Takayama is usually referred to Hida Takayama in guidebooks to differentiate it from other places called Takayama in Japan.
It is one of the most popular domestic tourist destinations.
It is sometimes referred to as “Little Kyoto” due to the preserved “old town” houses, temples, and traditions.
Takayama is best known for the two festivals held every year. The Sannō Matsuri in Spring and Hachiman Matsuri in Autumn.
These festivals are among the most popular in Japan.
Takayama is also known for its local foods, including sansai (mountain vegetables) and wasakana (river fish) as well as its beef, soba, ramen, and sake.
In addition to its fame for its carpentry, Takayama is well known for its lacquerware, pottery, and furniture.
The mountain city of Takayama is associated with charms known as “sarubobos”, which are small dolls traditionally passed from grandmothers to grandchildren and mothers to daughters, though are now often sold as souvenirs.
Around the east of the city is a walking tour, called the Higashiyama Walking Course , which goes past many shrines and temples to Shiroyama Park .
Some other popular things to see and do while in the Takayama area include:
Hida Satoyama Cycling Tour
Hida Satoyama Bicycle Tour
A great guided tour through the countryside of “Furukawa” which is one town north of Takayama.
Ride through picturesque farmlands, farmhouses, meet locals, and view the beautiful town of Furukawa.
Photo courtesty of Eckhard Pecher
Sannomachi Old Town District
Stroll the “old town” section of Takayama Sanmachi
Try different foods in cafe’s and restaurants like Hida Beef, Soba, and more.
Try different street stand foods such as Shoyu Dango, Senbei, Gohei-mochi
Visit Cafe’s located within old wooden traditional houses
Visit Sake Breweries. This area is just a few minutes walk from the Zenkoji Hostel!
Shin Hotaka Aerial Tramway
Ride the Shinhotaka Aerial Tram up the mountain for views of the Japan Alps.
Accessible by bus from the Takayama bus center next to the train station.
Takayama Float Photo Courtesy of Bernard Gagnon
Visit the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
