Takayama and Kanazawa sit either side of Shirakawa-go, linked by a 2h15m bus.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Takayama | Kanazawa |
|---|---|---|
| Highlights | Sanmachi old town, morning markets, Hida beef | Kenroku-en, Higashi Chaya, 21st Century Museum |
| Hotel (double) | ¥12,000–¥25,000 | ¥11,000–¥24,000 |
| From Tokyo | 4h30m via Nagoya | 2h30m Hokuriku Shinkansen |
| Size | Small, walkable | Mid-size city |
| Best season | Spring & autumn festivals | Winter (crab, snow lanterns) |
The Alps loop
Nagoya → Takayama → Shirakawa-go → Kanazawa → Tokyo; see our Central Japan itinerary.
One night only?
Pick Kanazawa for convenience; Takayama for small-town atmosphere.
Plan it with our free tools
Price your route with the Shinkansen Fare Calculator, check the JR Pass Calculator, set a daily spend in the Budget Calculator, and convert prices in 30 currencies with the Yen Converter.
Frequently asked questions
Is Takayama or Kanazawa better?
Takayama for rustic old-town charm, Kanazawa for gardens, art and seafood.
How do I get between them?
Nohi Bus via Shirakawa-go, about 2h15m, ¥4,000.
How many nights?
One to two nights each.
Is the Hokuriku Arch Pass worth it?
Often, for Tokyo–Kanazawa–Osaka routings.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: