ideal for nature and mountain lovers.

This mountainous region is home to well-preserved villages and rich traditional crafts. It's the ideal place to discover a rural, authentic, and historic Japan.

Places to see:

-Takayama: for its perfectly preserved old Edo-era district.

Dubbed the "Little Kyoto of Hida," Takayama prospered thanks to its wealthy merchants and exceptional craftsmen. Strolling through the Sanmachi Suji district, admire the dark wooden facades and centuries-old sake breweries. This urban landscape, unchanged for centuries, bears witness to the refinement of merchant culture under the shogunate.

-Shirakawa-go: a UNESCO-listed village, famous for its thatched-roof houses.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawa-go village is famous for its "Gassho-zukuri" style houses. These steep, thatched roofs, resembling hands in prayer, were designed centuries ago to withstand the region's heavy snowfall.

-Kanazawa: for the Kenroku-en Garden, one of the three most beautiful in Japan.

Once the private garden of the Maeda clan lords, Kenrokuen embodies the ideal of Japanese landscape beauty. Its name means "garden of the six attributes," as it combines qualities often contradictory, such as spaciousness and intimacy, or artifice and antiquity. Every lantern, every bridge, and every pruned pine tells the cultural ambition of Kanazawa's samurai.

Activities:

-Morning Markets (Asa-ichi): to discover local products and crafts.

Local vitality at dawn: discover the authentic flavors and crafts of Hida.

-Samurai District (Nagamachi): for the history of warriors in Kanazawa.

At the foot of the old castle, the Nagamachi district preserves the austerity and dignity of ancient warriors. Its ochre earth walls, protected by straw mats in winter, line narrow canals that once served for defense and daily life. A peaceful labyrinth where one can still feel the protective presence of the military class.

-Ryokan stay: sleep on a futon in a traditional wooden inn.

It's a timeless experience where one can be lulled by the serenity of authentic Japan.

Gastronomy:

Hida Beef: the excellence of marbled meat in Takayama

Hida beef, famous for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, is an unmissable culinary experience. Our absolute recommendation?
Grilled Hida-gyu on a houba (magnolia) leaf with miso: a perfect harmony of smoky and woody flavors.

Gohei-mochi: the rustic flavors of the Alps in Shirakawa-go

A specialty of pounded rice, grilled with a rich miso, nut, or sesame sauce. A comforting snack to enjoy while admiring the traditional "Gassho-zukuri" houses.

Kaisendon: the exceptional freshness of the Sea of Japan in Kanazawa

Thanks to its proximity to the sea, Kanazawa is renowned for its seafood of rare quality. A bowl of rice topped with seasonal fish, such as crab or golden shrimp, is a true culinary treasure.

Transportation:

-Hokuriku Shinkansen: fast access between Tokyo and Kanazawa (approx. 2h30).
-Nohi Bus: essential and regular connection between Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, and Takayama.

Recommended hotel districts:

-Kanazawa (Near the station): strategic for transport and comfort.
-Takayama (Old town center): for total immersion in ancient architecture.