Castle Town Stroll in Gujo Hachiman | Edo-Era Streets, Traditional Dance & Sampuru Crafting
Tour Duration
Tour Duration
9.5
Hours
Starting From
Starting From
25,000
JPY/person
Size
Size
2-6
Person
Highlights
  • Stroll through Gujo Hachiman, a charming Edo-period castle town surrounded by scenic nature
  • Watch a live performance of Gujo Odori, a traditional dance with centuries of history
  • Craft your own ultra-realistic food replica at a local “sampuru” workshop
  • Discover the beauty of Gujo Hachiman, a town famous for its pure, flowing spring water
  • Enjoy a personalized experience with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide

Step into the living history of Gujo Hachiman, a hidden gem in Gifu Prefecture known for its pristine waterways, traditional architecture, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. Begin your day with a guided stroll through the beautifully preserved castle town, where the past is woven into every stone-paved path and timber-framed building.

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local flavors such as Hida beef or soba noodles, before diving into the region’s vibrant performing arts at the Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan Museum. Here, you’ll witness a captivating live performance of Gujo Odori, one of Japan’s most beloved traditional dances, recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.

The tour concludes with a fun, interactive session at Sample Village Iwasaki, where you’ll learn to make your own “sampuru”—Japan’s astonishingly lifelike food models. With expert instruction, you’ll mold your own creation to take home as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

This immersive day trip from Nagoya blends culture, history, craft, and cuisine—perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Japanese tradition.

Itinerary

8:30 AM – Meet at Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center

Meet your guide and get ready for a full day of cultural discovery.

8:40 AM – Depart by Meitetsu Bus

Relax and enjoy the scenic ride through Gifu Prefecture toward Gujo Hachiman.

10:15 AM – Arrive at Gujo Hachiman Jokamachi Plaza Station

Begin a guided walking tour through the charming townscape. Stroll cobbled streets, visit symbolic spots like Yanaka Mizu-no-Komichi and Miyagase Bridge, and absorb the peaceful rhythm of local life.

12:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring regional specialties such as Hida beef, soba noodles, or other seasonal dishes.

2:00 PM – Gujo Odori Performance at Gujohachiman Hakurankan Museum

Witness a dynamic live demonstration of Gujo Odori performed by local dancers in traditional attire. Learn the meaning behind the movements and music of this deeply rooted dance tradition.

2:45 PM – Food Replica Crafting at Sample Village Iwasaki

Dive into Japan’s fascinating sampuru culture with a hands-on workshop. Create your own lifelike food model under expert guidance.

4:10 PM – Depart by Meitetsu Bus

Board the bus and begin your return journey to Nagoya.

6:05 PM – Arrive at Nagoya Station

Tour concludes at Nagoya Station, where your guide will offer directions or travel advice if needed.

Meeting Point

Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center

What's Included

What’s Included

  • Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Transportation during the tour
  • Gujohachiman Hakurankan Museum admission
  • Food-sample-making experience
  • Travel Insurance

What’s Not Included

  • Transportation to the meeting point
  • Food and drinks
  • Guide gratuities (optional)
Additional Info

Note

  • Please arrive at the meeting location by 8:30 AM. If you cannot arrive by 9:15 AM, your reservation will be canceled. Late arrivals and no-shows are non-refundable
  • Please wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for a full day of light activity

Accessibility & Activity Level

Moderate activity level with extended periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces

Tour Operation & Language

  • This tour is conducted in English.
    A Mandarin, French, Spanish, German, or Korean-speaking guide may be available. Please contact the supplier in advance to check availability.
  • Minimum age of participants is 12

Dietary Requirements

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
  • Cash for lunch and any personal purchases

Booking & Cancellation Policy

Booking Deadline

  • Advance booking is required
  • Cut-off time: 7 days before departure

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Date Cancellation Fee
No-show or cancellation after tour departure 100% of the tour price
On the tour date 50% of the tour price
1 day prior to the tour date 40% of the tour price
2 to 7 days prior to the tour date 30% of the tour price
8 to 10 days prior to the tour date 20% of the tour price
11 or more days prior to the tour date Free
Reviews
The locations
to visit in this tour

Starting From
25,000 JPY/person