What to Do in Takayama


2017.07.06

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

What to Do in Takayama

Although Takayama is famed for its annual spring and autumn matsuri, there are plenty of things to do and sights to see all year-round. From the tiny alleyways reminiscent of a bygone era to the many beautiful temples and walking routes, there are plenty of places and things to explore in this mountain city. With so much to offer it is little wonder that the city has experienced a tourism boom over recent years.

  • With over 30 Gassho-style houses and interactive local experiences, a day at Hida no Sato (Hida Folk Museum) can certainly be one to remember. The Edo period houses have been maintained in pristine condition and are stocked with unique and impressive artefacts, be they ancient teapots or traditional Japanese strollers. This open air museum is dedicated to Hida culture and architecture and is perfect for all ages at all times of the year. Access will cost 700 yen (cash or credit card) and for a small fee you can join in classes where you can learn local crafts such as wood carving or ceramic-making. Located on the outskirts of the city, it takes 30 minutes on foot to reach the museum from Takayama Station, however, there is also a bus, the "Sarubobo Bus", that runs between the station and Hida no Sato every 20-40 minutes.

    What to Do in Takayama

    What to Do in Takayama

    For those familiar with Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto, take a stroll down the narrow streets of Sanmachi Suji and you will soon understand why Takayama is often referred to as ‘Little Kyoto’. This historic district is lined with a multitude of stores selling great products such as Hida red miso, beautiful Japanese wooden furniture and traditional Sarubobo dolls. Starting at Nakabashi Bridge, you can visit stores selling reasonably priced kimonos, local sake and traditional Japanese incense. The buildings of Sanmachi Suji are iconic due to their Edo period architecture, but many now operate as modern shops or restaurants where you can snap up some locally made goods.

    Takayama
    place
    Gifu Pref
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    Hida Takayama Washington Hotel Plaza

    5-20 Hanasato-cho, Takayama-shi Gifu

    Agoda
    • Hida Takayama Washington Hotel Plaza
    • Hida Takayama Washington Hotel Plaza
    • Hida Takayama Washington Hotel Plaza
    • Hida Takayama Washington Hotel Plaza
    • Hida Takayama Washington Hotel Plaza
    What to Do in Takayama

    What to Do in Takayama

    In the quieter part of Takayama Old Town lies a brilliant example of a traditional Japanese abode, Yoshijima House. Yoshijima House is just over the Enakogawa River in the Shimoninomachi-Ojinmachi Traditional Buildings Preservation Area and next to the Kusakabe Heritage House. Yoshijima House was once a sake brewery and private home, but in 1907 it was rebuilt by Nishida Isaburo, a master in Japanese carpentry. Like many of the older houses of Takayama, the structure has been maintained in pristine condition and the wooden beams and pillars are beautifully preserved. The skylight, high ceiling and panel doors supply a natural light that is perfect for anyone interested in photography. It is open from 9am to 5pm and a ticket costs 500 yen.

    What to Do in Takayama

    What to Do in Takayama

    Takayama Jinya is a unique spot in Hida-Takayama as it is the only remaining example of Edo period governmental architecture in Japan. Just a ten minute walk from Takayama Station, the museum is very popular among locals and tourists alike, as it provides a wide range of special exhibits. it is recommended that time is set aside to really enjoy the beautiful garden courtyard and the well-preserved antiques that litter the site. The museum offers tours, available in English and Japanese, and is open every day of the year except during the New Year holidays.

    Takayama Jinya
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    4.0

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    Gifu Pref. Takayamashi Hachikenmachi 1-5
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    0577320643
    opening-hour
    [3/1-10/31]8:45-17:00(Latest…
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    Takayama Night Tour

    ¥12,500

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    Update date:2024/04/19

    What to Do in Takayama

    What to Do in Takayama

    What to Do in Takayama

    What to Do in Takayama

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