Hida Takayama Town Museum: A Free Guide to Experiencing the History and Culture of the Castle Town in One Place

About the Hida Takayama Town Museum

The Hida Takayama Town Museum, located in Kamiichinomachi, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, is a free educational facility where visitors can intimately experience the history, culture, and traditions of the castle town of Takayama. Loved by both local residents and tourists, the museum was reopened on April 11, 2011, reusing the historic earthen warehouses of the prosperous merchant families, the Yajima family and the Nagata family. The building itself holds historical significance and exudes a stately atmosphere.

The exhibits are divided into themes such as the charm of the Takayama Festival, the traditional townhouses, and religious art such as Enku Buddha statues. Visitors can savor the diverse attractions of the region step by step. Through videos, models, and actual materials, one can feel how the lives and culture of local people have been handed down and evolved. Stopping by the museum before exploring the town will deepen your understanding of Takayama’s rich stories, making your subsequent strolls even more fulfilling.

Incidentally, the Yajima family, which became the foundation of this museum, mainly engaged in the trading of timber and salt and contributed to the governance of the merchant town as “town elders” throughout the Edo period. They played a crucial role in Takayama’s commerce and autonomy. Meanwhile, the Nagata family operated under the trade name “Osakaya” and owned the largest tracts of rice fields in Takayama during the early Meiji era, running sake breweries and other businesses. Their sake brewery was one of the most prominent in Takayama, both in scale and prestige, and flourished as a pillar of the local economy. Through the earthen warehouses and exhibits that tell these stories, visitors can sense the breath of life of the people of those days and touch the roots of the regional culture that continues today—one of the major attractions of this museum.

Basic Information and Access

Location: 75 Kamiichinomachi, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Telephone Number: 0577‑32‑1205
Opening Hours: Exhibition Rooms 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, Garden 7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Closed: Open daily (except for temporary closures)
Admission Fee: Free

For access, it’s a 15-minute walk from JR Takayama Station or an 11-minute ride on the “Machinami Bus.” Get off at “Machino Hakubutsukan-mae” for convenient access. Parking is also available, and by car, it’s about a 10-minute drive from the Takayama Interchange.

Learning the History of Takayama in 14 Exhibition Rooms

The museum is divided into 14 exhibition rooms, offering a multifaceted introduction to everything from the birth of the castle town to folklore, crafts, religion, and festivals. The main exhibition themes are as follows, each representing precious aspects of Takayama’s history and culture:

First, “Formation of the Castle Town and the Culture of Wealthy Merchants” showcases how Takayama developed during the Edo period. Visitors can learn about the planning of the castle town, the bustling merchant scenes, and the roles of town elders—exploring the foundation of the region from various perspectives. You will also get a sense of the lifestyles of the wealthy merchants and the expansion of their commercial networks.

Next, “Townhouse Architecture and Craftsmen’s Lives” highlights the techniques and daily lives of the master craftsmen of Hida. Exhibits showcase the distinctive wooden construction methods and the meticulous details integrated into living spaces—reflecting the beauty of traditional architecture and the pride of the artisans. This will help you rediscover the techniques and aesthetic sensibilities that have been passed down to the current streetscape.

The exhibition titled “The Mechanisms and History of the Takayama Festival” delves into the allure of the Takayama Festival, which is known as one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals. Through models and materials, visitors can vividly sense the intricate mechanisms of the luxurious festival floats and the passion of the people who supported the festival’s organization. Alongside the pride of the local residents, you will be able to feel the heartfelt meaning woven into the festival itself.

Additionally, in the section “Religious Art Including Enku Buddha Statues,” visitors can view Buddhist statues carved by Enku, a sculptor deeply connected to Hida, as well as various forms of religious art rooted in the region. The simple yet powerful expressions of these Buddhist statues gently touch the hearts of those who see them, telling of the profound spiritual culture of the area.

In the “Development of Local Sake and Food Culture” exhibit, visitors are introduced to the history of sake brewing and the culinary culture of Hida, nurtured by the blessings of the natural environment. By exploring local ingredients and seasonal flavors, this exhibit enriches the sense of taste that travelers can experience during their visit.

Furthermore, in the section “Traditional Crafts Such as Shunkei Lacquerware and Ichii Itto-bori Carving,” you can find a collection of exquisite handicrafts that showcase the masterful skills of Hida’s artisans. The elegant luster of Shunkei lacquerware and the delicate carvings of Ichii Itto-bori are symbols of Takayama’s rich craft culture. Through these works, you can also feel the devotion and passion of the artisans who continue to refine their techniques.

The museum’s collection comprises approximately 75,000 items, with around 900 pieces on permanent display. These exhibits include many historical materials and crafts from before the Edo period, which cannot be seen in facilities such as the Takayama City Memorial Hall. This allows visitors to experience the unique depth of Takayama’s history that cannot be found elsewhere.

Photography is not allowed for the exhibits, so we recommend visiting the museum in person to carefully observe the historical materials and crafts with your own eyes. Looking through the glass at these items, you can sense the lifestyles of the people of the past and the cultural backdrop that nurtured the region, making you feel as if you are traveling through a piece of history. Please enjoy these precious moments that can only be experienced on-site.

The Courtyard and Garden: A Place of Healing

Inside the museum, visitors will find a grassy plaza surrounded by historic architecture and a courtyard where the gentle murmur of flowing water creates a soothing soundscape. The garden path, lined with glass lanterns that offer seasonal views, invites leisurely strolls while feeling the dappled sunlight and forest shade. This space, harmoniously integrated with the surrounding historic buildings, evokes a sense of nostalgia and freshness at the same time.

Moreover, the clear spring water drawn from the well flows quietly through the garden’s pond and water channels. The area is filled with lush greenery in vibrant shades, offering a healing touch to all who visit. In the morning and evening, the soft light and cool breezes create the perfect atmosphere for a stroll or a brief rest. Known for providing “a time of quiet reflection,” the museum’s courtyard and garden let visitors savor a luxurious escape from the clamor of the city.

In addition, a “Flower Map” that highlights the seasonal blooms on the museum grounds is available. It’s a wonderful way to stroll around and search for the flowers that define each season. The Flower Map is distributed for free inside the museum and is easily accessible to all visitors. With this map in hand, explore the garden while discovering the flowers that embody the changing seasons. Take some time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and let your heart be guided by the gentle rhythm of nature.

Barrier-Free Facilities and Hands-On Learning

The museum is equipped with barrier-free facilities, including ramps, gently sloping passages, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their visit with peace of mind. Thoughtful design caters to seniors, wheelchair users, and visitors with young children, providing a comfortable environment for all.

Additionally, on weekends and holidays, volunteer guides offer tours in Japanese and English, allowing visitors to learn in detail about the facility’s appeal and historical significance. Multilingual pamphlets are available, and video materials include subtitles, ensuring accessibility for visitors with hearing concerns. The friendly and helpful staff further enhance the experience, allowing everyone to fully appreciate the rich history and culture of Takayama.

Recommended Starting Point Before Sightseeing

For first-time visitors to Takayama, we recommend starting your journey at this museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Here, you can gain insights into how Takayama came to be, the lives of its people, and the development of commerce and crafts, giving you a more vivid and three-dimensional appreciation of the town. Through exhibits, videos, and models, you can explore the abundant culture created by town elders and merchants, as well as the profound skills of Hida’s master artisans.

Equipped with this foundational knowledge, your subsequent stroll through the “Old Town” will deepen your imagination and understanding of the buildings, streets, and daily lives of the people of the past. You will be able to vividly sense the ingenuity embedded in traditional architecture and the lively spirit nurtured by seasonal festivals and events as you wander through the town.

Moreover, visiting the museum can enrich your journey by providing a key to experiencing the town more fully. When you later encounter the festivals or crafts featured in the exhibits while exploring the town, the stories of the artisans and the region’s history will come to life. Make the most of your visit to this museum as a meaningful first step in savoring everything that Takayama has to offer.

The Appeal of Special and Themed Exhibitions

At the Hida Takayama Town Museum, special and themed exhibitions are regularly held to delve deeper into the region’s history and culture from fresh perspectives that differ from the permanent exhibitions.

The Spring Traveling Exhibition, which ran from April 12 to June 15, 2025, featured exhibits centered around Ichii Itto-bori carvings, Mino ware, and materials related to cormorant fishing from the Gifu Prefectural Museum collection. Under the theme of “Tradition” and “Masterpieces,” the exhibition conveyed the charm of cultural heritage and exceptional artistry that transcends regional boundaries.

During the exhibition period, gallery talks by curators (held on April 26 and May 24) provided visitors with a valuable opportunity to enjoy the exhibits alongside insightful explanations.

Deepening Learning Through Events and Lectures

The Hida Takayama Town Museum offers a variety of learning opportunities, including lectures, storyteller training courses, and classes on ancient documents.

The storyteller training courses aim to cultivate citizens and tourists alike as narrators who can convey the historical context of the region. Participants benefit from expert lectures and on-site practice, contributing to the preservation and continuation of local storytelling traditions.

In addition, there are classes on ancient documents and swords for children, as well as related online content available via YouTube, with a particular focus on historical education and understanding cultural heritage.

Connections with Nearby Facilities and Tourism Routes

The museum is conveniently located near the “Old Town” area, making it easy to incorporate into sightseeing itineraries as a starting or ending point for your strolls. It is also within walking distance of other experiential facilities, such as the Hida Takayama Town Experience Exchange Hall and the Light Art Gallery.

Especially during craft exhibitions, there are popular courses that guide visitors through nearby shops and galleries, allowing them to enjoy the entire town as an extension of the museum itself.

Barrier-Free Access and Convenience

The facility is thoughtfully designed with ramps and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Additionally, volunteer guides are available on weekends and holidays, offering tours in both Japanese and English. Subtitled video materials and multilingual pamphlets provide further support, while the visually and hearing-friendly displays ensure that everyone can learn comfortably and with peace of mind.

Official Social Media and Information Updates

Updates on special exhibitions, temporary closures, and lectures are frequently posted on Instagram (@machihaku1953) and the official website. Checking the museum’s social media channels before your visit is a convenient way to stay informed about the latest announcements.

Conclusion: A Museum to Walk, See, and Experience

The Hida Takayama Town Museum plays a multifaceted role as a comprehensive facility—housing permanent and special exhibitions, lectures and workshops, hands-on programs, and serving as a starting point for town exploration. Inside, visitors will find a wealth of materials that tell the stories of merchant culture from the Edo period, the master craftsmanship of Hida, festivals, and daily life. The beautifully designed exhibition spaces harmonize scholarly value with an approachable atmosphere, allowing each visitor to engage with the history and culture at their own pace. The traditional crafts and models on display, housed in glass cases, offer a sense of stepping back in time and leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Moreover, the museum not only shares regional knowledge but also offers real-life experiences through its hands-on programs and lectures. Participating in workshops such as woodworking or traditional paper-making provides a rare opportunity to experience the rich craft culture of Hida firsthand. Meanwhile, the lectures and talks by experts deepen your understanding of Takayama’s history and culture, revealing new layers of the town’s enduring heritage.

For travelers, gaining foundational knowledge at this museum will enhance your walks around town, enabling you to more deeply appreciate the historical significance of the old buildings and streets. Understanding the cultural backdrop of the festivals and daily life will turn the townscape into a vivid narrative unfolding before your eyes. For local residents, the museum is a place to reconnect with their roots—a source of pride and a joy to share with visitors. It serves as an opportunity to speak of their history with pride and pass it on to future generations.

As a “pathway connecting the region and its visitors,” the Hida Takayama Town Museum fulfills a vital role. Here, everyone can cherish the stories and encounters they discover, and savor the depth of history and culture. Whether you are visiting Takayama for the first time or returning again and again, the museum promises new insights and fresh inspiration with every visit.