Reservations for Shirakawago bus

Hi there, I am planning to do a day trip from Takayama to Shirakawago and Kanazawa on January 19th. I've been planning the trip and only just realised that the bus from Shirakawago to Kanazawa requires reservation, when I went to the Nohi bus website it said that the reservation must be one month prior the service date. Are there any other way to get out of Shirakawago that does not require reservation? I guess if it isn't possible I'll have to skip it, but was really keen on it.

Thanks very much
Nick

when I went to the Nohi bus website it said that the reservation must be one month prior the service date.

No! It is possible to make reservations starting from one month in advance. It is also possible to make them right before riding the bus - if vacant seats are available. On January 19, buses are highly unlikely to get booked out, so you should have no problem making the reservations just before boarding the bus at the bus terminal. Alternatively, it seems that it is possible to make reservations by phone in English:
0577-32-1688

Are there any other way to get out of Shirakawago that does not require reservation? I guess if it isn't possible I'll have to skip it, but was really keen on it.

Sounds like you are staying in Takayama. If you are, you may request your hotel to make a bus reservation for you. It worked for me last year when visiting the region.

Thanks everyone for the input! Its good to know that I can still go there, and yup I'll be staying at an inn in Takayama so I'll probably make the reservation at the bus terminal when I arrive. Thanks again!

I went to Shirakawago yesterday, I hope you enjoy it, it was wonderful! I made my reservation a few days in advance with no problems, but if you plan to travel over the New Year it might be a busy time so if you can book it ASAP that would be ideal!

Assuming you're arriving by train, the bus terminal is just on the left immediately as you leave the station. There's also an info booth right by it.

Enquire into tickets when you arrive. Some buses allow you to book ahead, others don't.

Hi! I cannot book the Nohi bus. I tried calling their office but I cannot contact it. Is there a way I can reserve the bus? I want to check the availability. We will be arriving in Kanazawa then travel to SHirakawago then Takayama.