Discover Hida Takayama! Essential Travel Tips and Must-Visit Attractions!

Hida Takayama is one of Gifu Prefecture’s most beloved tourist hotspots. With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, getting to Hida Takayama from major cities has never been easier! Yet, many travelers focus on exploring Kanazawa or Toyama and miss the chance to venture further to Hida Takayama—such a missed opportunity! Today, we’re here to reveal the hidden treasures and captivating charm of Hida Takayama that you may not yet know about.

◎ What Makes Hida Takayama Special?

While Hida Takayama is not an official place name, it refers to Takayama City, located in the heart of the Hida region in northern Gifu Prefecture. Let’s explore what makes Hida Takayama a must-visit destination!

◆ Step Back in Time with Hida Takayama’s Historical Charm

Hida Takayama is famed for its beautifully preserved old town, often called the "Little Kyoto of Gifu." This Edo-period townscape, featuring traditional wooden houses, is a delight to stroll through. Many of these old buildings have been transformed into cozy cafes, offering a perfect spot to savor sweets while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere. For an even more immersive experience, try exploring the area in a kimono!

◆ Taste the Unique Flavors of Hida Takayama

Food lovers will rejoice in Hida Takayama, home to Hida Beef, Japan’s premium Wagyu brand. Its rich, tender flavor is a culinary highlight you can enjoy as sushi or croquettes while sightseeing. Don’t miss Takayama Ramen, known for its simmered soup and soy-based sauce, or Hoba Miso, a local specialty served with seasonal ingredients and Hida Beef atop magnolia leaves.

◆ Take Home Unique Souvenirs

A visit to Hida Takayama isn’t complete without buying a "Sarubobo" doll, a charming red talisman symbolizing protection. With its expanded color options, you’ll find one for every taste—perfect for souvenirs!

◆ Unwind in Relaxing Hot Springs

Hida Takayama offers relaxing hot springs after a day of exploration. From public footbaths to renowned inns, you’ll find plenty of options to refresh your body and mind.

◎ Getting Around in Hida Takayama

If you've arrived in Hida Takayama but are wondering how to get to the tourist attractions, here we will introduce the means of transportation in Hida Takayama.

Walking

◆ Bus

Choose between the “Machinami Bus” for the eastern attractions and the “Sarubobo Bus” for the west.

◆ Cycling

◆ Rickshaw Rides

Glide through town with a guided rickshaw tour that offers both stories and scenic views.

◎ Helpful Tips for Your Visit

Here we introduce useful information and spots for sightseeing in Hida Takayama. It's worth knowing!

◆ Tourist Information Center

◆ Family-Friendly Stops

◆ Public Restrooms

1. Hida Kokubunji Temple

A must-visit in Hida Takayama, Hida Kokubunji Temple is conveniently located near Takayama Station. Built in 757, this historic temple is home to several structures and Buddhist statues that are nationally and locally designated as important cultural treasures. Its most iconic feature is the ancient ginkgo tree, said to be over 1,200 years old and towering at 37 meters. This majestic tree becomes especially breathtaking in autumn, offering a stunning backdrop alongside the temple’s three-tiered pagoda, making it a favorite spot for photographers and visitors.

At the temple’s gate, the Kōshindō Hall showcases unique features like the "Wishing Sarubobo" and the "Fulfillment Shelf," where countless sarubobo dolls are displayed. The "Wishing Sarubobo" is a monkey-shaped stone statue believed to grant wishes when touched, making it a popular attraction for visitors seeking good fortune.

2. Sanmachi Historic District

The charming streets of Sanmachi in Hida Takayama, a former merchant town from the Edo period, attract both local and international visitors for their nostalgic ambiance. Particularly popular are the areas of Kamisan-no-machi, Kaminino-machi, and Kamiichi-no-machi, collectively known as Sanmachi Street, where tourists can enjoy shopping, local delicacies, and exploration. Many shops feature hidden sections that give visitors the thrill of discovery, adding to the district’s unique appeal.

Highlighted shops in Sanmachi Historic District:

◆ Honpo Hida Sashiko

This shop specializes in "Hida Sashiko," a traditional embroidery craft reimagined into everyday items. From hats and pouches to kitchen goods like coasters and dishcloths, their sturdy, handcrafted products are both functional and stylish. DIY sashiko kits are also available for a creative souvenir.

◆ Takayama Usagiya

This whimsical shop offers a wide variety of rabbit-themed goods, including the exclusive "Ubobo" rabbit dolls, perfect as a unique keepsake from Hida Takayama.

◆ Oita Sake Brewery

Renowned for its award-winning sake, including the "Onikoroshi," this brewery also offers a unique soy sauce-flavored ice cream that visitors rave about.

◆ Pichiku Park

A paradise for bird enthusiasts, this shop offers handmade bird ornaments and customizable displays, perfect for creating unique decorative pieces.

3. Fujii Museum of Art and Crafts

The Fujii Museum of Art and Crafts in Hida-Takayama showcases the personal collection of Dr. Fujii Kyuichi, a physician from the region. With around 2,500 items on display, the museum features a variety of historical artifacts and traditional crafts. Highlights include hanging scrolls by renowned artists such as Yokoyama Taikan, Tomioka Tessai, and the legendary Zen monk Ikkyu.

Visitors can also admire exquisite ceramics like Ko-Imari and Ko-Bizen, alongside Kyōho-era Hina dolls crafted over 270 years ago. Antique enthusiasts will find this destination a treasure trove of wonders. The museum's distinctive all-cypress gate, inspired by Takayama Castle’s second bailey, adds a unique charm to the experience.

4. Old Town Art Museum - Yamashita Kiyoshi Original Works Exhibit

Discover the works of Yamashita Kiyoshi, an artist famed for his travels across Japan, at this Hida-Takayama museum. Among the 150 original works on display is his iconic piece, "Fireworks," complemented by 25 documentary photographs. Yamashita’s art, with its heartwarming simplicity and masterful torn-paper technique, resonates with nostalgia and authenticity.

Unwind at the Hanabi Café after your visit and savor the ambiance. Don't miss the chance to snap a photo with the life-sized cutout of Yamashita in his signature running shirt and shorts at the entrance—a delightful keepsake from Hida-Takayama.

5. Takayama Showa Museum

Step into a nostalgic journey through Japan’s Showa era (1955-1964) at the Takayama Showa Museum! This unique attraction in Hida-Takayama recreates the essence of mid-20th-century Japan, featuring classrooms, homes, and diners from the era.

Though not specific to Hida-Takayama, the museum’s immersive exhibits appeal to both those who lived during the era and newer generations looking to explore Japan’s cultural heritage. Located near the historic Sanmachi Street, it’s an ideal addition to your sightseeing itinerary.

6. Hida Takayama Town Museum

The Hida Takayama Town Museum beautifully showcases the rich history of Hida Takayama alongside its artistic and cultural heritage. Out of an extensive collection of 75,000 folk artifacts, 900 are curated for regular display.

Housed in Edo-period storehouses, the museum spans 14 exhibition rooms, each highlighting unique themes like the vibrant Takayama Festival, the history of the castle town, and traditional crafts. Every exhibit offers a captivating glimpse into the area's legacy, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Admission is free, and the museum takes on a magical charm at night with its Glass Lamp Alley illuminated. Located near the iconic "Old Town (Sanmachi Street)," it’s a convenient and delightful addition to any itinerary.

7. Takayama Municipal Government Memorial Hall

This former town hall and city office, now a museum, provides a fascinating dive into the administrative history of Hida Takayama. Crafted entirely from Japanese cypress, the building features panels and photographs documenting the evolution of local governance.

The Taisho and Meiji-era ambiance of its interior is captivating, with the intricate coffered ceiling being an absolute highlight. Its proximity to "Old Town (Sanmachi Street)" makes it an ideal stop to balance history with leisure. Plus, admission is free!

8. Takayama Jinya

A must-see in Hida Takayama, Takayama Jinya is a nationally designated historic site. This Edo-era government office was built to oversee the region when it became a shogunate-controlled territory. Takayama Jinya is the last of its kind still standing in Japan, offering visitors a rare glimpse into this period of history. Explore its rooms, view historical exhibits, and enjoy unique details like "iron rabbit" nail covers on the pillars.

For a more immersive experience, reserve a free guided tour to uncover stories and secrets about the site. Don’t forget to check out the anime screenings, woodworking demonstrations, and seasonal events that enrich your visit.

9. Miyagawa Morning Market

Discover another iconic morning market in Hida Takayama! Ranked among Japan’s top three morning markets, Miyagawa Morning Market takes place daily along the Miyagawa River in Shimosannomachi. You’ll find a diverse selection of fresh and affordable produce, from seasonal vegetables and fruits to homemade miso and other local goods. With shops lined up along the picturesque riverside, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely shopping stroll.
One of the market's biggest draws is its street food offerings! Savor Hida Takayama specialties like Hida beef tendon ramen, grilled beef skewers, Hida beef balls, and mitarashi dango—perfect for enjoying as you wander. To avoid the crowds and have a relaxed shopping experience, it’s best to arrive around 8:00 AM.

Operating Hours
7:00 AM to noon (8:00 AM in winter)

10. Hida Takayama Handheld Fireworks Display

Add some excitement to your Hida Takayama trip with a spectacular fireworks event! The "Hida Takayama Handheld Fireworks Display" is held downstream of Yayoi Bridge on the Miyagawa River, where participants hold bamboo tubes packed with fireworks, launching them while enduring the shower of sparks. Held annually on August 9, known as the "Day of Misfortune," this event symbolizes the wish for protection from bad luck for both performers and spectators.

Before the event, approximately 40 participants perform a safety prayer at Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine and parade through the streets toward the launch site. Their courage as they handle the blazing fireworks is truly inspiring. The show’s grand finale, when the bamboo tubes burst with a thunderous sound, is an unforgettable summer highlight!

11. Hida Takayama Castle Ruins

Step back in time at the Hida Takayama Castle Ruins, originally built in 1588 by samurai and feudal lord Nagachika Kanamori but dismantled in 1695 by order of the shogunate. Now designated a historical site by Gifu Prefecture, the ruins are part of the beautifully maintained Shiroyama Park.

Visitors can see the foundation stones of the main keep and the stone walls of the second keep, where a statue of Nagachika Kanamori on horseback now stands. Shiroyama Park is also renowned for its seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Located about a 30-minute walk from Takayama Station, it’s an excellent addition to your itinerary after exploring nearby attractions like Takayama Jinya or the Municipal Memorial Hall.

12. Hida Takayama Onsen

Hida Takayama Onsen is unique for offering different types of hot spring qualities depending on the accommodation. These inns are scattered around "Sanmachi Street," a popular tourist spot in Hida Takayama, making it easy to explore the area from your lodging.

Carbonate springs and sulfur springs are said to be effective for skin cleansing and preventing dark spots, while chloride springs are known for retaining heat and providing moisturizing and warming benefits. Since the texture and benefits vary by water type, you might want to consider the location of the bath when making your decision.

This guide also introduces footbath spots where you can enjoy Hida Takayama’s charm during your visit.

Hot Spring Qualities of Hida Takayama Onsen:

• Simple hot spring (weakly alkaline hypotonic low-temperature spring)
• Sodium bicarbonate hot spring (hypotonic neutral hot spring)
• Weak radioactive sodium chloride hot spring (weakly alkaline hypotonic low-temperature spring)
• Sodium chloride hot spring (weakly alkaline hypotonic low-temperature spring)
• Alkaline simple sulfur hot spring
• Alkaline simple spring (pH 9.1)

◆ Convenient Footbath Near the Station: "Hanami Footbath"

Located just a 2-minute walk from Takayama Station, this footbath is set at the entrance of "Hida Hanari no Yu Takayama Sakura-an." The water here is a sodium chloride spring, which is believed to be effective for cold sensitivity and fatigue recovery. During spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms planted on the premises while soaking in the footbath.

The facility is free for non-staying visitors, offering a great opportunity to unwind after a long journey or refresh during sightseeing in Hida Takayama.

◆ Cozy and Relaxing: "Sakura Footbath"

This foot bath, located in front of the Hida Product Center at Takayama Green Hotel, is about a 10-minute walk from Takayama Station. The hot spring water comes from the hotel’s underground source. You can enjoy seasonal views like cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, autumn leaves, or snowy landscapes in winter while soaking your feet.

You can also enjoy hot spring sweets from "Yuamiya" near the facility, making it a perfect spot for a short break. The Sakura Footbath is well-equipped, offering a space for changing shoes and selling towels, ensuring a relaxing experience.

13. Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine

Dedicated to Emperor Ojin, Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is a popular spot in Hida Takayama, known for bringing blessings in business success, academic achievement, and warding off evil spirits. Its expansive grounds feature wooden and stone torii gates, a main hall, worship hall, and five sub-shrines.

The highlight of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is the annual "Hachiman Festival," held every October. Known as "Takayama Festival," this autumn celebration features traditional floats called yatai. The "Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall" displays four of the eleven nationally designated tangible cultural properties and the magnificent golden portable shrine.

14. Takayama Festival

Did you know that the Takayama Festival is actually a collective term for two grand festivals held in Hida Takayama? The Sanno Festival, held annually on April 14th and 15th at Hie Shrine, is called the “Spring Takayama Festival,” while the Hachiman Festival, held annually on October 9th and 10th at Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine, is called the “Autumn Takayama Festival.”

The highlight of both festivals is the luxurious floats (yatai), with 12 floats featured in the spring and 11 in the autumn, captivating tourists. Among these, the "Karakuri Dedication" featuring mechanical puppets on the Hotei float is a must-see, showcasing their skilled movements.

Other highlights include a procession of about 100 people, float gatherings, and the lantern-decorated floats during the night festival, bringing energy to Hida Takayama all day long. Takayama Festival is counted among Japan's three great float festivals and three great beautiful festivals. If you visit Hida Takayama, it's an event you must experience at least once.

15. Hida Takayama Lion Dance Ceremony and Karakuri Museum

The Hida Takayama Lion Dance Ceremony and Karakuri Museum is a tourist spot showcasing nationally designated important tangible folk cultural properties, festival tools, and arts and crafts. As its name suggests, the museum features around 800 lion masks collected from all over Japan, with noticeable differences in size and expressions depending on the region.

When it comes to Hida Takayama, the highlight is undoubtedly the “Karakuri Puppets” featured in the Takayama Festival! Watching the various puppets’ performances, crafted with Edo-era techniques, is an experience not to miss. It’s just a 20-minute walk from Takayama Station, and you can further appreciate the craftsmanship by also visiting the “Takayama Festival Float Exhibition Hall” inside Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine.

16. Traditional Houses in Daishinmachi

In the heart of Hida Takayama, you can spot traditional houses almost everywhere. Among them is Daishinmachi, another “Old Town” about a 20-minute walk from Takayama Station, featuring the unique architecture of Hida Takayama.

◆ The Miyachi Family Residence

The Miyachi Family Residence represents a typical townhouse. Their lifestyle was a mix of farming and commerce, running businesses like rice and sake shops. Its “eel bed” structure features a narrow front and deep interior. Unique highlights include an iron ring for tying livestock and shutters called "shitomido" used to secure the house.

The second floor, which served as the children’s room, has a low ceiling that taller visitors might bump into! While it’s not extravagant, the Miyachi Family Residence offers a glimpse into the lives of townsfolk back then. Entrance is free, so it’s worth visiting to get a closer feel of Hida Takayama’s history.

◆ The Grandeur of a Merchant’s Mansion: “Kusakabe Folk Museum”

The Kusakabe Folk Museum (Kusakabe Mingeikan) is a nationally designated Important Cultural Property and a fine example of traditional townhouse architecture. Once the home of the affluent Kusakabe family, who served as shogunate merchants managing money exchanges and official funds, the residence reflects their esteemed status. The two-story structure, made entirely of cypress wood, features a spacious atrium with prominent beams. Beneath it lies a traditional hearth (irori), offering a glimpse into life during the Edo period.

The museum’s centerpiece is an extravagant altar, valued at 300 ryō during its construction—equivalent to 100 million yen today. This masterpiece boasts intricate hidden mechanisms, making it a highlight for visitors. Besides the grand interior, the museum also showcases local folk crafts from Hida Takayama, making it a must-visit destination.

◆ A Testament to Japanese Craftsmanship: “Yoshijima Family House”

The Yoshijima Family House, a former sake brewery and merchant’s residence, is another of Hida Takayama’s Important Cultural Properties. A sacred cedar ball from Miwa Shrine, symbolizing sake brewing, hangs beneath its eaves, while the entrance features a noren curtain gifted by the shogunate. Inside, the atrium’s striking main pillar and its lattice framework of beams and columns are marvels of engineering and design.

Sunlight streaming through high windows creates a play of light and shadow, evoking the feeling of an art exhibit. Its unique structure sets it apart from other traditional homes, making it an essential addition to any Hida Takayama itinerary.

17. Matsumoto Family Residence

Located slightly away from the heart of Hida-Takayama, the Matsumoto Family Residence is one of the oldest examples of traditional townhouses in the area. Featuring a classic "eel bed" design, it offers a glimpse into the standard architectural style of its time.

Unlike the old houses in Daishinmachi, which were destroyed in a devastating fire during the Meiji era, the Matsumoto Family Residence survived and is now recognized as a highly valuable Important Cultural Property of Japan. Beyond its historical architecture, visitors can explore the main house and storehouse, which showcase fascinating exhibits such as Hida-Takayama pottery and intricate yew wood carvings. The residence is about a 15-minute walk from Takayama Station, and the town loop bus provides a convenient way to access it from other attractions.

18. Hida Takayama Museum of Art

The next tourist spot in Hida Takayama is the Hida Takayama Museum of Art, located on the west side of Takayama Station. This decorative arts museum mainly exhibits a variety of glass crafts and furniture, and it has even received a Michelin three-star rating.
The museum houses around 1,000 works influenced by European artistic styles such as Art Nouveau and Art Deco, with 200 pieces on display at any given time. Although it doesn’t have much of a Hida Takayama feel, the rare and valuable works are sure to be a feast for the eyes.

Tourists especially love the café inside the museum, where you can enjoy lunch featuring organic vegetables from Hida Takayama. Best of all, the café can be used without paying the museum admission fee, so why not treat yourself to a relaxing lunch in an elegant atmosphere?

19. Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)

Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum in Hida Takayama where you can explore about 30 gassho-style houses and traditional homes. Centered around the concept of a "village museum" showcasing rural landscapes, Hida no Sato offers not only the chance to view the structures but also to watch demonstrations of crafts like straw weaving and sashiko embroidery. Seasonal traditional events of the Hida region are also held here, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the olden days of Hida’s culture and lifestyle.

It’s about 2.2 km from Takayama Station, and only a 10-minute ride on the Sarubobo Sightseeing Bus. Visiting during the autumn season, when the area is lit up and the leaves are at their peak, is highly recommended for a truly atmospheric experience.

20. Hida Takayama Memory Experience Studio

Why not create a memorable experience in Hida Takayama? At the Hida Takayama Memory Experience Studio, you can try your hand at over 15 types of traditional crafts.

Choose from activities such as making the iconic Sarubobo doll, painting Hida’s famous “Koito-yaki” pottery, or even making rice crackers that you can eat right away. With activities lasting about 15 to 60 minutes, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir that will make your trip unforgettable.

Located right next to the “Hida no Sato” bus stop, it’s a perfect addition to your visit to the Hida Folk Village.

21. Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village

Recommended for teddy bear and cute item lovers! The Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village is the world's first ecology-themed teddy bear museum. The museum is housed in a traditional Gassho-style old house characteristic of Hida Takayama, and it welcomes visitors with 1,000 adorable teddy bears! From vintage bears that evoke a sense of history to works by popular domestic and international artists, a wide variety of bears are on display.

One great point of the Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village is that you can not only look at the bears but also touch and hug them! Find your favorite bear and take a commemorative photo together. There’s also a shop that features teddy bears from around the world and a café with bear-themed designs everywhere. Why not immerse yourself in the soothing world of the Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village?

22. Hida Kaiun-no-Mori Great Seven Lucky Gods

If you’re visiting Hida Takayama, make sure to stop by Hida Kaiun-no-Mori Great Seven Lucky Gods. True to its name, this spot features seven deities of good fortune, each between 4 to 7.5 meters tall, carved from trees said to be over 1,000 years old. These sculptures, crafted by Hida Takayama artisans, exude simplicity and a deep sense of charm.

Among the most popular are the 3.2-meter-tall statues of Daikokuten and Ebisu. Interestingly, both were carved from a single tree and are enshrined together. Touching the bag carried by Daikokuten is said to bring good fortune, so be sure to go around to the back and touch it! It's rare to see such large and impressive statues of the Seven Lucky Gods all in one place—definitely a unique and auspicious experience. Touch them to receive their power and blessings directly!

By the way, this site is within a 5-minute walk from the previously introduced “Hida no Sato” and “Omoide Taikenkan.”

23. Hikari Museum

Located in Nakayama-cho, Takayama City, northwest of Takayama Station, the Hikari Museum is the largest multi-purpose museum in the Chubu region. Formerly known as the Hikari Memorial Hall, it was renamed in 2013.

The museum, with its pyramid-like exterior, houses three permanent exhibits: the Art Exhibition Room, the Hida Exhibition Room, and the Human History Exhibition Room. In addition, it hosts various special and planned exhibitions. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of exhibits, from Japanese paintings and Western art to ukiyo-e prints, crafts, and dinosaur fossils.

This is truly a museum worth taking your time to explore. On weekends, children can enjoy interactive learning experiences as well.

◎ How to Travel to Hida Takayama?

Planning a trip to Hida Takayama? Navigating your way there can feel overwhelming. Let’s break down the best routes to this charming destination, whether by train, bus, or car.

◆ By Train: A Classic and Scenic Journey via Nagoya

The most common route involves traveling to Nagoya Station from either Tokyo or Osaka. From Nagoya, hop on the JR Limited Express “Wide View Hida” (Takayama Line), which takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach Takayama. However, the train runs just 1–2 times per hour, so plan accordingly. Delays due to weather are also possible, so it’s wise to have a flexible itinerary.

For those exploring beyond Takayama, consider a “Hida Free Ticket,” which offers unlimited train rides between Hida-Kanayama and Hida-Furukawa—perfect for adding extra stops to your adventure.

◆ By Train: The Scenic Hokuriku Shinkansen Route

Travelers from Tokyo have another option via the Hokuriku Shinkansen, opened in 2015. This route takes you to Toyama Station, followed by a JR Limited Express “Wide View Hida” train to Takayama. The journey from Toyama is shorter—just 1 hour and 30 minutes.

While this option offers breathtaking mountain views, the train runs only four times daily. Alternatively, highway buses also connect Toyama to Takayama, offering reserved seats and discounted round-trip tickets.

◆ By Highway Bus: Budget-Friendly and Convenient

For budget-conscious travelers, highway buses offer a relaxed and cost-effective option. Direct services from Tokyo’s “Busta Shinjuku” and Osaka’s “Namba OCAT” connect to Takayama, with no transfers needed. While the journey takes longer than trains, the affordable fare and comfort make it worthwhile.

Book your tickets early as buses have limited seats, and take advantage of round-trip discounts or package deals.

◆ By Car: A Flexible and Scenic Drive

Driving gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Be prepared for snowy conditions during winter and early autumn, especially in mountainous regions like Hida Takayama. Chains may be required.

During busy seasons like festivals or autumn foliage, allow extra time for potential traffic. Parking is available both near Takayama Station and throughout the town.

◎ Summary

Although the journey to Hida Takayama may seem long, the scenic beauty of the changing seasons and lively conversations with your travel companions will make the time fly. Hida Takayama is a charming destination that will leave you longing to return. For those traveling from Tokyo, consider taking the Hokuriku Shinkansen and savoring the culinary delights of both Toyama and Hida Takayama—it’s a travel plan worth trying!

Discover Hida Takayama! Essential Travel Tips and Must-Visit Attractions!