Sanmachi merchant streets
Morning markets, sake breweries and dark-wood merchant houses line the preserved lanes of the old town. It is an easy place to spend a day on foot.
Visit Takayama, Japan
Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the northern Alps, the traditional town of Takayama possesses a charming old-world atmosphere and fine Edo-period architecture.
Things to see and do in Takayama
Hida Folk Village
Thatched gassho-zukuri farmhouses from the surrounding valleys have been rebuilt on a hillside above town, with craft demonstrations and mountain views.
Teramachi and Shiroyama Park
A quieter circuit of temples and woodland sits just beyond the souvenir streets — a good counterpoint if you arrive on a festival weekend.
Best time to visit Takayama
April’s Takayama Matsuri is one of Japan’s most celebrated float festivals, but the town is equally appealing in autumn, when Alps colour arrives and the old streets are less crowded.
Festivals, events and seasonal reasons to visit
- The Takayama Matsuri, held in the old town in April (and again in autumn), parades ornate floats and shrines through streets that have changed little since the Edo period.
Suggested itineraries featuring Takayama
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Takayama, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created around you.
Places near Takayama
Photos of Takayama
Our expert guides to exploring Takayama
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Takayama, these guides will help you make the most of your time there.
Japan’s seasons: cherry blossom and beyond
Each Japanese season brings a raft of distinct experiences, from spring’s cherry blossom to winter’s snow crab delicacies. Japan specialist Laura shares the highlights of each time of year to help you decide when to visit Japan.
Accommodation choices for Takayama
Asunaro Ryokan
Takayama · Medium
Hidatei Hanaougi
Takayama · First Class
Hotel Associa Takayama Resort
Takayama · First Class
Ideas for experiencing Takayama
Takayama
Takayama visit
After exploring the old streets and museums of Sanmachi District, head out on the trail around the many temples and shrines of Teramachi, before strolling through Shiroyama Park. You should also attempt to fit in a visit to the open-air museum of Hida Folk Village.
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