From Kanazawa: Hakusan White Road and Shirakawago Village

Explore the Hakusan Shirakawa-Go White Road, a picturesque autumn route. Visit Shirayama Hime Shrine, Tedori Gorge, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-Go.
Begin your journey at Kanazawa Station, where your guide will meet you in front of the Information Center near the Shinkansen Ticket Gates. Board the bus and ride about an hour south.

Arrive at the historic entrance to the shrine, and take a short walk up this serene path to the entrance. Shirayama Hime Shrine is one of the oldest in Japan, having been used as a site to worship Mt. Haku for about 2100 years. The shrine itself is famous for its sacred water, its blessings for couples, and being known as the start of the historic pilgrimage to the mountaintop. That pilgrimage was first done nearly 1300 years ago.

Alongside the Shinto goddess of marriage, the progenitor gods Izanagi and Izanami are also enshrined here, so you may wish to pray at the shrine or collect a goshuin to commemorate your visit.

Leaving the shrine, take a quick detour to the Tedori Gorge, an 8km stretch first formed more than 23 million years ago. There are two places to get a view of this scenic area: those who brave the 120 stairs down to the riverside can see the waterfall up close, while those who choose to look out over the area have a chance to see Mt. Haku rising up over the river.

It's now time for the main attraction of the day: the White Road. Hopping back on the bus, start your journey through the mountains. As you drive, the rice paddies will turn to mountain roads twisting higher and higher. Keep your eyes peeled as you go, as there's always a chance to see snow monkeys, particularly after a heavy rain.

The White Road has several areas to stop and look around, whose accessibility can be quite weather-dependent. Regardless, stop and see the highlights along the way. The most famous of these is Ubagataki, a waterfall said to resemble the face of an old woman.

As you drive through the road, have your camera at the ready. Every moment is as if a painting has come to life before your very eyes. As the fall foliage is the peak season for the road, it may be busy and some parking areas may be full.

Stop at one of three larger rest areas, which have some seating, to enjoy a lunch break. Once you're finished, you are free to walk around and explore some of the area. Please be careful as the road is narrow at points and there may be many cars.

Finally, stop at the Rennyo Chaya Guest House where, after a short climb, you can look out over the other side of the mountain. From this vantage point, you can actually see your next stop: Shirakawa-Go.

Once you've taken in all the splendor, head towards Shirakawa-Go. This thatched-roof village has stood for more than 300 years and was an important hub for people travelling. The gassho farmhouses are striking figures against the natural backdrop. Start from the end of the main street and walk through the historical alleys, enjoy a small museum and also take some free time around the town to walk around.

After a long day exploring the region, get back on the bus and start your journey back to Kanazawa.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.