From Takayama: Explore the Hida Locations of ‘Your Name’

From Takayama: Explore the Hida Locations of ‘Your Name’

If you’re a fan of the anime Your Name or simply love discovering Japan through its beautiful towns and traditions, this tour from Takayama offers a rare combination of cinematic spots, cultural activities, and regional cuisine. For $150 per person, you’ll spend around five hours visiting charming sites like Hida-Furukawa, Keta Wakamiya Shrine, and Hie Shrine—places that inspired scenes in the film. Plus, you get to craft your own kumihimo braided cord, a traditional Japanese craft tied to the story’s theme of connection. Along the way, enjoy local specialties like Takayama ramen, making this experience both visually and gastronomically rewarding.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with hands-on activities and food. First, the walk through Hida-Furukawa offers a taste of rural Japan’s peaceful charm—wooden houses, canals, and traditional streets that seem straight out of an anime scene. Second, the kumihimo craft workshop provides a meaningful keepsake that links you to Japan’s artisanal heritage. The only thing to consider is that the tour involves several hours of walking outdoors, so comfortable shoes are a must. This experience is ideal for anime fans, culture enthusiasts, and those wanting a deeper connection to the region’s scenic and spiritual aspects without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Visiting iconic Your Name filming locations like Hida-Furukawa and Keta Wakamiya Shrine offers a cinematic and cultural experience.
• Hands-on crafting of traditional kumihimo cords provides a memorable, authentic connection to Japanese craftsmanship.
• Local food stops, including Takayama ramen and street snacks like grilled gohei mochi, add a flavorful dimension to your journey.
• Guided walking tours are led by knowledgeable guides, ensuring you gain insights into both the anime references and regional history.
• Transportation included from Takayama to Furukawa makes logistics straightforward, with a relaxed pace.
• Appropriate for varied travelers, especially fans of Your Name, those seeking culture, or anyone interested in rural Japan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Takayama Station, you’ll hop aboard a train to reach Hida-Furukawa Station, a journey that exemplifies Japan’s efficient and scenic rail network. Once there, the town’s quiet streets and waterways immediately evoke scenes from the anime, making it a perfect spot for fans to feel like they’re stepping into Mitsuha and Taki’s world. We loved the way the tour takes you off the beaten path—fewer travelers, more authentic charm.

The first major stop is the Hida Furukawa Library, where Taki and Mitsuha’s research for their story takes place. While the library itself isn’t a film set, it’s a symbol of the quiet curiosity that the story embodies, and it’s a good place to appreciate the local commitment to community and education. As you stroll through the town, you’ll find spots like the traditional streets and canals that played a role in the film, providing ample photo opportunities and a chance to soak in rural Japan’s slow pace.

Food lovers will enjoy the chance to sample Takayama ramen—a regional specialty known for its rich broth and hearty flavor—and gohei mochi, skewered rice cakes brushed with a sweet-savory miso glaze. These street foods, often enjoyed during local festivals, add flavor and context to your experience, connecting you to the regional culture as portrayed in the film.

Next, you’ll visit Keta Wakamiya Shrine, a site tied to Mitsuha’s search for her village in the story. As you walk through its tranquil grounds, you can appreciate the spiritual undertones of the anime, with themes of destiny and connection woven into the scenery. The shrine’s historic significance in the Hida region offers an authentic glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions, elevating the emotional resonance of the day.

The hands-on kumihimo weaving workshop is a standout feature. Traditional to Japan, this craft involves braiding silk or cotton threads into cords used for decorative purposes or spiritual accessories. During the session, you’ll create your own braided cord—an art form that’s been practiced for centuries. Many reviews highlight this as a meaningful keepsake, with one guest describing it as “such a unique and memorable experience that gave us a wonderful keepsake from the day.” It’s a chance to learn a skill that has historical significance, and it’s surprisingly satisfying to see your own simple strands turn into something beautiful.

Finally, the return trip takes you back to Takayama, where you’ll visit Hie Shrine. This serene site inspired the shrine in Mitsuha’s village, and walking among its tall trees and traditional architecture leaves a peaceful impression. Our guide shared stories about the shrine’s connection to the film and its cultural importance, providing a fitting conclusion to the day’s journey.

The Value of This Experience

At $150, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of sightseeing, cultural activity, and culinary delights—an excellent value for those interested in Your Name’s world and Japanese traditions. The transportation from Takayama is included, saving you the hassle of arranging your own travel, and the guide’s knowledge enriches each stop with context and stories that bring the locations to life.

The tour’s length—about five hours—strikes a balance between enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The small group setting (implied by the detailed, personal experiences described) allows for engaging conversations and questions, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible experience.

However, be prepared for outdoor walking—shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must. If rain is forecast, an umbrella or raincoat will keep you comfortable as you navigate traditional streets and shrine grounds. The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for anime fans, especially those who love Your Name and want to see the real-life locations that inspired the film. It also appeals to culture aficionados interested in traditional crafts and spiritual sites, as well as food lovers eager to taste regional specialties. Travelers who enjoy relaxed walks through picturesque towns and appreciate authentic storytelling will find this tour particularly rewarding.

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues due to the walking involved or for travelers on a strict schedule, as the focus is on quality over quantity. If you’re looking for a way to connect deeply with rural Hida and enjoy a mix of pop culture and tradition, this is a fine choice.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Takayama offers a special peek into the world of Your Name, blending cinematic sites with authentic cultural experiences. The highlight for many is the chance to create a personalized braided cord, which provides a tangible link to the story’s themes of connection and fate. Pairing this with visits to spiritual shrines and local food stops makes the day both enriching and fun.

You’ll love the hospitality of your guides, the stunning scenery, and the opportunity to see a side of rural Japan rarely experienced by travelers. For fans of the anime, it’s a chance to walk in Mitsuha and Taki’s footsteps; for others, it’s a beautifully curated introduction to Hida’s scenic charms and traditions. Whether you’re seeking a memorable souvenir or simply want to see a quieter, more genuine Japan, this tour delivers on a thoughtful, well-balanced level.

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FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, your transportation between Takayama and Furukawa is covered, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around five hours, including travel, site visits, and the craft workshop.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially if rain is forecast.

What can I expect to create in the workshop?
You’ll make your own kumihimo braided cord, a traditional Japanese craft that ties into the story’s themes.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll have opportunities to sample local dishes like Takayama ramen and street snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the hands-on craft and gentle walking make it generally suitable for families, provided children can walk comfortably outdoors.

How large are the groups?
The guide’s attentive approach suggests small groups or intimate numbers, ideal for personalized interaction.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

Is English spoken throughout the tour?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

Would I enjoy this tour if I’m not a fan of anime?
Absolutely. Even if you haven’t seen Your Name, you’ll appreciate the scenic towns, spiritual sites, and traditional crafts—plus, it’s an excellent way to experience rural Hida.

This walkthrough of Takayama’s Your Name locations offers a thoughtful mix of pop culture, tradition, and regional flavor. It’s a memorable way to spend a few hours, especially if you’re eager for authentic sights and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re a die-hard anime fan or a curious traveler seeking genuine Japan, this tour has plenty to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: