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Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the northern Alps, the traditional town of Takayama possesses a charming old-world atmosphere and fine Edo-period architecture.
This is one of our favourite destinations in Japan, a relaxing break from the throng of the city, and complemented by a twice yearly festival, in spring and autumn, where gorgeously decorated floats are paraded through the streets to the sound of taiko drumming and singing.
Takayama's history
Takayama is only a small city, but of significant historic importance in the Hida district. The built-up area around the station belies the hidden charm of the streets to the east of Miyagawa river, which give way to the Sanmachi District, a warren of traditional shops, museums, galleries and sake breweries, all retaining their character in a country that otherwise has embraced the modern age. The oldest buildings that remain are some storehouses (kura in Japanese) built in the 17th century. Most of the buildings in the Sanmachi District are from the late 19th century, although they retain the charm of times gone by.
Local highlights
Takayama has lost some of its charm over the past 20 years or so but the local architecture, ebullient atmosphere and culinary specialities keep visitors coming back year after year. It also has an extensive wooded park and numerous shrines in the Teramachi district, which has often led to comparisons with Kyoto.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Takayama
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Takayama, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Takayama
- Shirakawago 22 miles away
- Kamikochi 27 miles away
- Tateyama 39 miles away
- Matsumoto 41 miles away
- Tsumago 44 miles away
- Kanazawa 45 miles away
- The Japanese Alps 49 miles away
- Hakuba 52 miles away
- Yudanaka 78 miles away
- Noto Peninsula 96 miles away
- Kyoto 114 miles away
- Hakone & Mount Fuji 118 miles away
- Izu Peninsula 129 miles away
- Nara 130 miles away
- Kamakura 140 miles away
- Osaka 140 miles away
- Kinosaki Onsen 141 miles away
- Nikko 143 miles away
- Tokyo 144 miles away
- Mount Koya 164 miles away
- Tottori 175 miles away
- Tokushima 209 miles away
- Naoshima 218 miles away
- Takamatsu 220 miles away
- Kurashiki 224 miles away
- Dewa-sanzan 225 miles away
- Iya Valley 238 miles away
- Matsue 240 miles away
- Matsushima 262 miles away
- Shikoku 267 miles away
- Tohoku 278 miles away
- Hiroshima 297 miles away
- Matsuyama 300 miles away
- Kakunodate 300 miles away
Photos of Takayama
Accommodation choices for Takayama
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Takayama. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Hidatei Hanaougi
Takayama -
Hotel Associa Takayama Resort
Takayama -
Asunaro Ryokan
Takayama
Ideas for experiencing Takayama
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Takayama, and which use the best local guides.
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Takayama Visit Takayama Visit
Takayama Visit
After exploring the old streets and museums of Sanmachi District, head out on the trail around the many temples and shrines of Teramachi, before strolling through Shiroyama Park. You should also attempt to fit in a visit to the open-air museum of Hida Folk Village.
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