Nagoya to Takayama: JR Train vs Bus (complete guide for 2025)
Takayama, renowned for its quaint streets and traditional architecture, is one of the most popular tourist destinations near Nagoya. Getting there from Nagoya is convenient with direct daily JR train and bus services, taking approximately 2.5 hours via either the JR or the Shoryudo Highway Bus. In this article, we'll outline the differences between these transportation options and share tips on saving money using the JR Pass or the Shoryudo Highway Bus Pass.
Photo by Visit Gifu
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Best Ways to get to Takayama:
1. JR Hida Limited Express Train the fastest!
Nagoya → Takayama Duration: ~2hr 20min Fare: from 5,160 yen Frequency: 10 trains per day >> Check Schedule <<
The JR Hida Limited Express Train is the most convenient way to reach Takayama, taking around 2.5 hours to arrive at Takayama Station. Trains on this route operate approximately every 1-2 hours during daytime, making it convenient for early morning, afternoon, or evening departures.
JR Pass: must-have for saving money!
Source: JR西日本
The round trip between Nagoya and Takayama can be quite expensive (from 10,320 yen). To save money, consider purchasing the Takayama-Hokuriku Area 5-Day Pass (19,800 yen). Apart from JR trains, this pass includes bus transportation between Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa. It also allows travel from Kanazawa to Kyoto and Osaka by JR train. For more details, refer to:
2. Highway Bus
Nagoya (Meitetsu/JR station) → Takayama Duration: ~2hr 50min Fare: One-way 3,400 yen / Round trip 6,000 yen Frequency: 9 buses per day >> Check Schedule <<
Alternatively, you can opt for the more affordable yet equally comfortable Shoryudo Highway Bus. Departing from and arriving near the railway stations, buses operate approximately every 1-2 hours during the day, with a travel time only around 30 minutes longer than the JR train.
Shoryudo Highway Bus Pass:
Source: Klook
The Shoryudo Highway Bus also offers its own passes: Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa 3 Day Pass (16,000yen) and Wide Area 5 Day Pass (22,000 yen). By combining your trip to Takayama (round trip 6,000 yen) with other excursions such as Takayama to Shirakawa-go (round trip 5,200 yen) or Takayama to Kanazawa (round trip 8,000 yen), you can easily save money. For more details, refer to:
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