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The Wolf Children's Trail: Anime Lore Meets Tateyama Alps
Experience a "Wolf Children" anime pilgrimage in Toyama, the hometown of director Mamoru Hosoda (Kamiichi Town). This car tour lets you efficiently visit the real-life locations in Kamiichi, Tateyama, and Namerikawa, featured in the award-winning film.
Public transport limits you to one spot, but our tour covers many! Beyond anime, enjoy Toyama's delicious food, beautiful scenery, old houses, and rural landscapes. Recommended for anime fans and cultural explorers alike.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Toyama Station
- Either at JR station ticket machine gates or Convenience store "Lawson" on the north Exit.
The Wolf Children's House of Flowers
Daihisan Nissekiji Temple
Major Kamiichi Sightseeing Spots, the oldest stone carved Buddha image and waterfall training area for mountain religion followers.
Lunch
Choose between Ōiwa Sōmen (thin noodles) or Ramen at Chūka Soba Azami (Chinese Soba Noodles).
Terrace rice field and other anime movie spots in the nature
Depending on the weather and season, you will see some scenes in the anime movie: Wolf Children. You will also see stunning view of Toyama on the way and can take photos.
Elementary School
The other animation spot in another city. If you are lucky, you can see the inside of the school.
Extra spots
On the way back to Toyama station, we may stop by in Iwase, old Kitama-bune merchant ship town or Toyama castle just before going back to the drop off place.
Ending Point
Toyama Station (North Exit)
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Gasoline fee
Toll fee
Car type: Suzuki Jimny
Lunch (ramen or somen): 1,000 yen to 2,000 yen per person
For buying souvenir at the Wolf Children House, cash will be necessary. Small coins and small bills would be better.
*Guide Expenses: Please note that the guest is responsible for covering the guide’s lunch and entrance fees.
*Gratuities: In accordance with industry custom, a gratuity is at your discretion but greatly appreciated if you are satisfied with the tour.
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves some walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* A compact car is used to easily navigate the narrow mountain roads to reach all tour locations. We kindly ask for your understanding regarding the smaller seating capacity.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Important message from the supplier
I can guide you in Takayama and Shirakawago, Gifu if you pay my transportation fee.
I can make flyfishing trip during the fishing season: March 1st to September 30th.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Naoto K.
Hello! I’m Naoto, and I’m thrilled you’re considering the Hokuriku region for your journey.
After living across the globe and spending decades in the fast-paced energy of Tokyo, I realized something important: the most authentic, soulful experiences in Japan are found right here in my hometowns of Toyama and Kanazawa. This region is a "hidden gem" where ancient traditions and pristine nature remain untouched by the crowds.
My goal is to take you beyond the guidebooks. Whether we are:
Exploring the samurai history and gold-leaf crafts of Kanazawa.
Discovering a secluded restaurant tucked away in the mountains.
Hiking or fishing along Toyama’s dramatic coastline and peaks.
Diving into manga, anime, or local festivals known only to residents.
Because I spent years overseas, I understand the curiosity of international travelers. I don’t just show you the sights; I help you translate the culture. Every tour is 100% customized to your pace and passions.
Let’s step off the beaten path together.
Please reach out, and let’s start planning your one-of-a-kind Japanese adventure!
Reviews
Diana C.
“A perfect day thanks to our guide Naoto ”
We had an absolutely wonderful experience with our guide, Naoto, during our trip to Japan. He took us to Shirakawa-go and Shogawa Yuran, and the entire day was perfectly organized and unforgettable. Naoto is not only an incredibly knowledgeable guide but also a safe and professional driver. He shared fascinating insights about the history, culture, and local traditions of Shirakawa-go, making the visit even more meaningful. He was punctual, friendly, and very attentive to our needs throughout the trip. We felt comfortable and well taken care of the entire time. If you’re looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, and kind guide in Japan, we highly recommend Naoto. He made our trip extra special, and we would happily tour with him again!
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Naoto K.
Diana and your beloved husband, Thank you so much for joining my tour to the Shogawa River cruise and Shirakawa-go. It was a true pleasure to guide such Japan enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate "off-the-beaten-track" destinations. I also want to thank you for the wonderful review. Your kind words are a great encouragement to me as a guide. If you ever want to explore more hidden gems in Japan, I would be happy to show you around again. Enjoy the rest of your holiday in Japan!
Amely W.
“Wonderful memorable day with Naoto”
My husband and son and I had a wonderful day with Naoto! From the moment I booked with him, he was responsive and flexible. He was also full of great information not just for the logistics around our tour but also for getting to and leaving the Kanazawa area as well as plans for our follow on time at Kaga Onsen. He was a pleasure to work with and I really appreciated his help as I put my plans together for this time in general. For the tour itself, it was our first day in country and he picked us up and brought us cheerfully on a gorgeous tour of Kanazawa. Showing us the beautiful Samuari district and most memorable garden, the Keroku-ken as well as the market and historical geisha district. We had a wonderful time trying a gold leaf experience which was lots of fun as well as tasting gold leaf ice cream. He was an excellent guide explaining many details of the gardens we saw and architectural features and cultural heritage. He found a wonderful and traditional lunch spot for us on a 2nd floor of a non descript building where we were able to try several regional city specialties which were excellent. We would never have found that on our own. I would recommend working with him hands down. We found him easy to work with, knowledgable and easy to understand and communicate with. He found a way to engage each of us with our own personal differences in age and interests. Thank you Naoto for the time we spent together!
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Naoto K.
Dear Amely, thank you so much for your kind words! It was truly a pleasure to help you and your family navigate Kanazawa and Kaga Onsen. I am so glad you enjoyed the gold leaf experience and our local lunch. Knowing that everyone in the family had a good time means a lot to me. I hope to see you all again someday!
Ben A.
“Walking Tour of Toyama and Takaoka”
My daughter and I had delightful time with Naoto. We planned on meeting at the Toyama train station at 9AM and we were both there 30 minutes early! We got to see the planned highlights of Toyama (Glass Museum, Toyama Castle) and we included detours to the park around the castle and the library. It was lucky, I didn't realize the there was Chihuly glass in the glass museum! In Takaoka, Naoto had made reservations for lunch at a restaurant that served shojin ryori, for us vegans. In Takaoka, we got to see the hits there, as well as some unique things, like kids getting out of school and the old street with the portable shrines. Our weather wasn't prefect, but we made the best of it. Naoto helped find us some nice photo spots. It was a fun day and we got to see many things that I wouldn't have included if I were planning it.
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Naoto K.
Thank you for the wonderful review! I am so glad you enjoyed the Toyama and Takaoka tour despite the weather. There was even more I wanted to show you, but since this tour covers two cities in a single day, I did my best to highlight the unique charm of each. I hope you can return someday to explore even more of these beautiful cities.
$314/ per group
More tours by Naoto K.
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7-Hour Kanazawa Must-See Tour: Kenrokuen Garden, Samurai District, and Geisha District
Explore Kanazawa's history and culture on this private, 7-hour loop bus tour. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour covers Omicho Market, the Nagamachi Samurai District, the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, and the charming Higashichaya-gai (Tea House Street). The itinerary is completely customizable, including the tour length and the pick-up and drop-off locations.
7-Hour Kanazawa Must-See Tour: Kenrokuen Garden, Samurai District, and Geisha District
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Winter Magic: The Shogawa River Cruise & World Heritage Site Shirakawago
A scenic day trip by private car from Toyama Station, combining a breathtaking River Cruise on the Shogawa River in Gokayama with a visit to Shirakawa-go or Gokayama - famous thatched roof house villages, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This experience focuses on natural and cultural immersion, allowing you to explore the traditional Japanese gasshō-zukuri village and savor authentic local cuisine.
Winter Magic: The Shogawa River Cruise & World Heritage Site Shirakawago
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The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art
A scenic day trip in a convenient car from Toyama Station to Gokayama Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage site, focusing on cultural immersion and local cuisine. The trip involves exploring a traditional Japanese village, savoring local dishes, and engaging in a hands-on paper-making experience.
The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art
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Full Day Toyama & Takaoka Highlights
This 8-hour private tour seamlessly links the cultural gems of Toyama and Takaoka via public transport. Start in Toyama with a visit to the striking Glass Art Museum and the historic Castle Ruin Park. Then, journey to Takaoka to explore its ancient treasures: the National Treasure Zuiryuji Temple and the majestic Takaoka Buddha. Experience a perfect blend of modern art and deep Japanese heritage in one unforgettable day.
Full Day Toyama & Takaoka Highlights
Other Popular Car Tour (driving guide) Tours in Toyama
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Winter Magic: The Shogawa River Cruise & World Heritage Site Shirakawago
A scenic day trip by private car from Toyama Station, combining a breathtaking River Cruise on the Shogawa River in Gokayama with a visit to Shirakawa-go or Gokayama - famous thatched roof house villages, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This experience focuses on natural and cultural immersion, allowing you to explore the traditional Japanese gasshō-zukuri village and savor authentic local cuisine.
Winter Magic: The Shogawa River Cruise & World Heritage Site Shirakawago
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Takaoka private car tour
The tour starts from where you like and ends where you like. It is possible to do this because the tour is done by car. There are attractive sites, but they are dispersed in the area. So I have planned this tour for tourists using a car. Let's go to area's many attractions.
Takaoka private car tour
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<PRIVATE CAR TOUR> Gokayama Inami Historical Tour - Full Day
Gokayama and Inami in Nanto city have a lot of historical spots. I will show you the best spots in these areas. We go to Ainokura Gassho-zukuri Village, Zuisenji temple in Inami district. The Itinerary is one of example. I can customize this tour for you.
<PRIVATE CAR TOUR> Gokayama Inami Historical Tour - Full Day
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The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art
A scenic day trip in a convenient car from Toyama Station to Gokayama Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage site, focusing on cultural immersion and local cuisine. The trip involves exploring a traditional Japanese village, savoring local dishes, and engaging in a hands-on paper-making experience.
The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art
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