The Hida Takayama old townscape preserves the atmosphere of Japan's Edo period in a mountain setting in northern Gifu Prefecture. Established in the late 1500s by feudal lord Kanamori Nagachika, the town developed as a prosperous merchant center thanks to its lucrative resources of high-quality lumber and master carpenters. From 1692, the area came under direct control of the Tokugawa shogunate for 177 years, reflecting its economic importance to the central government.
The historic district centers on Sanmachi Suji, comprising three main streets lined with beautifully preserved merchant homes dating back to the Edo Period (1603-1868) that showcase distinctive latticed windows. These districts are designated as Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The buildings continue to function much as they did centuries ago, housing shops, restaurants, and sake breweries, many still operated by descendants of the original merchant families. The town's woodworking heritage remains evident throughout, with craftsmen historically known as "Hida no Takumi" considered master woodworkers whose skills were so valued they were required to work in Nara and Kyoto as a form of taxation over 1,300 years ago.
Visitors can explore numerous sake breweries identified by sugidama (cedar branch balls) hanging above their entrances, with tasting opportunities available at many locations. The Takayama Jinya, a former government office from the feudal era, is open daily from 8:45 to 17:00 (16:30 from November to February) with admission of 440 yen.
Two morning markets operate daily—the Jinya-mae market (6:00 to 12:00, from 7:00 January to March) and the Miyagawa market (7:00 to 12:00, from 8:00 December to March)—selling local crafts, produce, and traditional items. The area also features several heritage houses, temples, and museums documenting local history and culture. The old town itself has no entrance fee as it is a public area, though individual attractions charge admission.
The old town sits approximately ten minutes on foot from JR Takayama Station. Hourly JR Hida limited express trains connect Nagoya and Takayama in approximately 150 minutes, with fares around 6,000 yen. Highway buses also operate between Nagoya and Takayama, taking about 2.5 hours and costing 3,600 yen one way. Within Takayama, the Machinami Bus and Sarubobo Bus lines run from the station around the town center, with fares of 100 yen per ride or 500 yen for a one-day pass. Most attractions in the historic center are easily accessible on foot.
