What is Hida Furukawa? A Beautiful Town Woven with Tradition and Nature
Hida Furukawa, located adjacent to Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture, is an area where the historic and beautiful townscape and local culture remain vividly alive.
Known as a setting model for the movie "Your Name," it draws attention from both domestic and international visitors.
The scenery woven by white-walled storehouses, stone-paved streets, and koi swimming in the waterways offers a full experience of the charm of rural Japan.
It's a perfect travel destination to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a relaxing time.
Highlights of Hida Furukawa
Beautiful Townscape and White-Walled Storehouses
When visiting Hida Furukawa, start by strolling around the town center.
The streets lined with white-walled storehouses evoke the ambience of the Edo period.
- Setogawa and Swimming Koi Waterways
- The Setogawa River, which flows through the town center, is home to colorful koi.
- It is a soothing sight for both tourists and locals alike.
- Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall
- Enjoy exhibitions that recreate the Hida Furukawa Festival held every April.
- The floats and taiko platforms on display allow you to feel the festival's excitement up close.
Hida Furukawa Festival
The Hida Furukawa Festival is a traditional festival held on April 19th and 20th.
It is famous for its luxurious float parades and the dynamic "Okoshi Daiko" held at night.
- Float Parade
- The sight of intricately carved floats parading through the town is breathtaking.
- Okoshi Daiko
- This is a vigorous nighttime event that brings locals and tourists together in excitement.
Experiences to Enjoy in Hida Furukawa
Local Cultural Experiences
- Hida Beef Cuisine
- Taste the high-quality beef unique to the Hida region.
- Hida beef sushi and steak are especially popular.
- Hida Sake Brewery Tours
- Hida Furukawa is rich in sake breweries.
- You can enjoy tastings at local breweries and learn about the history of sake brewing through tours.
Enjoying Nature
Hida Furukawa is blessed with nature. The mountains and rivers surrounding the town showcase seasonal beauty.
Exploring the town by bicycle or enjoying hiking is also recommended.
Getting to Hida Furukawa
Access by Public Transportation
- From Tokyo
- Take the Shinkansen to Nagoya, then the Takayama Main Line to Hida Furukawa Station, approximately 4 hours.
- From Osaka/Kyoto
- Via Nagoya on the Shinkansen, or use the Takayama Main Line, approximately 3-4 hours.
Access by Car
- From Nagoya
- Use the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, approximately 2.5 hours.
- From Takayama
- Via Route 41, approximately 20 minutes.
There are multiple parking lots in the town center, convenient for tourists.
Things to Note When Visiting Hida Furukawa
Seasonal Recommendations
- Spring
- The time of the Hida Furukawa Festival, and the whole town becomes lively.
- Summer
- Enjoy the lush green scenery and the cool climate for leisurely strolls.
- Autumn
- The autumn leaves are at their best, beautifully contrasting with the townscape.
- Winter
- Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere amidst the snowy landscape.
Tourism Etiquette
- As it is also a living space for locals, please explore quietly.
- Take care not to throw objects into the waterways or towards the koi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can tourists participate in the Hida Furukawa Festival?
A1. Tourists can participate in some events, but it is recommended to check in advance.
Q2. Are there facilities with English support?
A2. The tourist information center and some facilities offer English support, and English pamphlets are available.
Q3. Can Hida Furukawa be enjoyed as a day trip?
A3. While it can be enjoyed as a day trip, staying overnight to enjoy the morning market and the quiet townscape at night is also recommended.
Hida Furukawa is an attractive tourist destination where beautiful townscapes and rich culture blend.
Why not enjoy a leisurely time while immersing yourself in Japan's tradition and nature?
