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Introducing Takayama
With its old inns, shops and sake breweries, Takayama is a rarity: a 21st-century city (admittedly a small one) that’s also retained its traditional charm. Vibrant morning markets, hillside shrines and a laid-back populace add to the town’s allure, and it should be a high priority on any visit to Central Honshū. Give yourself at least two days to enjoy the place; it’s easily tackled on foot or bicycle.
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Takayama was established in the late 16th century as the castle town of the Kanamori clan, but in 1692 it was placed under direct control of the bakufu (shōgunate) in Edo. The present layout dates from the Kanamori period, and its sights include more than a dozen museums, galleries and exhibitions covering lacquer and lion masks, folk craft and architecture.
Takayama remains the region’s administrative and transport hub, and it makes a good base for trips around Hida and Japan Alps National Park.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
