Takayama is a city in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, that retains a traditional touch like few other Japanese cities, especially in its beautifully preserved old town. Here are some things to do in Takayama:
-
Explore the old town: Known as the Sannomachi, the historic center of the city is lined with beautiful buildings housing restaurants, craft and food stores, breweries, museums, accommodation, and many residential homes.
-
Visit the Takayama Festival: Held in spring and autumn, it is considered one of Japans best festivals.
-
Miyagawa morning markets: A great place to buy local crafts and souvenirs.
-
Higashiyama walking course: A walking trail that takes you through the forested hills east of Takayama, with several temples and shrines along the way.
-
Visit the Kusakabe Folk Museum: Located in an old merchant and moneychanger’s home, the museum exhibits some fantastic architecture and craftsmanship, showcasing some intricate and delicate carpentry, pottery, and lacquerware.
-
Take a day trip to Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
-
Visit the Matsuri no Mori Museum: A museum that displays the floats used in the Takayama Festival.
-
Try Hida beef: A type of wagyu beef that is famous in the region.
-
Visit the Takayama Jinya: A former government office that was in use during the Edo period.
-
Relax in an onsen: Takayama has several hot springs where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Takayama is a small but popular destination for both Japanese and international travelers. It is most easily reached by train using the Limited Express ‘Hida’ service running from Toyama to Nagoya, or bus services from Kanazawa and Matsumoto.
