Destination

Takayama

Country: Japan Updated:

Takayama is a historic city in the Japanese Alps, with traditional wooden houses, old streets, sake breweries and much of the atmosphere of the Edo period.

Historic streets of wooden buildings in Takayama, Japan
Image: AI illustration · Rights: no public licence for reuse has been specified.

When to go

Spring and autumn are ideal for walks and mountain scenery. Snow makes the city particularly atmospheric in winter, but it is considerably colder.

Things to see and do

Walk through Sanmachi-suji, and visit Takayama Jinya, the morning markets, the festival museum and traditional sake breweries.

Practical tips

The historic centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. Book accommodation early during the famous Takayama Festival.

Getting there and getting around

Takayama is accessible by train and bus from Nagoya, Kanazawa and other places.

Where to stay

Accommodation between the station and old town is practical. For a traditional experience, choose a ryokan with tatami and an onsen.

What to try

Specialities include Hida beef, hoba miso, regional ramen and sake.

Official sources