[2023 version] 2 hours by car from Nagoya! 13 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Hida Takayama

Hida Takayama is only a two-hour drive from Nagoya, making it a perfect weekend getaway.

There are many attractions such as old streets that have been preserved since the Edo period, local gourmet foods such as Hida beef and Takayama ramen, spectacular seasonal spots such as cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, and hot springs with excellent skin care properties!

If you're going to Hida Takayama this time, we'd like you to keep this in mind! Here are  13 recommended sightseeing spots in Hida Takayama .

What kind of place is Hida Takayama?

Hida Takayama prospered as the center of Hida Province during the Edo period.

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① A standard spot in Hida Takayama! Stroll through the historical "Old Townscape"

Hida Takayama is known for its "old streets" that have been preserved since the Edo period (1603-1868). 400 years ago, the streets of Hida Takayama are still largely intact.

The three streets of Kami-ichinomachi, Kami-ninomachi, and Kami-sanomachi are called "Sanmachi-dori," and are lined with souvenir stores, general stores, cafes, and restaurants in town houses. There are seven sake breweries in Takayama along the old streets, which can be toured on foot, making it a must-see for sake lovers!

[Old Townscape]
https://www.hidatakayama.or.jp/watch/furuimachinami/

The Takayama Jinya is a must-see along with the "Old Streets. It is the only county magistrate's office under the direct control of the Shogunate with major buildings still standing. Visitors can feel the lifestyle of the Edo period.

Admission is free for high school students and younger, so it is a recommended spot for those with children.

[Takayama Jinya]
Address: 1-5 Hachikencho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Phone number: 0577-32-0643
Hours of Operation: March to October: 8:45 am to 5:00 pm
November to February: 8:45am to 4:30pm
August: 8:45am to 6:00pm
Closed: Open all year round *Closed only during the year-end and New Year holidays (December 29th to January 3rd)
Parking lot: None

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② Let's walk the old streets in kimonos and yukatas!

The atmosphere of the old townscape makes you feel like you've slipped back in time, making it perfect for walking around in kimono or yukata!

There are many rental shops in the old townscape. All the underwear and geta necessary for dressing are provided, so you can come empty-handed. There are plenty of kimonos for men and children, so couples and families can enjoy themselves. Make it a memory of your trip!

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③ Enjoy Takayama gourmet

Hida beef nigiri sushi

Speaking of Hida Takayama, you can't miss the local gourmet!

Hida Takayama's brand beef "Hida Beef" is characterized by its fine texture and rich aroma. You can of course enjoy it at specialty stores, but it is also very popular as gourmet items that you can take out, such as "Hida beef nigiri", "Hida beef skewers", and "Hida beef steamed buns".

Takayama Ramen

Hida Takayama is also a ramen battleground.

Takayama Ramen, the local ramen of Hida Takayama, is a Chinese noodle dish characterized by its chicken stock-based soy sauce soup and thin, curly noodles. It is said to have originated in the early Showa period (early 20th century) and has been loved by the citizens of Takayama.

It was also noted that the main character ate it in the animated film "Your Name". 

One of the attractions of Hida Takayama is the abundance of gourmet food that is perfect for takeout, such as mitarashi dango, maruppo mandarin oranges, grilled skewers, and lucky cat manju buns.

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④ Wake up early and go! Hida Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market, which has continued since the Edo Period

"Hida Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market" in Hida Takayama has a history that has continued since the Edo period. It is said to be one of the three major morning markets in Japan.

It is held almost every day along the Miyagawa River from Koji Bridge to Yayoi Bridge, and fresh vegetables and fruits, local gourmet foods such as pickles and miso, and folk crafts are lined up.

Surrounded by the soothing sound of the river, shopping while enjoying interaction with the locals is worth getting up early!

[Hida Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market]
Address: Shimo-sannomachi, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Opening hours: April to November: 7am to noon, December to March: 8am to noon
Regular holiday: Open all year round
Parking lot: None

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⑤ Travel back in time to the Showa era “Takayama Showa Museum”

"Takayama Showakan" where you can slip back in time to the Showa era.

The retro townscape of the 30's of the Showa era is reproduced in the hall, and you can experience the world of the Showa era. Full of nostalgic points such as signboards of the time, elementary school classrooms, and a jukebox where you can listen to real records. It is also very popular as a photo spot!

You can also play kendama, shogi (Japanese chess), and NES (Family Computer).

Admission is free to the candy store area located right inside the building. You can buy nostalgic sweets, so please stop by.

[Takayama Showa Museum]
Address: 6 Shimo-ichinomachi, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Business hours: Weekdays 10:00-16:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 10:00-17:00
Regular holiday: Open all year round
Parking lot: None

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⑥ Teddy Bear Museum!
"Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village"

Hida Takayama also has such a cute spot!

​Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village is a teddy bear museum that has been loved by people for generations. Approximately 1,000 teddy bears from all over the world are displayed in the 180-year-old gassho-zukuri traditional house with the theme of "ecology."

At the "Little Bear Cafe" next to the museum, you can enjoy dishes and sweets made with local organic ingredients!

[Hida Takayama Teddy Bear Eco Village]
Address: 3-829-4 Nishino-isshikicho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Business hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Irregular in winter)
Closed: No fixed holidays from April to December (every Wednesday from January to March) *Please inquire just in case.
Parking lot: Yes

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⑦ At Hida Takayama, a furniture production area
Interior shop tour

Hida Takayama is known as one of Japan's representative furniture production areas. Furniture that is carefully made by skilled craftsmen using high-quality natural wood is registered as a trademark of "Hida Furniture®" and attracts fans all over the world.

You can enjoy furniture and interior shops in Hida Takayama. You can come across furniture and woodwork unique to Hida Takayama.

・Hida industry
・Nissin woodworking
・Shirakawa
・Kashiwagi Engineering
・Ibata Interior
・Mokubasya
・Kijiya
・Oak Village

⑧Total length: about 800m
Enjoy a sense of adventure at the Hida Grand Cave

Located at an elevation of 900 meters, the Hida Grand Cave is the highest tourist cave in Japan, with a total length of approximately 800 meters. The most notable feature of the cave is the stalactite "helictite," which is scientifically rare and can only be seen here in Japan.

The limestone cave, which was formed over a period of about 250 million years, is lit up in some places, creating a mystical atmosphere.

The average temperature inside the cave is about 12℃ all year round! It is a perfect place to escape the heat in summer.

From the beginning of January to the beginning of March, you can also enjoy the "Ice Valley", taking advantage of the harsh winter. This is a must-see spot even in winter.

[Hida Great Cave]
Address: Hiyomo, Nyukawa-cho, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Hours: 8:00-17:00 (April-October) | 9:00-16:00 (November-March)
Regular holiday: Open all year round
Parking lot: Yes

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⑨ Take a break at Okuhida Onsengo

Hirayu Onsen

Shinhotaka Onsen

Tochio Hot Spring

Hida Takayama is also an area with an abundance of hot springs. The five hot spring resorts of Hirayu Onsen, Fukuchi Onsen, Shin-Hairayu Onsen, Tochio Onsen, and Shin Hodaka Onsen are called "Okuhida Onsen-kyo.

There are a variety of hot spring resorts as well as day-trip hot spring baths, which are recommended to conclude your trip.

Hirayu Onsen
Hirayu Onsen is the oldest hot spring in the Okuhida Hot Spring Resort area. Located at the entrance to the Gifu Prefecture side of the Abou Tunnel that connects Gifu and Nagano prefectures, it is easily accessible from the Kanto region, and there is a Hirayu bus terminal where shuttle buses to Kamikochi and Norikura-dake Mountains arrive and depart.

Fukuchi Onsen
Fukuchi Onsen is one of the most secluded hot spring resorts in the Okuhida Hot Spring Resort area, surrounded by the quietness of the mountains. The hot spring resort is tucked away from the national highway, creating a tranquil atmosphere. There is a morning market in the hot spring town, where you can buy local specialties such as seasonal vegetables, wild vegetables, natural mushrooms, and folk crafts.

・Shin-Hirayu Onsen
Located in the center of Okuhida Onsengo, it is a hot spring area lined with many restaurants and accommodation facilities, each with its own individuality and charm, from small to large scale, along the national highway. It is known as a place of marriage, where the famous Okuhida water "Daruma water" and the legend of Princess Daruma remain.

Tochio Hot Spring
A hot spring resort spreading out near the confluence of the clear Kamata and Hirayu Rivers, Tochio is characterized by many rustic guesthouses and a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. The Kamata River is also known as a treasure trove of mountain stream fish such as iwana (char) and yamame (landlocked salmon), and is popular among anglers.

Shin Hotaka Onsen
Located at the entrance to the mountain range of the Northern Alps, including the Yarigatake and Hotaka peaks, this hot spring resort area is dotted with accommodations offering scenic views. The Shin Hotaka Ropeway, the most popular sightseeing point in Okuhida Onsenkyo, is located in the area and attracts many tourists.

⑩ One of Japan's three most beautiful festivals
"Takayama Festival" held in spring and autumn

Spring Takayama Festival (Sanno Festival)

The Takayama Festival is one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals. It is a general term that refers to two festivals: the Sanno Festival, which is held at Hie Shrine in spring, and the Hachiman Festival, which is held at Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine in autumn.

The Spring Takayama Festival (Sanno Matsuri) is an annual festival of Hie Shrine and is held on April 14th and 15th every year. Twelve floats, which have been designated as important tangible folk cultural properties of Japan, will appear and tour the town of Takayama.

The highlight of the festival is the "Go-junko (festival procession). The parade of several hundred people, including the portable shrine, lion dancers, cockfighting troupes, and guards in kamishimo (ceremonial dress), is a sight to behold.

Autumn Takayama Festival (Hachiman Festival)

Autumn Takayama Festival (Hachiman Matsuri) is an annual festival of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine and is held on October 9th and 10th every year. Eleven stalls will appear on the north side of Yasukawa-dori, and they will show off their gorgeous appearance.

The Yoimatsuri, which begins in the evening of the 9th, is another highlight of the festival. The floats, each with about 100 lanterns, make their way through the town, singing the traditional Hiki-Farewell song "Takai Yama" as they return to their respective yatai warehouses. The sight of the lanterns swaying is exceptionally beautiful.

[Spring Takayama Festival (Sanno Festival)]

[Autumn Takayama Festival (Hachiman Festival)]

⑪ Above the clouds at an altitude of about 2,200 meters!
"Shinhotaka Ropeway"

If you want to enjoy the magnificent scenery, we recommend the Shinhotaka Ropeway.

Go above the clouds at an altitude of about 2,200 meters on Japan's only double-decker ropeway! The majestic natural scenery from the observatory on the summit was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. You can enjoy a large 360° panorama.

In 2022, "Top Forest" will be reopened!

Visitors can relax on a wooden deck surrounded by virgin forest. You can also enjoy the view while sipping a drink at the counter deck where you can see the ropeway arrivals and departures and the Hakusan area. There is also a wide selection of take-out food such as Hida pork cutlet burgers and Hida beef stew with whole onions!

[Shinhotaka Ropeway]
Address: Shinhotaka Onsen, Okuhida Onsengo, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Business hours: Open all year round (details on the website)
No regular holiday
Parking lot: Yes

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⑫ Let's take a commemorative photo with a cute bear!
"Okuhida Bear Ranch"

Okuhida Bear Park is located in Shin-Hirayu Onsen, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture.

This is a bear park where you can meet more than 100 bears of various personalities, including black bears and cubs. The popular feeding experience is a must-see for all visitors, with each bear striking a unique pose. (Food can be purchased from a vending machine for 100 yen.)

Commemorative photography with a baby Asian black bear is also very popular! You can cuddle a bear and take a commemorative photo.

[Okuhida Bear Park]
Address: 2535 Hitoegane, Okuhida Onsengo, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
Business hours: 8:00-17:00 (*The park closes at 16:30 in winter)
Regular holiday: Open all year round
Parking lot: Yes

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⑬ Enjoy Hida Takayama in each of the four seasons

Spring Takayama Festival (Sanno Festival)

One of the charms of Hida Takayama is that you can enjoy various expressions in each season.

In spring, the annual festival of Hie Shrine, "Spring Takayama Festival (Sanno Festival)" is held. In addition, there are plenty of cherry blossom viewing spots, including the Garyuzakura, a nationally designated natural monument.

Mt. Norikura

In the summer, "Mt. Norikura/Norikura Skyline" is recommended!

From Mt. Norikura, you can see the world above the clouds, including Mt. Yarigatake and the Hotaka mountain range. At Tatamidaira, the end point of the Norikura Skyline, at an altitude of 2,702 meters, there is a flower garden of about 4 hectares, and in the summer, you can enjoy colorful alpine plants such as white, yellow, and pink.

Hida Seseragi Kaido

In autumn, you can enjoy beautiful autumn leaves at various spots such as "Hida/Mino Seseragi Kaido", "Northern Alps Bridge", and "Akigami Dam", which are perfect for driving!

The "Subzero Forest" offers a spectacular view unique to winter. The fantastic art of ice, colorfully illuminated, is enchanting.

Access to Hida Takayama

Finally, we will introduce access to Hida Takayama.

How to get to Hida Takayama from Nagoya

・Limited Express (Limited Express Wide View Hida)
[JR Nagoya Station] → [JR Takayama Station] Approx. 2 hours 20 minutes (no transfer required)

・By car
About 2 hours 05 minutes from Ichinomiya IC via Takayama IC

"JR Tokai Bus, Meitetsu Bus, Nohi Bus" operates from Nagoya. If driving on winter roads is a bit of a challenge for you, please try using trains and buses.

How to get to Hida Takayama from Kansai area

・Limited Express (Limited Express Wide View Hida)
[JR Osaka Station] → [JR Takayama Station] Approx. 4 hours 15 minutes (no transfer required)

・By car
About 4 hours from Toyonaka IC via Takayama IC

If you use the Limited Express Wide View Hida, it takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes without changing trains.

How to get to Hida Takayama from Kanto area

・Limited Express (Limited Express Wide View Hida)
[JR Tokyo Station] → [JR Toyama Station] → [JR Takayama Station] About 3 hours 38 minutes

・By car
About 4 hours 20 minutes from Chofu via Matsumoto IC

There are two ways to get from Tokyo Station to Takayama Station: via Nagoya or via Toyama.
About 3 hours and 38 minutes via Toyama. With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, access from the Kanto area has become even better.

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We introduced 13 recommended sightseeing spots in Hida Takayama.

It takes about 2 hours by car from Nagoya to Hida Takayama. It's a recommended spot for a weekend trip, so be sure to check it out.