Takayama

Takayama, located in Japan's mountainous Gifu Prefecture, is a charming city known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets and traditional wooden houses. Often referred to as "Little Kyoto," Takayama offers a rich cultural experience with its historic merchant district, vibrant morning markets, and numerous sake breweries. The city is also a gateway to the stunning Japanese Alps, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Highlights include the Takayama Festival, one of Japan's most famous festivals, showcasing elaborate floats and traditional music. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Takayama provides a captivating glimpse into traditional Japanese life.

📍 Plan Your Trip

🍢 The Morning Market

🏚️ The Historic District

⛩️ Higashiyama Walking Course

🍜 What to eat

📍 Plan Your Trip

🚌 Bus from Shinjuku: Nohi bus
🚌 Bus from Matsumoto: Alpico bus (Fare: JPY 4,400 one-way)
🚉 Train station: Takayama Station
🏠 Accommodation: Guesthouse Tomaru

🍢 The Morning Market

Date: 18 October 2023

Google map: Miyagawa Morning Markets

The Miyagawa Morning Market, located along the Miyagawa River in Takayama, is one of the two popular morning markets in the city. This lively market offers a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can experience local life and sample regional specialties.

Open daily from early morning until around noon, the market features a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, homemade pickles, local crafts, and souvenirs. You can find seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers, as well as unique items like miso, traditional sweets, and handmade textiles. Many vendors offer free samples, allowing visitors to taste the local flavors.

The market is also an excellent place to interact with local farmers and artisans, gaining insights into their crafts and traditions. The scenic riverside location adds to the charm, making it a pleasant spot for a leisurely morning stroll while exploring the cultural and culinary delights of Takayama.

🏚️ The Historic District

Date: 18 October 2023

Google map: Sanmachi Suji

Sanmachi, located in the heart of Takayama, is a historic district that offers a glimpse into Japan's Edo-period past. Often referred to as the "Old Town," Sanmachi is characterized by its well-preserved wooden merchant houses, narrow streets, and traditional architecture. The area is divided into three main streets: Sannomachi, Kamimachi, and Kajiyamachi, collectively known as Sanmachi Suji.

Wandering through Sanmachi, visitors can explore a variety of shops selling local crafts, sake breweries offering tastings of Takayama’s famous sake, and quaint cafes serving traditional Japanese sweets. The district is especially beautiful during the Takayama Festival, when the streets come alive with vibrant floats and cultural performances.

Sanmachi's charm lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time, offering a serene and picturesque environment. It's a perfect spot to experience the traditional atmosphere of Takayama and enjoy the city's rich cultural heritage.

⛩️ Higashiyama Walking Course

Date: 18 October 2023

Google map: Higashiyama Teramachi

Walk around the area and visit the 10 over temples and shrines. I found myself walking the Higashiyama Walking Course anti-clockwise. It is a 5.5km walking course exploring historic temples and shrines while strolling the ancient streets.

After conquering the Hida region in the Warring States period (1467-1568), the clan Kanemori not only revived the castle town but also established and re-constructed many temples in the foothills to the east of the castle. You will pass temples and shrines where lie the graves of famous people from Takayama, which are prefectural and city-designated cultural properties.