Takayama Japan
Located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is one of Japan’s best-preserved historic towns. Often referred to as Hida Takayama, the town is known for its traditional wooden buildings, narrow streets, historic temples and strong connections to Japan’s Edo period (1603–1868).
Takayama developed as a castle town during the late 16th century under the rule of Kanamori Nagachika. Its location along important trading routes helped it become a prosperous centre for merchants and craftsmen. The region was particularly famous for its skilled carpenters, whose craftsmanship can still be seen in many of the town’s historic buildings.
The main attraction is the Sanmachi Suji district, where streets lined with beautifully preserved wooden merchant houses provide a glimpse of traditional Japan. Many of these buildings now contain shops, restaurants, sake breweries and small museums.
Another important historic site is Takayama Jinya, a former government administrative headquarters dating from the Edo period. Visitors can explore its traditional rooms, offices, courtyards and storehouses, which provide an insight into how the region was governed.
Takayama is also known for its morning markets, held beside the Miyagawa River and outside Takayama Jinya. These markets sell local produce, traditional crafts and souvenirs.
Other attractions include Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, which displays elaborate festival floats, and the Higashiyama Walking Course, which passes numerous temples and shrines.
The town’s famous Takayama Festival, held each spring and autumn, is particularly celebrated for its ornate floats and traditional ceremonies.
Surrounded by the Japanese Alps, Takayama combines historic architecture, traditional culture and mountain scenery. Its relatively compact historic centre makes it particularly enjoyable to explore on foot, with many of its main attractions within walking distance of one another.
Getting to Takayama Japan
We had been staying in Tokyo, so the easiest way to get to Takayama was by train. We caught the Shinkansen from Shinagawa Station to Nagoya. On the way we were lucky to see Mt Fuji on the right hand side.
At Nagoya, we changed to the Hida Limited Express. This was an amazing ride. We passed through mountains and passed flowing rivers. There were announcement over the train’s speakers to let everyone know what sites were coming up.
Hida Folk Village
Hida Folk Village offers an introduction to traditional mountain life on the outskirts of Takayama. This outdoor museum brings together around thirty historic buildings from the Hida region. Wooded paths connect farmhouses, workshops and other buildings. They show what the homes and surroundings of rural life used to look like.
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Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is one of Takayama’s most important Shinto shrines and is particularly well known for its association with the Takayama Autumn Festival. Located in the northern part of the city’s historic district, the shrine provides a peaceful setting surrounded by tall trees and traditional wooden buildings.
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Sakurayama Nikkokan
Sakurayama Nikkokan is a museum displaying an extraordinary collection of miniature replicas of the buildings at Nikkō Tōshō-gū Shrine. Located beside the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan near Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, the museum provides an opportunity to appreciate traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship.
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Takayama Jinya
Takayama Jinya is a well-preserved historic government office in Takayama. Originally established as the residence of the Kanamori clan, it became a government office in 1692 when the Tokugawa Shogunate placed Hida Province under its direct control.
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Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan
Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, also known as the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, is a museum dedicated to preserving the elaborate floats used during Takayama‘s traditional festivals. Located within the grounds of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, it provides an opportunity to see these historic floats throughout the year.
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