Nov 27, 2014 - 1 min read

Strolling Takayama Streets

The laid-back pleasures of Hida Takayama

By Masayoshi Hirose

Community writer

Translated by Takako Sakamoto

Community writer

Walking on an old street of Sanno Machi. Warm light is filtering through the lattice window of a souvenir shop.

Wow, what a nice garden! This place surely lives up to its alias, 'Small Kyoto of Hida'.

There are many sake breweries in Takayama and you can try out the taste of various kinds of sake here. It's something you can experience only in Takayama.

Unique statue on the parapet of Kaji Bridge in the center of Takayama city

This statue is modeled after Ashina-zuchi and Tenazuchi, the characters from Izumo mythology

Statue of Daikoku-ten standing near the famous Miyagawa morning market of Hida Takayama

I found a cozy-looking cafe on the second floor of Machiya!

When I went back to my hotel (I stayed at Hosho-kaku), delicious dinner consisting of Hida Takayama specialties was waiting for me!

I traveled from Okuhida to Hida Takayama on October 11th in 2010. I have visited Hida Takayama many times before, so I know this area like the back of my hand.

I probably come here about once every three years, and I can't help returning time and time again, since this place relaxes me so much! I avoid going to places crowded with tourists, and walk down the streets looking at wooden furniture, sundry goods, traditional crafts and things like that. If I feel like it, I go into a sake brewery or a miso shop and sample of their products. On my way back, I usually have pickles or foods boiled in soy sauce in my hand. Probably I get the same foods every time I come here. Anyway, I LOVE Hida Takayama!

Walk on the Streets of Historical Hida Takayama 1. Strolling Takayama Streets 2. Ancient Streets of Takayama