“Your Name” Hida Takayama & Hida Furukawa Complete Sacred Sites Pilgrimage Guide | Model Locations and Access Detailed Explanation
The animation film “Your Name” directed by Makoto Shinkai, released in 2016, recorded a mega-hit that became a social phenomenon. With its beautiful visuals and moving story, it captivated many people, and the actual 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 in 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. This article serves as a complete guide for efficiently visiting sacred sites in the Hida area, providing detailed information on each spot, access methods, shooting points, and the charms of the region.
The Relationship Between “Your Name” and Hida Takayama & Hida Furukawa
The Position of the Hida Area in the Film
Although Itomori Town, the setting of “Your Name,” is a fictional town, its model is the Hida Furukawa area of Hida City, Gifu Prefecture. Director Makoto Shinkai and the production staff actually visited the Hida region and conducted careful research and location scouting. In the middle of the film, when the protagonist Taki Tachibana, who lives in Tokyo, pursues Mitsuha Miyamizu and visits the town, the Hida Furukawa Station and the surrounding townscape are depicted impressively.
Hida Furukawa is a historic area with old townscapes remaining from the Edo period, and the scenery of Shirakabe Dozo Street and along the Seto River harmonize beautifully with the world of the film. After the film’s release, this area has attracted many tourists not only from within Japan but also from various Asian countries including China, becoming a major sacred site pilgrimage destination.
The Difference Between Hida Takayama and Hida Furukawa
When planning a sacred site pilgrimage, it is easy to confuse the difference between “Hida Takayama” and “Hida Furukawa.” Hida Takayama refers to the central area of Takayama City, 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.
The main sacred sites of “Your Name” are concentrated in the Hida Furukawa area, but there is also a shrine in Takayama City that served as a model for the Miyamizu Shrine, making it possible to have a more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage by visiting both areas. Takayama City has developed as a tourist destination with abundant accommodation and dining facilities, making it ideal to use as a base.
Main Sacred Sites in the Hida Furukawa Area
Hida Furukawa Station
Appearance Scene in the Film
Hida Furukawa Station appears as the station where Taki arrives when he comes from Tokyo to search for Mitsuha. The station’s exterior, ticket gates, and platform conditions are depicted faithfully in the film, making it the first destination for many fans on their sacred site pilgrimage.
Particularly impressive is the scene of the overpass on the west side of the station. The scene where Taki looks down on the platform is used as an important cut in the film, and the view from this overpass has become an essential shooting point for sacred site pilgrimages. Climbing the stairs of the overpass and viewing the platform scenery from the window evokes scenes from the film.
Access and Shooting Points
- Address: Kanomoricho, Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture
- Access: JR Takayama Main Line Hida Furukawa Station
- Shooting Points: Station building exterior, platform view from overpass, area near ticket gates
- Note: Since this is an operational station, care must be taken not to interfere with train operations or other passengers
There is a taxi stand in front of the station, and local taxi companies including Medix Taxi, which appears in the film, are stationed there. The tourism information center in front of the station has sacred site pilgrimage maps, so it is recommended to gather information here first.
Hida City Library
Role in the Film
The Hida City Library is the model for the library that 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 becomes the setting for an important scene where Taki researches past newspaper articles.
The actual Hida City Library is a relatively new facility that opened in 2010, characterized by an open design that conveys the warmth of wood. After the film’s release, many fans began visiting, and the library warmly welcomes sacred site pilgrims.
Notes When Visiting
- Address: Honcho 2-22, 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
- Photography: Permission must be obtained at the front desk for indoor photography
The library is a public facility and a place where local residents actually use. When photographing, be sure to obtain permission at the reception desk, maintain silence, and be careful not to disturb other users. Photography may be restricted in some areas of the library, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Ketao Wakamiya Shrine
One of the Models for Miyamizu Shrine
Ketao Wakamiya Shrine is said to be one of the models for the Miyamizu Shrine that appears in the film. Located on a high ground overlooking the town of Hida Furukawa, there is a shrine building at the top of a long stone staircase. In the film, the Miyamizu Shrine becomes an important stage where Mitsuha serves as a shrine maiden and offers mouth-chewed sake, and elements of Ketao Wakamiya Shrine are incorporated into its atmosphere and appearance.
The view from the shrine is excellent, with a panoramic view of the town of Hida Furukawa. The scenery especially at dusk is beautiful enough to evoke scenes from the film.
Information for Visiting
- Address: 1297 Kamiketao, Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture
- Access: About 20 minutes walk from Hida Furukawa Station, or about 5 minutes by taxi
- Visiting Hours: Open for worship at all times
- Parking: Available (Free)
The stone stairs comprise about 200 steps, with some steep sections, so it is recommended to visit in easy-to-walk shoes. The shrine is also a place of local faith, so please respect visiting etiquette and visit quietly.
The Townscape of Hida Furukawa and Shooting Spots
Shirakabe Dozo Street and Seto River
The Shirakabe Dozo Street, a representative tourist spot in Hida Furukawa, becomes an important element in creating the atmosphere of Itomori Town in the film. The white-walled earthen warehouse groups continuing along the Seto River and the colorful carp swimming in the river evoke a beautiful landscape that truly feels like the original Japanese landscape.
Although there are few direct appearance scenes in the film, this area’s scenery is said to have been referenced as an image source for Itomori Town’s townscape.
Miyagawa Morning Market and Hida Flavors
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 dish of the Hida region, a superb delicacy with sweet and spicy sauce coating a fragrant grilled rice cake. Enjoying local food culture during a sacred site pilgrimage is one of the pleasures of travel.
Other Shooting Points
- Kakugawa’s Ochiiai Bus Stop: Model for the scene where Taki and others get off the bus
- Railroad crossing near Katamachiiin Clinic: A crossing scene that appears in the work
- Hida Furukawa Festival Hall: A facility where you can learn about the region’s festival culture
Sacred Sites in Takayama City Area
Hie Shrine (Hida Sanno-miya Hie Shrine)
Another Model for Miyamizu Shrine
Hie Shrine in Takayama City is a shrine visited by many fans as a model for Miyamizu Shrine. Particularly impressive is the long stone staircase leading to the shrine building, which is said to be close to the image of the approach to Miyamizu Shrine that appears 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. Cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves are beautiful, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons.
Information for Visiting
- Address: 156 Shiroyama, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
- Access: About 20 minutes walk from JR Takayama Station, or about 5 minutes by taxi
- Visiting Hours: Open for worship at all times
- Parking: Available (Free)
The stone stairs leading to the shrine comprise about 300 steps, and upon reaching the top, a view overlooking Takayama City spreads out. Those without confidence in their physical fitness can also access via the rear approach by car.
Takayama City Tourist Spots
Old Town District (Sanmachi Street)
The “Old Town District” in the center of Takayama City is a historic district that retains strong remnants of the Edo period. While not a direct sacred site of “Your Name,” it is an important tourist spot where visitors can experience traditional Hida architecture and culture.
Traditional machiya-style buildings line the street, with sake breweries, miso storehouses, folk craft shops, and cafes, offering food stalls and shopping opportunities. Visitors can enjoy immersing themselves in the world of the film while experiencing Hida’s culture.
Takayama Jinya
Takayama Jinya, the administrative offices of the Edo period, is the only remaining government building in Japan. As a historically significant structure, it is highly valued and allows visitors to learn about the history of the Hida region. Visiting along with the sacred site pilgrimage will allow for a deeper understanding of the area.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Basic Course for One Day
Morning: Concentrated Course in Hida Furukawa Area
9:00 – Arrival at Hida Furukawa Station, photography at the overpass
9:30 – Obtain sacred site pilgrimage map at the station front tourism information center
10:00 – Visit Hida City Library (indoor photography requires permission)
11:00 – Worship at Ketao Wakamiya Shrine
12:00 – Stroll through Shirakabe Dozo Street, lunch (gohei-mochi and Hida beef cuisine)
Afternoon: Takayama City Area Sightseeing
13:30 – Travel from Hida Furukawa Station to Takayama Station (about 15 minutes by train)
14:00 – Worship at Hie Shrine
15:30 – Stroll through Takayama City’s old town district
17:00 – Shop for souvenirs around Takayama Station
This course is a basic plan when using public transportation. The time spent at each spot is an estimate, so adjust according to your interests.
Efficient Course Using Taxis
While spots in the Hida Furukawa area can be covered on foot, using taxis is recommended if you want to use time efficiently or have concerns about physical endurance. Some local taxi companies offer courses dedicated to “Your Name” sacred site pilgrimages.
Medix Taxi Sacred Site Pilgrimage Course
Medix Taxi, a company that appears in the film, offers sacred site pilgrimage tours. Starting from Hida Furukawa Station, visitors can efficiently visit Ketao Wakamiya Shrine, Kakugawa’s Ochiiai Bus Stop, the railroad crossing near Katamachiiin Clinic, Hida City Library, and more.
- Duration: About 2-3 hours
- Fee: Contact taxi company for details
- Reservations: Advance reservations recommended (especially during peak seasons)
Drivers are knowledgeable about the area and will explain scenes from the film, making this especially recommended for first-time visitors.
Two-Day Course for Leisurely Exploration
Day 1: Complete Exploration of Hida Furukawa Area
Visit major spots in the morning, then spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the Shirakabe Dozo Street area. Enjoy local Hida cuisine while savoring the town’s atmosphere. Viewing the evening landscape from Ketao Wakamiya Shrine in the late afternoon is also recommended.
Day 2: Takayama City Sightseeing and Surrounding Exploration
Starting with a visit to Hie Shrine, explore Takayama City’s tourist spots. With time available, you can also visit nearby attractions such as Hida no Sato (an open-air museum of gassho-zukuri settlements) or the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway.
With two days, visitors can enjoy not only the sacred site pilgrimage but also fully savor the nature, culture, and cuisine of the Hida region.
Access Methods and Transportation
Access to Hida Takayama & Hida Furukawa
Access by Train
- From Tokyo Area: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes) → Limited Express Wide View Hida on JR Takayama Main Line to Takayama Station (approximately 2 hours 20 minutes)
- From Osaka Area: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approximately 50 minutes) → Limited Express Wide View Hida on JR Takayama Main Line to Takayama Station (approximately 2 hours 20 minutes)
- From Kanazawa Area: Limited Express to Toyama Station → JR Takayama Main Line to Takayama Station (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
From Takayama Station to Hida Furukawa Station takes approximately 15 minutes on the JR Takayama Main Line local train. With 1-2 trains per hour, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Access by Car
- From Tokyo Area: Via Chuo Expressway → Nagano Expressway → National Route 158 (approximately 5 hours)
- From Nagoya Area: Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway to Takayama IC (approximately 2 hours)
- From Kanazawa Area: Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway to Takayama IC (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
Travel by car offers flexibility and allows for efficient visits to each spot. However, during winter, snow and icy road conditions are possible, making studless tires essential.
Access by High-Speed Bus
Direct high-speed buses are operated from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya to Takayama. Using an overnight bus allows you to save on accommodation while starting sightseeing early in the morning.
Movement Within the Area
Movement on Foot
The main sacred sites around Hida Furukawa Station are within walking distance. It takes about 10 minutes on foot from the station to Hida City Library and about 20 minutes to Ketao Wakamiya Shrine. With the town itself being compact, visitors can slowly explore while walking.
Rental Bicycles
Rental bicycle services are available at Hida Furukawa Station and the tourism information center. Using bicycles allows visitors to cover a wider area more efficiently than on foot and enjoy feeling Hida’s nature while traveling.
Local Buses
Local buses operate within Hida City, but with limited frequency, it is necessary to check the timetable in advance. For major tourist spots, access on foot or by taxi is more convenient.
Enjoying Sacred Site Pilgrimages and Etiquette
Notes on Photography
Etiquette in Public Places
Many of the spots that have become sacred sites are places that local residents use in their daily lives. Care should be taken not to obstruct passage or trespass on private property while absorbed in photography.
- Be considerate of other users at public facilities such as stations and libraries
- Respect photography restrictions and designated hours
- Avoid loud noise or monopolizing spaces for long periods
- Check surrounding safety when using tripods
Temple and Shrine Visiting Etiquette
Shrines such as Ketao Wakamiya and Hie are places of local faith and should be visited with respect.
- Bow when passing through the torii gate
- Walk along the sides of the approach path, as the center is said to be the path of the gods
- Purify hands and mouth at the water basin before worshipping
- Photography should be done only in permitted areas, without damaging the sacred atmosphere
Contributing to the Community and Care
Contributing to the Local Economy
When visiting for a sacred site pilgrimage, you can contribute to the local economy by eating at local shops or purchasing souvenirs. Enjoying local cuisine such as Hida beef, gohei-mochi, and Takayama ramen, or choosing traditional crafts as souvenirs, allows visitors to more deeply understand the region’s charm.
Environmental Conservation Cooperation
Always take garbage with you and be mindful not to damage the natural environment or scenery. Beautiful townscapes and nature are protected through the efforts of local people. As visitors, it is important to respect this value and maintain an awareness of preserving it for future generations.
Points for Deeper Enjoyment
Previewing the Film
It is recommended to rewatch the film before heading out on a sacred site pilgrimage. Confirming which scenes feature which locations will magnify the emotional impact at the actual site. Taking screenshots of particularly impressive scenes can also make it fun to photograph the same angles.
Learning About Regional History and Culture
The Hida region has long been known for woodworking and architectural techniques, and possesses rich traditional culture. Beyond the sacred site pilgrimage alone, learning about the region’s history and culture will enrich your travel experience. It is also recommended to learn about the region at the Hida City Library or Takayama City museums.
Enjoying Scenery Throughout the Seasons
The Hida region has distinct seasons, each showing a different face. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter allow visitors to enjoy completely different scenery depending on when they visit. Each visit can bring new discoveries.
Accommodation and Cuisine Information
Recommended Accommodation Areas
Takayama City Center
Takayama City has various types of accommodation facilities including hotels, traditional inns, and guesthouses. Choosing lodging near the old town district allows visitors to enjoy evening strolls and the quiet mornings of the townscape. Many inns have hot springs, allowing visitors to relieve the fatigue of sightseeing.
Hida Furukawa Area
Hida Furukawa has small inns and family-run lodges, offering a charming homey atmosphere where visitors can enjoy interaction with locals. Staying in lodging close to the sacred sites allows visitors to take photographs during early mornings when there are fewer people.
Resort Hotels in Outlying Areas
Surrounding the Hida Takayama area are resort hotels and pensions nestled in nature. Recommended for those who wish to spend time quietly in a peaceful environment. While travel by car is assumed, staying in the midst of grand nature provides a special experience.
Hida Cuisine
Hida Beef
Hida beef, a representative brand beef of the Hida region, is characterized by fine marbling and tender meat quality. It can be enjoyed in various preparations including steak, yakiniku, sukiyaki, and shabu-shabu. Takayama’s streets have many Hida beef specialty restaurants, and reasonably-priced Hida beef skewers and Hida beef nigiri sushi are also popular.
Gohei-mochi
Gohei-mochi, which appears in the film, is a local dish made by crushing cooked rice onto a stick and grilling it with sweet and spicy sauce. Characterized by a fragrant sauce and chewy texture, it is perfect for eating while walking.
Takayama Ramen
Takayama ramen is a local ramen of the Hida region featuring a light soy sauce-based broth paired with thin curly noodles. Despite its simplicity, it has deep flavor and has been loved by locals for many years.
Hoba-miso
This local dish features miso, vegetables, mushrooms, and Hida beef placed on a magnolia leaf and grilled. The magnolia leaf’s aroma transfers to the ingredients, creating a unique flavor. Many inns and restaurants serve it, and it is a signature dish representing Hida’s food culture.
Surrounding Tourist Spots
Shirakawa-go
The Shirakawa-go gassho-zukuri settlement, registered as a World Heritage Site, is located about 50 minutes by car from Takayama City. The beautiful settlement, often called the original Japanese landscape, shares a charm that resonates with the world of “Your Name.” It is worth visiting along with a sacred site pilgrimage.
Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway, which ascends to an observation deck at an elevation of 2,156 meters, is a popular tourist spot offering magnificent views of the Northern Alps. Located about one hour by car from Takayama City, the panoramic views of nature are spectacular.
Hida no Sato
This open-air museum preserves and relocates traditional folk houses from the Hida region, including gassho-zukuri. Visitors can experience old ways of life and traditional crafts, allowing for a deep understanding of Hida’s culture. It is well-accessed from Takayama City center at about 10 minutes by car.
Kamikochi
Kamikochi, one of Japan’s representative mountain resorts, is approximately one hour and 30 minutes from Takayama City by car and bus. With the pristine Azusa River, the majestic Northern Alps, and a view from Kappabashi Bridge, it stands as one of Japan’s finest scenic spots.
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy
Spring (March to May)
During cherry blossom season, shrine grounds and riverbanks are tinted beautiful pink. The cherry blossoms at Ketao Wakamiya Shrine and Hie Shrine are particularly spectacular, allowing visitors to enjoy both sacred site pilgrimages and cherry blossom viewing simultaneously. Late April through early May features the Takayama Festival (Spring Sanno Festival), with splendid floats parading through town.
Summer (June to August)
The season of fresh greenery, where Hida’s nature comes most alive. The climate remains relatively cool even in summer. Late July through early August brings the Furukawa Festival in Hida Furukawa, allowing visitors to experience the region’s traditional culture.
Fall (September to November)
Autumn is when the Hida region shines brightest with the beauty of fall foliage. Shrine approaches and mountains are tinted red and gold, offering a fantastical atmosphere different from film scenes. October brings the Takayama Festival (Fall Hachimangu Festival).
Winter (December to February)
The snow-covered Hida townscape is truly the world of the film itself. The sacred site pilgrimage surrounded by quiet, snow-covered landscapes becomes a special experience. However, care must be taken regarding snow accumulation and icy road conditions, with thorough cold-weather precautions essential.
Conclusion
The Hida Takayama and Hida Furukawa areas, known as sacred sites for “Your Name,” are compelling destinations not only for fans of the film but for all travelers seeking traditional Japanese culture and beautiful nature.
By visiting film locations such as Hida Furukawa Station, Hida City Library, Ketao Wakamiya Shrine, and Hie Shrine, visitors can enjoy the rich history and culture of Hida as well as delicious local cuisine. Through sacred site pilgrimages, visitors do not merely re-experience the world of the film but discover the region’s charm and build connections with locals.
When visiting, it is important not to forget respect for the community and to enjoy the experience while following proper etiquette. Beautiful scenery and culture are protected through local efforts. As visitors, maintaining awareness of this responsibility while enjoying the sacred site pilgrimage is essential.
The Hida region, showing different faces with each season, offers new discoveries with each visit. Why not embark on a journey to Hida Takayama and Hida Furukawa with the emotion of the film “Your Name” in your heart? It is sure to become an unforgettable memory.
