Takayama
 

We are planning to go to Kyoto from 25 Nov till 29 Nov. then proceed to Takayama for 2 nights. Does anyone know what the weather will be at Takayama during this time? eg snow, day/night temperature? Is it worth spending these 2 days in Kyoto instead of Takayama if the weather is too cold. Thank you

Probably around 10 degrees C...not too cold. You might see some autumn leaves along the way. Likely no snow yet.

If there is snow it will be extra beautiful! The Japanese Alps are visible from Takayama and they will likely have snow.
I guess it depends on how you react to cooler temps. Takayama is definitely worth a visit though as it is an interesting more rural trip to get there and itself has a special charm and beauty.
Bon Voyage

Thanks KimJapan & Cristo. We leave Kyoto on 29Nov, arriving Takayama in the afternoon & then staying 2 nights. Is there time or is it worth making a bus trip to Shira-go or will visiting the Hida village be about the same? I think it takes 2 hours to travel to Shira-go and not sure about the hours of daylight at this time. The other option we were considering was staying back in Kyoto ( missing Takayama ) but going for day trip to Nara and Hemiji castle. As it stands, we have only 4 days in Kyoto - just wondering if it's enough or spend another 2 days there ( giving Takayama a miss )? Thanks!

I actually much prefer S-go to Takayama. Takayama is a small city with some preserved areas and morning market...it looks like a typical Japanese city with lots of concrete buildings in all areas except temples and the preserved area (which has some cute shops).

S-go is a World Heritage village, and looks the part completely. It's geared up for tourists, but nevertheless still a village and a picturesque one at that. You can stay the night in one of the many minshuku there for under 8000 yen per person per night with dinner and breakfast included. I'd do that rather than make a day trip.

Hi KimJapan, We have booked our accommodation in Takayama ( Best Western and Nagase Ryokan ) so may be restricted to day trip. Is this possible to do ( based on bus schedule to and from Shira-so/Takayama and also daylight hours? ). Does one have to book the bus in advance?

You are best to book the bus in advance as it sells out, especially on a weekend. You can take the morning bus to and the afternoon bus from. Last year's schedule is available in English here http://www.japantravelinfo.com/plan/...n/Takayama.pdf You can book buses up to 30 days in advance, and you could ask your hotel concierge, tourist info or travel agent to help you. A nice place to have lunch in Shirakawa-go is called Irori ????on the sign, located at the edge of the village on the main street that cars can drive on.