Why Takayama Japan Should Be on Every Traveler’s Bucket List
Takayama is one of those places that gives you a glimpse into Japan’s deep-rooted history and culture while offering scenic beauty that takes your breath away. It’s a city that feels like a step back in time, with its well-preserved old streets, rich traditions, and rural charm.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Takayama should be high on your list. Whether you're after historical sites, outdoor adventures, or delicious food, this city has something for everyone. Here’s why Takayama deserves your attention.
Best Things to Do in Takayama
1. Discover Takayama’s Old Town Charm
Takayama Old Town Tour with Local Guide.
Walking through the old town of Takayama is like strolling through a living museum. The narrow streets are lined with wooden buildings from the Edo period, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture. Many of these houses have been converted into shops, cafes, and sake breweries, keeping the spirit of the past alive. The well-preserved nature of Takayama’s old town gives you an authentic feel of how life used to be in rural Japan.
A must-visit is Takayama Jinya, a government office from the Tokugawa Shogunate era. This place is a unique window into the way governance worked centuries ago, with various rooms on display that show different aspects of administration. You’ll also find exhibitions of historical artifacts from that period.
2. Immerse in Local Culture at the Takayama Festivals
Takayama is famous for its biannual festivals, held in spring and autumn. These festivals, known as the Takayama Matsuri, are considered some of Japan’s most beautiful. They feature elaborate, hand-carved festival floats that are paraded through the streets.
These floats are stored at the Takayama Yatai Kaikan or Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, which you can visit year-round. The craftsmanship on these floats is something to behold, and it’s a great way to experience Takayama’s cultural richness.
3. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Nearby
Embark on a timeless journey through Japan's enchanting Gassho villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama Ainokura.
Takayama is a gateway to some incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. These villages are known for their unique thatched-roof houses, called gassho-zukuri, which have been around for centuries.
These houses were designed to withstand heavy snowfall in the winter and offer a fascinating look into rural Japanese life. Visiting these villages from Takayama is an easy day trip and well worth the journey if you’re interested in traditional architecture.
4. Enjoy Takayama’s Natural Beauty in the Japanese Alps
Discover Takayama's rich history and culture on the Higashiyama Walking Tour.
Takayama sits in the shadow of the Japanese Alps, making it an excellent base for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or simply taking in the sights, the natural surroundings here are spectacular. The Shinhotaka Ropeway offers one of the best views of the Northern Alps, with an observation deck at over 2,000 meters above sea level. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the beauty of Japan’s mountainous landscape, especially during the autumn when the leaves change color.
If you want to explore more, the Higashiyama Walking Course is a scenic route that takes you through Takayama’s quieter, less-visited spots. You’ll pass temples, shrines, and traditional houses along the way, all while being surrounded by lush greenery.
5. Step Into History at the Hida Folk Village
For a deeper dive into the history and culture of the region, head to the Hida Folk Village. This open-air museum is just outside Takayama and features over 30 traditional houses relocated from various parts of the Hida region. These houses range from simple peasant homes to more elaborate structures, giving you a full spectrum of what life was like in rural Japan.
The village offers hands-on experiences like traditional crafts and cooking demonstrations, which are perfect for visitors who want a more immersive experience. It’s a great way to understand the area’s history and see how people adapted to the sometimes harsh environment of the Japanese Alps.
6. Savor Local Cuisine, Especially Hida Beef
Satisfy your taste buds with local Takayama delicacies while learning about the town's rich history and culture.
No trip to Takayama is complete without trying the local cuisine, and at the top of the list is Hida Beef. This premium-grade beef is known for its marbling and tender texture, comparable to Kobe beef. You can enjoy it in various forms, from yakiniku (grilled beef) to sushi. Many restaurants in Takayama specialize in Hida beef, so you’ll have plenty of options.
Apart from the beef, Takayama is also famous for its morning markets, where you can sample local snacks and produce. The Miyagawa Morning Market runs along the river and is a great place to pick up fresh fruit, vegetables, and street food. The market gives you a taste of daily life in Takayama and is an ideal spot to meet locals and learn more about the area’s food culture.
7. Relax at Gero Onsen
After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to unwind than with a soak in a hot spring. Gero Onsen, located near Takayama, is one of Japan’s top onsen towns. Known for its soothing waters, Gero Onsen has a range of public baths and ryokan (traditional inns) where you can relax and soak in the healing waters. Some inns even offer private onsen baths, giving you a more intimate experience.
Hot springs have been part of Japanese culture for centuries, and a visit to Gero Onsen is a wonderful way to experience this tradition for yourself. The town is charming in its own right, with narrow streets, traditional houses, and friendly locals.
8. Explore Takayama’s Historic Streets
One of the main attractions in Takayama is simply walking through its historic streets. Sanmachi Suji, the old merchant district, is perhaps the most famous area, with its rows of Edo-period buildings, sake breweries, and shops selling local crafts. The streets here are beautifully preserved, and many of the buildings are still in use, giving you a real sense of stepping into the past.
You’ll find a wide range of local products in this area, from miso and soy sauce to hand-carved wooden items. Many of the shops offer free tastings, especially the sake breweries, where you can sample some of the region’s best.
9. Admire the Architecture of Yoshijima Heritage House
If you’re interested in traditional Japanese architecture, the Yoshijima Heritage House is a must-visit. This well-preserved merchant’s house is a fine example of a high-class home from the Edo period. The house features wide-open rooms with beautiful wooden beams and intricate carpentry, giving you a sense of the craftsmanship that went into these structures.
The simplicity of the design, combined with the attention to detail, makes it a great place to appreciate traditional Japanese aesthetics. The house is near the old town, so it’s easy to include it in your itinerary when exploring Takayama.
10. Take in the Stunning Views from Shiroyama Park
For those who enjoy a good view, Shiroyama Park is the place to go. Located on a hill overlooking Takayama, this park offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. In the spring, the park is especially beautiful when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Shiroyama Park is also home to the ruins of Takayama Castle, though not much remains of the structure today. Still, the area is steeped in history, and the views alone make it worth the visit.
Unlock the treasures of Japan’s Chubu Hokuriku region with the flexible Shoryudo Highway Bus Pass!
11. Experience Daily Life at the Morning Markets
Takayama’s two morning markets, Miyagawa and Jinya-mae offer a great glimpse into the daily life of the city’s residents. These markets have been running for centuries and are a vital part of the local economy. Farmers and artisans from around the area come to sell their produce, crafts, and food items.
The markets are a great place to try local snacks like gohei mochi (grilled rice cake with sweet miso) or sample fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s also an opportunity to chat with locals and learn more about Takayama’s farming and food traditions.
12. Learn About Japan’s Religious Traditions at Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
Religion and spirituality play a significant role in Japanese culture, and Takayama is home to several important shrines. One of the most notable is the Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, which is associated with the Takayama Matsuri. The shrine is set in a peaceful area, surrounded by trees, making it a lovely place to explore.
Visiting shrines like this one offers insight into Japan’s spiritual traditions, and you’ll often see locals stopping by to pray or make offerings. The calm atmosphere of the shrine provides a nice contrast to the bustling streets of the old town, giving you a chance to slow down and reflect.
13. Takayama as a Gateway to the Japanese Alps
Embark on a captivating journey through Japan's Northern Alps.
Takayama’s location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Japanese Alps. This region is perfect for nature lovers, with plenty of hiking trails, hot springs, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing day in nature, the Japanese Alps offer something for everyone.
A popular destination is the Shinhotaka Ropeway, where you can ride a cable car up into the mountains and take in some of the most stunning views Japan has to offer. The area is especially beautiful in autumn when the foliage turns brilliant shades of red and orange.
14. Appreciate Local Crafts and Traditions
Takayama has a long tradition of craftsmanship, and you’ll find many artisans in the city who continue to practice their craft using traditional methods. From lacquerware to pottery, there’s no shortage of beautiful items to admire and purchase.
One of the most famous local crafts is Takayama’s woodwork, with many shops selling hand-carved furniture, utensils, and decorative items. The attention to detail and skill that goes into each piece is remarkable, making these items excellent souvenirs or gifts.
15. Takayama’s Connection to the Tokugawa Shogunate
Takayama has deep historical ties to the Tokugawa Shogunate, and this connection is evident throughout the city. The Takayama Jinya served as the local government office during this period, and it remains one of the few such buildings still in existence in Japan.
Visiting Takayama Jinya offers insight into the political and social systems of the time, and the building itself is a well-preserved example of Edo-period architecture. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs, and the surrounding area is filled with interesting shops and cafes.
Making the Most of Your Trip to Takayama
Takayama is a destination that offers a lot beyond the surface. Planning ahead is key to experiencing the best it has to offer, from visiting the historic streets and markets early in the morning to exploring nearby villages and UNESCO sites.
Don’t miss out on local events like the festivals or a taste of Hida beef, which can only be fully appreciated in the area. To get the most out of your visit, consider spending a few days exploring the city and the surrounding mountains and rural landscapes. Thoughtful preparation can turn your visit into an unforgettable journey.
Join our night tour of Takayama and experience the city's charm under the stars.
FAQs
Is Takayama closer to Tokyo or Kyoto?
Takayama is closer to Kyoto than Tokyo. It is located about 240 km (150 miles) northwest of Tokyo and roughly 180 km (110 miles) northwest of Kyoto. The travel time from Kyoto to Takayama is around 3.5 hours by train, while from Tokyo, it takes about 4.5 hours, making Kyoto the nearer option.
Is 2 Days Enough in Takayama?
Yes, 2 days are enough to explore Takayama’s key sights. A full day will allow you to visit Takayama’s old town, Takayama Jinya, and the morning markets. With a second day, you can either explore the surrounding areas, such as Shirakawa-go, or spend more time experiencing Takayama’s cultural sites and local food.
Why Is Takayama Famous?
Takayama is famous for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, traditional wooden houses, and its biannual Takayama Festival, one of Japan's most celebrated. The city is also known for its proximity to the Japanese Alps, its local crafts, and its high-quality Hida beef.
Is Takayama a Day Trip from Tokyo?
While it’s possible to make Takayama a day trip from Tokyo, it’s not ideal due to the long travel time. It takes around 4.5 hours one way by train, leaving limited time to explore. For a more relaxed visit, staying overnight in Takayama is recommended.
Is It Worth Visiting Takayama?
Absolutely! Takayama is known for its scenic beauty, historical streets, rich traditions, and famous festivals. Its unique blend of nature, culture, and history makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
Can You Do a Day Trip from Kanazawa to Takayama?
Yes, a day trip from Kanazawa to Takayama is possible. The bus ride takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, and there are multiple daily services available. The scenic journey and shorter distance make it a great option for visitors who want to experience Takayama while staying in Kanazawa.
