2025/09/02
Notification
Event
旬な情報
Outline of the 40th (2026) Shirakawa-go Light-up Event
Outline of the 40th (2026) Shirakawa-go Winter Light-up Event
We are pleased to announce the outline of the 40th Shirakawa-go Winter Light-up Event, a cherished winter tradition in the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go.
Please Note: Advance Reservations Required
This event is strictly by advance reservation only. As with previous years, an entry ticket system will be implemented to confirm eligibility for participation upon entry.
Please carefully read the following information regarding event details and reservation procedures.
Important Notice — Please Read Carefully
The event will be held with strict capacity control, based on advance reservations and an entry ticket system.
Same-day participation without a reservation is not possible. All visitors must make a reservation in advance and obtain an official entry ticket.
No tickets will be sold on the day of the event.
Those without a valid entry ticket will be asked to leave. Please plan accordingly.
The entry ticket allows you to explore the illuminated village area; however, access to the observation deck is not included.
Entry tickets are valid only for the specific date and are color-coded accordingly.
There are two types of participation: with or without access to the observation deck. Please note that not all visitors will be able to access the observation deck.
For details, refer to Section 3: “About Observation Deck Tickets.”
In the event of severe transportation disruptions due to extreme weather conditions such as a nationwide cold wave (as occurred in early February this year), the event may be cancelled. Your understanding is appreciated.
If you are driving, winter tires (studded snow tires) are mandatory.
As the World Heritage village is a living community with residents, drone photography is strictly prohibited.
We are pleased to announce the outline of the 40th Shirakawa-go Winter Light-up Event, a cherished winter tradition in the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go.
Please Note: Advance Reservations Required
This event is strictly by advance reservation only. As with previous years, an entry ticket system will be implemented to confirm eligibility for participation upon entry.
Please carefully read the following information regarding event details and reservation procedures.
Important Notice — Please Read Carefully
The event will be held with strict capacity control, based on advance reservations and an entry ticket system.
Same-day participation without a reservation is not possible. All visitors must make a reservation in advance and obtain an official entry ticket.
No tickets will be sold on the day of the event.
Those without a valid entry ticket will be asked to leave. Please plan accordingly.
The entry ticket allows you to explore the illuminated village area; however, access to the observation deck is not included.
Entry tickets are valid only for the specific date and are color-coded accordingly.
There are two types of participation: with or without access to the observation deck. Please note that not all visitors will be able to access the observation deck.
For details, refer to Section 3: “About Observation Deck Tickets.”
In the event of severe transportation disruptions due to extreme weather conditions such as a nationwide cold wave (as occurred in early February this year), the event may be cancelled. Your understanding is appreciated.
If you are driving, winter tires (studded snow tires) are mandatory.
As the World Heritage village is a living community with residents, drone photography is strictly prohibited.
Table of Contents
1．Event Dates and Times (4 Sessions Total)
This year’s Light-up Event will be held on four limited dates only. Please check the schedule below for the specific dates.
Important Notice:
In the event of major transportation disruptions caused by a nationwide cold wave (similar to the one that occurred in early February this year), the event may be canceled. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation in advance.
Event Venue:
The event will take place in the Ogimachi District of Shirakawa Village.
Important Notice:
In the event of major transportation disruptions caused by a nationwide cold wave (similar to the one that occurred in early February this year), the event may be canceled. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation in advance.
Event Venue:
The event will take place in the Ogimachi District of Shirakawa Village.
| Number of Sessions | Date and Time of the Event |
|---|---|
| Session 1 | Monday, January 12, 2026 (Coming of Age Day – National Holiday) — 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM |
| Session 2 | Sunday, January 18, 2026 — 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM |
| Session 3 | Sunday, January 25, 2026 — 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM |
| Session 4 | Sunday, February 1, 2026 — 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM |
Please note that due to the three-day weekend, the event on January 12 will be held on Monday, which is a public holiday.
2．Daytime Tourism on Event Days
On the days of the Light-up Event, restrictions are in place for daytime tourism to separate event participants from general visitors. Please review the following points carefully.
Parking Lot Usage
No reservation is required for daytime tourism.
The parking lot opens at 8:00 AM. The last entry is at 3:00 PM, guided by staff, and all vehicles must completely exit by 5:00 PM.
The final entry time for tourist vehicles, including buses, is 3:00 PM. Entry after 3:00 PM will not be permitted, so please be mindful of this.
The typical sightseeing time for the World Heritage village is about 2 to 3 hours. To ensure a relaxed visit, we strongly recommend using the parking lot by 12:00 PM at the latest.
About the Observation Deck
The village-operated Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observation Deck prohibits vehicle access all day. Visitors must use the observation deck shuttle bus or walk.
Due to preparations for the Light-up Event, the walking route to the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observation Deck will close at 3:45 PM, and the observation deck itself will close at 4:10 PM. Please plan your visit accordingly.
The shuttle bus to the observation deck operates as usual:
Upbound: 9:00 AM – 3:40 PM
Downbound: 9:10 AM – 4:10 PM
For those walking, the observation deck can be reached in approximately 15 to 20 minutes via the promenade behind the Wada House, a sightseeing facility.
Parking Lot Usage
No reservation is required for daytime tourism.
The parking lot opens at 8:00 AM. The last entry is at 3:00 PM, guided by staff, and all vehicles must completely exit by 5:00 PM.
The final entry time for tourist vehicles, including buses, is 3:00 PM. Entry after 3:00 PM will not be permitted, so please be mindful of this.
The typical sightseeing time for the World Heritage village is about 2 to 3 hours. To ensure a relaxed visit, we strongly recommend using the parking lot by 12:00 PM at the latest.
About the Observation Deck
The village-operated Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observation Deck prohibits vehicle access all day. Visitors must use the observation deck shuttle bus or walk.
Due to preparations for the Light-up Event, the walking route to the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observation Deck will close at 3:45 PM, and the observation deck itself will close at 4:10 PM. Please plan your visit accordingly.
The shuttle bus to the observation deck operates as usual:
Upbound: 9:00 AM – 3:40 PM
Downbound: 9:10 AM – 4:10 PM
For those walking, the observation deck can be reached in approximately 15 to 20 minutes via the promenade behind the Wada House, a sightseeing facility.
3. About the Observation Deck Ticket
Only visitors with an Observation Deck Ticket will be allowed to view the light-up event from the observation deck.
Please note:
The Observation Deck Ticket is a limited-availability item and is not sold separately.
Without this ticket, no one will be permitted to access the observation deck for any reason.
There are only two ways to obtain an Observation Deck Ticket:
①Stay overnight in Shirakawa Village on the event day under a lodging plan that includes an Observation Deck Ticket.
②Join a Light-up Event tour package that includes the Observation Deck Ticket, offered by one of the following bus operators:
Nohi Bus
Kaetsuno Bus
Toyama Chiho Railway Bus
Hokutetsu Bus
Iruka Kotsu
⚠️ Both options ①&② have a limited number of tickets available.
Guests who do not fall into either of the above categories will not be able to access the observation deck.
Tickets will be checked carefully, so please be prepared.
Observation Deck Guidelines
Tripods are strictly prohibited on the observation deck.
To avoid overcrowding, access to the observation deck will be divided into three time slots.
Please follow staff instructions on the day of the event.
You cannot choose your preferred time slot. You must visit during the time assigned to you.
After your ticket is checked at the observation deck gate, you will walk up to the deck. (See exceptions below.)
Visitors with special needs (e.g. those with mobility difficulties, disabilities, or pregnant guests) may use a special shuttle bus.
This service requires a reservation. Please contact the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association in advance.
Due to the narrow space, pets are not allowed on the observation deck.
In case of heavy snowfall, access to the observation deck may be restricted or canceled for safety reasons.
Tickets are non-transferable and resale is strictly prohibited.
Please note:
The Observation Deck Ticket is a limited-availability item and is not sold separately.
Without this ticket, no one will be permitted to access the observation deck for any reason.
There are only two ways to obtain an Observation Deck Ticket:
①Stay overnight in Shirakawa Village on the event day under a lodging plan that includes an Observation Deck Ticket.
②Join a Light-up Event tour package that includes the Observation Deck Ticket, offered by one of the following bus operators:
Nohi Bus
Kaetsuno Bus
Toyama Chiho Railway Bus
Hokutetsu Bus
Iruka Kotsu
⚠️ Both options ①&② have a limited number of tickets available.
Guests who do not fall into either of the above categories will not be able to access the observation deck.
Tickets will be checked carefully, so please be prepared.
Observation Deck Guidelines
Tripods are strictly prohibited on the observation deck.
To avoid overcrowding, access to the observation deck will be divided into three time slots.
Please follow staff instructions on the day of the event.
You cannot choose your preferred time slot. You must visit during the time assigned to you.
After your ticket is checked at the observation deck gate, you will walk up to the deck. (See exceptions below.)
Visitors with special needs (e.g. those with mobility difficulties, disabilities, or pregnant guests) may use a special shuttle bus.
This service requires a reservation. Please contact the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association in advance.
Due to the narrow space, pets are not allowed on the observation deck.
In case of heavy snowfall, access to the observation deck may be restricted or canceled for safety reasons.
Tickets are non-transferable and resale is strictly prohibited.
4．How to Participate in the Event (5 Types of Entry)
The Shirakawa-go Light-up Event operates on a strict advance reservation and entry ticket system.
All participants will receive an entry ticket (lanyard-style pass), which must be worn visibly around the neck at all times while exploring the village. This helps clearly identify registered participants.
Each entry ticket is color-coded by date and valid only on the day of issue.
To join the event, you must choose one of the five participation options listed below and make a reservation in advance.
On the day of the event, all registered participants will receive their entry ticket.
⚠️ Please note that the distribution location for entry tickets varies depending on the participation option selected.
All participants will receive an entry ticket (lanyard-style pass), which must be worn visibly around the neck at all times while exploring the village. This helps clearly identify registered participants.
Each entry ticket is color-coded by date and valid only on the day of issue.
To join the event, you must choose one of the five participation options listed below and make a reservation in advance.
On the day of the event, all registered participants will receive their entry ticket.
⚠️ Please note that the distribution location for entry tickets varies depending on the participation option selected.
| ① | Overnight Stay in the Village on the Event Day (with Observation Deck Ticket) |
|---|---|
| ② | Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Your Private Vehicle (No Observation Deck Ticket Included) |
| ③ | Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Taxi Drop-off (No Observation Deck Ticket Included) |
| ④ | Participation Through a Tour Package Operated by Route Bus Companies (Observation Deck Ticket May or May Not Be Included, Depending on the Tour) |
| ⑤ | Participation via a Bus Tour Organized by a Travel Agency (Without Observation Deck Ticket) |
Please Note:
The Shirakawa-go Tourism Association can only handle reservations for Options ①, ②, and ③.
For Options ④ and ⑤, please research and make reservations on your own through the respective tour providers.
① Overnight Stay in the Village on the Event Day (with Observation Deck Ticket)
To ensure fairness, accommodation reservations for the Light-up Event handled by the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association will be done through a lottery system, not on a first-come, first-served basis.
The upcoming schedule is as follows:
Details about accommodations and how to apply for the lottery will be announced on:
Wednesday, October 1 at 1:00 PM (JST)
The Shirakawa-go Tourism Association can only handle reservations for Options ①, ②, and ③.
For Options ④ and ⑤, please research and make reservations on your own through the respective tour providers.
① Overnight Stay in the Village on the Event Day (with Observation Deck Ticket)
To ensure fairness, accommodation reservations for the Light-up Event handled by the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association will be done through a lottery system, not on a first-come, first-served basis.
The upcoming schedule is as follows:
Details about accommodations and how to apply for the lottery will be announced on:
Wednesday, October 1 at 1:00 PM (JST)
| Tuesday, October 1, 2025 | Applications for accommodation will open at 1:00 PM on October 1, 2025. Please note that this is a lottery application, not a reservation. Detailed instructions will be provided separately on the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association website. Applications must be submitted by email. Only one application per person is allowed. Information about accommodations, fees, and other details will be provided at the time of the application opening. Applicants will be asked to review the lottery guidelines, select their preferred dates and accommodations, and then submit their application via email. |
|---|---|
| Thursday, October 31, 2025 | Application deadline for accommodation: 11:59 PM |
| Monday, November 10, 2025 | Announcement of Winners Only the winners will be notified via email. Please make your reservation and complete the credit card payment through the dedicated online booking page for winners. |
In case of lottery winners declining their spot or canceling their accommodation, additional applications will be accepted.
② Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Private Vehicles (No Observation Deck Ticket Included)
Please participate by reserving a parking space in the designated Light-up Event parking lot. Reservations are only available for standard passenger vehicles.
Please note that microbuses, larger buses, camper vans, and other special vehicles are not allowed to park in this lot.
Reservations for the Light-up Event parking lot are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. The application period is divided into two phases, and reservations will be closed once the maximum capacity is reached for each phase.
Due to recent increases in security and material costs caused by rising prices, the parking fees have been raised compared to the previous event. We appreciate your understanding in advance.
The designated Light-up Event parking lot will be the Midashima Parking Lot.
Reservations can be made only online through the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association website, with payment by credit card.
② Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Private Vehicles (No Observation Deck Ticket Included)
Please participate by reserving a parking space in the designated Light-up Event parking lot. Reservations are only available for standard passenger vehicles.
Please note that microbuses, larger buses, camper vans, and other special vehicles are not allowed to park in this lot.
Reservations for the Light-up Event parking lot are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. The application period is divided into two phases, and reservations will be closed once the maximum capacity is reached for each phase.
Due to recent increases in security and material costs caused by rising prices, the parking fees have been raised compared to the previous event. We appreciate your understanding in advance.
The designated Light-up Event parking lot will be the Midashima Parking Lot.
Reservations can be made only online through the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association website, with payment by credit card.
| First Round of Applications (Standard Passenger Vehicles Only) | Sales will begin at 1:00 PM on September 10, 2025. Reservations can be made through the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association website. Maximum capacity per vehicle: up to 10 people Fee per vehicle: ① ¥6,000 (for 1 to 5 people) ② ¥9,000 (for 6 to 10 people) |
|---|---|
| Second Round of Applications (Standard Passenger Vehicles Only) | Sales will begin at 1:00 PM on December 1, 2025. Reservations can be made through the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association website. Maximum capacity per vehicle: up to 10 people Fee per vehicle: ① ¥7,000 (for 1 to 5 people) ② ¥10,000 (for 6 to 10 people) |
Details Regarding Reservations
Detailed information about reservations will be announced on the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association website at 1:00 PM on September 10, 2025. Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please note that changes after reservation (except for changes in the number of people) and cancellations are not allowed, and no refunds will be provided. Resale of tickets is also prohibited.
However, if the event is cancelled due to large-scale traffic disruptions caused by heavy snowfall or other unavoidable circumstances, and the organizing committee decides to cancel the event, refunds will be issued.
Parking reservation does not grant access to the observation deck.
Presentation of a valid ID such as a driver’s license may be required.
After making a reservation, a parking permit will be sent via email between late December and early January.
The number of people will be confirmed, and entry tickets will be distributed along with maps at the reception on the event day.
Please note the following:
If you apply for 1 to 5 people but have 6 or more on the day of the event, an additional fee of ¥4,000 will be charged.
If you apply for 6 to 10 people but attend with fewer than 6 on the day, no refund for the difference will be given.
③ Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Taxi Use (No Observation Deck Ticket Included)
If you plan to arrive by taxi arranged by yourself, you are required to make a reservation for a designated Light-up Event parking space, just as with private vehicles under Option ②. Please make the parking reservation before arranging the taxi.
There is no taxi pool; taxis should go directly to the Midashima Parking Lot and wait there.
Once a vehicle enters the parking lot, it is generally not allowed to leave and re-enter, so please be careful.
Since entry tickets cannot be issued for taxis, boarding and alighting on the road is strictly prohibited.
A maximum of 10 people, including the driver, is allowed per vehicle.
Please note that no tickets will be sold on the event day.
④ Participate via a Bus Tour Organized by Route Bus Companies (Observation Deck Ticket May or May Not Be Included)
There are Light-up Event tours operated by highway route bus companies including Nohi Bus, Kaetsunou Bus, Toyama Chitetsu Bus, Hokutetsu Bus, and Iruka Kotsu.
Normally, highway route buses do not operate at night, but special reservation-based tour buses will run in response to the announcement of the 2026 Shirakawa-go Light-up Event schedule.
Please note that some tours include observation deck tickets, while others do not.
For reservations and details, please contact the individual bus companies listed above directly.
To help ensure a smooth reservation process this time as well, we are staggering the reservation periods depending on the event date.
Please note that the reservation start dates vary based on the date of the event.
The reservation schedule for each event date is as follows:
(Example) On October 3rd, you will only be able to reserve for the January 12th session.
If you wish to book for January 18th, please wait until October 10th.
Detailed information about reservations will be announced on the Shirakawa-go Tourism Association website at 1:00 PM on September 10, 2025. Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please note that changes after reservation (except for changes in the number of people) and cancellations are not allowed, and no refunds will be provided. Resale of tickets is also prohibited.
However, if the event is cancelled due to large-scale traffic disruptions caused by heavy snowfall or other unavoidable circumstances, and the organizing committee decides to cancel the event, refunds will be issued.
Parking reservation does not grant access to the observation deck.
Presentation of a valid ID such as a driver’s license may be required.
After making a reservation, a parking permit will be sent via email between late December and early January.
The number of people will be confirmed, and entry tickets will be distributed along with maps at the reception on the event day.
Please note the following:
If you apply for 1 to 5 people but have 6 or more on the day of the event, an additional fee of ¥4,000 will be charged.
If you apply for 6 to 10 people but attend with fewer than 6 on the day, no refund for the difference will be given.
③ Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Taxi Use (No Observation Deck Ticket Included)
If you plan to arrive by taxi arranged by yourself, you are required to make a reservation for a designated Light-up Event parking space, just as with private vehicles under Option ②. Please make the parking reservation before arranging the taxi.
There is no taxi pool; taxis should go directly to the Midashima Parking Lot and wait there.
Once a vehicle enters the parking lot, it is generally not allowed to leave and re-enter, so please be careful.
Since entry tickets cannot be issued for taxis, boarding and alighting on the road is strictly prohibited.
A maximum of 10 people, including the driver, is allowed per vehicle.
Please note that no tickets will be sold on the event day.
④ Participate via a Bus Tour Organized by Route Bus Companies (Observation Deck Ticket May or May Not Be Included)
There are Light-up Event tours operated by highway route bus companies including Nohi Bus, Kaetsunou Bus, Toyama Chitetsu Bus, Hokutetsu Bus, and Iruka Kotsu.
Normally, highway route buses do not operate at night, but special reservation-based tour buses will run in response to the announcement of the 2026 Shirakawa-go Light-up Event schedule.
Please note that some tours include observation deck tickets, while others do not.
For reservations and details, please contact the individual bus companies listed above directly.
To help ensure a smooth reservation process this time as well, we are staggering the reservation periods depending on the event date.
Please note that the reservation start dates vary based on the date of the event.
The reservation schedule for each event date is as follows:
(Example) On October 3rd, you will only be able to reserve for the January 12th session.
If you wish to book for January 18th, please wait until October 10th.
| Sales Launch Date | Sales Launch Date and Time (for Nohi Bus, Kaetsuno Bus, Toyama Chiho Railway Bus, Hokutetsu Bus) All four companies will start sales simultaneously. Iruka Kotsu is currently under coordination |
|---|---|
| For the event held on Monday, January 12 | Sales will start at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 3 |
| For the event held on Sunday, January 18 | Sales start at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 10 |
| For the event held on Sunday, January 25 | Sales start at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 17 |
| For the event held on Sunday, February 1 | Sales start at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 24 |
● Nohi Bus Co., Ltd. (Nohi Bus)
Website: Japanese version
https://www.nouhibus.co.jp/shirakawa_lightup_2026/
English version
https://www.nouhibus.co.jp/shirakawa_lightup_2026-en/
Online reservation: Hassha Orai Net / Japan Bus Online
Contact: Nohi Bus Reservation Center
Tel: 0577-32-1688
Please note that reservations are not accepted by phone.
● Kaetsunou Bus Co., Ltd. (Kaetsunou Bus)
Website: https://www.kaetsunou.co.jp/16779
Online reservation: Hassha Orai Net / Japan Bus Online
Contact: Kaetsunou Bus Ticket Center
Tel: 0766-21-0950 (Mon–Fri 7:30–18:30 / Sat, Sun, holidays 9:00–18:00)
Kaetsunou Travel Center
Tel: 0766-21-6980 (Mon–Fri 8:30–17:30 / closed on weekends and holidays)
Please note that reservations are not accepted by phone.
● Toyama Chihō Railway Co., Ltd. (Toyama Chitetsu Bus)
Website: https://www.chitetsu.co.jp/?p=79019
Online reservation: Hassha Orai Net / Japan Bus Online
Phone reservation: Toyama Chitetsu Ticket Center
Tel: 076-431-3113 (9:00–17:30)
● Hokuriku Railway Co., Ltd. (Hokutetsu Bus)
Website & online reservation: https://www.hokutetsu.co.jp/news/shirakawago-lightup/
Phone reservation: Hokuriku Railway Group Travel Center
Tel: 0120-316-100 or 076-287-5180
(10:00–12:00, 13:00–15:00; closed on weekends and holidays)
● Iruka Kōtsū
Information is under preparation. Please wait a moment.
⑤ Participation in Bus Tours Organized by Travel Agencies (No Observation Deck Ticket Included)
For participation in bus tours organized by travel agencies (without observation deck tickets), please contact the relevant travel agency directly for reservation details. The Shirakawa-go Tourism Association cannot provide information or handle reservations for these tours.
Website: Japanese version
https://www.nouhibus.co.jp/shirakawa_lightup_2026/
English version
https://www.nouhibus.co.jp/shirakawa_lightup_2026-en/
Online reservation: Hassha Orai Net / Japan Bus Online
Contact: Nohi Bus Reservation Center
Tel: 0577-32-1688
Please note that reservations are not accepted by phone.
● Kaetsunou Bus Co., Ltd. (Kaetsunou Bus)
Website: https://www.kaetsunou.co.jp/16779
Online reservation: Hassha Orai Net / Japan Bus Online
Contact: Kaetsunou Bus Ticket Center
Tel: 0766-21-0950 (Mon–Fri 7:30–18:30 / Sat, Sun, holidays 9:00–18:00)
Kaetsunou Travel Center
Tel: 0766-21-6980 (Mon–Fri 8:30–17:30 / closed on weekends and holidays)
Please note that reservations are not accepted by phone.
● Toyama Chihō Railway Co., Ltd. (Toyama Chitetsu Bus)
Website: https://www.chitetsu.co.jp/?p=79019
Online reservation: Hassha Orai Net / Japan Bus Online
Phone reservation: Toyama Chitetsu Ticket Center
Tel: 076-431-3113 (9:00–17:30)
● Hokuriku Railway Co., Ltd. (Hokutetsu Bus)
Website & online reservation: https://www.hokutetsu.co.jp/news/shirakawago-lightup/
Phone reservation: Hokuriku Railway Group Travel Center
Tel: 0120-316-100 or 076-287-5180
(10:00–12:00, 13:00–15:00; closed on weekends and holidays)
● Iruka Kōtsū
Information is under preparation. Please wait a moment.
⑤ Participation in Bus Tours Organized by Travel Agencies (No Observation Deck Ticket Included)
For participation in bus tours organized by travel agencies (without observation deck tickets), please contact the relevant travel agency directly for reservation details. The Shirakawa-go Tourism Association cannot provide information or handle reservations for these tours.
5．For Travel Agencies and Bus Operators Planning Tours
Shirakawa-go Light-Up Event: Complete Reservation Requirement for Vehicles of Microbus Size and Larger
Buses without a valid parking permit for the event are not allowed to enter for the light-up viewing. Please also note that access to the observation deck is not permitted for such vehicles.
Important Notes:
Reservations for buses are accepted only on the condition that all passengers use paid services at designated facilities within Shirakawa Village on the event day.
However, since these facilities already have ongoing business relationships with certain travel agencies throughout the year, new bus reservations solely for the light-up event are currently very difficult to secure.
Therefore, instead of booking a bus, please consider using a regular vehicle such as a Hiace (up to 10 passengers) and make a reservation under “② Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Private Cars.”
Bus Reservation Overview:
The number of accepted buses is limited and varies by each designated facility.
The Shirakawa-go Light-Up Committee Office (Shirakawa-go Tourism Association) does not mediate between travel agencies or bus companies and these facilities, and cannot respond to inquiries regarding bus reservations.
Please contact the designated facilities directly to make reservations (note that new reservations are currently difficult to obtain).
The Shirakawa-go Tourism Association does not hold reserved slots for buses and therefore cannot accept bus reservations.
Picking up or dropping off passengers on the road in violation of the rules is strictly prohibited.
Without a valid bus parking permit, admission tickets will not be issued, and entry to the event venue will be denied. Such vehicles will be asked to leave immediately.
Please also note that admission tickets will not be sold on the event day.
Buses without a valid parking permit for the event are not allowed to enter for the light-up viewing. Please also note that access to the observation deck is not permitted for such vehicles.
Important Notes:
Reservations for buses are accepted only on the condition that all passengers use paid services at designated facilities within Shirakawa Village on the event day.
However, since these facilities already have ongoing business relationships with certain travel agencies throughout the year, new bus reservations solely for the light-up event are currently very difficult to secure.
Therefore, instead of booking a bus, please consider using a regular vehicle such as a Hiace (up to 10 passengers) and make a reservation under “② Reserve a Designated Parking Space for Private Cars.”
Bus Reservation Overview:
The number of accepted buses is limited and varies by each designated facility.
The Shirakawa-go Light-Up Committee Office (Shirakawa-go Tourism Association) does not mediate between travel agencies or bus companies and these facilities, and cannot respond to inquiries regarding bus reservations.
Please contact the designated facilities directly to make reservations (note that new reservations are currently difficult to obtain).
The Shirakawa-go Tourism Association does not hold reserved slots for buses and therefore cannot accept bus reservations.
Picking up or dropping off passengers on the road in violation of the rules is strictly prohibited.
Without a valid bus parking permit, admission tickets will not be issued, and entry to the event venue will be denied. Such vehicles will be asked to leave immediately.
Please also note that admission tickets will not be sold on the event day.
6．Important Notices and Guidelines
Regarding Participation in the Shirakawa-go Light-Up Event
The Shirakawa-go Light-Up Event is conducted on a complete advance reservation basis.
Visitors without a reservation on the event day will not be allowed to participate. Additionally, no admission tickets will be sold on the day of the event.
As in previous years, to prevent rule violations, an admission ticket system will be implemented. An entrance gate will be set up at the village entrance to check participants.
Admission tickets will be issued as neck-hanging holders, and participants are required to wear them visibly around their necks both when entering the gate and while walking around the village.
Please note that anyone without an admission ticket will not be permitted to enter and will be asked to leave immediately.
Depending on your reservation method, you may or may not be able to visit the observation deck, so please be aware of this.
For Those Arriving by Highway Bus
The last highway bus departing Shirakawa-go leaves between 16:00 and 17:00, before the light-up begins.
It is not possible to return by highway bus after viewing the light-up, so please check the bus schedule in advance.
For details and reservations regarding highway buses, please contact each bus company directly.
Drone Usage is Prohibited
The World Heritage village is a residential area where drone use is not permitted.
This prohibition also applies during the light-up event. Violations will be subject to penalties.
Winter Tire Requirements
Vehicles must be equipped with winter (studded) tires.
Although snow countermeasures are in place, Shirakawa-go is a heavy snowfall area, so please drive carefully, especially around curves, maintaining a safe speed and distance.
Temperature and Clothing
The light-up occurs during the coldest time of night, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C, and roads may be icy.
We recommend wearing warm, waterproof boots, and traction cleats. Also, because it will be dark, please bring a flashlight.
Regarding Taxi Services within Shirakawa Village
On the day of the light-up event, local taxi companies in Shirakawa Village will not be operating due to event arrangements.
The Shirakawa-go Light-Up Event is conducted on a complete advance reservation basis.
Visitors without a reservation on the event day will not be allowed to participate. Additionally, no admission tickets will be sold on the day of the event.
As in previous years, to prevent rule violations, an admission ticket system will be implemented. An entrance gate will be set up at the village entrance to check participants.
Admission tickets will be issued as neck-hanging holders, and participants are required to wear them visibly around their necks both when entering the gate and while walking around the village.
Please note that anyone without an admission ticket will not be permitted to enter and will be asked to leave immediately.
Depending on your reservation method, you may or may not be able to visit the observation deck, so please be aware of this.
For Those Arriving by Highway Bus
The last highway bus departing Shirakawa-go leaves between 16:00 and 17:00, before the light-up begins.
It is not possible to return by highway bus after viewing the light-up, so please check the bus schedule in advance.
For details and reservations regarding highway buses, please contact each bus company directly.
Drone Usage is Prohibited
The World Heritage village is a residential area where drone use is not permitted.
This prohibition also applies during the light-up event. Violations will be subject to penalties.
Winter Tire Requirements
Vehicles must be equipped with winter (studded) tires.
Although snow countermeasures are in place, Shirakawa-go is a heavy snowfall area, so please drive carefully, especially around curves, maintaining a safe speed and distance.
Temperature and Clothing
The light-up occurs during the coldest time of night, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C, and roads may be icy.
We recommend wearing warm, waterproof boots, and traction cleats. Also, because it will be dark, please bring a flashlight.
Regarding Taxi Services within Shirakawa Village
On the day of the light-up event, local taxi companies in Shirakawa Village will not be operating due to event arrangements.
7．Regarding Rule Violations
Stopping or dropping off passengers outside of designated parking areas is strictly prohibited.
We ask for your understanding and cooperation to ensure the smooth operation of the event.
Please note that violations will result in the following penalties:
[Penalty for Violations]
Permanent ban from participating in the Shirakawa-go Light-Up Event for the individual and all affiliated group companies.
☆ Contact Information:
Shirakawa-go Light-Up Executive Committee
(Inside the Shirakawa-go Tourist Association)
TEL: +81-5769-6-1013 (9:00–17:00)
FAX: +81-5769-6-1716
We ask for your understanding and cooperation to ensure the smooth operation of the event.
Please note that violations will result in the following penalties:
[Penalty for Violations]
Permanent ban from participating in the Shirakawa-go Light-Up Event for the individual and all affiliated group companies.
☆ Contact Information:
Shirakawa-go Light-Up Executive Committee
(Inside the Shirakawa-go Tourist Association)
TEL: +81-5769-6-1013 (9:00–17:00)
FAX: +81-5769-6-1716
