Takayama

Takayama, a city in Japan's mountainous Gifu Prefecture, is known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets and traditional wooden houses. The Takayama Festival, celebrated every spring and autumn, is one of the most famous festivals in Japan, featuring elaborately decorated floats.

Attractions to Visit or See

Takayama's old town, Sanmachi Suji District, stands out with its rows of traditional wooden houses, sake breweries, and merchant shops. This well-preserved area showcases the architecture of the Edo period. The Takayama Jinya, a historical government building from the Edo Period, gives insight into the administrative structure of that era. The morning markets of Takayama, particularly the Miyagawa Market and the Jinya-mae Market, offer a lively atmosphere with local vendors selling fresh produce and handmade crafts.

An Important Historical Story

The Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato) offers a glimpse into the rural life of the Hida region's past. This open-air museum features over 30 traditional houses, including gassho-zukuri farmhouses with thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. These buildings have been preserved and moved here to protect them from decay. Walking through the village, you can see how people lived and worked in these homes, many of which date back to the Edo period.

Local Food

Takayama is known for its distinctive cuisine. Hida beef, a high-quality marbled beef from the region, is a must-try. You can enjoy it in various forms, such as sushi, steak, or grilled on skewers. Takayama ramen is another local favorite, featuring curly noodles in a soy-based broth. For a sweet treat, try gohei mochi, a rice cake on a stick coated with miso paste and grilled to perfection.

Local Nature

Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Takayama offers scenic natural beauty. The city serves as a gateway to the Northern Alps, where you can explore hiking trails and hot springs. The Shinhotaka Ropeway provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is one of the longest ropeways in Japan.

How to Get There and How to Get Around

Takayama is accessible by train from major cities like Tokyo and Nagoya through the JR Hida Limited Express. From Tokyo, you can take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Toyama and transfer to the JR Hida Limited Express to reach Takayama. The Nohi Bus service provides convenient access to nearby attractions like Shirakawa-go and Kamikochi.