If you’re looking to escape the bustling cities of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, and dive into a place that feels untouched by the tourist rush, let me introduce you to Takayama. Nestled in the serene foothills of the Japanese Alps, this charming town was exactly what I was searching for: a blend of accessibility, authenticity, and that elusive “undiscovered” vibe.
I was on the hunt for a spot that was easy to reach by train and offered a genuine cultural experience—something picturesque to serve as a base camp for day trips, yet off the beaten path. Takayama turned out to be the perfect find.
Getting to Takayama is a breeze with the Shinkansen (bullet train) and regional rail lines connecting it to Tokyo. Despite its modest size of around 85,000 residents, Takayama boasts a wealth of charm, especially in its old town, Sanmachi Suji. Picture this: three quaint streets that date back to the Edo period (we’re talking Shogun times here). It’s like stepping into a living history book where time seems to stand still. This part of town isn’t some staged tourist attraction; it’s the real deal, with authentic businesses and homes that offer a genuine glimpse into Japanese life from 1602 to 1864.
One of the highlights of my mornings in Takayama was exploring the local markets. Every day, two markets bring the town to life. The Jinya-mae Market, set in front of the Takayama Jinya, is a smaller affair mostly frequented by locals picking up fresh produce. But it was the Miyagawa Market along the picturesque Miyagawa River that truly stole my heart. This bustling market offers everything from fresh food and flowers to desserts, jewelry, and handmade crafts. After my morning run, I’d find myself meandering through the Miyagawa Market, chatting with local vendors using my limited Japanese, and soaking in the vibrant rhythm of daily life. There’s something extraordinary about experiencing a place through its markets. They’re the heart and soul of a community, offering a peek into the pride and craftsmanship of the locals.
Spending time exploring Takayama also meant diving into some gastronomic delights. This area of Japan is renowned for Hida beef—a marbled, melt-in-your-mouth delicacy that’s truly unique to this region. And, with numerous sake breweries scattered around, we crafted our own tasting tour, hopping from one brewery to the next and sampling a variety of sakes. Don’t miss out on trying handmade soba noodles either—these traditional buckwheat noodles are a real treat. Ebisu Soba Restaurant in the old town uses a 5th-generation recipe to make the noodles fresh daily. While you're in Takayama, make sure to visit this restaurant that's been serving up delicious meals since 1898!
Using Takayama as a home base makes it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby villages. A quick 15-minute train ride takes you to Hida-Furukawa Station, where we joined a fantastic bike tour organized by Satoyama Experience. Our guide, Nanami, was exceptional—she not only showed us beautiful rice fields and charming alleyways but also made a reservation for us at her favorite sushi spot. Her local knowledge and warm personality made the tour unforgettable.
Another must-see village accessible from Takayama is Shirakawa-go. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its Gassho-zukuri houses with steep, prayer-like roofs. Buses run from Takayama to Shirakawa-go several times a day, but if I had the chance to do it again, I’d stay overnight. Experiencing Shirakawa-go at sunrise or sunset, after the day-visitors have left, would offer a tranquil glimpse into its stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
So, if you’re planning your next adventure and want to delve into a corner of Japan that’s a bit off the radar, Takayama might be your perfect destination. It’s a place where you can savor authentic culture, discover culinary delights, and enjoy breathtaking scenery—all while staying just a step off the well-trodden tourist trails.
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