Customized Tour

Tradition and Undiscovered Charm: Gifu, Takayama, Shirakawago, Gujo, Mino & Seki

  • Shrine
  • Heritage
  • Onsen
  • Castle

per person USD 0
JTB9511

Embark on a fascinating 4-day Gifu itinerary to discover the soul of artisans and delve deep into history and culture. Gifu is home to a timeless tradition that still lives on today. Japan's excellent craftsmanship embodies the spirit that our ancestors have poured into their creations since ancient times. Don't miss your chance to experience the vibrant Gujo Odori dance that celebrates Gujo Hachiman's rich history and culture.

Day 1: NAGOYA – TAKAYAMA


Transfer from Nagoya to Takayama. Enjoy a half day tour of Takayama, a traditional and beautifully preserved old town, where you can explore various spots such as Historical Districts, Arts, Architectures, Folklore Culture & Local Favorite Cuisines. First visit Takayama Festival Float Exhibition Hall. This popular facility displays some of the colorfully decorated festival oats used in the famous Takayama Festival, regarded as one of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan. Enjoy seeing the many intricately made oats. Visit Takayama Jinya, a historical government house in the Hida region during the Edo period. Takayama Jinya is praised for its elegance and strength, which is different from that of shrines and temples. As one of the elements that make up Hida Takumi (Craftmanship) story, it has been recognized as a Japanese Heritage Site by the Agency for Cultural Aairs. Explore the beautifully preserved old town. Takayama was once a bustling hub drawing expert artisans, farmers, and merchants from throughout the surrounding area. You can enjoy wandering the streets to soak up the atmosphere of the Edo period. The streets are lined with stalls and shops for local specialties and sweets, so you can enjoy the foodie tour. For a Japanese sake fan, Takayama, blessed with the important elements for sake brewing, water, rice, and climate is a perfect place to enjoy tasting sake from local breweries.

Overnight: Hotel Associa Takayama Resort or similar

Day 2: TAKAYAMA – SHIRAKAWAGO – GUJO


This morning, enjoy walking around the bustling Takayama Morning Market, where a wide array of local specialties and other products are available. Then you will transfer to the village of Shirakawago, UNESCO World Heritage site, where you will see traditional “Gassho-zukuri” farmhouses, some of which are standing more than 250 years since they were built. The houses have steeply pitched thatched roofs and are unique to Japan. The village adapted to economic upheavals and maintained a traditional way of life suited to the environment. People consider it a fairy tale place year-round. Shirakawa-go has been selected as one of the “Best Tourism Villages” in 2023, recently announced at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly. Then proceed to Gujo Hachiman, which is a castle town rich in nature and has many sightseeing spots.

Overnight: Hotel Sekisuien or similar

Day 3: GUJO


Admire Gujo Hachiman Castle, a symbol of the Gujo Hachiman area, is the oldest wooden reconstructed castle in Japan, and designated as an important cultural property of Gujo City. Stroll through the samurai residences of Yanagimachi along the old sidewalks of Shokunincho and Kajiyamachi, named after local artisans and blacksmiths. Enjoy the beautiful canals flowing between old houses and experience the old way of life with crystal clear water. Gujo Hachiman, where you can enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere is also the largest producer of food samples Japan. The food sample making experience at this historic town is also popular. This region is also known for the Gujo Odori (dance), which boasts a history of 400 years and is recognized as one of the three most important bon festivals in Japan. The Gujo Odori Festival is held from July to September and welcomes all visitors.

Overnight: Hotel Sekisuien or similar

Day 4: GUJO – MINO – SEKI – GIFU


You will be transferred to Mino City, a historical Japanese paper town in Gifu with a history of 1300 years. The traditional washi paper making process is designated as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO, and Mino washi itself has been designated as a traditional craft by Japan's Ministry of International Trade and Industry, as it has played an important role in Japanese culture and history. Why don’t you participate in an authentic handmade Mino Washi paper experience? Next, you will move to Seki City, which is known for its cutlery town. It is a place that receives high praise from overseas as one of the world's three major cutlery production areas. History of Seki's cutlery began with the making of Japanese swords, which were the pride of samurai during the Sengoku period. Seki's swords were known for their sharpness and were recognized by military commanders across the country. At the Cutler SANSHU & Hamono Museum or the Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum, which oers a variety of hands-on programs, you will have the opportunity to see sword-making demonstrations, as well as experience making your own knife. Proceed to Gifu.

Departure Date

Dates are flexible and customizable for your preference.

Type of travel arrangement

Tailor Made Travel Arrangement


1.

The tailor made itinerary program includes airport transfers, accommodation, other transportation within Japan, guided tours, culture experiences, unique activities and some meals. 

2.

Please contact us for a custom quote. The price is customized based on final itinerary, travel dates, choice of accommodation or orther costom preference.

Please contact JTB Reservation Center for the pickup service to assembly place.
Japan Marketing Department : Tel 1(800) 882-0268, email asia@jtbusa.com

Date & Price Tour Start Tour End Departure Single Supplement
03/01/2025 03/31/2026 Nagoya $ 0
Cancellation rates will apply to the tour fare. If notice of cancellation is received on tour starting date, or in case of failure to show without notice、100% of the tour fare. days or more days prior, no charge Cancellation period is based on Japan local time. Notice must be received during JTB USA office hours. Mon. - Fri., 9:00AM-5:30PM PST Except National Holidays.

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