Gokayama and Shirakawago (UNESCO Heritage) Small Group(Max 9)

Overview

Available languages

English

6 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Experience Rural Japan Beyond the Crowds: Small Group Tour to Suganuma, Iwase House & Shirakawago

Step off the tourist trail and into the heart of Japan’s hidden mountain villages on this intimate small-group day tour. Limited to just 9 guests, this experience offers a rare opportunity to discover the authentic charm and preserved traditions of the Gokayama and Shirakawago regions—without the rush or crowds.

Why this tour is unique:

Visits both Suganuma and Iwase House, often overlooked in typical Shirakawago tours

Small group size (max 9 guests) ensures a relaxed, personal experience

Led by expert local guides who share stories you won’t hear on larger bus tours

Ideal for travelers who want a deeper cultural understanding without the crowds

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Suganuma Gassho Community

Visit the quaint village of Suganuma

1 hour • Admission Included

Iwase Family

Visit the family house of this once prominent family. The house remain intact and in its original condition

45 minutes • Admission Included

What‘s Included

Lunch

Group Photos Shared after tour

Entrances Fees to houses and locations

Professional Certified Guide

Bottled water

Options

1~6 people

Vehicle for your group size: 1-3 people ... Spacious Sedan class, 4-6 people ... Luxurious Alphard class, 7-9 people ... Comfortable Minibus/Hiace class

Reviews

5.00

5 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Amazing day. Perfect Fall colors and incredible tour guide!
K9103WUandrewc,,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We used this tour company for a day trip to Shirakawa-go. Our tour guide, Takeshi, was simply amazing with the information he had at the villages plus the ride to/from the hotel. One of the best days of our trip!
Thank you Ku!
893carolz,,Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a wonderful day with Kumiko Mitsuhata (Ku). From her welcome at our hotel with a beautiful hand made sign to the hugs we shared at the end of the day, we shared an amazing adventure. She is so knowledgeable and friendly. Ku had suggestions and recommendations for us all day long and took pride in sharing her love of her hometown and the surr inounding area. Thank you, Ku, for a great day 🙂
Amazing two days with Kanazawa Tours, Nozomi Kondo
dawnaO4521WU,,Jun 25, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We just spent two amazing days with Nozomi Kondo in Kanazawa and the Japanese Alps. Nozomi is a knowledgeable guide as well as an incredibly warm and thoughtful person. After Nozomi picked us up at the Kanazawa train station, we went to lunch and then to the Samurai and Geisha districts in Kanazawa. At the Samurai House, she surprised us with tea after my daughter told her how much she likes matcha. We also made a quick stop at Omicho Market upon our request. Our second day together, we drove through the Japanese Alps where we experienced the art of washi paper making, saw the gasso-styled thatched roof architecture, and went on a factory tour at the Nousaku Company where we bought some lovely gifts made of tin. Nozomi shared with us her extensive knowledge of Japanese history and culture, made sure we avoided the most touristy areas, helped us find restaurants to accommodate our daughter who is a vegetarian, and took photos at every site we visited. We cannot recommend her enough if you are in the Kanazawa area. She is an absolutely terrific guide and we guarantee that your visit to this area will be greatly enhanced by her knowledge and expertise.
Thank you Sachiko!
juliagodinho,,Jan 20, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Amazing experience with Sachiko! Kanazawa is beautiful and Sachiko is very knowledgeable and sweet. She took us to many historical places and incredible food spots. Had so much fun with her in these two days! Julia and Rodrigo