About Hida Takayama
Deep in the mountains of Gifu, Hida Takayama is a beautiful city that vividly preserves the spirit of the Edo period (1603–1868). Located just 50 minutes by bus from the World Heritage site Shirakawago, it serves as a popular hub for exploring the region. The city’s heart is the "Old Town" (Sanmachi Suji), where 400-year-old merchant houses and traditional sake breweries create an iconic, social media-ready atmosphere.
The local food culture is a treasure trove of mountain flavors. The star is Hida Beef, a premium wagyu famous for its melt-in-the-mouth texture. Hida Beef Nigiri Sushi is a must-try street food for every visitor. Also, don't miss the local sake, nurtured by the region's pristine water and cold climate. Tasting these world-class brews at historic distilleries is a true highlight of any journey.
Sightseeing Guide
Furui Machinami (Old Town)
Hida Takayama’s Old Town is a historic district that thrived as a merchant and castle town. The three main streets of Kami-machi and Shimo-machi are officially protected as national preservation districts. These precious streets still vividly capture the spirit and architecture of the Edo period today.
Takayama Festival
The Takayama Festival, held every spring and autumn, is celebrated as one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals. During the spring, traditional floats parade through the town amidst vibrant cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, while in autumn, they are set against a breathtaking backdrop of fiery red maple leaves.
Miyagawa Morning Market
Held every morning along the east bank of the pristine Miyagawa River, the Miyagawa Morning Market is a vibrant hub of local life. The riverside comes alive with stalls packed with fresh seasonal vegetables, fruits, wild mountain plants, and traditional crafts, alongside a colorful variety of seasonal flowers.
Takayama Nohi Bus Center
The Takayama Nohi Bus Center is the main gateway for all bus travel starting from and arriving in Takayama. In addition to long-distance routes to Shirakawago and Shinhotaka, it offers convenient and affordable connections to local landmarks such as Takayama Jinya and Hida-no-Sato.
Nakabashi Bridge
With its vibrant vermilion railings reflecting beautifully in the clear waters of the Miyagawa River, Nakabashi Bridge is a beloved icon of Takayama. Historically, this bridge served as a vital defensive point for Takayama Castle and the starting point for major roads, standing as a silent witness to the city's long and storied history.
Takayama Jinya
Takayama Jinya was the administrative headquarters for the Hida region under the Edo Shogunate. It is the only place in Japan where the original main buildings still stand today. Now a National Historic Site, this rare cultural treasure offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
Gourmet
How to get
to Hida Takayama
By Train:
From Tokyo, you can reach Takayama in about 3.5 hours via the Hokuriku Shinkansen (transferring at Toyama). Alternatively, the journey takes approx. 4 hours via the Tokaido Shinkansen Nozomi (transferring at Nagoya).
By Highway Bus:
Travel times to Takayama are approx. 6 hours from Tokyo, 4 hours from Osaka, and 2.5 hours from Nagoya. You can conveniently book your bus tickets directly through this website.
Bus Routes
to Hida Takayama
