Day 3 begins!
Ryukei Goya
Located in the Tamukai area of Gokayama, the Ryukei Goya is a rare historical structure built on a steep cliff on the right bank of Shogawa River, once used by the Kaga Domain as a place of exile. The small hut, about six tatami mats in size, is equipped with a toilet and a small opening for food delivery, formerly used to strictly isolate serious offenders. Reconstructed in 1965, it is now preserved as Toyama Prefectural Cultural Property. As the only remaining exile hut in Japan, it stands as a reminder of the harsh conditions of the past.
3 minutes by car
Kaminashi Hakusan-gu Shrine
Hakusan-gu Shrine, located in the Kaminashi area of Nanto City, is a revered shrine said to have been founded by the famous monk Taicho in the early Nara Period. The Main Hall, built in 1502 (Bunki 2), is the oldest wooden structure in Toyama Prefecture, and is designated as National Important Cultural Property. This sacred space is open to the public only during the autumn Kokiriko-matsuri Festival, enabling a first-hand experience of Gokayama's history and spirituality.
2 minutes by car
The Murakami Residence
The Murakami Residence, designated as National Important Cultural Property, is a rare gassho-zukuri building that retains the architectural style of its construction period over 400 years ago. Inside, thousands of folk artifacts are on display. Visitors can sit around the traditional irori hearth and listen to the head of the household share stories.
1 minute by car
“Wa” Dederekoden
“Wa” Dederekoden offers coffee brewed in the rich natural surroundings of Gokayama, along with a variety of local delicacies. Most popular items include the tochi moffle, a waffle made from horse chestnut mochi, and tochi mochi zenzai, a traditional sweet red bean soup. Visitors can also try their hands at sasara weaving, a traditional instrument used in the Kokiriko-odori dance. With just 12 cozy seats, “Wa” Dederekoden is the perfectly intimate spot for a relaxing break on the Gokayama journey.
35 minutes by car
Soba Kaiseki Matsuya
Founded in 1912, the Matsuya is renowned for its handmade soba noodles, a restaurant inherited by four generations. Located in Inami, a town famous for its woodcarving traditions, the restaurant is located in a beautifully renovated 130-year-old folk house. Here, guests can enjoy delicately hand-crafted thin soba noodles served with seasonal tempura in a warm and historic setting. One of the highlights are the finely carved transom panels in the tatami rooms, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Savor carefully and expertly crafted exquisite soba noodles, feeling the rich history of Inami.
2 minutes by car
Inami Betsuin Zuisen-ji Temple
Inami Betsuin Zuisen-ji Temple, established in 1390 by Shakunyo, the fifth head priest of the Hongan-ji School, is the largest temple complex in Hokuriku Region. After being destroyed by fire, the temple was rebuilt with intricate Inami woodcarvings, a craft that traces its origins to Kyoto artisans. These carvings now adorn the temple grounds, with the spectacular decorations in the Prince Hall (Taishido) being particularly striking. Along the approach to the temple, visitors can enjoy the traditional soundscape of wood mallets and chisels echoing from the many woodcarving ateliers lining the road. Take the time and fully appreciate the history and artistry that have earned recognition as national heritage.
1 minute by car
Yokamachi-dori Road (Strolling)
In Inami, Japan’s town most famous for woodcarving, visitors can take part in a workshop and create their own one-of-a-kind guinomi sake cup using chisels and wooden mallets under the guidance of master carver. Enjoy the soothing scent of hinoki cypress when carving. Once completed, the handmade guinomi is perfect for tasting the local sake at Wakakoma Shuzo Sake Brewery. Explore both, traditional craftsmanship and the charming townscape of Inami, spend time creating unforgettable memories.
5 minutes by car
Torigoe-no-Yado Sanrakuen
Established in 1924, Sanrakuen is a traditional ryokan inn nestled in the Shogawa Onsen area of Tonami City in Toyama Prefecture. The resort boasts a rare combination of two distinct hot spring sources as well as seasonal cuisine made with an abundance of fresh ingredients from Toyama. Enjoy healing and relaxation with Japan’s first authentic Biofango® therapy amidst serene Japanese-style spaces overlooking the Shogawa Gorge. Treat yourself to a peaceful, calming retreat designed for adults seeking quiet moments of serenity.
