
Okuhida (奥飛騨) is a region located in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, nestled in the Japanese Alps. It is renowned for its hot springs, picturesque scenery, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.
One of the main attractions in Okuhida is its hot springs. The region is home to five distinct hot spring resorts: Hirayu Onsen, Shin-Hotaka Onsen, Fukuji Onsen, Tochio Onsen, and Shin-Hirayu Onsen. Visitors can immerse themselves in the therapeutic waters of these onsen while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
Okuhida also offers a wealth of hiking trails and outdoor activities. Encompassing parts of Chubu Sangaku National Park and Hida-Kisogawa Quasi-National Park, the region presents scenic mountain trails for hikers of all levels. In winter, visitors can indulge in skiing and snowboarding, while summer opens up opportunities for river rafting and other water sports.
Okuhida is not only rich in natural beauty but also in cultural heritage. Visitors can partake in various cultural experiences, such as making soba noodles, joining a tea ceremony, taking local cuisine classes, or trying their hand at woodworking.
Additionally, the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway in Shin-Hotaka Onsen takes visitors up to a 2,156-meter-high summit observation deck, offering a panoramic view of the Northern Alps. The Hirayu Otaki Waterfall, with a drop of 64 meters and a width of 6 meters, is another natural wonder worth visiting.
Each hot spring resort in Okuhida has its own unique charm. Hirayu Onsen is the oldest in the region, Fukuji Onsen offers a tranquil atmosphere, Shin-Hirayu Onsen is known for its milky-white waters, and Tochio Onsen is a hidden gem with a serene ambiance.
Attractions in Okuhida


Getting there
By Train and Bus
From Tokyo:
- Take the JR limited express train to Matsumoto (6620 yen)
- Transfer to a bus bound for Takayama and get off at Hirayu (2800 yen)
- Total journey: About 5 hours, 9420 yen
- Japan Rail Pass covers the train portion
By Direct Highway Bus
From Tokyo:
- Take the Nohi Bus or Keio Bus from Shinjuku to Hirayu Onsen
- Journey time: About 4.5 hours
- Cost: 5,300 to 6,200 yen
From Takayama
- Take the Nohi Bus to Okuhida towns:
- Hirayu Onsen: 60 minutes, 1600 yen
- Fukuji Onsen: 70 minutes, 1800 yen
- Shin-Hirayu Onsen: 75 minutes, 1850 yen
- Tochio Onsen: 80 minutes, 1930 yen
- Shin-Hotaka Ropeway: 90 minutes, 2200 yen
Discount Passes
- Takayama & Shin-Hotaka 2-Day Free Pass: 4,400 yen
- Okuhida Onsen 2-Day Free Pass: 1,800 yen
- Alps Wide Free Passport: 14,000 yen for 4 days
Links and Resources
Okuhida Onsengo Tourism Association | https://www.okuhida.or.jp/ |