Destination Inspiration: Takayama, Japan

Why go?

Japan is known for its futuristic innovations, but dipping into the country’s past is just as exciting. In the mountainous Hida region, you’ll find Takayama, best known for its historic buildings, hot springs and biannual festival of elaborate floats.

Strolling through Sanmachi Suji district, you’ll come across sake breweries, boutiques and restaurants, all housed in traditionally-Japanese timber buildings. Local delicacies include steaming ramen soups, tender Hiba beef and hoba-miso – a sweet miso paste cooked on a magnolia leaf.

The daily farmer’s market offers everything from vegetables and homemade pickles to clothes and crafts – including the popular ‘sarubobo’ good-luck charms. The market is held next to Takayama Jinya, a 17th-century former government building and the only one of its kind to still exist today.

A short bus ride takes you even further back in history. Hida Folk Village is renowned for its thatched farmhouses and local artisans, whose woodwork and quilting make great souvenirs.

When to go?

Every year in April and October, Takayama Festival attracts throngs of visitors from all over the globe. Cherry blossoms can be seen from mid to late April, while winter trips offer the chance to visit one of many nearby ski resorts.

Where to stay?

Takayama Ouan – Takayama, Japan

The open-air rooftop bath at Takayama Ouan is a lovely spot to take in Takayama from above. If you prefer to soak in solitude, there’s also a private onsen available. This traditional ryokan serves over 60 different dishes as part of its breakfast buffet, and even offers complimentary late-night ramen noodles.

Hotel Wanosato – Takayama, Japan

The thatched-roof Hotel Wanosato is a rustic ryokan set in the woods next to a river, and comes with a traditional Japanese indoor fire pit. Submerged in the covered cypress hot spring bath, guests can take in the mountain views.

Takayama Green Hotel – Takayama, Japan

At the Takayama Green Hotel, many of the rooms come with their own tatami dining area or open-air bath. After enjoying the public hot spring facilities, guests can choose between several on-site restaurants and round off their stay with some karaoke.

Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan – Takayama, Japan

Located in the heart of town, Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan is a convenient base for exploring nearby Takayama Jinya Morning Market and the Sanmachi Suji district. Previous guests praised the complimentary train station shuttle and steaming mineral baths, as well as the attentive staff.

Hanaougi Bettei – Takoyama, Japan

Its peaceful setting and mineral-rich hot spring baths make Hanaougi Bettei a blissful escape. Guests are looked after by a nakai (personal attendant) and served a traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner, which includes the region’s delectable Hida beef. Travellers keen to explore the local countryside can also borrow bicycles for free.