Best Things To Do in Takayama, Japan

Are you looking for what to do in Takayama?

You might have a list of things to do in Takayama and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. Places like Hida Folk Village and Takayama Old Town, Sanmachi Suji will make sure your dream destinations are ticked off. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

With so many world-famous sites and attractions to visit, deciding on the best things to do in Takayama can be a daunting task. Visiting selective places and carrying the best memories is the best alternative. Don’t rush to see all of the attractions in Takayama on your first trip itself.

Takayama is the type of city that you will love to visit again and again. Every time you revisit Takayama you can keep unfolding the different sides of it. This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Takayama getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to Takayama with confidence.

Tourist Attractions in Takayama

Here is the list of things to do in Takayama and tourist attractions in city.

  1. Hida Folk Village

    4.3 (495 Votes)
    Hida Folk Village

    Museum, Village, Historical Site

    The Hida Minzoka Mura Folk Village consists of 30 traditionally built structures including homes with thatched roofs, shrines and small sheds. The nearby Goami Pond adds to the landscape and is perfect to take a few moments to relax at its shore. You can explore the homes and shrines as you like and see traditional tools, machinery and even see hand-made crafts take form in front of your eyes. ...Read more
  2. Takayama Old Town, Sanmachi Suji

    Landmark, Walking Area, Historical Site, Food And Drinks

    The Sanmachi Suji neighborhood takes you back to the Edo period with buildings that date from the 17th to the 19th century. The neighborhood was where wealthy merchants settled down and their residential places and shops still inhabit Narita to offer a part of history that would otherwise be lost. From sake breweries where you can try flavored sake, to shops that sell locally made products and ...Read more
  3. Takayama Jinya

    4.1 (531 Votes)
    Takayama Jinya

    Historical Site, Food And Drinks, Architecture

    The Takayama Jinya is a government office that was used to get the Hida province under the rule of Edo Bakufu (Shogunate) and was formerly a residential place that belonged to Lord Kanamori. The place was designated an historical site in 1929 and today is one of the most iconic places to see classic Japanese architecture with a fine use of wooden shingles, timber and clay store rooms. A farmers...Read more
  4. Shinhotaka Ropeway

    4.2 (161 Votes)
    Shinhotaka Ropeway

    Nature, Ropeways

    The Shinhotaka Ropeway is one of the most fun ways to get around the city and is preferred to reach Shinhotaka Onsen. See the gorgeous view of the Japanese north Alps as you are taken through the beautiful terrain. During winters, the snow magnifies the beauty all around with the snow-capped mountains adding to its charm. Do carry a camera with you during the ride to take panoramic pictures. Th...Read more
  5. Takayama Morning Market

    4 (242 Votes)
    Takayama Morning Market

    Market, Street Market, Shopping Center, Street Food

    Originally known as a place where locals would peddle grains and exotic fruits, today, the Hida-Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market has come a long way to offer an array of stalls that sell everything from fresh vegetables, locally grown fruits, flowers, clothes, accessories and other products. If you love street shopping, a visit here will be well worth your time and pretty forgiving on your wall...Read more
  6. Takayama Festival Float Exhibition Hall

    Arts And Crafts, Exhibition , Hall

    Held in in spring on April 14 and 15 and in autumn on October 9 and 10, the Takayama Festival Floats are an experience in themselves. If you have missed the festival, head to this exhibition hall to see a range of larger-than life, ornately decorated floats that are displayed here all year round. The craftsmanship and detailing on these floats is fabulous and the fact that they are hundreds of ...Read more
  7. Higashiyama Walking Course

    3.8 (460 Votes)
    Higashiyama Walking Course

    Castle, Historical Site

    Created by Kanamori Nagachika (1524-1600) who loved Kyoto, the King made a Castle here with the hilly region developed to resemble the Higashiyama area. All of the attractions of these area come together to form the Higashiyama Walking Course. In the 17th century, the Kanamori family’s rule ended and the castle was destroyed. Today its ruins are seen near the Shiroyama Park while other bu...Read more
  8. Hirayuotaki Fall

    4.2 (283 Votes)
    Hirayuotaki Fall

    Water Body, Waterfront, Nature

    Located amidst the gorgeous Gifu region, the Hirayuotaki Fall is one of the most popular waterfalls in Japan and covers a height of 64 meters. The sublime view in the summers and spring season of the waterfall makes it a perfect place to hike while in winters people come here to see the frozen waterfall illuminated with lights after dark. Hiking around the waterfall is a highlight in itself and...Read more
  9. Hida Daishonyudo Cave

    3.9 (125 Votes)
    Hida Daishonyudo Cave

    Cave, Landmark, Historical Site

    The Hida Daishonyudo Cave is a limestone cave that covers a length of 800 meters located at a height of 900 meters- making this the highest limestone cave in Japan! Walk through the pathway laid through the cave and see the gorgeous structures and shapes that come to life with warm lights. The stalactites and stalacmites that resemble frozen ice only scratch the surface of the cave’s impe...Read more
  10. Hidakokubun-ji Temple

    4.1 (564 Votes)
    Hidakokubun-ji Temple

    Religious Site, Temple, Historical Site, Architecture

    The Hida Kokubun-ji Temple is home to some of the oldest and diverse Buddha statues and includes idols of Honboshi Yakushi, Amida Birai, Sei Kannon Bodhisattva, Benzaiten and Fudo Fudo among others- with every idol depicting a fabled story of its own. The shrine itself is an important cultural and heritage building and is famous for its architecture. The bell tower, triple tower structure and t...Read more
  11. Hirayu Onsen Resort And Wellness Area

    Leisure, Spa, Resort, Ski Resort

    Offering something for the beginners, intermediate skiers and professionals the Hirayu Onsen Resort and Wellness Area is a popular family spot during winters. The hot springs are perfect to soothe your tired muscles after a long day of skiing while the fun camping activities offer an exquisite conversation with nature. The place offers accommodation for those who are looking to indulge a bit mo...Read more
  12. Takayama Museum Of History And Art

    Art And Culture, Art Museum, Landmark

    Offering a brilliant view of the Northern Alps and Takayama City, the Takayama Museum of History and Art is a rare treat for tourists. See a fabulous collection of glass art and European Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles of furniture that date back to the 19th century and are sure to take your breath away. The modern building itself is quiet a sight and if you love art, a visit here is something ...Read more
  13. Sakurayama Hachiman-gu Shrine

    Religious Site, Historical Site

    The Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine dates back to the ruling era of Emperor Nintoku (413 - 439) who pleaded Prince Takefurukuma-no-mikoto to kill Ryoumen Sukuna- a dangerous monster. Before the prince left to kill the monster, he dedicated this place as a shrine to his father Emperor Ojin. Today, the legend of the protection that is blessed upon anyone who visits the shrine, has a deep faith among...Read more
  14. Nakabashi Bridge

    Landmark, View Point, Bridge

    The Nakabashi Bridge’s iconic red color makes it easy to spot. But what truly pulls people to the bridge is the view of the Cheery Blossom trees surrounding the bridge. During the spring season (the cherry blossom season), a walk here offers one of the most stunning views around Takayama and to top it off the Cherry trees are illuminated after dark- enveloping the whole place in time...Read more
  15. Okuhida Bear's Park

    3.9 (117 Votes)
    Okuhida Bear's Park

    Park, Wildlife Park

    The Okuhida Bear's Park is home to a number of Asian black bears. Interacting with the bears as you feed them or to simply see them in their own world, is a rare chance to see these animals up close. The unusual gestures of the bears really get you off guard and is quiet fun to see as they find their own ways of interacting with you. If you are an animal lover, you will love to spend some time ...Read more