Visiting Shirakawa-go and Takayama is a highlight for many travelers to Japan, but figuring out the best way to get there can be confusing. While trains are available to Takayama, the most convenient and affordable option for reaching Shirakawa-go is usually by bus.
In this guide, we’ll explain all the main bus routes to Shirakawa-go and Takayama, including:
- Direct buses from Nagoya to Shirakawa-go (Gifu Bus)
- Highway buses from Nagoya, Tokyo, and Kyoto to Takayama (Nohi Bus)
- The popular connection from Takayama to Shirakawa-go (Nohi Bus)
- Bonus route: buses from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go (Hokutetsu Bus)
Each route includes travel time, approximate fares, and tips on how to book tickets.
Whether you’re coming from Nagoya, Tokyo, Kyoto, or Kanazawa, this guide will help you choose the easiest way to visit Shirakawa-go and Takayama by bus.
1. Nagoya → Shirakawa-go (Gifu Bus)
Travel time: About 3 hours
Fare: Around ¥3,800 one-way
Notes: Direct bus; advance reservation recommended.
More info & Booking: Gifu Bus Highway (highwaybus,com)
2. Nagoya, Tokyo, Kyoto → Takayama (Nohi Bus)
🏯Nagoya → Takayama
Travel time: About 2 hours 40 minutes
Fare: ¥3,100 one-way
Notes: Direct highway bus; reservation required.
More info & Booking: Nohi Bus
🗼Tokyo (Shinjuku) → Takayama
Travel time: About 5 hours 30 minutes
Fare: ¥6,000–7,000 one-way
Notes: Reservation required
More info & Booking: Nohi Bus
👘Kyoto → Takayama
Travel time: About 5 hours 40 minutes (via Gujo-Hachiman)
Fare: ¥5,000 one-way
Notes: Reservation required
More info & Booking: Nohi Bus
3. Takayama → Shirakawa-go (Nohi Bus)
Travel time: About 50–60 minutes
Fare: ¥1,500–2,000 one-way
Notes: Frequent service; reservation recommended during peak season
More info & Booking: Nohi Bus
⭐Bonus: Kanazawa → Shirakawa-go (Hokutetsu Bus)
Travel time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Notes: Convenient for travelers combining Kanazawa sightseeing with Shirakawa-go
More info & Booking: Hokutetsu official site
✅Conclusion
Direct to Shirakawa-go: Choose Gifu Bus from Nagoya
From Tokyo or Kyoto: Take Nohi Bus to Takayama, then transfer to Shirakawa-go
From Kanazawa: Direct Hokutetsu Bus is easiest
Always check the latest schedule and fare on the official websites before traveling, as times and prices can change.
