Takayama
The traditional heart of Japan.
Set in the serene Japanese Alps, Takayama is a destination that brings together the best of traditional Japan in a picturesque setting. This charming town, which once played an important role as a trading center, is today one of the best preserved examples of Edo-period architecture and culture.
Arriving in Takayama feels like stepping back in time. The historic district, best known as Sanmachi Suji, is a maze of narrow streets lined by beautifully preserved wooden merchant houses that are hundreds of years old. These buildings now house cozy cafes, craft stores, and sake breweries where you can sample the local sake, an essential part of Takayama’s culture. Takayama is also known for its lively morning markets, the Miyagawa Market and the Jinya-mae Market. Here you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, local delicacies, and handmade souvenirs, all offered by friendly vendors who take pride in their products. It is a perfect place to start a day and immerse yourself in the daily lives of the locals.
A visit to Takayama would not be complete without a stop at the Hida Folk Village, a fascinating open-air museum depicting the traditional rural life of the region. Here you can explore more than 30 authentic thatched-roofed houses, carefully restored to show what life was like in the Japanese mountains centuries ago.
Takayama is also home to some of Japan’s most refined cuisine, particularly the famous Hida beef, one of the best types of wagyu meat produced in the region. Taste this tender meat at a local restaurant or prepared the traditional way at a ryokan (inn), where you can enjoy a complete Japanese experience including the famous hospitality.
The city offers a variety of accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to luxurious ryokans, often with hot baths and views of the surrounding mountains. Staying in a traditional ryokan, where you sleep on futons and enjoy a kaiseki meal (a sumptuous, seasonal Japanese meal), is an experience in itself and offers a deeper connection to Japanese culture.
Where to stay?
Find the perfect stay in Takayama.
Find your ideal stay, from luxury hotels and bed & breakfasts to authentic homestays and cozy hostels. Whether you’re looking for the sophistication and comfort of a hotel, the personal touch of a B&B, the homely atmosphere of a homestay, or the vibrant community of a hostel, we’ve created a nice selection for you. Discover the perfect base for your adventures and enjoy a stay as unique as your trip. Book now and start your journey with the ideal home base.
Tours & activities
Travel by Japanese public transport
Takayama is easily accessible from other Japanese cities by high-speed train (Shinkansen), regional trains, domestic flights, or a rented car. The Shinkansen takes travelers quickly to nearby cities such as Nagoya, from where a regional train or bus completes the rest of the journey to Takayama. For longer distances, domestic flights to nearby airports, such as those in Toyama or Nagoya, can be a convenient option. Within Takayama, visitors move mainly on foot, as most of the attractions are located in the compact city center. For further exploration, buses, cabs, or rented bicycles are also available to explore the charming historic streets and surrounding nature.