Director Makoto Shinkai’s major hit film “Your Name.” has continued to captivate numerous fans both domestically and internationally since its release in 2016. Hida-Furukawa Station in Hida City, Gifu Prefecture, which served as the stage for its beautiful visuals and moving story, is now known as a representative holy site pilgrimage spot.
This article provides a thorough explanation of all information necessary for holy site pilgrimage, including the relationship with the work, access methods, filming spots, and attractions in the surrounding area for Hida-Furukawa Station, which any fan of “Your Name.” should visit at least once.
The Relationship Between Hida-Furukawa Station and “Your Name.”
The Role of Hida-Furukawa Station in the Film
Hida-Furukawa Station plays an important role in the work as the gateway to the Hida region, which served as the model for Itomori Town where Mitsuha Miyamizu, one of the main characters, lives. In particular, in the second half of the story, the station is depicted impressively in the scene where Taki Tachibana visits to search for Mitsuha.
Director Makoto Shinkai actually visited the area around Hida-Furukawa Station multiple times and conducted meticulous location scouting. As a result, the station building’s exterior, the atmosphere of the platforms, and the surrounding townscape are faithfully reproduced within the film. When comparing the landscapes depicted in the animation with the actual scenery, you will be amazed by the high level of accuracy in reproduction.
Reasons Hida-Furukawa Was Chosen
The reasons Director Makoto Shinkai chose Hida-Furukawa as the setting are its beautiful natural environment, traditional townscape, and the unique atmosphere where the modern and past coexist. Hida-Furukawa maintains the ambiance of a castle town dating back to the Edo period while also being a place where modern life thrives.
This element of “time intersecting” aligns perfectly with the theme of “Your Name.”—”an encounter transcending time and space.” The director found in this place the perfect stage to express the world of the film.
Basic Information About Hida-Furukawa Station
Overview of the Station
Hida-Furukawa Station is a historic station that opened in 1934 (Showa 9) as a station on the JR Takayama Main Line. Located in Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture, it functions as the central station of Hida City.
The station building is a wooden structure with warmth, characterized by a design incorporating traditional Hida architectural styles. The waiting room is well-equipped with local tourism information and brochures, making it an ideal starting point for holy site pilgrimage.
Station Basic Data:
- Location: Kanayamachi, Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture
- Line: JR Takayama Main Line
- Opening: October 25, 1934 (Showa 9)
- Platforms: 2 platforms, 2 tracks (relative platform configuration)
- Station Staff: Staffed station (Midori no Madoguchi available)
Characteristics of the Area Around the Station
The area around Hida-Furukawa Station spreads with a beautiful townscape also called the “Little Kyoto of Hida.” Within walking distance from the station are various spots that appear in “Your Name,” including the Seto River and white-walled earthen-walled storehouse district, Enkoji Temple, and Keta Wakamiya Shrine.
There is a tourist information center in front of the station where you can obtain holy site pilgrimage maps and tourism information. Additionally, bicycle rental services are available, allowing you to efficiently visit multiple spots.
Access Methods to Hida-Furukawa Station
Access by Train
From Nagoya:
- Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes via JR Special Limited Express Wide View Hida
- Nagoya Station → Takayama Station (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes) → Hida-Furukawa Station (approximately 15 minutes)
- Cost: Approximately 6,000 yen per way (including limited express fare)
From Tokyo:
- Tokyo Station → Nagoya Station (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes by Shinkansen) → Hida-Furukawa Station (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by limited express)
- Total travel time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: Approximately 15,000 yen per way
From Osaka:
- Shin-Osaka Station → Nagoya Station (approximately 50 minutes by Shinkansen) → Hida-Furukawa Station (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by limited express)
- Total travel time: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: Approximately 12,000 yen per way
From Kanazawa:
- Kanazawa Station → Toyama Station (approximately 20 minutes by Shinkansen) → Hida-Furukawa Station (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by limited express)
- Total travel time: Approximately 2 hours
- Cost: Approximately 5,000 yen per way
Access by Bus
Approximately 15 minutes by route bus from Takayama Concentration Bus Center, get off at Hida-Furukawa Station Front Bus Stop. If you are staying in Takayama City, bus transportation is also convenient.
Access by Car
Using Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Hida-Kiyomi IC via National Route 41
- Paid parking available near the station (approximately 500 yen per day)
Using Chubu Longitudinal Expressway:
- Approximately 20 minutes from Takayama IC via National Route 41
There are multiple parking lots in front and around the station, but they may become congested during tourist season and weekends, so public transportation is recommended.
“Your Name.” Holy Site Pilgrimage Spots – Hida-Furukawa Station Edition
Station Building Exterior
Hida-Furukawa Station’s station building appears in the scene where Taki visits Hida for the first time in the film. The wooden station building with its warmth is faithfully reproduced in the animation, and you can recreate a scene from the film by photographing it from the front.
Photography Points:
- Photograph the entire station building from the station front rotary
- Early morning hours (7:00-9:00) when sunlight streams in are especially beautiful
- The station building at dusk also has a nostalgic atmosphere
Station Platforms
One of the most impressive scenes in the film is when Taki gets off the train at the platform. Platform 2 in particular has high similarity with the film, and many fans attempt to photograph it from the same angle.
Photography Points:
- Platform 2 composition facing the Takayama direction
- Areas around waiting benches on the platform
- Overhead photography from the overpass is also possible
Precautions:
- Be careful when photographing on the platform not to interfere with train operations
- Entering the tracks is absolutely prohibited
- Consider not to be a nuisance to other passengers
Station Front Taxi Stand
The station front taxi stand where Taki gets into a taxi also has nearly the same layout as the actual scenery. Photographing with the station building as background allows you to recreate the atmosphere of the film.
Surrounding Townscape
The shopping streets and residential areas extending from the station are also depicted in detail as background in the film. In particular, the scenery along the road extending south from the station served as a model for the scene where Taki walks searching for Mitsuha.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Spots Around Hida-Furukawa Station
Hida City Library (Former Furukawa Town Library)
About 5 minutes walk from the station, Hida City Library is the model for the library that Taki visits to search for clues about Mitsuha. Both the exterior and interior are faithfully reproduced in the film, and the second-floor reading room is a must-see.
Opening Hours: 9:00-19:00 (Tuesday-Friday), 9:00-17:00 (Saturday, Sunday, Holidays)
Closed: Mondays, day after holidays, year-end and new year holidays
Admission: Free
Keta Wakamiya Shrine
Considered one of the models for Miyamizu Shrine, this shrine is located about 10 minutes walk from the station. The atmosphere of the stone steps and torii gates overlaps with the world of the film, making it a popular spot visited by many fans.
Visiting Hours: Open to public visits anytime
Amulet: Available (at the shrine office)
Seto River and White-Walled Earthen-Walled Storehouse District
About 10 minutes walk from the station, the white-walled earthen-walled storehouse district along the Seto River is a representative tourism spot in Hida-Furukawa. It was also used as background in the film, and beautiful scenery spreads especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
About 1,000 carp swim in the clear Seto River, creating a picturesque combination with the tasteful townscape.
Miyagawa Morning Market
Miyagawa Morning Market in Takayama City is also popular as a nearby holy site pilgrimage spot. It can be accessed in approximately 15 minutes by train from Hida-Furukawa Station to Takayama Station, then approximately 10 minutes on foot.
Operating Hours: 7:00-12:00 (April-October), 8:00-12:00 (November-March)
Operating Days: Daily (except year-end and new year holidays)
Holy Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
9:00 Arrive at Hida-Furukawa Station, photograph station building and platforms (30 minutes)
9:30 Gather information at station front tourist information center, arrange bicycle rental (15 minutes)
9:45 Visit Hida City Library (45 minutes)
10:30 Pay respects at Keta Wakamiya Shrine (30 minutes)
11:00 Explore Seto River and white-walled storehouse district (60 minutes)
12:00 Lunch in Furukawa Town (60 minutes)
13:00 Explore around Hida-Furukawa Station, purchase souvenirs (30 minutes)
13:30 Depart from Hida-Furukawa Station
Full-Day Course (Approximately 8 hours)
In addition to the half-day course:
- Visit Hida no Takumi Culture Museum (60 minutes)
- Pay respects at Enkoji Temple (30 minutes)
- Visit Furukawa Festival Museum (60 minutes)
- Holy site pilgrimage in Takayama City (2 hours)
Weekend Overnight Stay Course (1 night, 2 days)
Day 1:
- Morning: Holy site pilgrimage around Hida-Furukawa Station
- Afternoon: Holy site spots in Takayama City
- Evening: Stay in Hida-Furukawa or Takayama
- Night: Enjoy local cuisine such as Hida beef at a tavern in Furukawa Town
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit Miyagawa Morning Market
- Afternoon: Visit Shirakawa-go (approximately 1 hour by car from Takayama)
- Evening: Begin return journey
Precautions and Etiquette When Photographing
Basic Etiquette
Holy site pilgrimage is a special experience for many fans, but Hida-Furukawa is a place where people actually live. Let’s follow the following etiquette and enjoy pilgrimage.
1. Respect the residents’ lives
- Absolutely forbidden to enter private property without permission
- Avoid loud conversations early in the morning or late at night
- Avoid prolonged stays in residential areas
2. Follow traffic rules
- Be careful not to interfere with traffic when photographing on roads
- Avoid walking while using smartphone as it is dangerous
- When using bicycles, prioritize pedestrians
3. Always take trash home
- Do not leave trash at photography locations
- Smoking only in designated areas
4. Follow facility rules
- Follow respective rules at facilities such as libraries and shrines
- Do not photograph in areas where photography is prohibited
- Consider not to be a nuisance to surroundings when using tripods
Photography Etiquette at the Station
Hida-Furukawa Station is an operating station. Please pay particular attention to the following points:
- Photography on the platform should not interfere with train operations
- Absolutely no entry into tracks (this is illegal)
- Consider not to be a nuisance to other passengers
- Always follow the instructions of station staff
- Refrain from photographing or finish quickly during congested times
Attractions in Hida-Furukawa Beyond Holy Sites
Hida no Takumi Culture Museum
Hida-Furukawa is a region that has produced many excellent carpenter craftsmen called “Hida no Takumi.” At Hida no Takumi Culture Museum, you can learn about those traditional techniques and history.
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (March-November), 9:00-16:30 (December-February)
Closed: Year-end and new year holidays
Admission: Adults 300 yen, elementary and junior high school students 150 yen
Furukawa Festival
The Furukawa Festival held every April 19-20 is a traditional event designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. The highlights are the “okoshi daiko” (rousing drums) and the splendid float procession, attracting many tourists.
Hida Beef Cuisine
If you visit Hida-Furukawa, definitely try Hida beef. There are numerous restaurants around the station offering dishes using Hida beef.
Recommended Establishments:
- Hida beef steak specialty restaurant
- Hida beef sushi restaurant
- Hida beef bun sales shop (perfect for eating while walking)
Local Sake and Sake Brewery Tours
Hida-Furukawa has long-established sake breweries where you can taste local sake and tour breweries. Japanese sake made with clear water from Hida is also popular as souvenirs.
Accommodation Information
Accommodations Near Hida-Furukawa Station
Traditional Inns and Hotels:
- Multiple inns within 5 minutes walk from the station
- One night with two meals: Approximately 8,000-15,000 yen
- Some accommodations also have hot springs
Guest Houses:
- Affordable accommodations for backpackers
- Bed only: Approximately 3,000-5,000 yen
- Also enjoyable to interact with other pilgrims
Private Lodging:
- Experience local life
- Prices vary depending on facility
Accommodations in Takayama City
Takayama City, approximately 15 minutes by train from Hida-Furukawa Station, has more accommodation options. It is also a good choice to make Takayama your base and visit Hida-Furukawa for a day trip.
Souvenir Information
“Your Name.” Related Merchandise
At the station front tourist information center and souvenir shops, merchandise related to “Your Name.” is sold:
- Holy site pilgrimage maps
- Original postcards
- Clear files
- Commemorative stamps (free)
Specialties of Hida-Furukawa
Food Items:
- Hida beef related products (retort curry, beef shigure-ni, etc.)
- Local sake (Hourai, Hakushin Yumi, etc.)
- Hida red turnip pickles
- Gohei mochi
- Sweets using Hida apples
Crafts:
- Ichii ichidori (traditional Hida craft)
- Sarubobo (folk toy of Hida region)
- Wood products
Seasonal Enjoyment
Spring (March-May)
Cherry Blossom Season:
- Cherry blossom avenue along Seto River is beautiful (mid to late April)
- Furukawa Festival (April 19-20) is a must-see
- Temperature: 10-20°C, light coat necessary
Summer (June-August)
Fresh Green Season:
- The sight of carp actively swimming in Seto River can be observed
- Exploration around Hida-Furukawa Station is ideal
- Temperature: 20-30°C, strong sunlight so hat and sunscreen recommended
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn Foliage Season:
- Autumn foliage of white-walled storehouse district is beautiful (late October to early November)
- Enjoy new rice and autumn delicacies
- Temperature: 10-20°C, prepare outerwear as it gets cold in morning and evening
Winter (December-February)
Snow Landscape Season:
- Snow-covered Hida-Furukawa is fantastical
- Can recreate winter scenes from the film
- Temperature: -5-5°C, cold protection essential
- Be cautious of icy road surfaces, wear non-slip shoes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time for holy site pilgrimage?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) are most recommended. The weather is mild and easy for sightseeing, and you can also enjoy seasonal scenery such as cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. However, during the Furukawa Festival period (April 19-20), it becomes extremely crowded, so those who wish to pilgrimage quietly should avoid this time.
How much time is needed?
About 3-4 hours if you only visit the main holy site spots around Hida-Furukawa Station. If you want to photograph thoroughly or also visit surrounding tourist spots, it is recommended to secure a full day.
Is English spoken?
Basic English is generally understood at major tourism facilities and the station, but not completely. English brochures are also available at the tourist information center. It is advisable to prepare a smartphone translation app.
Can you do pilgrimage without a car?
It is possible. The main spots around Hida-Furukawa Station are within walking distance. Using a rental bicycle allows you to visit multiple spots more efficiently. If you also want to visit holy sites in Takayama City, you can travel by train or bus.
Can you enjoy it on rainy days?
Rainy days make outdoor photography difficult, but the old townscape wet with rain also has a certain charm. Since there are indoor facilities such as Hida City Library and Hida no Takumi Culture Museum, it is enjoyable even on rainy days. However, photographing while holding an umbrella is difficult, so raincoat preparation is recommended.
Surrounding Holy Site Spots
Within Takayama City
Within about 15 minutes by train from Hida-Furukawa Station, there are also holy site spots of “Your Name.” in Takayama City:
- Hie Shrine (one of the models for Miyamizu Shrine)
- Miyagawa Morning Market
- Old townscape of Takayama
Lake Suwa (Nagano Prefecture)
Lake Suwa, considered one of the models for Lake Itomori that appears in the film, is approximately 2 hours by car from Hida-Furukawa. If time permits, it is also good to visit this location.
Conclusion
Hida-Furukawa Station is an important holy site pilgrimage spot where you can experience the world of “Your Name.” By actually visiting the scenes that appeared in the film, such as the station building and platforms, your understanding of the story deepens and you will gain new emotional experiences.
While enjoying holy site pilgrimage, also savor the beautiful townscape, traditional culture, and cuisine of Hida-Furukawa. By not forgetting consideration for local residents and following proper etiquette, your experience will be even more fulfilling.
For fans of “Your Name.,” Hida-Furukawa Station is definitely a place to visit at least once. I hope this article serves as a reference for your holy site pilgrimage. I wish you a wonderful trip.
In Closing: It is recommended to confirm the latest operating hours and transportation information on official websites before your visit. Situations can change depending on season and day of the week, so advance information gathering is key to a successful holy site pilgrimage.
