Shirakawago Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

View all 14 reviews

Tour GuidesGuides

Private ToursTours

Popular Shirakawago Tour Guides

Yuichi W.

4.56 / 5

(16 reviews)

Hello, I'm Yuichi, an English tour guide in Hokuriku region. If you are thinking about traveling to historical places such as Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go and Takayama, I am willing to offer a tour. I can bring you to those popular destinations from my base, Toyama city. These are the examples of my tour: Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Takayama Takaoka - Gokayama - Shirakawago - Takayama Toyama - Tateyama Kurobe Alipne Route - Omachi (Nagano Pref.) During the tour I like to provide simple explanations about Japanese history, and small tips for using the Japanese language on your request. My interests are food, cooking, sake and wine as well as Japanese novels and movies. It would be possible to add those tastes to our tour including a visit to local wineries, movie scenes, etc... Finally, I will do my best to give you a pleasant stay. Looking forward to seeing you in Hokuriku!

Lucy F.

(5 reviews)

Hello, everyone! I'm Lucy, and I'm thrilled to share a bit about myself with you. Originally hailing from the picturesque south of France, my life's journey has woven through the landscapes of both France and Germany, primarily within the realm of fashion and costume design. My heart, however, found its home in the enchanting city of Kanazawa when my husband's career led us here in 2019. Since then, this city has not only become my adopted home, but it's a place I've grown to adore. Now, guiding has become a source of immense joy for me. I cherish the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the world, sharing my knowledge about this incredible city and its cultural tapestry. Beyond the guided tours, my free time is often spent in exploration. Whether uncovering hidden gems in the surroundings or immersing myself in the world of pottery, crafts or hiking. I'm here not just to guide but also to connect, learn, and share the beauty I've discovered in Kanazawa. Looking forward to our journeys together!

Yoji K.

(42 reviews)

Hello, I'm Yoji, based in Kanazawa. I spent my formative years in Kanazawa and pursued my master's degree in the United States. Having lived in Washington D.C. and California for six years, I then resided and worked in China and various Southeast Asian countries. My passion lies in exploring new destinations and connecting with people worldwide. Now, it's my turn to extend the same hospitality I've received to you. I specialize in crafting personalized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. If you're a food enthusiast, you've come to the right place. For those seeking to delve into Japan's rich history and culture, I highly recommend joining my full-day tour in Kanazawa. Additionally, I offer tours to Shirakawago and Takayama. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey together.

Michiko N.

(22 reviews)

View All Shirakawago Tour Guides

Hello, I am Michiko , the same name of Japanese ex-Empress. I am a government certified tour guide. I have lived in Nagoya ( located between Tokyo and Osaka) for 35 years since I got married. I worked for JAL as a flight attendant in my 20's. After retiring JAL, I have taught English and Mathematics to junior and senior high school students for 20 years. I love traveling very much both domestically and abroad and enjoy walking around each city and talking with local people so that I can find out the way how to they live and think about their life. It's quite a fun for me. I also love hiking and mountain climbing in spring, summer and autumn, and skiing in winter. In the countryside of Japan there still remain those farming and fishery villages where people have been rooted in their land and community, living the way handed down from generation to generation. You can also enjoy the original Japanese landscape there. Why don't you get out of the hustle and bustle of your busy life and have a rest rich in nature in the rural Japan enjoying beautiful scenery and local food. I'm waiting for you!

New Shirakawago Tour Guides

Jorge S.

(1 reviews)

Originally born in Mexico City, where I spent the first eight years of my life, I grew up in Montreal, Canada, for 22 years. Fascinated by Japanese popular culture and history—I have a minor in Japanese history and am a history buff—I participated in the JET Program Canada, where I was placed in Shirakawa-go for three years as an ALT. Currently, I live in Kanazawa with my Japanese wife and son. As a tour guide in Kanazawa, I specialize in history, hidden gems, culture, shopping (especially Japanese popular culture products), and food. I strive to provide an excellent customer experience. Fluent in English (Native), French (Native), Spanish (Native), and a good grasping of Japanese. I can communicate effectively with a diverse range of guests. Thanks to my North American background and my extensive experience living in Japan, I offer explanations that are easy to understand for Western guests, enriching their understanding of Japan as a vibrant and unique living space. Additionally, I am currently studying to become an official National guide in Japan, further enhancing my expertise and ability to provide exceptional tours.

Norman B.

Good day, everyone! I am Norman. I live in Japan since 2006 and currently residing in Gifu ken. My passions are playing competitive sports and traveling around famous and historical tourist destinations. If you are planning a trip, please do not hesitate to reach out. I’ll be more than happy to assist you especially here in Nagoya, Aichi ken/Gifu ken/Shiga ken and Kyoto. Let’s make your journey unforgettable.

Atsuko K.

(2 reviews)

大家好！我是日本國家註冊導遊Atsuko！我是從2013年開始從事這導遊工作。我原來是個九州的佐賀人,現在住在石川縣金澤市。我現在學習日本茶道。我可以帶您去以金澤市為主的觀光景點玩。金澤是一座充滿著日本武士文化的城市。除了必去的景點之外，這裡還有很多美食。讓我們一起尋找這裡的魅力吧。跟我一起漫步的話，一定會發現在網上看不到的事情！我等您預約！

Kyohei Y.

(4 reviews)

View All Shirakawago Tour Guides

Hi, Thank you for visiting my page! I am Kyohei. I was born and raised in Takayama, and learned English in Canada. Due to its seclusion from other cities, Takayama has developed a unique culture and history, and its residents have lived here for a long time relying on the region's abundant mountain and natural resources. I am looking forward to sharing the true Hida Takayama that can only be conveyed by a local resident. Thank you!

Popular Shirakawago Private Tours

Explore UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go a Former Shirakawa-go School Teacher

6 hours

Join me for an unforgettable day trip from Kanazawa to the historic village of Shirakawa, guided by a former teacher who once taught at the local school. This day tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone looking to experience the unique charm of Shirakawa through the eyes of someone who has lived and taught in this extraordinary village. Highlights: Personal Insight Guided Village Tour Historical Landmarks Local Cuisine Scenic Beauty

One-day-tour of Shirakawa-go

8 hours

Shirakawa-go is a mountain settlement that is famous for uniquely designed Gassyo-style buildings and registered as one of the World Cultural Heritage sites. In Ogi-machi, over sixty Gassyo-style buildings will welcome visitors. Enjoying the whole landscape of the village from the hill, you will stroll around the village visiting some traditional Gasho-style buildings such as Wada House, Nagase House and Myozenji Temple Museum.

Casual Shirakawago Tour

4 hours 30 min

Shirakawago is a world heritage in Hida, Gifu.I'll show traditional houses and amble around. Here is always beautiful.It shows many faces according to the season, climate and time of the day. Basically, it can booked only Saturday, Sunday, Japanese notional holidays, please contact and ask me!

Shirakawago local guide tour

View All Shirakawago Private Tours

2 hours 30 min

This is the World Heritage Shirakawago guided walking tour. We meet at the bus terminal or parking lots in Shirakawago village and stroll with detailed explanations about the history, culture, and daily life.

New Shirakawago Private Tours

KANAZAWA ITINERARY (A Day Trip From Kanazawa) Shirakawago 4H

4 hours 30 min

If you are staying at a hotel in Kanazawa, why not explore Shirakawa-go (with UNESCO recognition) with a popular guide in a day trip? It is a 4-hour private tour. I can meet you at Shirakawago Bus Terminal and start the tour at eleven. You can take a bus from Kanazawa arriving at Shirakawago at around 10.00 am (Nohi Bus) and return with a bus leaving Shirakawago for Kanazawa at 3.10 pm. (as of January 16, 2023) Lookout point Farm House Museum Lunch Deaibashi Bridge Photo spots

Shirakawago half day tour

3 hours

We are going to explore the world heritage site- Shirakawago together. With my detailed explanation of the history, culture and fun facts about the village, you can understand more about Shirakawago and also in love with this little village.

Shirakawago half day tour from Kanazawa

4 hours

Shirakawago village was designated as UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. There are 60 Gassho-Zukuri farmhouses and about 40 Gassho-style storages. The shape of big slanted roofs resembles in the gesture of bringing arms and hands together in prayer. This gesture is called Gassho in Japanese. We visit observation point, a typical Gassho farmhouse inside, and stroll the village.

Kanazawa( old Samurai town ) & Shirakawago (World Heritage site) tour from Kanazawa

10 hours

Kanazawa flourished as a castle town for the Kaga clan during the Edo period ( 1603AD - 1867AD ). Kenrokuen garden was constructed as a strolling style landscape garden by the feudal lord Maedas of the Kaga clan. This garden is one of the three most famous gardens in Japan. Shirakawago villages was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. A Gassho farmhouse is difined as a thatched farmhouse with big slanted roofs. The name Gassho means the gesture when people bring their hands together in prayer. The shape of the roof resembles the Gassho style. Most Gassho farmhouses were over 200 years old. There are 60 Gassho farmhouses in Shirakawago village. These houses are still used by families for their daily living. In the morning, we visit Shirakawago. In the afternoon, we visit Kanazawa.

Day Trips from Shirakawago

Gifu

Kanazawa

Takayama

Nagoya

Ishikawa

Aichi

Toyama

Shirakawago Tour Reviews

Hela R.

5 / 5

Sep 10, 2024

Shirakawago Half-Day Tour from Takayama

4 hours

Customized

Sep 10, 2024

“Shirakawago village with guide”

Yurikosan is very dependable and clever guide. She took care of us - 3 people and explained history of prefecture, Sharakawago village and Japan. I would recomend her to my frend.

Yuriko S.

(53 reviews)

Thank you for an excellent review and nice comments! I also enjoyed driving from Takayama to Shirakawago and visiting the nostalgic village with you and your nice family. Someday in the future, I'd like to visit your country with my husband. See you again!

Widdy H.

5 / 5

May 3, 2024

Shirakawago Tour

Customized

May 3, 2024

“Absolutely the best guide in Kanazawa: Shirakawago!”

I give Yoshie a well deserved 5 stars! She is a very pleasant and kind person with perfect English! She is diligent and very organised in planning our itinerary. She was flexible in accommodating our last minute requests. I can tell she did a lot of research especially on her selection of lunch at a UNESCO heritage site. It was the most memorable lunch we ever had in Japan!! It was a grilled fish restaurant using the Shirakawago’s traditional grilling method in one of 9 Gassho Houses in Gokayama. The restaurant owner showed us a photo of his father who was a mountain hiker (?). The owner carried on his father’s legacy and runs this restaurant. At the end of the lunch, the owner did a short spontaneous performance for us: he played an instrument special to this region with singing and dancing!! Wow… what an unexpected bonus to the wonderful lunch! We owe this memorable experience to Yoshie for the fantastic planning and being the best tour guide! Next time In Kanazawa, I will certainly hire Yoshie again! Widdy

Yoshie K.

(33 reviews)

Hi Widdy, thank you so much for your overwhelming and thoughtful review. I am very pleased to receive it from you. Now I understand that your family loves eating Japanese food while traveling. Of course, you are so keen about the history and culture of each country too. I would be more than happy to find good food next time you come to see me! Thank you again.

Kichi J.

5 / 5

Apr 15, 2024

One-day-tour of Shirakawa-go

8 hours

Apr 15, 2024

“Very enjoyable visit to Shirakawago”

Tetsuji was very professional and we had a great time!

Tetsuji Y.

(39 reviews)

Thank you for your appreciation. I hope you could come back to Japan and spend pleasant time together again.

Japan Must Read Articles

6 Best Places To Go In Tokyo At Night

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo comes to life at night. The best places to experience nightlife in Tokyo are Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, Roppongi and Tokyo Tower. In Tokyo, you can find every thing, from cheap bars and izakayas to fine dining and exclusive clubs. After sunset, there...

Amy Dodgson

Aug 06, 2024

Transportation

3 Ways To Get To Disneyland From Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

Today I will explain to you how to get to Tokyo Disneyland from the main tourist spots. There are three ways to do it: by bus, by train, and by car. When you've arrived at the park, you can then utilize the Disney Transportation: the Monorail and the Crui...

Ro Mi

Aug 06, 2024

Travel Tips

How Long Should You Spend in Tokyo?

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo has so many things to offer. Visitors who are planning their Tokyo itinerary for their next trip might ask themselves this question: How many days should I spend in Tokyo? Now, the answer to this question varies from each person. However, in thi...

Fidelia Alamsjah

Apr 28, 2022

The 20 Most Beautiful Shrines And Temples In Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, an ancient city with long history, was always on the list of word’s top city. In the recent years, it was even voted the word’s top city by readers of Travel+Leisure, one of the most famous travel magazines based in New York. Visiting temples and s...

RICH LIN

Jan 22, 2024

Tokyo Imperial Palace - Opening Hours, How To Get There, And What To Do

Tokyo, Japan

When visiting Tokyo, I bet that you would want to take a peek of the Imperial Palace. However, you might not know when is it opened and what you can do there. Here in this article, I will discuss all the things you need to know about Tokyo Imperial Palac...

Fidelia Alamsjah

Aug 06, 2024