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:
