Gifu Prefecture’s popular tourist destination Takayama is known for its historic townscape and rich natural surroundings. Often referred to as “Little Kyoto of Hida,” the town is home to many must-see attractions for first-time visitors. In this article, we’ve carefully selected five essential spots you shouldn’t miss when sightseeing in Takayama.
1. Furui Machinami (Sanmachi Street)
A classic Takayama sightseeing spot. With streetscapes that preserve the atmosphere of the Edo period, it feels like stepping into a period drama. It’s a consistently popular location for searches related to “Takayama sightseeing.” Visitors can also enjoy browsing souvenir shops and sampling local street food.
2. Takayama Jinya
The only remaining daikansho (regional government office) in Japan. A must-visit for history lovers among the many Takayama tourist attractions. Now serving as a museum, it’s an ideal place to learn about Takayama’s history.
3. Hida no Sato (Hida Folk Village)
An open-air museum featuring gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses similar to those in Shirakawa-go. Visitors can experience the lifestyle and culture of Hida with all five senses. It’s also popular among families and international tourists.
4. Miyagawa Morning Market
A famous morning market held daily in Takayama. The homey atmosphere, filled with local produce and crafts, makes for a delightful experience where tourists can also enjoy chatting with local vendors. It’s a great place to experience the warm hospitality unique to Takayama.
5. Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
A facility where you can see the luxurious and ornate floats from the Takayama Festival year-round. Highly rated especially among foreign tourists, this is a prime spot to appreciate the beauty of Japanese traditional craftsmanship up close.
Summary｜If It’s Your First Visit to Takayama, Start Here
For first-time visitors, Takayama offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and the warmth of its people. The five locations introduced in this article are all representative of what makes Takayama such a special place to visit. Be sure to bookmark this page as a reference for planning your next trip.