【Makoto Shinkai Works】Your Name. – Hida Takayama, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
The 2016 animated film “Your Name.” directed by Makoto Shinkai became a massive hit that became a social phenomenon. With its beautiful cinematography and moving story, it captivated many people, and the real locations featured in the work have become “sacred sites” that attract many fans from both Japan and abroad.
The Hida Takayama and Hida Furukawa areas of Gifu Prefecture are known as the model for Itomori Town, which the protagonist Taki visits to search for Mitsuha, and numerous spots that appear in important scenes of the film are scattered throughout. In this article, we will provide a complete guide to efficiently visiting the sacred sites in the Hida area, including detailed information on each spot, access methods, photography points, and the charm of the region.
The Relationship Between “Your Name.” and Hida Takayama/Hida Furukawa
The Position of the Hida Area in the Film
While Itomori Town, the setting of “Your Name.,” is a fictional town, it was modeled after the Hida Furukawa area of Hida City, Gifu Prefecture. Director Makoto Shinkai and his production staff actually visited the Hida region and conducted detailed location research and scouting. In the middle of the film, when the protagonist Taki Tachibana, who lives in Tokyo, follows the trail of Mitsuha Miyamizu, the scenes depict the Hida Furukawa Station and the surrounding town in a striking manner.
Hida Furukawa is a historic area with old townscapes dating back to the Edo period, and the landscape of the white-walled warehouse district and the Seto River harmonizes beautifully with the world depicted in the film. After the film’s release, the area began to attract visitors not only from within Japan but also from various Asian countries, including China, and became a major pilgrimage site.
The Difference Between Hida Takayama and Hida Furukawa
When planning a pilgrimage to sacred sites, it’s easy to confuse the difference between “Hida Takayama” and “Hida Furukawa.” Hida Takayama refers to the central part of Takayama City, the area around Takayama Station on the JR Takayama Main Line. On the other hand, Hida Furukawa is located in Furukawa Town, Hida City, positioned about 15 minutes north of Takayama Station by train.
While the main sacred sites of “Your Name.” are concentrated in the Hida Furukawa area, there is also a shrine in Takayama City that served as a model for the Miyamizu Shrine, so visiting both areas allows for a more fulfilling pilgrimage. Takayama City has developed as a tourist destination with abundant accommodations and restaurants, making it suitable as a base.
Major Sacred Sites in the Hida Furukawa Area
Hida Furukawa Station
Scenes in the Film
Hida Furukawa Station is where Taki arrives after coming from Tokyo to search for Mitsuha. The exterior of the station, the ticket gate, and the appearance of the platform are faithfully depicted in the film, making it the first destination many fans visit on their pilgrimage.
Particularly striking is the scene of the overpass on the west side of the station. The scene where Taki looks down at the platform is used as an important cut in the film, and the view from this overpass has become an essential photography point for pilgrims. Climbing the stairs of the overpass and viewing the platform scenery from the window evokes the scenes from the film.
Access and Photography Points
- Address: Kanomorimachi, Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture
- Access: JR Takayama Main Line Hida Furukawa Station
- Photography Points: Station exterior, platform view from overpass, ticket gate area
- Notes: As this is an operating station, care must be taken not to interfere with train operations or other passengers.
There is a taxi stand in front of the station, where local taxi companies including Medix Taxi, which also appears in the film, wait for passengers. The tourist information center at the station entrance has pilgrimage maps available, so it’s recommended to gather information here first.
Hida City Library
Role in the Film
Hida City Library is the model of the library Taki visits to research information about Itomori Town and the comet fall. The film depicts the exterior and interior atmosphere of the library, and it serves as the setting for an important scene where Taki investigates old newspaper articles.
The actual Hida City Library is a relatively new facility that opened in 2010, featuring an open design with a warm feel of wood. Since the film’s release, many fans have visited, and the library welcomes pilgrims warmly.
Notes for Visiting
- Address: 2-22 Honmachi, Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture
- Hours: Weekdays 10:00-18:00, Weekends/Holidays 10:00-17:00
- Closed: Mondays, day after holidays, year-end/New Year period
- Photography: Permission from the front desk is required for photography inside the facility.
The library is a public facility where local residents actually use. When photographing, always obtain permission from the front desk, maintain quiet, and be mindful not to disturb other users. Photography inside the facility may be restricted in some areas, so it’s recommended to confirm in advance.
Ketao Wakamiya Shrine
One Model of the Miyamizu Shrine
Ketao Wakamiya Shrine is said to be one of the models for the Miyamizu Shrine featured in the film. Located on a hilltop overlooking the town of Hida Furukawa, the main sanctuary is reached by climbing a long stone staircase. In the film, Mitsuha serves as a shrine maiden and makes an important offering of kuchikamizake (sake chewed in the mouth), and the atmosphere and presence of Ketao Wakamiya Shrine are reflected in the portrayal of the Miyamizu Shrine.
The view from the shrine is spectacular, offering a panoramic view of the town of Hida Furukawa. Particularly at dusk, the scenery is beautiful enough to evoke scenes from the film.
Worship Information
- Address: 1297 Kamiketa, Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Hida Furukawa Station, or about 5 minutes by taxi
- Worship Hours: Open for worship at all times
- Parking: Available (Free)
The stone staircase has about 200 steps and is somewhat steep in places, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes. As the shrine is also a place of local faith, visit with respect and quiet behavior.
Hida Furukawa Townscape and Photography Spots
White-Walled Warehouse District and Seto River
The white-walled warehouse district of Hida Furukawa, a representative tourist spot, became an important element in creating the atmosphere of Itomori Town in the film. The white-walled warehouse buildings continuing along the Seto River and the vividly colored koi swimming in the river evoke the traditional Japanese landscape.
Although there are few direct appearance scenes in the film, this area’s landscape is said to have been referenced as an image source for the townscape of Itomori Town.
Miyagawa Morning Market and Hida Cuisine
Within walking distance of Hida Furukawa Station is the Miyagawa Morning Market, where you can purchase fresh local vegetables and specialty products. Gohei mochi, which appears in the film, is a local specialty of the Hida region, with a savory-sweet sauce clinging to the aromatic grilled rice cake. Enjoying local cuisine between pilgrimage visits is one of the joys of the trip.
Other Photography Points
- Kakugawa Ochiai Bus Stop: Model of the scene where Taki and others get off the bus
- Near Katamachi Medical Clinic Crossing: Landscape of the crossing featured in the film
- Hida Furukawa Festival Hall: A facility where you can learn about local festival culture
Sacred Sites in Takayama City Area
Hie Shrine (Hida Sanno-Miya Hie Shrine)
Another Model of the Miyamizu Shrine
Hie Shrine in Takayama City is a shrine that many fans visit as one of the models for the Miyamizu Shrine. Particularly impressive is the long stone staircase leading to the main sanctuary, which is said to resemble the image of the approach to the Miyamizu Shrine in the film.
The grounds are enveloped in a serene atmosphere, and the shrine nestled in the rich nature of Hida truly embodies the world of the film. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, and in autumn, the maple leaves are stunning, allowing you to enjoy the changing seasons.
Worship Information
- Address: 156 Shiroyama, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Takayama Station, or about 5 minutes by taxi
- Worship Hours: Open for worship at all times
- Parking: Available (Free)
The stone staircase leading to the shrine has about 300 steps, and reaching the top offers a panoramic view of Takayama City. For those without confidence in their physical fitness, it’s possible to access via the rear approach road by car.
Takayama City Tourist Spots
Old Townscape (Sanmachi Street)
The “Old Townscape” in the center of Takayama City is a historic district that strongly retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. While not a direct sacred site for “Your Name.,” it is an important tourist spot where you can experience the traditional architecture and culture of the Hida region.
Along the street lined with machiya (traditional townhouse) buildings are sake breweries, miso warehouses, folk craft shops, and cafes, allowing you to enjoy food and shopping. You can immerse yourself in the world of the film while touching the culture of Hida.
Takayama Jinya
Takayama Jinya, a former magistrate’s office from the Edo period, is the only surviving government office building of its kind in Japan. As a historically significant structure, it is valuable and allows you to learn about the history of the Hida region. Visiting alongside the pilgrimage allows for deeper understanding of the area.
Efficient Pilgrimage Model Courses
Basic Course for One Day
Morning: Hida Furukawa Area Concentrated Course
9:00 – Arrival at Hida Furukawa Station, photography at the overpass
9:30 – Obtain pilgrimage map at station tourist information center
10:00 – View Hida City Library (photography inside requires permission)
11:00 – Visit Ketao Wakamiya Shrine
12:00 – Explore white-walled warehouse district, lunch (gohei mochi or Hida beef cuisine)
Afternoon: Takayama City Area Tourism
13:30 – Travel from Hida Furukawa Station to Takayama Station by train (approximately 15 minutes)
14:00 – Visit Hie Shrine
15:30 – Explore the old townscape of Takayama City
17:00 – Purchase souvenirs around Takayama Station
This course is a basic plan using public transportation. The time spent at each spot is approximate, so please adjust according to your interests.
Efficient Course Using Taxi
While the spots in the Hida Furukawa area can be visited on foot, using a taxi is recommended if you want to use your time efficiently or have concerns about physical fitness. Some local taxi companies offer specialized courses for “Your Name.” pilgrims.
Medix Taxi Sacred Site Pilgrimage Course
Medix Taxi, which appears in the film, offers specialized pilgrimage tours. Starting from Hida Furukawa Station, you can efficiently visit Ketao Wakamiya Shrine, Kakugawa Ochiai Bus Stop, the crossing near Katamachi Medical Clinic, Hida City Library, and other locations.
- Time Required: Approximately 2-3 hours
- Fare: Inquire with taxi company
- Reservation: Advance reservation recommended (especially during peak seasons)
Drivers are knowledgeable about the area and can explain details about the film’s scenes, making it particularly recommended for first-time visitors.
Two-Day Course for Thorough Exploration
Day 1: Complete Hida Furukawa Area Coverage
Visit major spots in the morning and leisurely explore the white-walled warehouse district in the afternoon. Enjoy local Hida cuisine and fully experience the town’s atmosphere. In the evening, viewing the sunset from Ketao Wakamiya Shrine is also recommended.
Day 2: Takayama City Tourism and Surrounding Exploration
Begin with a visit to Hie Shrine and proceed to tour tourist spots in Takayama City. With extra time, you can visit nearby attractions such as Hida no Sato (an open-air museum of gassho-zukuri farmhouses) or Shin-Hotaka Ropeway.
With two days, you can thoroughly enjoy not just the pilgrimage but also the nature, culture, and cuisine of the Hida region.
Access Methods and Transportation
Access to Hida Takayama/Hida Furukawa
By Train
- From Tokyo: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes) → JR Takayama Main Line Limited Express Wide View Hida to Takayama Station (approximately 2 hours 20 minutes)
- From Osaka: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approximately 50 minutes) → JR Takayama Main Line Limited Express Wide View Hida to Takayama Station (approximately 2 hours 20 minutes)
- From Kanazawa: JR Limited Express to Toyama Station → JR Takayama Main Line to Takayama Station (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
From Takayama Station to Hida Furukawa Station, it takes approximately 15 minutes by regular JR Takayama Main Line train. With 1-2 trains per hour, it’s recommended to check the timetable in advance.
By Car
- From Tokyo: Via Chuo Expressway → Nagano Expressway → National Route 158 (approximately 5 hours)
- From Nagoya: Via Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway to Takayama IC (approximately 2 hours)
- From Kanazawa: Via Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway to Takayama IC (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
Car travel offers greater freedom and allows efficient visits to each spot. However, during winter, snow accumulation and icy road conditions are possible, making studless tires essential.
By Highway Bus
Direct highway buses operate from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya to Takayama. Using a night bus allows you to save on accommodation while starting your tour early in the morning.
Movement Within the Area
On Foot
The main sacred sites around Hida Furukawa Station are within walking distance. From the station to Hida City Library is about 10 minutes on foot, and to Ketao Wakamiya Shrine is about 20 minutes. As the town itself is compact, you can leisurely explore while walking.
Rental Bicycles
Rental bicycle services are available at the front of Hida Furukawa Station and at the tourist information center. Using bicycles allows you to cover a wider area more efficiently than walking and enjoy Hida’s nature during your travels.
Bus Routes
Highway buses operate within Hida City, but with limited service, it’s necessary to check the timetable in advance. For major tourist spots, walking or taxi access is more convenient.
Ways to Enjoy Pilgrimage and Etiquette
Photography Considerations
Etiquette in Public Spaces
Many of the sacred sites are places regularly used by local residents. Be careful not to obstruct traffic or trespass on private property in your enthusiasm for photography.
- At public facilities such as stations and libraries, be considerate of other users
- Respect photography prohibitions and time restrictions
- Avoid loud noises and don’t occupy spaces for extended periods
- When using tripods, confirm the safety of surrounding areas
Shrine Visitation Etiquette
Shrines such as Ketao Wakamiya Shrine and Hie Shrine are places of local faith. Visit with respect and reverence.
- Bow once before passing through the torii gate
- Walk along the edge of the approach path, as the center is considered the path of the deity
- Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin before worshipping
- Photography should be done within permitted areas, without diminishing the sacred atmosphere
Consideration for Local Communities and Contribution
Contribution to Local Economy
When visiting for pilgrimage, you can contribute to the local economy by eating at local restaurants and purchasing souvenirs. Enjoying local cuisine such as Hida beef, gohei mochi, and Takayama ramen, or selecting traditional crafts as souvenirs, allows you to deepen your knowledge of the region’s charm.
Environmental Conservation Cooperation
Always take your trash with you and be mindful not to damage the natural environment or landscape. Beautiful townscapes and nature are maintained through the efforts of local residents. As visitors, it’s important to respect their value and preserve it for future generations.
Points for Deeper Enjoyment
Preparation by Watching the Film
It’s recommended to rewatch the film before heading to the pilgrimage site. Confirming which locations appear in which scenes beforehand will double your emotional impact at the actual location. Saving screenshots of particularly impressive scenes allows you to enjoy photographing from the same angles.
Learn About Local History and Culture
The Hida region is known for its woodworking and architectural techniques since ancient times and possesses rich traditional culture. By learning about the region’s history and culture in addition to the pilgrimage, your travel experience becomes more fulfilling. It’s recommended to learn about the region at Hida City Library or Takayama City museums.
Enjoy Seasonal Landscapes
The Hida region has distinct seasons, each displaying different characteristics. Spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn foliage, and winter snow scenes create completely different views depending on when you visit. There are new discoveries to be made with each visit.
Accommodations and Dining Information
Recommended Accommodation Areas
Takayama City Center
Takayama City center offers various types of accommodations including hotels, traditional inns, and guesthouses. Choosing accommodations near the old townscape allows you to enjoy nighttime strolls and the quiet morning townscape. Many accommodations feature hot springs to soothe your travel fatigue.
Hida Furukawa Area
Hida Furukawa has small traditional inns and private lodgings where you can enjoy interaction with local people in a homey atmosphere. Staying close to the sacred sites allows you to photograph during early morning hours when fewer people are around.
Resort Hotels in Surrounding Areas
There are also resort hotels and pensions surrounded by nature in the areas around Hida Takayama. Recommended for those wishing to spend time peacefully in a quiet environment. While car travel is assumed, staying in the midst of grand nature offers a special experience.
Hida Cuisine
Hida Beef
Hida beef, the representative brand beef of the Hida region, is characterized by fine marbling and tender meat. You can enjoy it as steak, yakiniku (grilled meat), sukiyaki, and shabu-shabu. Many Hida beef specialty shops are located in Takayama City, and Hida beef skewers and nigiri sushi are popular affordable options.
Gohei Mochi
The gohei mochi that appears in the film is a local specialty made by flattening cooked rice onto a stick and grilling it with a sweet-savory sauce. Characterized by its aromatic sauce and chewy texture, it’s perfect for eating while exploring.
Takayama Ramen
Takayama ramen is a local specialty featuring a light soy sauce-based broth with thin curly noodles. Despite its simplicity, it has a deep flavor and is beloved by local residents for many years.
Hoba Miso
A local specialty where miso, vegetables, mushrooms, and Hida beef are placed on a large hoba (Japanese magnolia) leaf and grilled. The fragrance of the leaf transfers to the ingredients, creating a unique flavor. Many inns and restaurants offer this signature dish representing Hida food culture.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Shirakawa-go
The Shirakawa-go gassho-zukuri farmhouse village, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located about 50 minutes by car from Takayama City. This beautiful village, often called the original Japanese landscape, shares the appeal of the world depicted in “Your Name.” and is worth visiting alongside the pilgrimage.
Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway ascends to an observation deck at 2,156 meters elevation, offering magnificent views of the Northern Alps. Located about one hour by car from Takayama City, the panoramic view of the grand nature is breathtaking.
Hida no Sato
An open-air museum preserving relocated traditional Hida farmhouses including gassho-zukuri structures. You can experience traditional ways of life and traditional crafts, deepening your understanding of Hida culture. Located about 10 minutes by car from Takayama City center with convenient access.
Kamikochi
Kamikochi, a representative mountain resort in Japan, is about 1.5 hours by car and bus from Takayama City. The clear flow of the Azusa River, the majestic Northern Alps, and the view from the iconic Kappa Bridge represent some of Japan’s finest scenery.
Seasonal Enjoyment Guide
Spring (March-May)
During cherry blossom season, shrine grounds and riverside areas are beautifully dyed pink. Cherry blossoms at Ketao Wakamiya Shrine and Hie Shrine are particularly spectacular, allowing simultaneous enjoyment of pilgrimage and flower viewing. The Takayama Matsuri (Spring Sanno Festival) is held late April through early May, with gorgeously decorated festival floats parading through town.
Summer (June-August)
A season of beautiful greenery when Hida’s nature is most vibrant. Even in summer, the climate is relatively cool and comfortable. The Furukawa Matsuri is held late July through early August, where you can experience local traditional culture. This is an excellent time to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn is when the Hida region shines most beautifully, with shrine approach paths and mountains turning red and yellow with foliage. You can enjoy a fantastical atmosphere different from the film’s scenes. The Takayama Matsuri (Autumn Hachiman Festival) is held in October.
Winter (December-February)
The Hida townscape blanketed in snow is the film’s world itself. The pilgrimage in silent snow-covered landscapes becomes a particularly special experience. However, care must be taken regarding snow accumulation and icy roads, with thorough cold-weather preparations necessary.
Conclusion
The Hida Takayama and Hida Furukawa areas, known as sacred sites for “Your Name.,” are attractive destinations not only for film fans but for all travelers seeking traditional Japanese culture and beautiful natural scenery.
By visiting spots featured in the film—Hida Furukawa Station, Hida City Library, Ketao Wakamiya Shrine, and Hie Shrine—you can relive the movie’s world while enjoying Hida’s rich history and culture, and delicious cuisine. Through pilgrimage, you’ll discover regional charm beyond the film, and connections with local people may blossom.
When visiting, it’s important to remember respect for the region and maintain proper etiquette. Beautiful scenery and culture are preserved through local residents’ efforts. As visitors, let’s be aware of our role in this preservation while enjoying the pilgrimage.
The Hida region, displaying different characteristics with each season, offers new discoveries with each visit. Why not embark on a pilgrimage to Hida Takayama and Hida Furukawa with the emotion of “Your Name.” in your heart? It will surely become an unforgettable memory.
