Mystical Winter Scenery: Shirakawa-go and Kamikōchi Snow Trekking Bus Tour

This event will be decided by lottery among those who apply by Wednesday, October 29, 9:00 PM. A total of 26 participants will be selected. If there are 27 or more applications, the order of the waiting list will also be decided by lottery. To Shirakawa-go and Kamikochi in winter! On the first day, we will visit the “Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the bus, we will have a lecture titled “The Mystery of the Phantom Castle and the Lost Treasure! The Story of Kaerikumo Castle.” When we arrive at Shirakawa-go, we will enjoy the spectacular view of the snow-covered thatched roofs that can only be seen in this season! There will also be an explanation of the Gassho-zukuri houses. Let’s enjoy walking around and trying local foods. The guide’s recommendation, “Shirakawa-go Pudding House,” has a superb water pudding! The walking distance in Shirakawa-go is about 3–4 km. Upon arrival, we will guide you to Shiroyama Castle Ruins Observation Deck, and on the way back, you will have free time. Basically, hiking boots are suitable, and waterproof ones are recommended. On the second day, we will go to Kamikochi, a popular tourist destination and base for mountain climbing in the Alps. In winter, Kamikochi is closed and no shuttle buses operate. Access is only on foot, allowing you to fully enjoy the silent, untouched natural scenery. After walking for about an hour through a long tunnel with headlights, a vast silver world spreads out before you, with majestic snow-covered mountains. Usually crowded Kappa Bridge is almost empty. Frost-covered trees, mist created by the unfrozen surface of Taisho Pond, and the magnificent Hotaka Mountain Range in the crisp air. Following the footprints of small winter animals, you can enjoy unique encounters only available to those who are there. In the midwinter Kamikochi, you can enjoy magnificent scenery and experience a different charm from usual Kamikochi. The walking distance is about 14 km. There is no snow inside the tunnel and it is safe, but there are some ups and downs. Once inside Kamikochi, it is a flat walking trail along the Azusa River. There may be occasional holes in the snow, but there is no danger of falling. The mountain level is 5. If there is too much snow or a snowstorm, the tour will be canceled. Instead, we will visit alternative spots such as the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway or Hirayu Falls, after consulting with everyone. Accommodation is at “Ryokan Gizan” in Okuhida, Gifu Prefecture. Dinner includes A5 grade Hida beef. Enjoy Shin-Hirayu Onsen in four private open-air baths. Breakfast includes Hida’s local dish Hoba miso and other specialties. Rooms are for 3–5 people per room, separated by gender. You can leave unnecessary items for the Shirakawa-go walk and Kamikochi hike on the bus. The maximum temperature may be below 0°C. Please take cold-weather measures. Last year, the tour was canceled the day before due to a cold wave. Please understand that there is a possibility of cancellation due to highway closures or other reasons. Date: February 8 (Sun) – 9 (Mon), 2026 Meeting place: JR Shin-Osaka Station main exit bus parking lot, Takeda Station west rotary Meeting time: 6:45, 7:30 Participation fee: 38,000 yen Included in the fee: transportation, accommodation (2 meals), guide fee, insurance Not included: lunch fee