This itinerary invites you to explore traces of Edo, a historic castle site, and craftsmanship in Tokyo before continuing to Shirakawa-go, Takayama, Hida-Furukawa, and Gero Hot Spring in Gifu.
In Tokyo, discover the craftsmanship of Edo Kiriko glass, stroll through the streets of Kagurazaka, and trace remnants of the former Edo Castle at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Then travel via Nagoya to Gifu, where you’ll explore the gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go, the castle town of Takayama, the white-walled storehouses lining the streets of Hida-Furukawa, and Gero Hot Spring. Over these three days, discover how distinctive traditions of daily life, commerce, and craftsmanship have been passed down through generations in each community.
*For the latest information on business hours, days when spots/facilities are regularly closed, prices, etc., please check the official website for each spot/facility or check directly with the spot/facility.
Destination
Itinerary
3Days
Transport
JR (Shinkansen + Local Line)
Tokyo to Gifu via Nagoya
Tokyo to Gifu via Nagoya
About
2 hours
10 minutes
2 hours
10 minutes
Day1
TOKYO
1
Edo Kiriko glass making experience (at Sumida Edo Kiriko Kan)
Sumida Edo Kirikokan is a specialty shop that showcases traditional Edo Kiriko glass.
In addition, the Sumida Ward-certified studio shop uses panels and exhibits to cover in detail the history and production process of Edo Kiriko, models of the different processes, and the traditional tools. The shop has many Edo Kiriko items on display for sale, ranging from kiriko artisan masterpieces to vessels for daily use and other gift items, along with “waza,” or skill, items that can be found nowhere else.
Take a step past the shop window to watch the artisans in action up close, and try your hand at making your own style kiriko glass.
In addition, the Sumida Ward-certified studio shop uses panels and exhibits to cover in detail the history and production process of Edo Kiriko, models of the different processes, and the traditional tools. The shop has many Edo Kiriko items on display for sale, ranging from kiriko artisan masterpieces to vessels for daily use and other gift items, along with “waza,” or skill, items that can be found nowhere else.
Take a step past the shop window to watch the artisans in action up close, and try your hand at making your own style kiriko glass.
6 minutes by foot
16 minutes by train (JR)
7 minutes by foot
2
Kagurazaka
Kagurazaka-Street is said to have taken its present form during the Edo period. Sakai Tadakatsu built his residence around Yarai given by Tokugawa Iemitsu in 1633. Kagurazaka took shape after developing the road to the castle for the Tairo (chief minister).
There are several shops that were founded in the Edo period, as well as more than 10 stores from the Meiji and Taisho periods. While the buildings may be difficult to find as they have been renovated, try to do by looking at the names and ambiance for clues.
There are several shops that were founded in the Edo period, as well as more than 10 stores from the Meiji and Taisho periods. While the buildings may be difficult to find as they have been renovated, try to do by looking at the names and ambiance for clues.
5 minutes by foot
6 minutes by train (non-JR lines)
5 minutes by foot
3
Imperial Palace
Built on the site of the former Edo Castle, this oasis in the heart of Chiyoda Ward became the permanent home to the Imperial Family in 1869. Surrounded by garden areas filled with beautifully manicured plants and flowers, moats, and remnants of the old Edo Castle structures, this area is perfect as a respite from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
Day2
GIFU
4
Tokyo Station
1h35minutes by JR Hokuriku Shinkansen
2h50minutes by highway bus
5
Shirakawa-go
Nestled deep in the mountains, the quaint village of Shirakawa-go is famous for its traditional “gassho-zukuri” houses, whose steep thatched roofs resemble hands joined in prayer. Alongside the surrounding rice paddies, they create a picturesque landscape is a joy to behold and to take a stroll through.
Many of these homes remain inhabited today, but some are open to the public, like the Wada Residence, with displays of traditional tools and ways of life in Shirakawa-go.
Some gassho-zukuri houses also offer accommodation. Be sure to book in advance if considering this memorable option!
Many of these homes remain inhabited today, but some are open to the public, like the Wada Residence, with displays of traditional tools and ways of life in Shirakawa-go.
Some gassho-zukuri houses also offer accommodation. Be sure to book in advance if considering this memorable option!
50 minutes by highway bus
6
The Old Town District of Hida Takayama
Takayama City
The Old Town District of Hida Takayama prospered as both a castle town and merchant town during the Edo period, and the three historical streets passing through Kamicho and Shimocho are designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
Rows of lattice-shuttered houses and sake breweries line the streets with small canals flowing before them, offering a chance to slip back in time to the Edo period. Stroll through the historic streets that transform with the changing seasons and take in the scenery deeply rooted in the traditions of Hida Takayama. Along the way, savor local specialties such as Hida Beef and browse for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts at local stores.
Rows of lattice-shuttered houses and sake breweries line the streets with small canals flowing before them, offering a chance to slip back in time to the Edo period. Stroll through the historic streets that transform with the changing seasons and take in the scenery deeply rooted in the traditions of Hida Takayama. Along the way, savor local specialties such as Hida Beef and browse for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts at local stores.
50 minutes by highway bus
15 minutes by train (JR)
Day3
GIFU
7
Hida-Furukawa
Furukawa is known as the Hida region’s other historic town alongside Takayama. The Seto River, lined with stone-walled temples and white-walled storehouses, is a highlight of the area, as are the colorful carp-filled canals that run through the town.
This peaceful castle town preserves the atmosphere and scenery of old Japan. Popular activities include sake brewery tours, riding the “Rail Mountain Bike Gattan-Go”, creating your own herbal tea blend, and guided cycling tours.
This peaceful castle town preserves the atmosphere and scenery of old Japan. Popular activities include sake brewery tours, riding the “Rail Mountain Bike Gattan-Go”, creating your own herbal tea blend, and guided cycling tours.
1h10minutes by train (JR)
8
Gero Hot Spring
Gero Onsen, one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs, is renowned for its silky waters that leave the skin feeling remarkably smooth. Foot baths scattered throughout town allow visitors to enjoy the hot springs while exploring its charming streets.
Gero also offers a wealth of activities and experiences that provide a deeper look into Japan. From waterfall tours, cycling and trekking adventures, to cultural experiences, craft workshops, and gourmet cuisine, there is something for everyone.
Gero also offers a wealth of activities and experiences that provide a deeper look into Japan. From waterfall tours, cycling and trekking adventures, to cultural experiences, craft workshops, and gourmet cuisine, there is something for everyone.
update: Oct.28.2026
Other recommended route in same area
