1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore the Hida Locations of 'Your Name'

Step into the breathtaking landscapes and peaceful towns that inspired the beloved anime Your Name (Kimi no Na wa). This immersive tour takes you to iconic locations in the Hida/Takayama region, where the magic of Mitsuha and Taki’s story comes to life. From the tranquil streets and canals of Hida-Furukawa to spiritual sanctuaries like Keta Wakamiya Shrine, every stop offers a glimpse into the world of the anime. Along the way, experience hands-on cultural moments, such as creating your own kumihimo braided cord, a central motif in the story, and savoring local specialties like Takayama ramen. Fans of Your Name will discover the real-life beauty that brought this unforgettable tale to the big screen.

This tour is a perfect blend of anime-inspired exploration and cultural discovery, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the timeless traditions and scenic charm of the Hida region. Whether you’re a devoted fan of Your Name or simply looking to experience the region’s rich heritage, this journey will leave you with memories as magical as the story that inspired it.

Highlights

• Visit key locations from Your Name, including Hida-Furukawa Station, Keta Wakamiya Shrine, and Hie Shrine, where the anime’s magic comes to life.

• Participate in a kumihimo braided cord workshop, a hands-on experience of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, one of the key crafts featured in the film.

• Savor Takayama ramen and other dishes featured in parts of the movie while soaking in the tranquil beauty of the Hida region.

Description

Step into the captivating world of Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) with this immersive, full-day tour in the Hida/Takayama region. Begin your journey at Takayama Station, where you’ll meet your guide and take a photo beside the Hida Express train, an iconic feature from the movie.

From there, travel to Hida-Furukawa Station, the peaceful and picturesque setting of several key scenes in the anime. This charming town invites you to explore its traditional streets, lined with wooden houses and tranquil canals that reflect the nostalgic beauty of rural Japan. Begin by seeing familiar scenes from around the station, where the movie’s attention to detail brings this quiet town to life.

Also, visit the local Hida Furukawa Library, where Taki and his friends researched to find the location of Mitsuha’s home village, and immerse yourself in the story’s journey of discovery.

Along the way, stop at other places featured in the film and indulge in local street foods, including freshly grilled gohei mochi, a skewered rice cake brushed with a sweet and savory miso glaze.

These local delicacies capture the essence of the region’s flavors, evoking the treats enjoyed by the characters in Your Name. Soak in the tranquil setting, where the connection between the characters and their surroundings comes vividly to life.

Visit Keta Wakamiya Shrine, a local shrine visited in the search for Mitsuha’s village in Your Name. This historic location reflects the film’s themes of connection and destiny. As you stroll through its peaceful grounds, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for its ties to the anime and its cultural significance in the Hida region. Your guide will provide insights into the shrine’s history, making it a meaningful stop on your journey.

As part of your journey, participate in a kumihimo weaving experience, a traditional Japanese craft featured in Your Name. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create your own braided cord to take home, guided by local artisans who will introduce you to the cultural significance of this art. This activity offers a unique connection to the anime while showcasing the timeless craftsmanship of Japan.

Finally, return to Takayama and visit Hie Shrine, the inspiration for the shrine in Mitsuha’s village in Your Name. This beautiful site, nestled among tall trees and traditional architecture, offers a glimpse into the spiritual essence captured in the film. As you explore its grounds, your guide will share the shrine’s connection to the anime and its cultural significance in the region, providing a fitting conclusion to your journey through the world of Your Name.

At the end of the tour, you are welcome to accompany your guide back to Takayama Station or take the opportunity to stay and explore Takayama’s charming Old Town at your own pace. With its traditional streets, local shops, and rich history, it’s the perfect way to continue your journey through the Hida region. Whether you choose to relax or keep exploring, your day immersed in the world of Your Name is sure to leave lasting memories.

TOUR MEETUP POINT

1 / TAKAYAMA STATION @ 9:30 A.M.

The meetup point is outside of the ticket gates at JR Takayama Station. Once you have left the gates, look to your left to see a walkway and a carving depicting an ornate wagon. You may wait nearby there until the tour begins at 9:30 A.M. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag. There is also a waiting room with benches nearby for guests who have arrived early and would like to sit down; however, please make sure that you have left the waiting room and are in place at the meetup point at 9:30.

2 / FURUKAWA STATION @ 10:00 A.M.

If your meetup point is Furukawa Station: The meet up poinr is located inside JR Furukawa Station, near the main entrance. Your guide will be arriving by train to meet you and is easily identifiable with a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag. For those arriving a bit early, there are seating areas inside the station where you can comfortably wait. Nonetheless, please ensure you are at the designated meetup point by 10:00 AM.

NOTES

Included

• Travel between Takayama and Furukawa
• Hands-on Experience: Traditional weaving session
• Guided walk through various ‘Your Name’ locations
• English speaking guide

Excluded

• Lunch
• Accommodation

Other Information

• This tour involves several hours of walking in the outdoors. We recommend that you wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in. Please check the weather forecast before you head to the meetup point and prepare an umbrella or rain coat if necessary.

• In winter the temperatures may drop below freezing, and even during the daytime temperatures may not exceed 1-2 ℃ on some days. Please wear warm clothing and footwear appropriate for snowy and cold conditions. There may also be snow and ice on the road/sidewalk, and so you should take care to not slip by preparing the correct shoes for such conditions.