Soaring high above the picturesque landscapes of central Japan, a private helicopter tour promises an unparalleled aerial experience in Takayama and Shirakawago. Departing from the historic town of Takayama, passengers embark on a thrilling journey that unveils the region’s cultural treasures from a breathtaking perspective. With an expert pilot guiding the way, this exclusive tour offers a rare opportunity to witness the UNESCO-listed Shirakawago village and the well-preserved streets of Takayama Old Town like never before. As the helicopter glides effortlessly through the air, visitors are treated to a captivating blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor, hinting at the unforgettable memories that await.
Key Points
- A private helicopter tour providing aerial views of the historic Takayama Old Town and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawago.
- The tour lasts an unspecified duration, starting at 10:00 am, and costs $14,639.36 per group of up to 3 people.
- The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Takayama Station, but is non-refundable with no cancellations eligible for refunds.
- The tour has a weight limit of 221 lbs per passenger and is not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions.
- Confirmation for the tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, and is supplied by Happy Tour with a lowest price guarantee.
Tour Overview
The Helicopter Tour in Takayama and Shirakawago, Japan offers a private tour/activity where only your group will participate.
The tour starts at 10:00 am and lasts for an unspecified duration. The price for the tour is $14,639.36 per group, accommodating up to 3 people.
Passengers will be picked up from the Takayama Station and the tour will end back at the same meeting point.
Certain health and safety guidelines apply, such as a weight limit and restrictions for certain medical conditions.
Confirmation is subject to availability, and the tour is non-refundable in case of cancellations.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Takayama.
Meeting and Pickup Information
Where will the tour participants meet?
The meeting point for the helicopter tour is Takayama Station, located at 1-22-2 Showa-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.
The pickup options are available around the nearby Takayama JR station. The tour activity will end back at the same meeting point.
Participants should arrive at the designated spot by 10:00 am, as the tour departs promptly at that time.
Travelers can easily access the meeting location via public transportation, as it’s situated in close proximity to the train station.
Health and Safety Guidelines
Participants need to be aware of the health and safety guidelines for this helicopter tour in Takayama and Shirakawago. The total weight limit per passenger is 221 lbs. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. The activity is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. Most travelers, however, can participate. The key health and safety information is summarized in the table below:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight Limit | 221 lbs per passenger |
| Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible |
| Infants | Must sit on laps |
| Recommended Travelers | Most can participate |
| Not Recommended For | Back problems, pregnancy, heart conditions |
Booking and Confirmation Details
Confirmation for this helicopter tour in Takayama and Shirakawago will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
Booking this private tour is non-refundable, meaning no refunds will be issued for cancellations.
The tour is supplied by Happy Tour and comes with a lowest price guarantee. This means travelers can be confident they’re getting the best deal.
Once booked, the activity ends back at the original meeting point at Takayama Station.
Participants should review the health and safety guidelines to ensure they meet the requirements before confirming their reservation.
The Helicopter Experience
This exhilarating helicopter tour offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the picturesque Takayama and Shirakawago regions.
From the air, you’ll soar over the historic Takayama Old Town, with its well-preserved Edo-period streets and traditional wooden houses.
Glide above the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawago, marveling at the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses nestled in the lush, mountainous landscape.
This private tour allows you to fully learn about the stunning scenery, free from the crowds below.
With the expert pilot’s commentary, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and cultural significance of these enchanting destinations.
Exploring Takayama From Above
As the helicopter lifts off from the Takayama station, passengers are treated to a captivating aerial perspective of the historic old town below. Winding streets, traditional wooden buildings, and the Miyagawa River come into view.
Passengers can clearly make out the distinctive pointed roofs and intricate carvings adorning the ancient ryokans and minka homes.
Turning north, the helicopter soars over the forested mountains surrounding Takayama, revealing the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Throughout the exhilarating journey, passengers marvel at the contrast between Takayama’s well-preserved historic center and the rugged alpine landscape that frames it.
Soaring Over Shirakawago
After soaring over the picturesque Takayama valley, the helicopter glides towards the iconic thatched-roof farmhouses of Shirakawago.
The quaint village nestled in the mountains comes into view, its traditional gassho-zukuri style houses appearing as if frozen in time.
The pilot skillfully navigates the aircraft, offering passengers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visitors marvel at the stunning natural scenery below – verdant forests, snow-capped peaks, and the Sho River winding through the valley.
This aerial tour provides a unique perspective of Shirakawago, showcasing its timeless beauty and serene ambiance.
Insider Tips and Highlights
Though the helicopter tour of Takayama and Shirakawago offers unparalleled aerial views, savvy travelers should heed a few insider tips to maximize their experience. Firstly, arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate journey. Plus, pack light to prevent exceeding the 221 lbs weight limit per passenger. Finally, those with medical conditions should exercise caution, as the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart issues, or pregnancy.
| Insider Tips | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Arrive Early | Breathtaking Aerial Views |
| Pack Light | Traditional Village of Shirakawago |
| Medical Conditions | Serene Takayama Landscape |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Number of Passengers Required for the Tour?
The minimum number of passengers required for the tour is 3. The tour is priced at $14,639.36 per group of up to 3 people, indicating that a group size of at least 3 is necessary to book the tour.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?
There’s no mention of additional fees or taxes in the tour overview. The price of $14,639.36 per group (up to 3 passengers) appears to be the total cost, though it’s best to confirm this with the tour operator.
Can We Request a Specific Departure Time for the Tour?
Customers can request a specific departure time for the tour, but it’s subject to availability and may incur additional charges. The tour operator will try to accommodate requests where possible, but the start time is generally set at 10:00 am.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?
The tour operator doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions or special meal options. However, food and beverage options are available during the tour. Guests should inquire about catering needs when booking to ensure their preferences can be accommodated.
How Much Luggage Can We Bring on the Helicopter?
The tour does not provide specific luggage guidelines, but passengers are advised to travel light. The total weight per passenger is limited to 221 lbs, so excessive luggage may not be accommodated. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any luggage restrictions.
The Sum Up
This private helicopter tour offers a breathtaking aerial perspective of Takayama and Shirakawago, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Soaring over the historic Takayama Old Town and the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawago, the experience provides an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the unique charm and significance of these remarkable destinations. It’s an unforgettable adventure that allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the area from an extraordinary vantage point.
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