Route: Hida-Furukawa → Takayama
Hida-Furukawa – A Charming Small Town Straight Out of Your Name
If you’ve watched Your Name (Kimi no Na wa), you probably remember the quiet countryside scenes, the beautiful train station, and that nostalgic “small-town Japan” vibe. Well, guess what? Those scenes weren’t just animation magic—they were inspired by a real place: Hida-Furukawa in Gifu Prefecture.
This little town is tucked away in the Japanese Alps, just a short train ride from the more famous Takayama. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and feels like stepping into the anime itself. The pace is slow here—people greet each other on the street, carp swim lazily in the canals, and old wooden buildings line the streets like they’ve been watching over the town for centuries.
Must-Visit Spots for Your Name Fans
1. Hida-Furukawa Station
This is the iconic spot for fans—Mitsuha’s train scene was based on this station. Standing on the platform feels almost surreal if you’ve seen the film. The surrounding mountains and quiet atmosphere make it worth the trip even if you’re not snapping anime comparison shots.
2. Keta Wakamiya Shrine
Not directly in Your Name, but this traditional Shinto shrine is worth visiting to soak up the local spiritual vibe. The path to the shrine is lined with towering cedar trees—perfect for a slow, contemplative walk.
3. Seto River and White-Walled Storehouses
The Seto River runs through town, and its clear water is home to colorful carp. Along the banks, you’ll find beautifully preserved white-walled warehouses, making it a photographer’s dream.
4. Hida Crafts and Museum
If you’re into traditional Japanese crafts, this place showcases woodworking, lacquerware, and more. It’s a nice way to understand the town beyond its anime fame.
Tips for Your Visit
- Best Season: Spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for colorful leaves—both make the anime vibes even stronger.
- Travel Connection: You can get here by train from Takayama in about 15 minutes.
- Take It Slow: The charm of Hida-Furukawa is in wandering. Don’t rush—grab a coffee, chat with locals, and just enjoy the calm.
Hida-Furukawa isn’t just an anime pilgrimage spot—it’s a place that makes you feel like time slows down. Whether you’re chasing the magic of Your Name or just want to experience authentic small-town Japan, this gem in the mountains is worth adding to your travel list.
Visit the station, the library, and riverside streets seen in the movie.
Takayama
Takayama – The Perfect Side Trip from Hida-Furukawa
So, you’ve come all the way to Hida-Furukawa for your Your Name pilgrimage… but guess what? Just 15 minutes away by train is another gem you really shouldn’t miss: Takayama.
Nicknamed “Little Kyoto,” Takayama is a beautifully preserved old town tucked deep in the Japanese Alps. It’s got wooden merchant houses, narrow streets that look like they haven’t changed in centuries, and a relaxed mountain-town atmosphere that makes you want to wander forever.
What Makes Takayama Special?
Takayama has this perfect mix of traditional Japan and laid-back rural charm. You’ll find craft shops, sake breweries, and food stalls all within walking distance. The air feels fresh, the pace is slow, and the mountain backdrop makes it all extra photogenic.
Must-Visit Spots in Takayama
1. Sanmachi Suji (Old Town District)
This is the Instagram dream—rows of Edo-period buildings, cozy cafés, and souvenir shops. Some sake breweries here even offer free tastings (yes, really).
2. Morning Markets
Takayama has two famous morning markets (Jinya-mae and Miyagawa) where locals sell fresh produce, snacks, and handmade crafts. It’s the best place to grab unique souvenirs or try street food you won’t find in big cities.
3. Takayama Jinya
A beautifully preserved Edo-era government building. If you like history—or just enjoy stepping into the past—this place is fascinating.
4. Hida Beef
If you eat meat, you must try Hida beef while you’re here. It’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious and served everywhere—from fancy restaurants to skewers at street stalls.
5. Seasonal Festivals
If you visit in spring or autumn, you might catch the Takayama Festival, one of Japan’s most beautiful, with giant ornate floats paraded through the streets.
Why It’s Perfect After Hida-Furukawa
Takayama offers more shops, food, and nightlife compared to Hida-Furukawa, but still keeps that cozy small-town feel. It’s the ideal place to end your day with a stroll, a good meal, and maybe a drink before heading back.
If Hida-Furukawa is like stepping into an anime scene, Takayama is like stepping into a history book—with plenty of modern comforts. Do both, and you’ll get the full flavor of this beautiful corner of Japan.
Historic townscapes, morning market, and local Hida beef for lunch.
🚆 Access:
From Nagoya, take JR Hida Limited Express to Takayama (2.5 hrs), then 15 min local train to Hida-Furukawa.