Muslim-friendly travel in Japan: Explore Hida Furukawa & Takayama with cashless payments
Japan is a country where timeless tradition blends beautifully with modern innovation – and for Muslim travellers, exploring its cultural heartlands is now easier and more comfortable than ever. In Gifu Prefecture, the historical towns of Hida Furukawa and Takayama invite you to immerse in authentic Japanese culture while enjoying Muslim-friendly facilities, scenic beauty, and now – cashless convenience through TNG eWallet's Overseas QR support in Japan.
These towns also offer access to Shirakawa-go, a postcard-perfect village known for its thatched-roof houses. Travel is simple – from Nagoya, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by train to Takayama Station, or about 3 hours to Hida-Furukawa Station. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping mountain landscapes and vibrant seasonal foliage.
Let’s explore what makes these destinations special for Muslim travellers.
Hida Furukawa: A serene town steeped in charm
Top attractions in Hida Furukawa
1. Shirakabe Dozogai Street
A short 5-minute walk from Hida-Furukawa Station leads you to this picturesque canal district. With white-walled storehouses, serene waterways, and colourful koi fish, it's an ideal setting to rent a kimono and stroll through town like a local. The calm ambience makes it perfect for travellers seeking a quiet escape from busy tourist spots.
2. Shinshu-ji Temple
Located about a 10-minute walk from the station, this centuries-old temple offers a peaceful backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. Its understated elegance and cultural significance make it a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
3. Hida Furukawa Sakura Gift Shop
Here, you can take part in traditional craft experiences such as making woven cord bracelets – a unique souvenir with a personal touch. The shop also offers a dedicated prayer space (for up to 10 people), making it a practical stop for Muslim travellers.
Where to eat in Hida Furukawa
1. Fukuzenji Soba
Located just 6 minutes from the station, Fukuzenji serves handmade soba in a cosy, traditional setting. The restaurant is Muslim-friendly and provides a prayer space. Notify them in advance to ensure your dietary needs are met.
2. Ajidokoro Furukawa
Only 7 minutes on foot from the station, this eatery specialises in hearty Japanese meals made with locally sourced ingredients. They also accommodate Muslim travellers with advance notice. The warm hospitality makes dining here feel like a home-cooked meal.
Takayama: A gateway to living traditions
Top attractions in Takayama
1. Miyagawa Morning Market
This lively riverside market is a feast for the senses. Browse stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats. It’s an excellent place to pick up souvenirs while enjoying the community vibe of a traditional Japanese market.
2. Takayama Autumn Festival (Hachiman Matsuri)
Held each October, this is one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals. Elaborate floats adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings parade through the streets, bringing Takayama to life with tradition and pageantry.
3. Hida folk village (Hida no Sato)
Step back in time at this open-air museum showcasing traditional farmhouses, tools, and crafts. Set in a peaceful natural setting, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s rural heritage and is ideal for families and cultural enthusiasts.
Where to Eat in Takayama
Kyoushi
Just 8 minutes from Takayama Station, this restaurant is known for serving Halal-certified Hida beef, a rare treat for Muslim travellers in Japan. The staff are experienced in handling Muslim-friendly requests, but advance notice is recommended for full peace of mind. The setting is refined yet welcoming, perfect for a memorable meal.
Muslim-Friendly Accommodations
1. Yatsusankan Ryokan (Hida Furukawa)
A beautifully preserved ryokan (traditional inn), offering an authentic stay experience. With one week’s notice, they can prepare Muslim-friendly meals. The inn is only a 7-minute walk from Hida-Furukawa Station.
2. Hida Hotel Plaza (Takayama)
This hotel combines comfort with cultural charm. Located 5 minutes from Takayama Station, they can also provide Muslim-friendly meals with prior arrangement. It’s a convenient base for exploring the region.
Go cashless with TNG eWallet in Japan
For Malaysian travellers, managing payments abroad can be tricky – but with TNG eWallet’s Overseas QR, you can enjoy a truly cashless and hassle-free travel experience across Japan.
Whether you’re dining at Muslim-friendly restaurants, buying souvenirs, or picking up daily essentials at shops like 7-Eleven, Muji, Uniqlo or GU, TNG eWallet ensures seamless payment without the hassles of currency exchange or cash handling.
Beyond secure payments, TNG eWallet also offers a range of features to support your travel needs. With TNG eWallet SafeTrip, you can easily purchase travel insurance for added peace of mind while overseas. If you're looking to stay connected, the TNG eWallet Travel eSIM lets you enjoy mobile data abroad without needing a physical SIM card — just activate it in the app before you fly. For even more flexibility, the Touch 'n Go eWallet Visa Card lets you make payments anywhere Visa is accepted, both online and in-store, locally and internationally. Together, these features make TNG eWallet a convenient and reliable travel companion wherever you go.
How to Use TNG eWallet Overseas QR
a. Scan merchant’s QR to pay
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Select Japan country page from the top left of the homepage
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Scan the merchant’s QR code
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Enter the amount in Japanese Yen and tap “Pay”
b. Pay with your QR
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Select Japan country page from the top left of the homepage
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Tap “Pay”
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Show your QR to the cashier to complete payment
Enjoy more with Travel Deals
What’s more, you can also earn vouchers when paying using TNG eWallet Overseas QR! Here’s how you claim vouchers from your spending in Japan:
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Change your homepage country to Japan
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Tap “Travel Deals”
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Claim available vouchers
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Use them when making payments – it’s that simple
Make the most of your trip with TNG eWallet's all-in-one travel features
Beyond cashless payments, TNG eWallet offers a suite of travel-friendly features to support you throughout your journey. Stay connected with the TNG eWallet Travel eSIM, which gives you affordable, high-speed internet across Japan without the hassle of physical SIM cards. For added peace of mind, activate TNG eWallet SafeTrip, a comprehensive travel insurance plan that protects you against unexpected events like trip delays, lost baggage, or medical emergencies. Prefer card payments? Use the TNG eWallet Visa Card, accepted at millions of merchants in Japan and worldwide — ideal for larger purchases or where QR payments aren’t available. With these tools in your pocket, you can travel with greater confidence, safety, and convenience.
A warm welcome awaits in Gifu
Takayama and Hida Furukawa are often called “Little Kyoto” for their well-preserved streets, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. With growing support for Muslim-friendly facilities and the added convenience of cashless payments via TNG eWallet, these towns are ready to welcome you for an unforgettable, worry-free Japanese holiday.