Takayama,
Takayama, Japan is a picturesque mountain town known for its well-preserved historic district featuring traditional wooden houses and narrow streets. The town is famous for its annual Takayama Festival, where ornate floats are paraded through the streets. Takayama is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including lush forests and majestic mountains.
Visitors can also enjoy exploring local craft shops, sake breweries, and delicious regional cuisine.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Historical Exploration
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Takayama Jinya, a well-preserved government office from the Edo period. Immerse yourself in the historical ambiance as you explore the various rooms and learn about the region's history. Don't miss the opportunity to savor a traditional Japanese breakfast at Honkaku-Tei, a charming local eatery renowned for its authentic flavors.
afternoon:Continue your historical journey with a visit to the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum featuring traditional houses and structures from the Hida region. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Warajiya, a cozy restaurant serving hearty Hida beef cuisine amidst picturesque surroundings. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the idyllic village and admire the tranquil landscapes.
evening:For a memorable evening, head to Sanmachi Suji, the well-preserved old town district of Takayama, illuminated by traditional lanterns as the sun sets. Experience the bustling atmosphere as you explore the charming streets and discover local artisan shops, galleries, and cozy izakayas for a delightful night-out.
Nature & Wellness
morning:Embark on a refreshing morning hike at Shiroyama Park, offering panoramic views of Takayama and the surrounding mountains. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the serene natural beauty. Treat yourself to a nourishing breakfast at Maruaki, a delightful café nestled amidst lush greenery, known for its delectable homemade dishes and soothing atmosphere.
afternoon:After your invigorating hike, unwind and rejuvenate at the Hirayu Onsen, a peaceful hot spring retreat where you can soak in the healing waters and relax amidst the tranquil setting. Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at the onsen's restaurant, offering a variety of traditional Japanese delicacies to satisfy your appetite.
evening:In the evening, head to Takayama Green Hotel for a serene and relaxing experience. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the hotel's tranquil gardens and unwind in the peaceful ambience. Treat yourself to a calming evening at the hotel's spa and take in the serene surroundings under the starry sky.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Takayama Morning Market, a bustling hub of local vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and savor a delightful breakfast at Ohayashi Cafe, a charming spot known for its delicious pastries and artisanal coffee.
afternoon:Explore the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall to discover the dazzling yatai (floats) used in the renowned Takayama Matsuri festival. Uncover the intricate craftsmanship and vibrant history behind these magnificent floats. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Mimasuya, a quaint restaurant offering a variety of local delicacies and Hida beef specialties.
evening:For an authentic cultural experience, partake in a traditional tea ceremony at Shunkei-en, a serene garden teahouse surrounded by lush greenery. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and savor the art of tea preparation, followed by a peaceful stroll through the enchanting garden.
Culinary Delights
morning:Embark on a culinary adventure with a morning visit to the Hida Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market, a vibrant marketplace offering a wide array of local produce, snacks, and culinary treasures. Indulge in a delectable breakfast at Kihachiro, a cozy eatery known for its exquisite selection of fresh seafood and traditional Japanese dishes.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in the art of sake brewing with a visit to the Harada Sake Brewery, where you can learn about the craftsmanship behind this iconic Japanese beverage. Sample a diverse range of sake varieties and gain insights into the brewing process. Savor a delightful lunch at Suien, a charming restaurant offering a delectable fusion of local Hida delicacies and contemporary cuisine.
evening:Cap off your day with a visit to the Riverside Yatai District, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of the evening food stalls along the picturesque riverside. Indulge in a gastronomic adventure as you sample a variety of local street food and savory delights, accompanied by the vibrant ambiance of the riverbanks.
Takayama Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Hida Beef
Takayama's renowned marbled beef, known for its exceptional flavor, is best enjoyed in dishes like sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, or grilled over charcoal. Look for restaurants like Maruaki or Hidagyu Yamakyu for an authentic Hida beef experience.
Must-Try!
Hoba Miso
This specialty features a mix of miso, tofu, mushrooms, and green onions grilled on a magnolia leaf. Try it at a local restaurant like Sakana and Takumi, which offers this traditional dish.
Sansai Soba
A noodle dish topped with wild mountain vegetables, often found in local soba restaurants like Hida Kotte Ushi.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Takayama Jinya Morning Market
This bustling market is a perfect place to sample local treats like mitarashi dango, skewered rice dumplings in sweet soy glaze, and oyaki, a savory dumpling stuffed with local ingredients.
Sanmachi Suji District
Stroll through this historic district to find street food stalls offering snacks like goheimochi, skewered rice cakes with miso paste, and grilled rice cakes with sweet soy sauce.
Things to do in Takayama
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Takayama
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!