Takayama Tours

Takayama is known as the “Little Kyoto” due to its old style building structures and overall atmosphere, making it a great place to visit for those who appreciate history. This old town is located in Gifu Prefecture, and is known for its semi-annual festivities that run once in spring and once in autumn.

Takayama is one of the cities set in the mountains of Honshu’s western region, it is also often called “Hida- Takayama”. It is known for its older Japanese-style atmosphere and for its seasonal festivals. Due to its remote location, the town was able to preserve some of its traditional charm. The layout of the city dates back to the late 17th century. There are many shrines, museums, temples, and Meiji era ryokans (Japanese traditional inns). It is an area famous for its high quality timber, which was an important source during the feudal ages. This produced many skilled carpenters and the craftsmanship can be seen on the yatai (floats) during the Takayama Festivals and at the Yatai Kaikan museum.

The Takayama festivals happen semi-annually and are considered one of the most beautiful festivals in Japan; the spring festival and the autumn festival are both big attractions for most visitors who view the festivities in the city. The yatai, or floats, are big and can even support the people who ride in them while the other members of the Takayama festival assist and pull the floats throughout the city. The eleven floats that are used during each of the matsuri (“festivals”) are all different, each of the floats represents one of the gods of fortune. The parades at night are lit by lanterns that are hung throughout the city, creating a warm and interesting atmosphere as the crowds gather around the city streets. The participants of the parade also dress in traditional period clothing, making the experience all that more remarkable as many types of gowns are seen moving along with the floats. Takayama, however, is also known for its building structures, which remain in an old-fashioned design. It is known for its old style so much that it is also sometimes referred to as “Little Kyoto”. The city also has a history of admirable carpentry and building designs some of which date back even to the Edo Period. In an environment with so much history, it is no wonder that there are rickshaw rides also available for visitors and travelers who want a special experience. The Old Town of Takayama is visited by many people who like to go through the streets, which are lined up with traditional Japanese snacks like rice crackers and dried squid. For famous monuments or locations, there is also the popular red bridge that Takayama features called Nakabashi. It is a bridge that is crossed during the enchanting spring Takayama festival. If the weather is right, cherry blossoms adorn either side of the bridge as the procession is carried out. Other attractions of Takayama include the Takayama Town Market. The market is usually open every day from early morning to midday. There are crafts, vegetables, fruits, traditional Japanese snacks, and flowers sold in the market.

Please see below for tours that include Takayama: