Takayama

Takayama is renowned for its beautifully preserved Edo-period old town, also known as Sanmachi Suji, featuring traditional wooden merchant houses that now host shops, restaurants, and museums. It is also celebrated for its traditional crafts, including intricate wood carving and sake brewing, and the spectacular Takayama Matsuri festival, which showcases ornate floats. Its serene, mountainous location in Japan's Hida region offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture, culture, and a more tranquil pace of life.

Takayama is absolutely worth visiting in Japan. It offers an abundance of natural beauty, a deep sense of tradition and culture, and a fascinating authentic history. It is consistently voted as one of the most beautiful cities in Japan, making it a truly special destination.

Takayama is accessible by train from major Japanese cities. The most common route is to take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo or Shin-Osaka to Nagoya, and then transfer to the JR Hida Limited Express train, which offers scenic views as it travels to Takayama. From Kyoto, you can also take a Shinkansen to Nagoya to catch the Hida Limited Express.

The best times to visit Takayama are generally spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November). Spring brings cherry blossoms and the vibrant Takayama Spring Festival, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage and the Takayama Autumn Festival. These periods provide pleasant weather for exploring the historic streets and enjoying the seasonal beauty.

Takayama is famous for its traditional crafts, particularly its exquisite wood carving, which can be seen in local shops and in the famous floats of the Takayama Matsuri. Sake brewing is another significant tradition, with several historic breweries in the Sanmachi Suji area offering tastings. You can also find beautiful lacquerware and intricate textile creations.