TAKAYAMA
HOME TO ALLURING NATURE, CULTURAL BOUNTY
Nestled in the northern reaches of Gifu Prefecture, the city of Takayama, often referred to as Hida-Takayama, extends across an area almost as large as metropolitan Tokyo but with a full 92% of its landscape covered by mountains and forests. Surrounded by the Japan Alps and its soaring 3,000-meter peaks, Takayama captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage and spectacular natural beauty.
Situated in central Honshu, Takayama has earned a coveted three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide as a destination “well worth making a journey to visit.”
No matter where you start out, reaching Takayama requires crossing some major mountains. From Tokyo, the trip takes about four hours by bullet train and limited express. But along the route, the stunning seasonal vistas will not only enchant the eye, but also evoke a sense of nostalgia, enhancing your anticipation of arriving in this mountainous wonderland.
Cultural treasures and festivals
Visitors arrive at Takayama Station in the heart of the city. Often the starting point for exploration, the bustling downtown area plays a central role in the lives of residents and boasts a wealth of cultural landmarks, including temples and shrines.
One must-visit locale is Takayama Old Town, a 15-minute walk from the station, which stretches along the city’s principal waterway, the Miya River. This area is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings and offers a glimpse into the city’s past as a thriving merchant town surrounding Takayama Castle during the Edo Period (1603 to 1868).
Strolling through this attractive area feels like stepping back four centuries. Visitors can immerse themselves in the travel experience — sampling sake at artisanal breweries, savoring Takayama’s signature soy sauce-flavored rice dumplings known as mitarashi dango or exploring well-preserved machiya (townhouses) that once served as both homes and shops for merchants.
At the southern end of Old Town is Nakabashi, an iconic bridge known for its red railings. During the biannual Takayama Festival — held from April 14 to 15 in spring and Oct. 9 to 10 in autumn — beautifully decorated festival floats, a testament to the skills of Takayama’s artisans, traverse Nakabashi. Depending on the timing of your visit, you can enjoy this spectacle against a backdrop of cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Recognized as one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals and registered on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, the Takayama Festival is an incomparable event that embodies the rich traditions of Takayama.
Majestic nature, scenic adventures
After immersing yourself in Takayama’s cultural heritage, it’s time to embrace the area’s immense natural beauty. The majestic Hida Mountains — or Northern Alps — dominate the northeastern horizon with towering peaks such as Mount Yari, Mount Nishihotaka, Mount Kasagatake and Mount Norikura. Designated as part of Chubu Sangaku National Park, these mountains are easily accessible from Takayama, offering breathtaking views and plenty of activities for casual tourists and seasoned climbers alike.
Among them, Norikura is one of Japan’s most accessible 3,000-m mountains. Located at the southern edge of the Hida Mountains, its highest peak, Kengamine (3,026 m), is reached via the Norikura Skyline road (open May 15 to Oct. 31) only by bus, taxi or rental vehicles with at least 11 passengers.
From the Tatamidaira Plateau (2,702 m) visitors can enjoy a leisurely 90-minute hike to Kengamine, where they will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Northern Alps, and, on clear days, the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Fuji on the horizon — an experience not to be missed.
Further north, Mount Nishihotaka can be reached via the Shinhotaka Ropeway, which ascends to 2,156 m and boasts Japan’s only double-decker cable car. From the mountaintop observatory, a stunning 360-degree panorama of the entire Northern Alps unfolds, a spectacle that has earned the area two Michelin stars.
Hot spring rejuvenation
After a day filled with sightseeing, hiking or climbing, what could be more relaxing than soaking in a hot spring? Just an hour from Takayama by bus, at the foot of the Northern Alps, the Okuhida Onsen-go hot spring district is one of Japan’s premier onsen destinations. Cherished for their healing properties, the area’s five spas have long attracted visitors, and legends tell of samurai seeking relief from battle wounds in these very waters.
Comprising the five spa towns of Hirayu, Shinhotaka, Fukuji, Tochio and Shinhirayu, Okuhida Onsen-go boasts the largest number of open-air baths in Japan, and can be explored both on foot or by bus.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of onsen facilities, from ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) with private baths to foot baths and day-use outdoor baths, each experience infused with the warm hospitality known as omotenashi.
After bathing and enjoying breathtaking mountain views, don’t miss the chance to savor the area’s local cuisine, featuring Hida beef, fresh river fish and highland vegetables, all prepared with seasonal flair. It’s the perfect way to unwind, offering a truly blissful experience for both body and soul.
Commitment to sustainability
Takayama is a fascinating destination that harmoniously blends astonishing natural beauty, delectable cuisine and deep-rooted traditions. To preserve its charm as a tourist destination for future generations, it is vital for the city to remain attractive for its residents. That’s why it is actively pursuing sustainable urban development, guided by the United Nations sustainable development goals. This commitment was recognized in 2024 when Takayama received a Green Destinations Silver Award for its sustainable tourism initiatives.
The award recognizes Takayama’s efforts to preserve Old Town and the Takayama Festival and adopt environmental protection measures, such as restricting access and requiring guided tours to sensitive alpine areas. Currently, Takayama is aiming to make even greater strides toward sustainability as it works to achieve recertification in 2026.
With a unique blend of nature, culture and tradition, Takayama invites travelers to explore its timeless beauty and create precious memories that will remain with them long after their visit.
For more information, please visit https://www.hidatakayama.or.jp/
