戸時代の役人たちの仕事場エリアや代官の生活エリア、貯蔵庫や展示エリアなど陣屋内はかなり広いので、
じっくり見学すると1時間ほどの時間がかかります。
外から見るよりも中は広くて見応えがあります。とにかく見学できるエリアが広いと言った感想です。
雰囲気は、大政奉還があった京都の二条城をコンパクトにまとめたって感じの印象ですかね。
日本で唯一主要建物が現存する代官・郡代所跡として貴重であり、歴史的に見てもなかなか見ごたえのある史跡でした。
(Translated by Google)
"Admission fee" 440 yen
About 10 minutes walk from Takayama Station.
It is said to be the only place in Japan where the main building as a ``jinya'' still exists, so it is worth seeing as a valuable historical site and is a must-see for history buffs.
The inside of the camp is quite large, including the workplace area of Edo period officials, the living area of the magistrate, storage area, and exhibition area.
It will take about an hour to take a thorough look.
The inside is larger than it looks from the outside and is worth seeing. Anyway, my impression is that there is a wide area that you can tour.
The atmosphere is like a compact version of Nijo Castle in Kyoto, where the Imperial Restoration took place.
It is valuable as the only remaining main building in Japan of the magistrate and district office, and from a historical perspective it is quite a sight to behold.
トム — Google review
You take your shoes off at the entrance, and they give you a plastic bag to hold them in until you leave. It's a big and well-maintained building that gives you the look and feel of the Edo period. Feels pretty surreal to be able to casually stroll through a piece of history. There's a section with lots of historical artifacts and documents to look at too. Overall, it's a pretty nice visit for a little bit of immersion. There's quite a bit of empty space in the rooms though. I do wish the place felt more "lived in"
Maya Fey — Google review
Friendly welcoming staff. Lots of old artifacts and information in English. Enjoyable, peaceful, worth a visit.
Kellie Oxlade — Google review
It a historical place shows the past Japanese government’s working place. The house is cleaning and well preserved. Everyone need to take off shoes to tour.
Austin Wu — Google review
An old government office that has been restored, showing not only how the officials worked, but also their governance (e.g. forestry and how Hida prepared timber), and significant events (such as taxation changes and the ensuing riots).
There is a defined route you take through the rooms and exhibitions with signs in English, and QR-code audio guides in English and other languages for key attractions. A translation app will do the trick for the rest of the lengthier information displays.
Entry is 440yen per adult and bags are provided for your shoes and umbrellas.
Rhea T — Google review
Well maintained building and interesting walking museum. You do need to take off your shoes
Joe DePucci (JoJo) — Google review
毎年11月3日文化の日は入場が無料。
通常の440円でも値段以上の価値はあるのに無料とは。
陣屋の中は昭和初期か明治か大正の雰囲気があり、見学している間はその時代にタイムスリップしたかのよう。
(Translated by Google)
Admission is free on Culture Day, November 3rd every year.
It's worth more than the regular price of 440 yen, but it's free.
The inside of the Jinya has an atmosphere from the early Showa, Meiji, or Taisho eras, and while you're touring it, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time to that era.
waka — Google review
Date Visited: 11/11/2023
You have to take off your shoes upon entering and the floor was a little cold.
It was an old government office that is nicely maintained. There are a lot of historical documents and items.
John C — Google review
Good to get some insights into how local government worked in the Edo period. We followed another tour group so got some free insights 😅 you must take your shoes off and it was freezing cold so that was rather unpleasant.
Rebecca Powell — Google review
The entrance of the jinya is unexpectedly simple and modest. However, the interior paints a different story. Amazing handcrafted details! Visiting the place is like going through a maze. But when we reached the inner courtyard, we were greeted by beautifully curated garden. This surely made visit worth it.
Across a bridge in this quaint town is the famous Sanmachi Street, where tourists go for its shops set in caeefully preserved buildings from Edo period. A "must try" is their juicy Hida beef barbecue. My kids simply can't get enough of them.
Dennis Capinpin — Google review
Old traditional Japanese house complex of a provincial governor and magistrate’s office that was turned into a museum. For a small entrance fee you can explore the whole house and barn and be transported back into the Edo Period. The house is well preserved and a great place to visit.
Thomas Delemarre — Google review
Although I went because it is one of the landmarks in the area and didn’t have too much expectations, it was quite interesting to learn about the history and the importance of Takayama in the Tokunawa Shogunate era. The place is larger than you think and it can take you up to 30 minutes to walk around it. It was few English translations and be prepared because you must remove your shoes and in winter the floor gets very cold.
Juan Tomas Rodriguez — Google review
Old building in town. Popular with tourists. Spent 30 mins here. JPY440 ticket for adult
SL Y — Google review
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1 Chome-5 Hachikenmachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0012, Japan
Sanmachi Suji, also known as the three narrow streets of Hida Takayama, is a charming area in the heart of the city. These streets are lined with traditional merchant houses, restaurants, shops, and breweries that date back to the Edo period. Despite being untouched by World War II bombings, these buildings have been remarkably preserved for centuries. This historic district offers a unique experience as you wander through atmospheric old buildings and explore museums and sake breweries.
Takayama old town is a town dating back to Edo era. They preserved the old buildings in a good way that you feel you are back to that time. Mostly they are now shops, cafes and restaurants, so bring some money to buy souvenirs or eat local food.
Abdul Muizz — Google review
I walked there in an evening and there were very few people on the street. So it was very calm and quite. Also it was beautiful with the remaining snow.
GayathreE Kaluarachchi — Google review
One of the streets of Takayama’s old town. A street filled with traditional picturesque wooden houses. There are plenty of shops and food places around here including sake tasting and even miso tasting shops. The place can feel a bit touristy. A good way to avoid the crowds is to go early morning or maybe visit the side streets. They’re equally as pretty but with a lot less tourists.
chee hwa ng — Google review
This area has an authentic japanese feel to it, with small traditional stores, great restaurants and a peaceful flow. It’s a great place for a peaceful day walking around at a relaxed pace.
Anass Drissi — Google review
Takayama is a tourist trap. This town, Is 99% souvenir shop. Is a real tourist trap masked as a preserve old town. I love Japan. But trust me, skip Takayama. Just look at my pics. Every shop is the same. Cheap tourist goods. Fridge magnets. Etc. Can't even find a real cafe here that is not cater to tourist .
khim chong chung — Google review
Love love love this super cute nice small town. Get around here by walking is a must to do. “Hida” Beef is also must do here a lot. Tender and juicy. Many nice shops along the street : sake, miso, syrup, wagashi, cafes 🍵 Just dont come too late because they close quite early. Check and plan the trip right to enjoy the town. (Photos from many visits years ago)
???Premmie — Google review
23.9 町並み観光。
お土産屋さんや酒屋さん食事所が沢山。
古い建物が魅力的です。
(Translated by Google)
23.9 Townscape sightseeing.
There are many souvenir shops, liquor stores, and restaurants.
The old buildings are charming.
杉浦T — Google review
Sanmachi Suji este un grup de trei străzi principale din inima orașului Takayama, recunoscut ca zonă de conservare a clădirilor tradiționale semnificative din punct de vedere istoric, ceea ce înseamnă că toate casele private vechi și clădirile magazinelor sunt păstrate în stare impecabilă. De fapt, este considerată una dintre cele mai bine conservate zone din Japonia, ceea ce i-a adus titlul de „Micul Kyoto”.
Chiar dacă clădirile au peste 300 de ani, multe încă funcționează ca restaurante, magazine de suveniruri și depozite de sake. Este nevoie de cateva ore pentru a explora în mod corespunzător toate cele trei străzi paralele care alcătuiesc cartierul istoric și puțin mai mult dacă te oprești la unele dintre muzeele de aici. Un loc cu adevărat unic și splendid!
(Translated by Google)
Sanmachi Suji is a group of three main streets in the heart of Takayama, recognized as a Historically Significant Traditional Building Preservation Area, which means that all the old private houses and shop buildings are kept in pristine condition. In fact, it is considered one of the best-preserved areas in Japan, earning it the title of "Little Kyoto."
Even though the buildings are over 300 years old, many still function as restaurants, souvenir shops, and sake warehouses. It takes a few hours to properly explore all three parallel streets that make up the historic quarter, and a little longer if you stop at some of the museums here. A truly unique and splendid place!
Angie T. — Google review
Nice shopping area in Takayama with photo opportunities with the old houses. It can get very touristy though so for the best photos, probably mornings at 9-10am would be good when the shops are open and the light is nice (winter season).
The shops all close by 4-5pm in winter and there is nothing to do after in the area.
Luke Goh — Google review
One of the most historical places we visited in Japan. Mostly, the shop closes on this street by 5 or 6 in the evening. But if you happen to see the stores open, the street is really alive. So much Japanese feels.
There are Japanese foods to try. And really, you should try. Souvenir shops are also open.
During the night, taking a photograph is magical. Specially when someone is riding on a bicycle. Should be added on your Japan to visit places. 🇯🇵❤️
Zephyriousity Ph — Google review
This place has an ancient beauty and the design of coffee house is similar to Europe. Along the streets selling specialties, food, souvenirs of takayama. Everyone should try Hida beef sushi and Hida beef Ramen, very delicious.
Ngan Thai — Google review
Although smaller in proportion, the smaller crowds make it worthwhile to browse leisurely the old ancient town
David EB — Google review
Beautiful street, lots of food to try. well preserved
smriti bhargava — Google review
An excellent place to walk through as both sides of the road are surrounded by old-fashioned traditional buildings.
These buildings contain shops of various kinds - cookie, matcha, souvenir, restaurants, sake brewery, etc. Highly recommend a visit if you’re in the area.
Nathan — Google review
Nice spot with preserved old merchant houses and some great cafes and sake breweries to visit. A must visit if you're in Takayama. Definitely try to come here earlier in the day as it only consists out of a few streets and gets pretty full in the afternoon.
Matthias Wendel — Google review
Very touristy quaint shopping street lined with restaurants, souvenir shops, and snacks. It’s a long way to come for this so make sure you budget at least 2 to 3 hours to walk around and have a cuppa if you are coming to Takayama old town.
Eric Lee — Google review
A few blocks of traditional Japanese houses, residences, stores, and cafés. A lot of tourists of course, but it's a nice piece of the city to stroll through. I would recommend stopping by in the late afternoon as it starts to grow darker, as the streets are gorgeous in the fading light and you'll find a lot less tourists as well.
Johan Björefeldt — Google review
Old town area. Busy in the daylight. Stores open early around 9am, but by 6pm everything is closed. Old houses. Many sake stores and snack places
SL Y — Google review
It is called “little kyoto”. Nice place to visit, aside from Hida Folk Village, tourist came to visit here. Lots for restaurant and souvenirs shop. Enjoy roaming around.
Lakwatsera Lhine — Google review
It's the most famous part of Takayama and there are lots of street food options, cafes and restaurants. The buildings are all very old and very cool. The area is very photogenic. However in the high season it gets quite crowded.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a picturesque 90-kilometer trail that winds through the stunning Japanese Alps, offering a range of transportation options to traverse it. Although the experience is pleasant, one should prepare for potential waiting times at each stage of the journey. Additionally, returning to a previous point on the route may prove challenging. However, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking natural scenery that makes it all worthwhile.
A gorgeous part of Japan - so incredibly scenic. It's a lot of fun switching from one form of transport to another all along the route, and the scenery is beautiful…had a beautiful cool day with bright blue skies…seeing the snow wall and the great view of the plateau was worth it.
SS S — Google review
It was a very nice experience but be prepared to wait in line for each section of the route. If you choose to go a part of the route and come back to the same spot it can get quite a challenge. The nature is astonishing.
Jure Vodnik — Google review
I couldn’t get the ticket and reserve it in advance.
However, you can walk in on that day in the early morning.
I recommend to stay at the Toyama station and the next morning you went to the dentetsu Toyama station.
There is a counter you can by a ticket and reserve cable car together.
The price depend on the final destination you would like to visit there.
If you would like to go only snow wall I recommend you reserve at the Murodo station.
The price also has two option ; one-way and go and back. All the price include bus from cable car to snow wall.
The reservation is first come first serve.
ジージー — Google review
You must be able bodied to traverse this route through the mountains!! From Matsumoto side, electric buses travel through the mountain to reach the Kurobe Dam. There are a bunch of stairs from the bus area to the dam level. The dam is flat and the building with the restaurant on the second floor has a back door with a ramp. The next section of the route has a funicular within the mountain that has stairs to reach since it is 50 feet in the air from the entry way. Be aware the hand railing ends about two steps from the bottom entrance to the funicular car. When the car reaches the upper station you have to cross about 7 feet of narrow step to reach the handrail to continue into the station. Lots of stairs in the upper station. The aerial tram holds about 40 people at a time and crosses a very pretty valley. At the other side of the valley is the station from the highway bus trip down into the valley below. Lots of curves on the road. The last part of the trip is an outdoor funicular which involves more stairs. Great trip but I didn't think this through very well since I have a fear of heights and walk with a cane (prothesis). The access to the Kurobe Dam is much easier from the Matsumoto side but you still have some stairs to climb to get there.
Michael Hogue — Google review
A Must Visit Palace In Tateyama, The Snow Corridor open from Mid Of April,The Snow Corridor Is About 500 metres Long Path Along The Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route Close to the Murodo Plateau.. The Snow Wall Is About 20 metres High when You Come Early..You Can also Explore The Murodo Plateau..🙇🏻🙇🏻🙇🏻
It is the best part of the japan if you are a snow lover .highly recommended
Rohatash Chaudhary — Google review
Glad to have done this trip and checked it off my list. Started from Toyama side and got a return ticket to kurubo dam and back to Takayama station. We had an unexpected situation where strong winds fell a tree along the train line fron tateyama to Toyama which resulted in 2 hours (time taken for train track emergency team to clear the fallen tree) added to the outing time. Thank God all is well.
Mark Yeo — Google review
Could not get the Web ticket for 15 April when it opened for booking on 1 March (hotels have been booked).
As such, we bought the Kurobe Alpine ticket pass from JTB. But we had to exchange it on the day of the visit. Be sure to come as early as possible: we went to the ticket office at 0730 hrs, and could only get onboard the 1350 hrs cable car. The whole journey will take about 4 hours to arrive at Shinano-omachi station. The baggage transfer service can deliver luggage to your hotel if it is near to Shinano-omachi station (like Hotel Route Inn).
biyan tt — Google review
It was a really nice experience hoping to go back again 😊
Fallen angel Lucifer (Jay) — Google review
A must visit place in Japan. Scenic and picturesque. Take a 15mins walk along the route and enjoy this nature's wonder.
Hermann Tai — Google review
It was lovely weather to begin with. Beautiful scenic views everywhere. Spring water is available fresh from the Alpine. Little chaotic, but overall, it's a pleasant trip. What's more the train , cable car and bus trips are well worth it.
Regu Pillai — Google review
It was a fun experience traversing through the Alpine road using different forms of transportation. We took the Ogizawa to Tateyama one way route. The views were breathtaking. Remember to take a map at the start of your trip and collect stamps at every station to keep as a souvenir. Highly recommended for any tourists in Japan! It's a trip to remember.
Lee Zi Yi — Google review
You should buy the Travel Pass to visit this area!
A great travel deals for those looking to explore the Japan Alps. Thw pass provides seamless access to three picturesque destinations: the Alpine region, Takayama, and Matsumoto. Start from Nagoya, travel North to Toyama and embark on a breathtaking journey through the Japanese Alps, enjoying stunning landscapes and charming villages along the way. The unlimited travel makes this pass a practical and cost-effective choice for any traveller.
The ease of hopping on and off trains within the designated area allows travelers to create their own itinerary, immersing themselves in the unique offerings of each location. Overall, the JR Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Pass is a ticket to an enriching and personalized journey through some of Japan's most captivating landscapes and cultural gems.
Only issue is finding the right counter to change the tickets. Most JR staff are not familiar with the voucher. Please arrange enough time to find the correct counter.
Johnny Neo — Google review
When you visit in summer you'll only see 7 meters of snow wall or less. And you can't walk through out the road, only a few meters from Murodo station. They had a rope barrier for some reasons. Nevertheless, the experience was great.
Tip: If you're on a budget, please bring extra food and drinks. Onigiri, sandwiches, and liquids to quench your thirsts from a long walk. Food and drinks prices at the stations are doubled, which is understandable.
Take a lot of pictures and videos. And enjoy every scenery you can see along the travel.
Jerry is Black — Google review
It was a very breathtaking view that I’ve ever seen in my life. I went there on early July, and it was my first time to visit Tateyama Kurobe. Many people suggested me to go on spring instead so that I’ll still able to see the snow wall. But I got a chance to go on summer, and there’s still some snow on the top of the mountain. The weather is nice too, not too cold but kinda windy (around 12-16 degree celcius). It was my first snow experience since I live in a tropical country. I was very happy. Would like to come back again on spring to see the snow wall 😄🙏
Nadia — Google review
Totaly amazing!
This destination is totally worth the cold ✨
This is one of the “once a lifetime” destination. So, I really suggest people who wanna go here to sign up with the Tour, since they know all the suitable routes and schedules for this destination.
Bring the warm pockets or anything winter outfit, since it’s so cold ! And dont forget to bring umbrella for keeping you out from snow and drizzle.
erica winata — Google review
Lovely place with lots of ice. Walking through the ice corridor closes at 3 pm, so try to reach the Murodo station before that time. Weather is very cold in April, Keep spare shoes / socks/ gloves in case ur feet get wet with snow. It is one full day journey though several skiing enthusiasts also stay there for the night. Entire Journey is picturesque.
Inderpreet Singh — Google review
Quite a fun trip to see the snow wall.
Just a note of caution for those coming Detsu Toyama to Tateyama, allow for sufficient transfer time.
ZR Toh — Google review
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Tateyama, Nakaniikawa District, Toyama 930-1406, Japan
For an incredible and breathtaking experience, don't miss the chance to ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway. Situated among the majestic Northern Alps, this exceptional cable car system transports you over a thousand meters up the side of Mount Hotaka, Japan's third-highest mountain. From this vantage point, you can marvel at magnificent vistas of the surrounding mountains or choose to continue your journey on foot towards one of Hotaka's lofty summits.
A must visit if you are going to the Japan Alps. Absolutely stunning in the summer, on a clear day we could see all the mountains. Very scenic. Be sure to bring some postcards (or buy them and stamps from the gift shop) and mail them to friends and family from the most whimsical post box on the observation deck. From the second station you can wander into the woods on a walking trail, and it’s a lovely walk.
Chloe Moisidis — Google review
This place is popular for its double deck ride ropeway, mountain view and autumn 🍁 view.
Quite cold at the top with snow but have an amazing sky view.
Please remember to wear something warm👍🏽.
The staff are very helpful and they have places to relax, eat and obtain souvenirs 😊.
NB: please stay safe and wear a mask 😷.
Kenny G-Win — Google review
Here we use rope-way to roof observation deck. When we arrived, snow was still falling. It is very cold. On the roof observation deck also has restaurant by using vending machine. There also snow corridor, if the weather is fine, you will enjoy however for my is very cold, we can only stay for a moment and hurry to go inside because it is super cold.
Phattapol Payanon — Google review
A panoramic view on top of Shinhotaka Ropeway in Takayama. The autumn 🍂 color change is out of this world. 👍🏻🙌🏻
ijling — Google review
Great views on a sunny day, after you climb the 2nd ropeway. You can have your picture taken and have it framed. Shops (souvenirs, food and beverages) on both ropeways. You can also climb by foot (probably difficult in snow conditions). At ropeway 1 you can relax in a foot onsen. A not to miss experience when in or around Takayama.
Oana Plo — Google review
Freezing, be prepared yourself for coming with warm cloths. Don’t forget to check timetable so don’t need to waiting so long. Very nice views. Long queue for ticket booth. Want to come back again in other Season.
Eiffel — Google review
I went here January 1st of 2022. The weather was sunny but it was still super cold on the top of the mountain. -16!!! Uniqlo's heat tech was not enough. Better do some layering.
Juans InJapan — Google review
Last bus to Hirayu and Takayama at 16.55. Try to avoid tour group, you get stuck in a gondola like a sardine.
Alisra — Google review
4.3
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710-58 Okuhida Onsengo Kansaka, Takayama, Gifu 506-1421, Japan
(Translated by Google) This toilet will give five stars. In addition to the rather special and beautiful shape, the inside is clean (this is the basic of most Japanese public toilets), and it tells you how far you are in the next toilet.
(Original)
這個廁所要給五顆星。除了造型相當特別與美觀外,裡面清潔乾淨(這是日本大部分公廁的基本)外,還很貼心地告訴你下個廁所裡你多遠,非常貼心。
Giant Su — Google review
(Translated by Google) It is in good condition. It's 100 yen. I paid it properly.
(Original)
よく整備されています。100円です。ちゃんと払いました。
?????? — Google review
(Translated by Google) It is a relatively clean toilet.
You can use it with or without feeling that you can add 100 yen at a time.
Kappa Bridge, the toilet in front of you.
(Original)
比較的きれいなトイレです。
気持ちで1回100円を入れてようをたすか、入れなくても使用は可能です。
河童橋、目の前のトイレ。
???? — Google review
3.8
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4.5
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Kamikōchi Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1516, Japan
Senjōjiki Cirque is a stunning glacial landform adorned with vivid wildflowers. It can be accessed via cable car and is popular among mountaineers. However, private car usage is prohibited as only official buses are allowed on the narrow roads leading to the site. Despite this inconvenience, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the ropeway in August's pleasant weather. The journey to the lake can either take you through a shrine or directly from behind the building in just one minute.
To get here, you can catch a bus from Komagane Station to the Komagatake Ropeway station. From there, you can then board the ropeway gondola that'll take you to the top of the mountain. It's a bit on the expensive side, but it's absolutely worth it. Keep in mind, you can't drive to the ropeway station on your own; only buses are allowed. We visited in August, and despite the dreary weather, the scenery was absolutely stunning. There's a simple trail around the pond that takes about 50 minutes, but we really wished we had more time to hike further up to Mt. Komagatake, which can easily take up half a day. So, plan ahead if that’s on your agenda. At the summit station, there’s also a hotel with a restaurant and a souvenir shop.
Maria — Google review
A bit chilly up there, so bring some warmer or extra outer. You can enjoy the highlights of the mountain without climbing efforts, thanks to the ropeway.
RK Hill — Google review
Senjōjiki Cirque is a beautiful alpine cirque located in the Kiso Mountains in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its dramatic scenery, including towering cliffs, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. The cirque is also a popular destination for hiking, camping, and skiing.
I recently visited Senjōjiki Cirque on a weekend, and I was very impressed. The cirque is truly a sight to behold. The cliffs are massive and the waterfalls are cascading. The alpine meadows are lush and green.
However, I must warn that the cirque can be very crowded on weekends, especially during the summer months. If you are planning to visit on a weekend, I recommend arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Overall, I had a great experience at Senjōjiki Cirque. It is a beautiful and unique place that is definitely worth a visit.
Neil Eichenberger — Google review
A little known part of the Central Alps of Nagano but well worth the visit in late May and June before the crowds that apparently throng in the summer months. Fabulous panoramic views on the day we went.
Paul Summers — Google review
An experience that won't ever be forgotten for rest of the life. Due to trani suspension, the journey to Komagane was extremely difficult but the hike next morning made everything better. Highly recommended for a hike lover!
Kyujin Kim — Google review
First and foremost, don't drive a car like us. We failed to see the board as only official buses are allowed to use the road to reach here. We got some weird look by the bus drivers as the roads are narrow. Luckily the people were kind enough to let us buy the gondola ticket.
Keeping that aside, really beautiful spot. Ropeway has some stunning views. We came in August and the weather was nice and cool here. You can take a longer route to the lake via the shrine or go to the back of building and reach the lake in 1 min.
Ahmed Assadi — Google review
It is one of the most attractive spots for tourists. I love it.
Titli Ghosh — Google review
Beautiful place to visit if you get the chance. It's a bit pricey to go to the top, but the view and small 30 minute hike were worth it.
Jeremy — Google review
Must Visit place! We did Mount Kiso-komagatake hike from this point!
Completed in 1963, the Kurobe Dam is an impressive feat of engineering that boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river. As Japan's tallest and largest dam with a capacity of 200 million tons, it holds its place as one of the largest in the world. Construction took approximately seven years and involved over 10 million workers at a cost of 51.3 billion yen. Access to this secluded location was facilitated by helicopter for transportation of materials and tools.
KorubeDam is Japan tallest 186m height and largest dam with capacity of 200 millions tons.
It is indeed also one of the largest in the world and the view is spectacular.
It took approximately 7 years to build. In fact, the first task in constructing the dam was to transport materials and tools to the secluded region by helicopter.
Over 10 million workers were involved in dam construction over the seven years and the total construction cost at the time was 51.3 billion yen!
Vince Tan — Google review
The Kurobe Dam (the tallest dam in Japan ) should not be missed. I visited Here in May and it was perfect! You need to take the special tram to get you there, but it's well worth it. It is one of the main attractions of Kurobe Tateyama Alpine Route. It is huge and very impressive. The scenic view was honestly gorgeous to say the very least. You fell never tired of seeing its panoramic scenery.
SS S — Google review
Stunning view in this sunny day with clear and blue sky. Need to climb 220 steps of stair to the observatory but worthy. The outdoor stairs is closed due to the snow.
William Cheng — Google review
2022/05/05
Magnificent view. Be careful about crowd if you worry about pandemic. We took a 15 min ride on electric bus from Ogizawa station to Kurobe dam. From here, we walk to kurobeko station to take cable car to go to kurobedaira.
RAJIV KUMAR VERMA — Google review
This was my first stop of Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Kurobe Dam. It took around 15 minutes from Ogizawa Station. The view here amazing and the wind is really strong, this dam is 186 meters high. This is such a huge and tall water dam, and also it is a way to reach Kurobeko station.
Alvin Aby Artahsasta — Google review
Beautiful surroundings to be honest.
I do find it expensive though ¥2800 for basically a 15 minute bus ride to the dam as you cannot drive to the dam so have to take the bus.
I think that it is worth going in the autumn and winter more so than a summers day , I will post again in the autumn.
Gareth Lewis — Google review
If you wanna traveling in Japan, I think this one of the a beautiful place certainly you have to travel it in.
When I enjoyed that place, I remember my country. Absolutely Indonesia’s view very amazing right. And I love so much travelers although my body was tired.
Mutiara Utami — Google review
Very impressive dam.
The wind there is insane, very very cold during spring so do layer up.
ZR Toh — Google review
I traveled to Kurobe Dam in October by train from Toyama and bus up the mountain. I suggest using this route to go from Hokuriku to Tokyo if you want to experience some sightseeing in Japan!
Yuta Takatsu — Google review
The views are dam good here. Weather is pretty chilly and sun is bright so pack as weather and sun protection. Didn’t go on the cruise so can’t comment on that, I was on the way up the mountain. The dam has some great history so do go check that out if you’re interested in how the dam plays a part in supporting the villages at the foot of the mountains. Apart from that, it’s a great photo opportunity area
Malcolm Ho — Google review
Tallest dam in Japan at 163m. Built in 1963. Good view of the dam. Had good weather, clear sky and not too warm.
CK Cheong — Google review
Beautiful scenery.
The climb up the observatory can be rather tiring. With 260-280 steps up and down. Definitely not for the faint hearted!
The dam Only open for discharge from late june, which can be spectacular. Factor in at least an hour to walk around.
There is also the option to take a scenic cruise for 30 mins at a charge
Yock Song Law — Google review
Kurobe dam was built in the mid 1960’s and is quite an engineering marvel. It makes you a bit dizzy to stand at the top and look down.
Definitely worth a visit!
RECOMMENDATION:
- Be sure to go to the restaurant and eat the “Dam Curry”. It is a curry dish with the rice shaped like a dam holding back the curry. Best Dam Curry ever!
INTERESTING FACT:
- Their mascot is “Kuronyan” (“Black Cat”).
SECRET FACT:
- When you ride the electric bus to get there, look at the handle holds: they are black cat heads!
John W — Google review
I think this is my second time walking across a dam. The first was the Hoover Dam. It's another beautiful sight of lake, green forest and distance snow capped mountains. Enjoy this last bit of natural beauty before heading back to civilization.
Won Soon Lau — Google review
Good place to cool off during the hot Japanese summer. Great views of the mountain that you can't see in other parts of Japan. Average temperature are in the cool 17C (about 62.6F). The bus to get there gets quite expensive.
Yutaro U — Google review
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Ashikuraji, Tateyama, Nakaniikawa District, Toyama 930-1406, Japan
Narai-juku is a charming and well-preserved Edo-era hamlet nestled in the mountainous Kiso Valley along the Nakasendo Trail. The wooden temples, museums, souvenir shops, and historical architecture offer visitors a unique glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. From traditional Japanese crafts to hidden views and shrines, this quaint post town has something for everyone to appreciate.
Wonderful town~ I went here shortly after the new year and was pleased to find it devoid of the usual horde of tourists. Finding peace, serenity and calm in this tiny town ~priceless experience~
J Lo Flo — Google review
Lovely and very well preserved old town. Even more beautiful as it was snowing when we were there. it was a quiet Monday morning when we arrived. Even the parking was free (we parked next to the steam train)
Kee Lam Ho — Google review
Although it was a short trip due to a tight schedule, a visit to Narai of a Thousand Houses was truly fascinating and unforgettable. Highly recommended to stay for a night here of possible.
Kyujin Kim — Google review
Merchants and samurais used to pass through Narai, and similar other post towns when they are travelling back and fro from Kyoto to Tokyo (Edo). This is a scenic town at the foot of a hill (at the end of Narai town, where one can take a shower hike up to see the entire rows of houses flanking a single road. The shrine in the middle of the town is an interesting visit too with a large tree.
In Summer, it is best to visit in the morning or afternoon (after 2pm) as the sun direction will create shade on either side of the path so it's a more pleasant walk.
Parking is convenient at the roadside station and the town is connected by a scenic rail that cuts through the valley to Narai village.
Rtexal Tan — Google review
Pretty little town on the famous Kiso Road. Following in the footsteps of Samurai (!), we walked the main street and visited the museum.
There are plenty of souvenir shops, all if which were reasonable. We had a long chat with one of the store owners (in English) - she was genuinely friendly and welcoming.
Worth the trip
Mike T — Google review
This quaint and well-preserved post town of Narai-juku is located in the mountainous Kiso Valley. All the building have been restored and it feels like you’ve stepped back in time to the Edo period. Most of the shops sell traditional Japanese crafts ranging from lacquerware bowls, plates, cups, trays, and soba cups along with various souvenirs.
Annie Sobol — Google review
It was sort of , yes , an older city feel but arriving it wasn't quite what I thought it was and still there is some modern touches to the OLD CITY area that eh , idk mixed feelings there. Couldn't get a good shot either at times cause there are cars driving up and down too. I really didn't like it there so much. Sorry I am a purist when it comes to original and old things even down to seeing the Incan ruins , ancient Rome , Greece, and the pyramids.... so any touch of modern kills it for me.
Troy Eckhart — Google review
Lovely well preserved Edo period town in the middle of the mountains. Well worth the day trip if you get the chance. We visited on a weekday in April and there were very few tourists around, it was almost as if we had the whole place to ourselves. The town folk are very lovely and there are loads of giftshops where you can buy locally crafted souvenirs.
if you’re visiting Japan and have a Rail Pass you can make the trip via the Shinano train + Chuō line with no extra charge.
Ricardo Santos — Google review
Naraijuku is a well conserved traditional Japanese town in Nagano's Kiso Valley region. It was developed in 17th to 19th century for travellers as a mid point stopover between Kyoto and Tokyo. Beautiful rustic ambience. Good place for a slow lazy day to chill.
CK Cheong — Google review
The train ride from Matsumoto to Narai takes less than an hour.
We arrived today at Narai-juku at around 14.30 and continued walking for about 15 minutes. Indeed, most of the buildings are old but still well maintained.
Some of the tree leaves have started to turn yellow, some are turning red, they are very beautiful. According to information, there will be more and better visits in mid Nov - mid Dec.
Some shops are still open but almost all restaurants are closed at that time.
Iskandar Zulkarnain — Google review
Although Magome and Tsumago is great , imo , this has the better vibe and flat road all the way , great for families and older people . Please also visit the Kiso bridge . Park near the Narai station ( free) .
Choo HengHeng — Google review
Visiting Narai-Juku was an amazing experience with friendly people at every corner. The views are amazing and all the shops and inns are very welcoming. The little area has so many things to see from historical architecture, to shrines, temples, and hidden views. This is a great place to visit and take some time to slow down and appreciate.
pawel puczko — Google review
Finally did a day trip to Naraijuku because most of the lodging places are booked so I booked Matsumoto for return lodging but leave from Nagano station to Shiojiri then about an hour bus ride ( 100yen) to Naraijuku station . Walking at Naraijuku preserved houses, restaurants , shops and cafe was like travel to a Time Machine and took me back to the Japanese Edo period . It was fantastic for some like me who is crazy about photography . I spend few hours visiting most of the shops and chi chat with shop owners , the story I got from the old ladies and man are really precious. I only ends the trip at the shrine so I will be back to continue my part II .
Annie Chang — Google review
Amazing street with friendly people. Going at the end of January, not much was open, but it also there was nearly nobody there, making great pictures. The restaurants/shops that were open, were amazing and accommodating of us!
Billy — Google review
What a charming place! It's my favorite among the postal towns. I visited in mid-August during their Shrine's annual festival, and surprisingly, it wasn't as crowded as I expected. It felt like a journey back in time, and I absolutely enjoyed the local atmosphere. I strongly recommend checking out the Former Nakamura Family Residence to get a peek inside their traditional homes.
Maria — Google review
A fun glimpse into historic shops and homes from the Edo period. Touring through one of the family homes was definitely worth the small admission fee (300JPY). I love that all the shops are small businesses, it was cool to chat with owners and ask them questions. It wasn’t all mass-made kitschy objects, there were lots of handmade souvenirs to browse.
Everything closes by ~4pm in the fall 2023 and it gets quite cold, just be aware of that when planning your trip. The train runs only every 60-90 minutes. Not too crowded either, there were definitely a number of tourists but not at all overwhelming, it was easy to find time to explore each shop and chat with the small business owners.
Andrew Smith — Google review
Perhaps it was a Monday..., the place was rather quiet (& I'm not complaining) and most shops were shut.
Beautiful little old town with old persevered houses. We were here in autumn so there were red n orange leaves to dry the background. I'm wondering during summer, what could be the enchanting factor.
There are no admission charges.
金Ck — Google review
Narai-Juku, nestled within the picturesque Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, stands as a time-honored gem embodying the essence of the Edo period’s post town culture. As one of the most well-preserved and charming examples of its kind, Narai-Juku beckons travelers to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of old Japan.
Established along the Nakasendo, one of the five major highways connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to Kyoto during the Edo period, Narai-Juku flourished as a vital rest stop and trading hub for weary travelers and merchants journeying between the imperial capital and the seat of the shogunate. Its strategic location amidst lush mountains and pristine rivers made it a pivotal point along the route, offering respite, refreshment, and commerce to those traversing the rugged terrain.
Today, Narai-Juku stands as a beautifully preserved testament to its storied past, with its well-preserved traditional buildings, cobblestone streets, and tranquil atmosphere transporting visitors to a bygone era. Strolling through its charming thoroughfare, lined with quaint wooden inns, merchant houses, and historic landmarks, one can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time.
Whether exploring its cultural heritage at the local museum, sampling regional delicacies at traditional eateries, or simply soaking in the serene ambiance of this historic enclave, Narai-Juku offers a captivating journey into Japan’s rich historical tapestry, inviting travelers to experience the timeless beauty of its post town charm.
Nathan Chen — Google review
This post town has a wild west feeling. All the buildings are oriented slightly angled to the street making it feel as if you are getting squeezed into a funnel. All shops were shut during a recent winter hike through there. Very photogenic
Paul Welsh — Google review
I always have a soft spot for quaint Japanese post town like Takayama and Narai-juku. No regret taking a 2-hr drive here one way from Kawaguchiko. Very little foreign tourists and the vibe is simply charming. There are souvenir shops, cafes and local restaurants. They may looked like they are closed but they are open for business. It’s a 1km+ long street lined with shops on both sides. Be prepared to spend at least 2-3hrs especially if taking a break for snack, coffee or meal.