Varies by nationality; many get 90-day tourist visa on arrival.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited; learn basic Japanese phrases.

What is the currency?

Japanese Yen (JPY). Cash is preferred.

Can I use credit cards?

Some shops accept cards, but cash is king.

Yes at post offices and 7-Eleven; not everywhere.

Is Furukawa wheelchair accessible?

Limited; some streets and attractions have steps.

What is the best way to get there?

Train from Tokyo via Nagoya or Takayama.

Furukawa

CityMiyagi, Japan

Furukawa is a CITY in Miyagi, Japan.

Furukawa, a charming town in Gifu Prefecture, is famous for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, the annual Furukawa Festival with giant drum floats, and the serene Seto River lined with traditional wooden houses and carp. Stroll along the historic Honmachi-dori, visit the Furukawa Matsuri Yatai Kaikan to see the ornate floats up close, and explore the nearby Hida region for stunning mountain scenery. The town offers a peaceful, authentic Japanese experience away from the crowds, with local sake breweries, soba noodle shops, and warm hospitality. Furukawa is also a gateway to the Japanese Alps, making it ideal for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Best time to visit Furukawa

April-May for cherry blossoms and mild weather, or October-November for autumn foliage and the famous Furukawa Festival (April 19-20). Winter offers snowscapes but cold temperatures.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 12-21°C, clear skies

Travel notes

Crowds: Medium
Prices: Medium

Autumn foliage

Know before you go

Getting there

TOY

Toyama Airport

Domestic

80 km away

NGO

Chubu Centrair International Airport

International

180 km away

HND

Tokyo Haneda Airport

International

300 km away

Getting around

"Furukawa is walkable. Buses connect to Takayama and nearby attractions. Renting a bicycle is popular. Taxis are available but limited. The JR Takayama Line stops at Furukawa Station."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at hotels and some cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; occasional festival crowds.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; occasional festival crowds.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Furukawa is very safe with low crime. Petty theft is rare. Be cautious on narrow streets during festivals. Earthquakes are possible; know evacuation routes. Always carry your passport. Emergency services are reliable."

Police

110

Ambulance

119

Entry and health

Health information

"No special vaccinations required. Tap water is safe to drink. Medical facilities are limited; for serious issues, head to Takayama (30 min by train). Carry travel insurance and any prescription medications. Pharmacies are available for minor ailments."

Culture

Local customs

"Remove shoes before entering homes and some traditional inns. Bow when greeting. Tipping is not customary. Dress modestly when visiting temples. Public displays of affection are rare. Always use both hands to give or receive items."

Japanese (official)AinuRyukyuanEnglishChineseKoreanPortugueseSpanishJapanese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8-15 | a local meal costs $8-15

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Slightly cheaper than Tokyo; festival season prices rise.

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo
Local time 07:27

More facts

Population

76,312

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Furukawa, Hurukawa, gu chuan shi, 古川市, 후루카와, Фурукава

CityHistoricCulturalNatureFamily-FriendlyHiking