Despite being a city, Takayama has preserved some of its oldest traditions, buildings and streets to give every visitor a rustic, rural feel. Takayama city, or Hida-Takayama in local language, is a beautifully- preserved old town in the mountainous part of Gifu Prefecture. The place enjoys an in flock of tourists all year round.
If you wonder what's in store for visitors of this historic city, it is interesting to note that there are a lot. Most of the activities are relaxing, peaceful and nature appreciating. Here are some of the best things to do while at Takayama.
Witness Takayama Festival. Held during spring (April 14-15) and fall (October 9-10), this is one of the most beautiful and oldest festivals in Japan. During the festivity, intricately adorned floats (a dozen or so) are being paraded in the city. The floats symbolize the skilled craftsmanship, hard work and solidarity of the city's residents. This festival is being attended both by Japanese and foreign visitors around the world.
Visit the Old Town. The Old town of Takayama will take you back to its younger days. Most houses and streets were constructed during the Edo Period (1600-1868), when the city experienced heavy commerce. The southern part of the town still preserves many old houses, shops, sake breweries and tea houses. Some of these shops have been operating for centuries. Most shops open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Takayama Jinya. In 1692, Takayama was put under Tokugawa Shogunate. Takayama Jinya was constructed as local government building of the officers from Edo (Tokyo). The building is now a museum. It houses neat tatami mat rooms and an intriguing interrogation room. Aside from the main building, the rice storehouse beside it also serves as a museum.
Higashima Walking Course. Experience the calming sights and sound of the city. You will pass by temples and shrines, former castle and common scenes of a rural Japanese town.
Because of its beauty, Takayama has been featured in many films and anime series. Check out this story from Travelers Today.
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