Castle Town Stroll in Gujo Hachiman | Edo-Era Streets, Traditional Dance & Sampuru Crafting
Tour Duration
Tour Duration
8.5
Hours
Starting From
Starting From
28,000
JPY/person
Group Size
Group Size
2-6
People
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. After arriving by highway bus and transferring by taxi, your journey begins at Sample Village Iwasaki, home to one of Japan’s most renowned “sampuru” studios. Here, you’ll craft your own ultra-realistic food replica—an entertaining, hands-on introduction to Japan’s unique display food culture.

From there, embark on a guided stroll through the beautifully preserved castle town of Gujo Hachiman. Wander through stone-paved streets, explore iconic landmarks like Yanaka Mizu-no-Komichi, and discover why the town is celebrated for its pure spring water. Along the way, take a relaxing break to enjoy lunch featuring local specialties such as Hida beef or handmade soba.

In the afternoon, step inside the Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan Museum, where the spirit of Gujo Odori comes alive. Learn about the history of one of Japan’s most beloved traditional dances—designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property—and witness a lively demonstration when available.

This immersive day trip from Nagoya blends craft, culture, dance, and culinary exploration—perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Japan’s traditions.

Itinerary

9:30 AM – Meet at Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center

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

9:45 AM – Travel to Gujo Hachiman by Highway Bus

Board the JR highway bus at Nagoya Station and enjoy a scenic ride to Gujo Hachiman, followed by a short taxi transfer into town.

11:30 AM – Food Replica Crafting at Sample Village Iwasaki

Start your adventure with a hands-on “sampuru” workshop. Learn to create your own lifelike food model under expert guidance.

12:30 PM – Town Walk & Lunch in Gujo Hachiman

Explore the atmospheric streets of Gujo Hachiman with your guide. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional flavors.

3:00 PM – Visit Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan Museum

Discover the cultural heritage of Gujo Odori. Observe a traditional dance demonstration when available and learn about its centuries-old significance.

4:00 PM – Return Transfer & Departure to Nagoya

Take a taxi to the Gujo Hachiman IC bus stop and board the JR highway bus for your journey back to Nagoya.

5:45 PM – Arrive at Nagoya Station

Tour concludes at Nagoya Station. Your guide can assist with directions or onward travel.

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

Notes

  • Please arrive at the meeting location by 9:30 AM. 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 5

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 Request

This experience is booked on request. Responses are made to requests within 5 days.

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 None
Locations
visited during tour

Starting From
28,000 JPY/person