What to know
Furukawa (古川) is a small mountain town in Gifu Prefecture, serving as the center of the rural Hida City municipality. It lies just a 15-minute train ride north of Takayama. To avoid confusion with other places of the same name in Japan, it is often called Hida-Furukawa.
Furukawa is quieter and more relaxed than Takayama. Like its neighbor, it prospered from the region's high-quality timber and the exceptional skill of local carpenters. Furukawa also boasts a well-preserved old town and a famous festival. Held one week after the Takayama Spring Festival, the Furukawa Festival features large drums, near-naked men, and tall, beautifully decorated floats.
Activities and attractions
Canal AreaSmall canal lined by white walled storehouses
Furukawa Festival HallIntroduces the Furukawa Festival
Mishima Candle ShopTraditional Japanese style candle shop
Takumikan Craft MuseumExplore the history and tools of Hida's master carpenters
Kamioka Railway CyclingCycling on the tracks of an abandoned railway line