Hida Takayama

Hida Takayama — the spirit of the Edo period lights up in winter

There is a strong sense of Japanese cultural heritage in Hida Takayama. Visitors can browse traditional crafts, take a sake brewery tour to sample the local brew, and enjoy bowls of green tea. There are fine examples of traditional architecture in the beautifully preserved old town, just a few minutes’ walk from Takayama Station. In winter, the dark wood of the buildings contrasts starkly with the white of the snow, making the area popular with photographers. The Nakabashi area is particularly beautiful in winter, as the bright red bridge set against the winter scenery feels like a scene from classical Japanese art.

Japanese history buffs should head to the Hida-no-sato folk village. This village was built in 1971 and faithfully reproduces the living conditions and lifestyle of the Edo period (1603-1867). The village is lit up between December and February, creating a fantastical sight.

How to get there

Takayama is on the JR Takayama Line. Trains leave hourly from Nagoya Station, arriving in Takayama in just over two hours. The city is well-connected by regular trains and buses to Toyama City in the north and Matsumoto to the east.

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