What other travelers are saying about Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)
Wonderful museum with a lot to explore. The village contains a beautiful lake, trees with autumn leaves, small rice farms, and several torii gates and shrines (including one with beautiful ceiling paintings), which add to the scenic atmosphere. Similar to Shirakawago, there are a number of thatched houses in the gassho-zukuri style. I personally preferred this museum as there are much fewer tourists than Shirakawago (especially those in big tour groups) and it feels quainter and more serene.
Apart from the beautiful scenery, the museum is also highly educational. There are exhibits about numerous aspects of village life in the past, ranging from architecture, to traditional industries (e.g. straw & silk weaving, wooden sleds used for transportation, farming tools), food (types of crops eaten, miso fermentation), children's toys, and even ceremonies such as wedding rituals. The information panels generally have high-quality English translations and offer very detailed insights into village life. It was clear that a lot of effort and heart went into collating the exhibits and documenting their history, ensuring that such knowledge is not lost amidst modern technological advancement.
You can either walk to the museum from Takayama, or take the Sarubobo bus from Takayama Nohi bus centre (bus ride is less than 20 mins). As IC cards are not allowed on the Sarubobo bus, you can buy a ticket from the bus centre for 210 yen (one-way).
More about Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato) from our blog
Day guides that include Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, visitors can participate in several traditional crafts and activities, such as making Hida woodcrafts, weaving, and trying on traditional clothing.
A typical visit lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing time to explore the buildings, participate in activities, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Yes, the village is conveniently located just a short bus ride from Takayama Station. Buses run regularly, and the journey takes about 10 minutes, making it easily accessible for tourists.
There is a small café on-site where visitors can enjoy light meals and snacks, often featuring local specialties. Additionally, there are picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the scenic views.
Missed the entry time (closes at 4:00 PM!), but the walk around the perimeter was worth it. The traditional houses look stunning in the snow—it gives the whole place a very 'frozen in time' feel. If you are a photographer, you will love the views here regardless of the time. Can't wait to come back and see the interiors next time!
Nice place to come and learn about the location's past historical significance, the japanese way of life.
During winter light up, it is even nicer with the bright decorative lights. But be aware the entry timing and last bus timings, I had to walk back to town about 1/2 hour cos there's no more buses.
Overall nice place to visit!
I originally wanted to visit the folk village an hour away by bus, but since I didn’t have enough time, this reconstructed village turned out to be a perfect alternative. Several types of traditional houses from different eras are faithfully recreated here, and you can freely step inside each of them. Don’t forget to complete the stamp rally! (The stamp book is sold separately right after the entrance.)
I had a great time in this park. It’s beautiful, especially in autumn at sunset: the light shines through the foliage, a few leaves fall with the wind, and the moment becomes truly magical.
There weren’t many people during my visit. Just be careful with the bus schedule: there aren’t many buses, and the last one leaves at 5:09pm
I first ended up here by accident years ago on our way to Shirakawago, and coming back to Takayama now, this place is still an absolute delight. The staff are very polite and helpful, and the whole area is such a beautiful cultural space for walking around and taking photos. It looks especially magical in winter.
Every time we stepped into one of the village houses, it honestly felt like saying “excuse me, sorry for disturbing,” because everything feels so real and authentic. We cannot help but think that the people who once lived here probably never imagined their everyday lives would be preserved and visited like this centuries later. Such a special and memorable place.
