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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Takayama.
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a picturesque town that boasts of rich traditions, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant local culture.
From wandering through the charming streets of the Old Town to sampling delectable regional delicacies, Takayama offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day allure.
There’s no shortage of things to do in this enchanting town, so pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Takayama:
1. Old Town (Higashiyama)
Old Town (Higashiyama) in Takayama is a beautifully preserved district that showcases traditional Japanese architecture from the Edo period.
What to see or do: Stroll down the quaint streets of Old Town, admire the wooden lattices and beams of the traditional houses, and take in the authentic atmosphere and charm of the old buildings.
Stop by the Takayama Jinya, a preserved government building from the Edo period, and the Takayama Jin’ya Historical Museum, which offers a glimpse into the samurai culture of the area.
Don’t miss: The morning markets, where you can find local crafts and fresh produce, including Takayama’s famous marbled beef. Taste local snacks such as mitarashi dango, a type of sweet rice cake, and try sake from local breweries.
Insider travel tips: Visit Old Town early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Experience the town’s quiet and peaceful ambiance, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes to walk on the cobblestone streets.
2. Takayama Jinya
Takayama Jinya is a historic government building that served as the seat of the Hida-Takayama government during the Edo Period in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various rooms in the building, including the courtroom, living quarters, and offices. There are also informative displays and exhibits showcasing the building’s history and significance.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the prison cell, which has been preserved in its original state. You can also admire the beautiful Japanese garden surrounding the building.
Insider travel tips: Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Consider hiring a guide to gain a deeper understanding of the building’s history and cultural significance.
Don’t forget to try some of the local food and sake in the surrounding area, too!
3. Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
A museum dedicated to preserving the Takayama Festival floats, which are among the finest examples of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the brilliantly decorated floats up close, including intricate carvings, textiles, and metal work. There are also informative displays outlining the history and significance of the festival.
Don’t miss: The chance to climb onto one of the floats and experience the impressive scale and detail up close.
Insider travel tips:
4. Miyagawa Morning Market
Miyagawa Morning Market is a vibrant and bustling street market located in the historic city of Takayama, Japan. The market is filled with local vendors selling a variety of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the market, taking in the sights, smells, and sounds of this lively atmosphere.
The market offers a unique opportunity to taste local delicacies, such as Hida beef skewers, grilled rice cakes, and pickled vegetables.
Shoppers can also find traditional crafts, including pottery, chopsticks, and textiles.
Don’t miss: The market is most active in the morning, so be sure to arrive early to experience the energy and excitement of the vendors setting up their stalls.
The market is also a great place to sample local sake, which is brewed in the surrounding Hida region.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the market stretches for over a kilometer.
5. Hida Folk Village
Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum in Takayama that features traditional Japanese thatched-roof houses.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk around the village and take in the beautiful scenery, as well as observe various traditional crafts and activities.
There are also several exhibits with displays on the history and culture of the region.
Don’t miss: The village is especially stunning during the winter season when everything is covered in snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. Don’t miss the chance to see the village illuminated at night during the winter months.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here to fully appreciate everything the village has to offer.
6. Sanmachi Suji
A historic district in the city of Takayama, Japan, known for its preserved Edo-style buildings and traditional atmosphere.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the narrow streets lined with wooden merchants’ houses and shops selling locally made crafts, sake, and snacks.
Visit the various museums and galleries showcasing the area’s cultural heritage, including the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall.
Don’t miss: Trying out the local specialty food such as Hida beef sushi, mitarashi dango (sweet rice cakes), and furu (fermented tofu).
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and take in the peaceful atmosphere. Many shops and restaurants are closed on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.
If you’re interested in learning about traditional Japanese crafts, check out the Takumi no Sato center for workshops and demonstrations.
7. Yoshijima Heritage House
Yoshijima Heritage House is a traditional Japanese house built over 200 years ago, located in Takayama’s old town district.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the house and learn about Japanese architectural design, such as the clever use of space, the traditional tatami flooring, and the incorporation of Japanese gardens.
There are also displays of various household items from the Edo period, including cooking utensils, irons, and lamps.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the zen garden located just outside the house, which provides a serene atmosphere and offers a tranquil setting to reflect and relax.
Also, make sure to observe the intricate details in the wooden joinery and the beautifully decorated ceiling.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to arrive early before the crowds to enjoy a more peaceful experience. The staff is very knowledgeable and can provide additional insights into the history of the house and its previous inhabitants.
Photography is allowed, so make sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this historical gem.
8. Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan
A museum dedicated to the famous Takayama Matsuri festival in Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beautifully crafted floats (yatai) that are used in the festival, learn about the history and significance of the festival, and watch films showcasing the festival.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see the intricate details and craftsmanship of the yatai up close and personal.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum before attending the festival to fully appreciate the significance and beauty of the yatai. Make sure to take the guided tour to learn more about the history and stories behind each float.
9. Shiroyama Park
A beautiful park located on a hilltop overlooking Takayama city in Japan.
What to see or do: Take in the stunning panoramic views of the city, walk through the peaceful gardens, visit the Takayama Museum of History and Art, and see the ruins of Takayama Castle.
Don’t miss: The sunset views are breathtaking, and the park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes as there are some uphill paths and stairs to navigate. Also, consider visiting on weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
10. Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine
Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Takayama, Japan. It is one of the most popular shrines in the city, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful mountain backdrop.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the shrine grounds, admiring the intricate design and decorations of the buildings. The main hall of the shrine is especially impressive, with its distinctive gabled roof and richly-colored decoration.
Don’t miss: One of the main highlights of the shrine is the panoramic view of the mountains surrounding Takayama.
Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the shrine grounds and enjoy an amazing view of the city and the nearby Alps.
Insider travel tips: – The shrine can get crowded during peak tourist season, so it’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
11. Higashiyama Temple Area
The Higashiyama Temple Area is a serene neighborhood in Takayama, Japan, that is home to several beautiful temples and shrines.
What to see or do: Explore the peaceful streets and marvel at the traditional architecture of the temples, including the iconic red bridge at the Shorenji Temple.
Take a moment to enjoy the tranquil gardens and soak up the spiritual atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Visit the peaceful Hida Kokubunji Temple, which dates back to the 8th century and is home to Japan’s oldest bell. Don’t forget to stop by the impressive Shourenji Temple and its striking red bridge.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the temples.
Don’t forget to bring some cash to make small offerings at the temples. If you’re lucky, you might even get to witness a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony at one of the temples.
12. Fujii Art Gallery
Fujii Art Gallery is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Takayama, a picturesque town in Japan’s Gifu Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the works of some of Japan’s most talented contemporary artists, including the gallery’s founder, Shingo Fujii. The collection features a diverse range of art forms, from sculptures to paintings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful garden that surrounds the museum.
It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and provides an additional opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Insider travel tips: If you are an art lover, set aside at least a few hours to fully explore the museum’s exhibits. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try to visit during the off-season.
13. Matsuri no Mori
Matsuri no Mori is a museum in Takayama dedicated to showcasing the city’s famous festivals.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history and significance of Takayama’s festivals through interactive exhibits and displays, including costumes, floats, and musical instruments.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is a full-scale replica of one of Takayama’s festival floats, which visitors can explore up close.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to catch one of the hourly live performances featuring traditional festival music and dance, and check the schedule for special events and workshops.
The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase festival-themed souvenirs.
14. Takayama Municipal Museum
Takayama Municipal Museum is a museum showcasing the rich history and culture of Takayama city and the surrounding area of Hida.
What to see or do: Visitors will find exhibitions on traditional crafts including woodworking, lacquerware, pottery, and textiles.
The museum also has displays on the architecture of the Hida region, showcasing the unique building techniques and materials used in creating the famous Gassho-style houses.
In addition, there are exhibits on the area’s festivals such as the Takayama Matsuri, one of Japan’s largest and most famous festivals.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the beautiful Hida furniture exhibit, featuring pieces crafted in the area’s distinctive style and incorporating local wood and design elements.
The Gassho-zukuri exhibit is also a must-see, with detailed explanations of the construction process and significance of these unique houses.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays except for national holidays. Admission is 430 yen for adults and 130 yen for students.
Audio guides are available in English and other languages for an additional fee. Allow at least an hour to fully explore the museum and enjoy the exhibits.
15. Takayama Green Hotel Observation Deck
Observation deck located on the 13th floor of Takayama Green Hotel, overlooking the beautiful Hida Mountains.
What to see or do: Enjoy a panoramic view of the stunning mountain scenery, including the Northern Japan Alps and Mt. Norikura.
Take in the beautiful colors during the different seasons; cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and vibrant autumn foliage in fall.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking sunset view from the observation deck is a must-see. Make sure to bring your camera for some stunning photos.
Insider travel tips: The observation deck is accessible to both hotel guests and non-guests for a fee of 500 JPY per person.