Bus2Train

Odawara to Shirakawa

Updated: March 13, 2024 05:43 PM
Shirakawa

Odawara to Shirakawa - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Language

The official language of Japan is Japanese. However, English is also widely spoken in tourist areas. In Shirakawa, you may find some locals who can speak some basic English.

Currency

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). You can exchange your currency at banks, currency exchange offices, and some hotels. Most major credit cards are also accepted in Japan.

Distance

The distance between Odawara and Shirakawa is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles). It takes about 3 hours to travel by train.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Shirakawa from Odawara.

  • By train: The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Odawara to Shirakawa is by train. You can take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) from Odawara Station to Nagoya Station, and then transfer to the JR Takayama Line to Shirakawa Station. The total travel time is about 3 hours.
  • By bus: There are also several bus routes that run from Odawara to Shirakawa. The bus ride takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes.
  • By car: If you are driving, the best route from Odawara to Shirakawa is via the Tomei Expressway and the Chuo Expressway. The drive takes about 4 hours.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from Odawara to Shirakawa will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose and the time of year you travel. However, you can expect to spend around JPY 10,000-15,000 for a round-trip train ticket and JPY 5,000-10,000 for a round-trip bus ticket. If you are driving, you will need to factor in the cost of gas and tolls.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Shirakawa is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful. However, Shirakawa is also a popular destination during the winter (December-February), when the village is covered in snow and the traditional thatched-roof houses are illuminated.

What to Eat

Shirakawa is known for its local cuisine, which includes:

  • Hoba miso: A miso soup made with vegetables and miso paste, cooked on a magnolia leaf.
  • Gohei mochi: A grilled rice cake made with mochi, soy sauce, and sesame seeds.
  • Ojiya: A rice porridge made with vegetables and meat or fish.

Where to Go

In addition to the traditional thatched-roof houses, there are several other places to visit in Shirakawa, including:

  • Shirakawa-go Gassho-zukuri Village: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this village is home to over 100 traditional thatched-roof houses.
  • Ogimachi Castle Ruins: The ruins of a castle that was built in the 16th century.
  • Shirakawa Park: A park with a playground, a pond, and a walking trail.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from Odawara to Shirakawa:

  • Can I take my luggage on the train? Yes, you can take your luggage on the train. There are luggage racks in the train cars where you can store your bags.
  • Is it safe to travel to Shirakawa? Yes, Shirakawa is a safe place to travel. The crime rate is low and the locals are friendly and welcoming.
  • What is the best way to get around Shirakawa? The best way to get around Shirakawa is on foot. The village is small and easy to walk around. You can also rent a bicycle if you want to explore the surrounding area.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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