Take A Deep Dive Into Things To Do In Takayama
Takayama is a town located in the mountainous area of Hida just a few hours by train away from the capital of Japan. Thanks to its location, the city is truly the heart of traditional culture and an ideal place for those who want to enjoy some nostalgic feelings. There are many interesting things to do in Takayama. Here are the carefully selected attractions for you.
Explore Fantastic Things To Do In Takayama
1. Places To Admire
The first among things to do in Takayama is, of course, visiting famous attractions.
1.1. Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village
Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village is actually not a real village but an open-air museum home to nearly 30 thatched-roof houses. The village takes inspiration from the farming villages on the mountainous areas in the old days. All buildings are made from wood and most of the articles in those houses are delicately crafted utensils and tools used daily in the past. Tourists visiting the village can go inside each house and explore all the furniture there.
If you want to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, this beautiful village is for you. Enjoy the snowy weather in this village through this video.
1.2. Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is claimed to be the oldest shrine in Takayama. Some people say that it appeared in the 4th century while others argue that the shrine was founded by Emperor Nintoku. Nowadays the shrine is quiet and surrounded by many trees.
The Takayama Matsuri, one of the most beautiful festivals in Japan, takes place in Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine in October every year. In this Takayama festival, a parade will carry the beautifully decorated wooden floats and marches on the streets. There is also a fun performance called Karakuri in which there are some floats with mechanical dolls that can dance. This performance is kind of interesting that also attracts many tourists.
1.3. Matsuri no Mori
Matsuri no Mori is a museum that displays floats and carts that are used in the Takayama Matsuri festival. The sight inside the museum is brightly gorgeous thanks to the colorful light from hundreds of lanterns hanging on the magnificent floats. Besides, the museum also displays some huge drums which are known as the biggest drums in the world.
2. Foods And Drinks To Enjoy
Enjoying foods and drinks is also one of the best things to do in Takayama. There are many tradition foods in the Hida region you should try.
2.1. Local Foods
The first famous dish is a specialty of Takayama, Hida beef. The taste is mellow and the texture is soft and smooth. You can try many dishes with Hida beef like Hida beef nigari, Hida beef burger, …
The next one is Takayama ramen – a ramen whose base soy – sauce soup is made with bonito flakes, and the toppings are fermented bamboo shoots, sprouts, pork fillet, …
There are so many delicious street foods such as mitarashi dango (a kind of mochi but not too sweet), goheimochi (mashed rice seasoned with sesame sauce then grilled on a skewer), Hida Gyuuman, …
2.2. Local Sake Breweries
It is a fact that Takayama has a long history of sake production, over 400 years. Nowadays, there are 6 local breweries still open around Takayama old town such as Hirata, Niki, Kawashiri, to name but a few.
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Any sake lover visiting Takayama cannot go without going on Sake tours from mid-January to late February. During this time each brewery shall offer a free tour of their ancient sake – making process. It is noticeable that all sake breweries are open for visitors to taste some sake sample so you can try their great products’ flavor.
3. Best Places For Hiking
3.1. Higashiyama Walkway
The Higashiyama Walkway is a walking route through Teramachi town, a hill and a former position of Takayama Castle. The route is 3.5 kilometers long and there are many temples and shrines along the way. Walking on this route is the best way to enjoy the calm and peaceful atmosphere of Takayama.
3.2. Kamikochi
Kamikochi is a 15km-long plateau in the west of Nagano Prefecture, offering a very beautiful mountainous scenery. Tourists can enjoy Kamikochi by walking or hiking along Azusa River. There is another place called Taisho Pond which is romantic and described as “a fantasy world”.
The most beautiful time in Kamikochi falls into the foliage season (October). The most popular mountains for hiking and climbing are Mt. Yari (3,180 m) and Mt. Oku-Hotakadake.
Final Words
Takayama is one of the very few cities in Japan still remaining the traditional characteristics. It is a pity if anyone misses the chance to try many fantastic things to do in Takayama.