About Okumikawa

The name means the 'back' or 'deep' part of the old Mikawa Province in Central Japan, Aichi Prefecture. Despite the name, the area is quite convenient, and close to the middle of the popular 'Golden Route' between Tokyo and Osaka.

Okumikawa is made up of 4 mountain towns: Shinshiro, Shitara, Toei, and Toyone.

Getting here by car

Using the highway system, from Tokyo in 3.5-4.5 hours, Nagoya in 1.5-2 hours, Kyoto in 2.5-3.5 hours, Osaka in 3-4 hours.

Renting a car and driving in countryside Japan is easier than you may think! It gives you freedom and a way to see real Japan that you can't really get on public transport. We always recommend renting a car for our tours, and we can help organise a rental car from a local small business.

Getting here by public transport

From Tokyo:
2.5 to 3.5 hours, using the Tokaido Shinkansen and JR Iida line.

From Nagoya:
2 to 3 hours, using one of 3 train lines to Toyohashi, then the JR Iida line.

From Kyoto/Osaka:
3 to 4 hours, using the Tokaido Shinkansen and JR Iida line.

The JR Iida line (spelled i-i-d-a) stops at various locations through Okumikawa. It's a very quaint and small train line with great views of Japanese countryside, and dramatic mountainscapes further North.

The JR Iida line starts at Toyohashi (between Nagoya and Tokyo), with Shinkansen service at Toyohashi Station.

Where to stay

For our tours we recommend guests stay at least one night in the Yuyaonsen Area. There's a range of accommodation with incredible hot springs, most with views of the dramatic Ure River from the baths. A very special Japanese way to relax!

Please get in touch if you'd like help finding accommodation or if you have any questions.