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Traditional craft town in the heart of the Japanese Alps

Meaning “Tall Mountain”, you’ll find Takayama in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture. Its remote location means that it’s remained somewhat isolated from the rest of Japan, creating and conserving a unique cultural character.

Experience the traditional atmosphere that permeates this special city, especially in its beautifully preserved old town. The layout dates back to the late 17th century and ancient buildings such as the Takayama Jinya abound. A historic government house built by the central government, the Jinya is the only remaining office of its kind in Japan. Takaya has been renowned as an important craft town since the feudal ages. Visit in spring and autumn for the The Takayama Festival and you’ll see this great heritage being celebrated in intricately crafted festival floats.

Discover Meiji-era inns, hillside shrines, temple, traditional houses and sake breweries. The city incorporates a plentitude of museums, galleries and temples for such a compact space. Excellent infrastructure makes getting around a breeze, but you can easily explore Takayama on foot. Nearby mountains such as Mount Norikura are popular for sightseeing and trekking while in the winter you’ll find many skiing resorts in the area. Takayama beckons you, and you should follow.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our Takayama specialists

Marvel at arts and crafts

Learn more about folk crafts such as sashiko patchwork and hanga wood block prints, intricate wood carvings and shunkeinuri lacquerware.

Explore the Hida countryside

Walk or cycle through the Hida area, located deep within the Japanese Alps.

Taste local cuisine

Try locally-made sake and indulge in traditional wagyu kushiyaki (beef skewers) .

Luxury accommodation in Takayama

There are many incredible places to stay in Takayama. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

  • Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

  • Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

  • Responsible travel

    Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Japan example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

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Whatever you want from your Takayama adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Where to go

When to visit Japan

The best time to visit Takayama is during the spring and autumn months to witness the traditions of the seasonal festivals.

Spring festival

April

Autumn festival

October

When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

Japan travel guides

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Whatever you want from your adventure in Takayama, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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