Jr Central-West Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Hokuriku Shinkansen for a lightning-fast, comfortable journey between Kanazawa and Toyama.

• Take the scenic JR bus route through the mountains to explore the thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go.

• Wander through the beautifully preserved Edo-period streets of Takayama's Sanmachi Suji historic district.

• Experience the stunning coastal views and fresh seafood at Kanazawa's Omicho Market before catching a train to Osaka.

Hidden Gems

• Use your pass to hop off at lesser-known stations like Himi or Takaoka to discover quiet, authentic local sushi spots and traditional copperware workshops.

• Take the Kaetsuno Bus to Gokayama, a quieter and less crowded alternative to Shirakawa-go with equally stunning UNESCO-listed thatched-roof farmhouses.

• Enjoy the panoramic window views on the Wide View Hida limited express train, which winds through the dramatic Hida River valley.

What Makes it Special

• Exclusively designed for non-Japanese passport holders, offering massive savings on individual Shinkansen and limited express train tickets.

• Includes up to five free reserved seat bookings, ensuring you get the best window views on popular routes without the stress of standing.

• Seamlessly connects major urban hubs like Osaka and Nagoya with remote, mountainous cultural treasures like Takayama and Shirakawa-go.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn offer the most spectacular scenery, with cherry blossoms in April and vibrant foliage in November making the train rides exceptionally beautiful. Winter transforms Shirakawa-go and Takayama into magical snowscapes, though you should book reserved train seats well in advance due to peak tourist crowds and potential weather delays. Summer provides lush green landscapes and lively local festivals, but trains can get busy with domestic travellers during the mid-August Obon holiday.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Secure a window seat on the right side of the Wide View Hida train when travelling from Nagoya to Takayama for the best shots of the dramatic Hida River valley.

• Capture the iconic thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go from the Shiroyama Viewpoint, which requires a short shuttle bus ride that is easily accessible from the main bus terminal.

• Photograph the stunning illuminated interiors and intricate woodwork of Kanazawa Station's Motenashi Dome during the golden hour just before sunset.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When riding local trains and buses in rural areas like Gifu and Toyama, maintain a quiet volume and avoid taking phone calls to respect local commuters. Always queue orderly at designated bus stops in Shirakawa-go and Takayama, as cutting in line is considered highly disrespectful. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply offer a polite bow and a thank you to bus drivers and station staff who assist you.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Experience the magical Shirakawa-go Winter Illumination, where the snow-covered thatched-roof houses are lit up on select weekends between January and February.

• Witness the spectacular Takayama Spring and Autumn Festivals, featuring massive, intricately carved floats and traditional marionette performances that draw crowds from all over Japan.

• Enjoy the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri in early June, which celebrates the arrival of Lord Maeda Toshiie with samurai parades, traditional tea ceremonies, and bonfire dancing.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on your luggage in the overhead racks on local trains, as they do not always have dedicated secure luggage areas like the Shinkansen.

• Be cautious of slippery surfaces and uneven cobblestones in historic areas like Takayama's old town, especially after rain or during winter snow.

• Download offline maps and train schedules before heading into the mountainous Hida and Hokuriku regions, where mobile data signals can occasionally drop.