Nagoya-Tsumago-Takayama drive late December

Around xmas time, I'm planning to drive from Nagoya to Kiso Valley, do the Magome-Tsumago hike, overnight in Tsumago and then drive from there to Takayama.

I understand that snow is possible around these parts particularly towards Takayama. I'm a little bit nervous about driving in the snow/icy roads but I see that it's mostly highway driving - will I be ok driving without winter tires? Looking at toyota car rental, there's no availability for cars with winter tires when picking up from Nagoya.

If your nervous about driving in snow and your driving through a potential snowy area - then dont!

It's both potentially dangerous and unless I'm incorrect - also illegal. There are certain locations where I think you have to use snow tyres.

I've visited Tsumago in mid/late December a couple of years and it was snowing.

Thanks mfedley.

I have been thinking the same but then the timing and the multiple mode of transport going from Tsumago to Takayma is making me want to drive :D

I just tried booking with toyota (japanese site) and I can see the option for "Studless Tire" available. Have submitted a booking request, hopefully it can be confirmed.

Have you driven in a blizzard? If you are already nervous about snowy, icy conditions, just imagine driving blind folded in a blizzard.

Never even driven in snow let alone blizzard! Obviously I would go to plan b if there was forecast for blizzard.