The Charm of HIDA TAKAYAMA – Japan’s Iconic Historic Townscape | Gifu, Japan Travel

The Charm of HIDA TAKAYAMA – Japan’s Iconic Historic Townscape | Gifu, Japan Travel

Hida-Takayama is a town located in the beautiful mountains of Gifu Prefecture,
preserving a strong historical atmosphere. Its wooden townscape attracts many tourists. Among them,
“Sanmachi Street” is known as an area where historical streetscapes remain prominently. This historical townscape is sometimes referred to as a “Little Kyoto.” These buildings are used as restaurants and souvenir shops, offering enjoyment to visitors. Furthermore, the food culture of the Hida region is another major attraction. There are many must-try dishes in this area, including “Hida Beef”,
a well-known brand of beef, and Takayama Ramen. This video will introduce the charms of Hida-Takayama. Feel Japan offers travel ideas in Japan. Follow us and be inspired to discover the unknown wonders of Japan. If you like this video, give us a thumbs up. Your comments are also welcome. The “Old Town” is a symbolic area of Hida-Takayama, offering a beautiful historical atmosphere. Among them, “Sanmachi Street” is especially popular with tourists. Lined with sturdy black townhouses built hundreds of years ago,
the street gives visitors a sense of stepping back in time. Additionally, there are renovated traditional houses used as cafes, souvenir shops, and restaurants, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the historical townscape while strolling and sampling local food. Located along this street, Yoshijima Heritage House is one of the must-see historical buildings. It was the residence of a merchant engaged in various businesses. Among the buildings in this area, it is considered particularly outstanding. A highlight of the house is the open atrium in the earthen floor entrance. The light streaming in from the high windows is beautiful. Inside the building, furniture and artifacts from the past are displayed,
allowing visitors to experience the traditional architectural techniques of Hida. Takayama Jinya is another historical site worth visiting. This was once the political center governing this region,
where various administrative and judicial matters were conducted. There were said to be more than 60 such buildings across Japan during that time,
but this is now the only one that remains. Inside the building, visitors can see furniture and documents used in the past,
offering a glimpse into historical governance. In front of Takayama Jinya, a morning market is held every day. The market is filled with fresh local vegetables, fruits, and other goods,
bustling with both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy local specialties and handmade processed goods,
getting a taste of Takayama’s food culture. Another morning market is held along the Miyagawa River daily. These two morning markets in Takayama
are considered among the three great morning markets in Japan. Stalls line the riverside, with more than 40 shops operating on busy days. Fresh local vegetables and fruits, as well as handmade crafts, are available. Additionally, many stalls offer light snacks at this market. As a result, many tourists opt to have breakfast at these stalls. Heading north along the Miyagawa River, you will see a large torii gate. Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is the site of the Takayama Festival,
one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals. The shrine has a long history, said to have been founded in the 4th century. The current shrine building was newly constructed in 1976,
welcoming visitors with its beautiful architecture. Within the shrine grounds, there is a museum dedicated to the Takayama Festival. Inside the museum, the festival floats used in the event are displayed. These floats weigh over two tons and are said to be the largest in Japan. Be sure to take a close look at these magnificent floats. Heading away from the Miyagawa River toward the mountains,
you will find the Higashiyama Walking Course. Along this walking path, historical temples are scattered, surrounded by beautiful nature. As you walk, you can enjoy the sounds of birds and rustling trees,
creating a peaceful and relaxing experience. The path is well-maintained, making it an easy walking course. Higashiyama Walking Course offers a great way to escape the bustle of the city
and enjoy the serene beauty of Hida-Takayama. Finally, let’s introduce a unique museum. The Takayama Showa Museum is a facility that recreates Japan during its post-war economic boom. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a nostalgic dagashi (traditional candy) shop interior familiar to many Japanese people. Further inside, a replica of a Japanese town from about 70 years ago unfolds. The displayed items were actually used during that time. Visitors can touch the exhibits, and arcade games, pachinko machines,
and the original Nintendo Family Computer can even be played. Additionally, the museum features rooms that realistically recreate life during the Showa era and sections introducing popular culture from that time. Such museums are rare across Japan, making this a must-visit spot when in Takayama. When visiting Hida-Takayama, there are some local delicacies you must try. Hida Beef is one of Japan’s top-rated branded beef, renowned nationwide. It is characterized by its tender texture and sweet fat. It can be enjoyed in various preparations, such as steak and sukiyaki. At “Kyodo Ryori Mikado,” you can enjoy Hida Beef together with Hoba Miso, a traditional local dish. The aroma of the miso and magnolia leaf is truly appetizing. At “Takumiya,” you can experience Hida Beef in a unique way. Hida Beef Mabushi is a special dish eaten in three steps: first as it is, then with condiments, and finally with dashi broth poured over it. If you prefer a more casual way to enjoy Hida Beef, Hida Beef Nigiri (sushi) is a great option. Many stores sell it at reasonable prices, making it an easy and delicious snack. Another must-try dish is Takayama Ramen. This local ramen features a soy sauce-based soup and thin, curly noodles. Despite its simple ingredients, it offers a deep and rich flavor. Especially popular is “Menya Shirakawa”, which has long lines every day. Although it gets very crowded, you can’t go wrong by choosing this place. Besides this, there are numerous ramen shops, from long-established ones to new ones. Each shop has its own unique flavor, so be sure to compare and enjoy them. Finally, here are some places you should visit along with Hida-Takayama. In the mountains a bit away from the Takayama city center lies a traditional mountain village. Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum that recreates life in the past. The site features around 30 relocated and restored traditional houses,
including gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses. With small streams, waterwheels, and rice fields also recreated,
it feels as if you have stepped back in time to old Japan. Moreover, you can experience various traditional crafts here. To pass on the local cultural heritage, artisans conduct daily demonstrations,
which visitors can try for themselves. A 15-minute train ride from Hida-Takayama. Hida-Furukawa is a tranquil area known for its beautiful white-walled townscape. It is also famous for being featured in a globally popular anime film. With fewer tourists, it is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet stroll. About an hour by bus from Hida-Takayama. The World Heritage-listed Shirakawa-go gassho-zukuri village
evokes the nostalgic scenery of Japan’s past. The winter snow-covered scenery and autumn foliage season are especially breathtaking, attracting many visitors. Gokayama is also a World Heritage site, but it remains lesser-known compared to Shirakawa-go. It is recommended for those who prefer a quieter visit. About 1.5 hours by bus from Hida-Takayama. Kamikochi is one of Japan’s most spectacular scenic spots, featuring breathtaking natural landscapes. Summer trekking and autumn foliage walks are particularly popular, captivating all who visit. Hida-Takayama is a captivating travel destination where history, culture,
and stunning nature harmonize beautifully. By strolling through the old town and enjoying local gourmet food,
you can fully immerse yourself in its charm. Why not choose Hida-Takayama as your next travel destination? Thank you for watching the video until the end. Please subscribe to this channel, give us a thumbs up, and leave a comment. Various links are listed in the overview. We welcome your recommendations and requests in the comments and on the social media.

Hida Takayama is a beautiful town lined with traditional Japanese wooden houses.
It is a popular destination that many people would like to visit at least once.

HIDA TAKAYAMA
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The most famous unexplored region of Japan, Shirakawa-go

Beyond Shirakawa-go: Discover Gokayama’s Quiet Charm

Day Trip to Kamikochi: Japan’s Ultimate Natural Beauty

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00:00 Opening
00:31 Overview of Takayama
03:20 Old Townscape
05:46 Yoshijima Family Residence
07:46 Takayama Jinya
09:34 Morning Market in Front of Jinya
10:29 Miyagawa Morning Market
13:00 Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine
15:08 Takayama Festival Float Hall
16:13 Higashiyama Walking Trail
18:54 Takayama Showa Museum
22:09 Local Cuisine
26:43 Surrounding Tourist Spots
35:48 Closing