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JAPANiCAN.com HOME > Hietsu Area Special Feature

Hietsu Area Special Feature / Exploring Nature and History in Hida-Takayama and Toyama

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What's Hietsu?

"Hietsu" refers to an area on the Japan Sea side of Japan's biggest island that includes Gifu Prefecture's Hida Region and mountainous Toyama Prefecture. Hietsu falls just about smack dab in the middle of the Japanese archipelago as a whole and is nestled amongst Japan's Northern Alps and winding gorges cut by rivers and streams over countless years. Besides popular sightseeing spots like Takayama and Shirakawago, people enjoy visiting Hietsu for the area's natural assets and beauty, from the fresh seafood and clean mountain water to the gorgeous scenery and numerous, relaxing hot springs.

  • Nature - Scenic views abound on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and in Kurobe Gorge, with the 3000 meter peaks of the Japanese Alps and landscapes changing with the seasons stretching as far as the eye can see. With a variety of vehicles and light trekking routes, visitors can make it to the top and enjoy the magnificent views without worrying about climbing equipment or overexertion.
  • Traditional Culture - From Toyama's folk dances to Takayama and Hida-Furukawa's festivals, local traditions continue to thrive and be passed down in Hietsu. At the World Heritage Shirakawago and Gokayama villages, residents live the traditional way of life in centuries old Gassho-zukuri houses.
  • Hot Springs - Also the starting station for Kurobe Gorge's scenic mountain sightseeing train, Unazuki Onsen is known for it's relaxing natural hot springs, where visitors can relax in the soothing waters while enjoying the gorge's natural beauty. Oku-Hida Onsen in the Northern Alps lets visitors relax while enjoying the atmosphere of an old mountain village.
  • Gourmet - From the fresh seafood plucked straight out of Toyama Bay to the famous and delectable Hida Beef, Hietsu's cuisine has something for even the most discerning of palletes and is certainly not to be missed.

Access

For sightseeing in Hietsu, Toyama Station and Takayama Station are the main hubs. Most people get to Toyama by air or train, while Takayama is far more frequently reached by train. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route features a wide variety of modes of transportation, from the ropeways, gondolas, and buses that navigate the route to the electric trolley that cuts right through the mountain itself. Just remember, if you're coming by car (from Nagoya for example), private vehicles are not permitted on the Alpine Route. Besides, riding all the different kinds of vehicles is part of the fun! If you're using public transportation, there is a bus operated by Kaetsuno that goes to Gokayama and Shirakawago. From Takayama Station, there is a bus to Shirakawago operated by Nohi. Rental car from either Toyama or Takayama is also a convenient way to reach Gokayama and Shirakawago.


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