Takayama is easily accessible all year round by train. From Nagoya (taking the "Shinkansen" super-express
from Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto) an express train reaches Takayama in 2 hrs. 30mins. Alternatively, there is a
direct service from Osaka and Kyoto (the "Takayama Express") that takes five hours.
From Tokyo, the most time-saving route is to fly to Takayama from Haneda Airport (1 hour) and then take the
train from Toyama to Takayama. The whole journey takes a little over three hours.
Takayama can also be approached via the historic city of Matsumoto. There is a rail/bus service that crosses
the magnificent mountain barrier between Matsumoto and Takayama though please note that this road is
closed from November through March. From Tokyo, the train journey to Matsumoto takes about 3 hours. In
season, a package tour to Takayama with an English speaking guide is available via the Matsumoto route.
By car, the fastest route from Tokyo is on the Chuo Expressway to Nakatsugawa I.C., taking Route 257 to
Gero and then Route 41 to Takayama (5 hrs. 30 mins.). Alternatively, take the Tomei Expressway to Komaki
I.C. and then Route 41 to Takayama (7 hrs.). From Osaka or Kyoto, take the Meishin Expressway to komaki and
then Route 41 (5 hrs. 30 mins.).
We would like to recommend that you make travel plans and bookings in advance - especially in summer and
at the time of the spring and autumn festivals.@