Is Hida-Takayama the same as Takayama?

Yes! There is no difference between Hida-Takayama and Takayama city. However, as “Takayama” is a common Japanese word and place name, to specify the city in the Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, many people call the city Hida Takayama.

Which part of Japan is Takayama located?

Takayama City is in Gifu Prefecture, which is near the center of Honshu — Japan’s largest island.

Takayama is just north of Kyoto, and east of Kanazawa city. It borders Toyama and Nagano Prefectures to the east, and shares boundaries with Ishikawa and Fukui Prefectures to the west. Hida-Takayama boasts several famous mountains, including parts of the Northern Japan Alps. The lush forests offer amazing hiking opportunities and stunning scenery throughout the seasons and many beautiful waterfalls.

Which part of Japan is Kanazawa located?

Kanazawa is a seaside city located in Ishikawa Prefecture. Once a castle town ruled by the Kaga Domain, it now has many popular sightseeing spots. Discover Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden (known as one of Japan’s three great gardens), and 3 historical tea districts. Higashi Chaya Tea District, Kazuemachi Tea District, and Nishi Chaya Tea District are geiko (geisha) quarters lined with wooden townhouses in a traditional Japanese atmosphere.

Kanazawa not only offers many historical and traditional experiences, but also showcases a vibrant contemporary art scene. We recommend stopping by the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, DT Suzuki Museum, and Kamu Kanazawa museum!

How do I get from Takayama to Kanazawa by Train?

– How long does it take? Approximately 2 hours (1 transfer)

– How much does it cost? Approximately 7,000 yen (for reserved seats)

By Train

The easiest and most comfortable way to travel from Takayama to Kanazawa City is by train. From Takayama Station, take the express train to Toyama Station. Then, transfer to the Shinkansen (bullet train) to reach Kanazawa City.

• The Hida Express Train offers both reserved seats and non-reserved seats. 
• No refreshments are available for purchase on board, so be sure to bring your own drinks and snacks for the ride.

If you are lucky enough to ride the new Hida Express train, you can relax in comfortable seats. Each reserved seat has an electrical socket so you can charge your phone and laptop while traveling. 

From Toyama Station, transfer to the ‘Tsurugi’ Shinkansen bullet train. This train will take you directly to Kanazawa Station in about 20 minutes (2 Stations).

Purchasing Train Tickets

Purchase your tickets at the ticketing machine or the manned ticket booth at Takayama Station. You can buy both your express train ticket and shinkansen bullet train ticket together as a set. 

Note that there are a limited number of trains in a day, and only 1 ticketing machine at Takayama Station. We recommend purchasing your train ticket at least one day before your planned departure date to ensure you have seats.

How do I get from Takayama to Kanazawa by Bus?

– How long does it take? Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

– How much does it cost? Approximately 4,000 yen (for reserved seats)

The bus takes about the same time as the train. However, you can stop at Shirakawa-go Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the way to Kanazawa!

By Bus

To avoid a train transfer and enjoy mountain views, take the express bus from Takayama Station to Kanazawa Station. You will find the Takayama Nohi Bus Center right next to Takayama Station, so you can’t miss it. Purchase tickets at the Bus Center for the express bus that will take you directly to Kanazawa.

• Purchase tickets for the Expressway Bus (route via Takayama-Shirakawa-go-Kanazawa)
• No refreshments are available for purchase on board, so be sure to bring your own drinks and snacks for the ride.
• From Takayama Station, you’ll first stop at Shirakawa-go. We recommend getting off at Shirakawa-go and exploring the area for a 2~3 hours before heading to Kanazawa city! Read below for more information about Shirakawa-go Village.
• From Shirakawa-go to Kanazawa, the bus ride is approximately 80 minutes.

Don’t miss the chance to add Shirakawa-go Village to your Japan itinerary! We recommend allocating about 2 hours for your visit. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing plenty of walking.

Nestled in a basin between the Ryōhaku Mountains, Shirakawa-go is a small village renowned for its iconic gassho-zukuri houses. In 1995, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its unique cultural value.

Recognizing the importance of preserving their heritage, the villagers of Shirakawa-go have made efforts to protect these traditional homes. By visiting Shirakawa-go, you’re not just witnessing beautiful architecture & exploring the rural countryside of Japan – you’re supporting the preservation of an important piece of Japanese cultural history, too!

Luggage Forwarding Services

One of the most helpful services you can use while traveling in Japan is a luggage forwarding service. This means you can send your heavy or large suitcases to different cities and hotels ahead of time, allowing you to travel hands free.

Japanese train stations, such as Tokyo Station and Osaka Station, are notorious for having few escalators and elevators. Trying to lug your heavy luggage throughout a station while looking for the train or exit is not a pleasant experience. This is why we highly recommend using the luggage forwarding service!

If you are a guest at MACHIYA INNS & HOTELS, the guest services team can help with forwarding your luggage. This service is available whether you stay in a hotel or a private holiday house rental. They’ll even call ahead to the next hotel to ensure that your luggage is expected and received.

How to use the Luggage Forwarding Service: 

Using a luggage forwarding service can make your travel experience in Japan much smoother. Here’s how to do it:

1. Visit Your Hotel’s Front Desk: Start by heading to the front desk of your hotel for assistance with the luggage forwarding service.
2. Provide Necessary Details: Be ready to share important information about your next destination, including:

   ・Hotel name
   ・Check-in date
   ・Reservation name
   ・Desired arrival date for your luggage
   ・Number of pieces you wish to send

3. Payment: Most hotels require payment in advance to finalize the arrangements, so be prepared to make your payment at the time of service.
4. Alternative Options: If you’re staying at an accommodation without a front desk, you can also utilize this service at convenience stores like 7-Eleven.

So, if you’re looking for the quickest way to travel from Takayama to Kanazawa, we recommend taking the Hida Express Train.

However, if you have a bit more time and want to soak in the stunning scenery, consider taking the Express Bus that passes through Shirakawa-go Village on your way to Kanazawa city. Happy Travels!