Hida Furukawa

Hida Furukawa is a peaceful castle town near Takayama, known for its canals filled with colorful carp, rows of white-walled storehouses along the Seto River, and a charming old townscape that feels like a hidden “Little Kyoto.” It is also recognized as a real-world setting for the anime film Your Name, making it a rewarding stop for both culture lovers and anime fans.

Fox Wedding Festival (Kitsune-bi Matsuri)

The unique Fox Wedding Festival (Kitsune-bi Matsuri) is held annually on the fourth Saturday of September and brings a local fairy tale to life. Inspired by the legendary “sunshower” wedding of fox spirits, the festival features a mysterious nighttime procession of “foxes” — people with fox makeup — walking through the dark streets by torchlight.

It is said that seeing the procession brings divine blessings for a rich harvest, the safety of one’s family, and prosperity in business. Visitors can even receive fox makeup free of charge, making it easy to join the atmosphere and celebrate together with the locals.

Santera Mairi Festival

The Santera Mairi Festival, literally “Three Temple Visit,” is held every year on January 15 and is known as one of Hida Furukawa’s signature winter events. Traditionally, it served as an occasion for young men and women to meet; today it is cherished as a temple pilgrimage and a time to pray for good relationships.

People visit three major temples — Enkoji, Honkoji, and Shinshuji — to offer prayers. From around 4:00 p.m., hundreds of snow candles and lanterns are lit throughout town, including along the Seto River, creating a warm and romantic glow against the cold winter night.

The candles used in this festival are locally made warosoku Japanese candles from Mishima. Visitors can also add their own candles along the river: those praying for new relationships light white candles, while those giving thanks for a happy relationship light red candles.

Watanabe Sake Brewery

Hida Furukawa is also a delightful destination for sake lovers. Among its breweries, Watanabe Sake Brewery stands out as a long-established producer founded in 1870. The brewery buildings are designated as a nationally registered tangible cultural property, reflecting both their history and architectural value.

Its main brand is Horai, and one of the most popular specialty products is the “Forbidden Daiginjo Cake”. The fine sponge absorbs aromatic daiginjo sake, giving it a moist, soft, and slightly chewy texture. Visitors can also join brewery tours to learn about the brewing process, sample local sake, and shop for gifts to bring home.

Hida Furukawa is a town to linger in: watch the carp, follow the lantern light along the canal, taste local sake, and discover why this quiet corner of Hida leaves such a lasting impression. It is an easy and rewarding addition to Japan Deluxe Tours itineraries in central Japan.