6 Best Things to do in Takayama
Planning a trip to Takayama? You’ve come to the right place!
Takayama sits in Japan’s mountainous Hida region, and it’s the perfect base for exploring traditional villages and scenic landscapes. The city itself has a lot to offer, too, and its old town is actually one of the best-preserved in Japan, and there are plenty of ways to soak up traditional culture here.
When we first visited Takayama, we were a bit overwhelmed trying to decide what to do, but we had a great time exploring in the end. So now, we’ve rounded up the top things to do here to help you make the most of your time.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full-day tour to Takayama and Shirakawa-go! We loved exploring Takayama’s historic streets, sampling local treats, and seeing Shirakawa-go’s thatched houses—all without worrying about logistics!
Things to do in Takayama
1. Visit the historic thatched villages of Shirakawago and Gokayama
- Duration: 7-8 hours
- Time: 8:30 am
- Highlights: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage villages of Ainokura, Suganuma, and Shirakawa-go, explore traditional gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses, enjoy scenic mountain landscapes
- Inclusions: Air-conditioned sightseeing bus, English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, Tenshukakau Observatory admission, outdoor museum admission
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 110+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re hoping to explore Japan’s iconic thatched villages without the stress of navigating rural roads, this full-day sightseeing bus tour from Takayama is the perfect choice! The tour takes you through the World Heritage-listed villages of Gokayama, Ainokura, and Shirakawa-go. These are both remote areas that are pretty difficult to get to by yourself, but the tour makes it super easy to explore.
The day kicks off with a visit to Ainokura Gassho Community in Gokayama. Here, you can wander among 20 traditional gassho-zukuri houses, which are famous for their steep, triangular roofs that are designed to withstand heavy snow. Many of these homes are actually still inhabited by local families!
Next, you’ll head to Shirakawa-go, where over 100 gassho-zukuri houses still retain the nostalgic scenery of old Japan. You’ll have plenty of time to stroll the streets and explore the Gassho-zukuri Minkaen, a folk museum showcasing traditional interiors and lifestyles.
Finally, the day will wrap up with amazing views from the Tenshukaku Observatory! Seeing Shirakawa-go framed by mountains and forests is the perfect note to end on.
All in all, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free day visiting Japan’s most famous thatched villages. And you don’t just have to take our word for it—read all of the 5-star reviews here!
Book this tour and explore remote villages few tourists see!
2. Spend a full day exploring Takayama and Shirakawago
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Explore Takayama’s highlights, see the UNESCO World Heritage villages of Ainokura, Suganuma, and Shirakawa-go, admire traditional thatched houses
- Inclusions: Air-conditioned sightseeing bus, English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, Tenshukakau Observatory admission, outdoor museum admission
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Takayama and Shirakawa-go on this full-day guided tour means you get to experience two of Japan’s most iconic destinations in a single day, so we highly recommend it! The itinerary is perfectly paced, and having transport included means you don’t have to worry about navigating rural roads or finding parking.
Our day started in Takayama with a visit to Takayama Jinya, which is a beautifully preserved government outpost from the Edo period. As we explored its rooms and halls, we got a real sense of how officials lived and worked. Our guide, Yoshi, also taught us a lot about Takayama’s role in regional history, which was super interesting.
Next, we visited the Sanmachi Suji district to check out the traditional wooden houses and artisan shops. We popped into a few different shops to admire the woodwork, and Yoshi gave us more insight into local craftsmanship.
Afterwards, we visited the Hida-Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market. This was my favorite part of the tour because we got to try fresh produce and local delicacies! Then it was off to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village, where we saw the famous gassho-zukuri houses. We had some free time to explore the area on our own, and Yoshi’s tips helped us find the best viewpoints and photo spots.
This tour is a true deep dive into the Hida region. We definitely left with a greater appreciation of the area’s cultural richness, and we loved not having to worry about directions or logistics.
Ready to explore Japan’s heartlands? Book this tour here with free cancellation!
3. Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway, panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps, explore Kamikochi, stroll along the Azusa River to the Kappa Bridge
- Inclusions: Round-trip transportation from Takayama, English-speaking guide, Shinhotaka Ropeway tickets
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We had the BEST time exploring Japan’s Northern Alps on this full-day guided tour. It does an incredible job of showcasing Japan’s most pristine natural landscapes, and having everything organized for us made it so easy to explore.
The day started with a scenic drive out to the Shinhotaka Ropeway, which is a two-stage ropeway ride. The views were breathtaking, and only got better the higher we ascended, and then we visited the observation deck at the top for unobstructed panoramas!
After the ropeway, we headed to Kamikochi, which offered a stark contrast to the snowy peaks! We enjoyed a guided walk along the Azusa River, which is startlingly clear and surrounded by lush green hillside. After the walk, we had some time to explore Kamikochi on our own, which we used to visit Myojin Pond, which reflects the surrounding greenery in its still waters.
Exploring Japan’s Northern Alps on your own can be challenging. The region is huge and varied, and none of the signs are in English, but joining a tour takes away all the stress of navigation and planning. On this guided trip, everything is taken care of, from transport to ropeway tickets, which leaves you free to focus on the scenery and experiences. It also ensures you don’t waste time getting lost or missing out on hidden gems.
Book this tour here with free cancellation!
4. Taste your way through Takayama
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: Multiple departures between 8 am and 11 am
- Highlights: Taste a variety of local Hida specialties, visit sake breweries, learn about Takayama’s culinary culture, explore traditional markets and local food shops
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, food and sake tastings, walking tour of Takayama’s old town
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Takayama on this local cuisine and cultural tour is a standout way to explore the city’s rich culinary heritage. It’s led by a nationally licensed guide, which means you’ll not only get to taste local specialties, but also gain deep insight into the history and traditions that shape Takayama!
This tour itinerary is great because it includes visits to historic sites like Takayama Jinya and the charming streets of the Sanmachi Suji district. Along the way, you’ll also check out the Hida-Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market and the smaller Jinya-Mae Market to sample fresh produce and local snacks—yum!
A big highlight is visiting some of Takayama’s traditional breweries. And I’m not just talking about sake breweries (although you’ll hit two of those), because you’ll also get to visit a miso and soy brewery, which is over 250 years old. Then, at the sake breweries, you’ll get to try regional snacks that have been baked with sake, like sake-steamed manju buns.
What sets this tour apart is the balance between food and culture. The guide explains the local ingredients and cooking techniques, but also talks about the cultural context behind each experience. You’ll leave with a full stomach, as well as a real appreciation for the city’s cuisine. And since it’s a private tour, you can customize it to your liking, and you’ll have your guide’s undivided attention!
Book this unique cultural and culinary experience here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
5. Join a Takayama family to cook classic Japanese dishes
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departures between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Hands-on Japanese cooking experience in a traditional Takayama townhouse learn to prepare authentic local dishes, gain insight into regional ingredients and techniques, enjoy the meal you’ve prepared
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, all ingredients and cooking equipment, step-by-step cooking instruction, lunch or dinner included
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This Japanese cooking class in Takayama’s Old Town offers an intimate and authentic experience in a 200-year-old family townhouse that has been carefully preserved over generations. Unlike larger, impersonal classes, this tour provides a personal connection with your hosts, who are deeply rooted in the local culture but also fluent in English.
The class begins with a traditional welcome of Japanese tea and wagashi, which are traditional plant-based sweets. From there, you’ll step into the semi-outdoor kitchen where you’ll learn to make a variety of dishes. The menu changes according to what’s in season, but dishes you might prepare include Hoba sushi wrapped in magnolia leaves, rolled omelettes, miso soup, and tempura. And since this is a private tour, the menu can be adapted to accommodate your dietary restrictions and preferences.
As you cook, your hosts share insights into life in Takayama and the traditions of Japanese home cooking. This is something I always appreciate in a cooking class because it adds a lot of depth and context to the dishes you’re preparing.
This is a beginner-friendly experience, so you don’t have to be a practiced chef to participate! I think it’s a must for anyone interested in Japanese cuisine. It’s no surprise this experience only has five-star reviews—check them out here to see why travelers love it just as much as we did!
Ready to cook like a local? Book this immersive cooking class here!
6. Take part in a Japanese tea ceremony in a machiya
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple times between 9 am and 6 pm
- Highlights: Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a 200-year-old townhouse, learn about local tea culture and seasonal sweets, explore the family’s historic private home
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, tea ceremony experience with wagashi, guided tour of the townhouse
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for something wholesome to do in Takayama, I think that this Japanese tea ceremony takes the cake—or rather, the wagashi!
This experience is held in a beautifully preserved Machiya townhouse, which is a rare example of traditional Edo-period architecture. In fact, it’s over 200 years old! Unlike many other Machiya that have lost their original form, this house retains both its historical charm and structural integrity, so it offers an authentic glimpse into life in old Takayama. It has functioned as both a family home and an obstetrics clinic, so it has a pretty unique history, too!
Before the tea ceremony begins, Bob-san will give you a tour of his home and share a little about the principles of Machiya design. Then, when the ceremony itself begins, you’ll be served high-quality Japanese green tea. It’s prepared with care and precision, along with seasonal fruits and delicate wagashi sweets.
But a Japanese tea ceremony is about more than just the food. It’s a very deliberate combination of precise movements and careful preparation, and every step has a deeper meaning behind it! We just love that it takes place in a local home, too, because it offers a rare glimpse into everyday life in Takayama while still honoring centuries-old traditions.
Honestly, you really have to experience a tea ceremony for yourself in order to understand the art of Japanese hospitality, so don’t miss this elegant and educational experience in Takayama.
Ready for a taste of tradition? Book this Japanese tea experience here!
Where to Stay in Takayama
Now that you know what to do in Takayama, it’s time to think about where to stay! The best area is Hida-Takayama Old Town, right in the heart of the city. This is where you’ll find Takayama’s famously well-preserved old buildings, and staying here puts you within easy reach of the best markets, attractions, and restaurants.
And since it’s a popular area for visitors, Hida-Takayama Old Town offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget, from cozy guesthouses to boutique ryokans. To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up our top picks below.
Luxury – $$$
Staying in a ryokan is a must-do experience while in Japan, and Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan is a truly exceptional choice. It offers an authentic Japanese stay right in the heart of Takayama Old Town, just steps from the morning markets and historic streets. We love the way that this property blends classic Japanese style with modern luxury.
One of our favorite things about staying in a ryokan is enjoying a traditional kaiseki dinner, and this place really does it right, with plenty of local Hida beef on the menu. There’s also an indoor onsen, and the staff truly could not be nicer. This place encapsulates everything that’s great about Japanese hospitality!
Rooms and suites typically cost between $450 and $900 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Wood Takayama is a modern hotel, but it still has lots of traditional Japanese design elements. We think it offers fantastic value for money, and it’s also a great choice for families as there are spacious family rooms available, or you can add a crib for free to a double or twin room.
The property is in a fantastic location, close to attractions such as the Fuji Folk Museum and the Yoshijima Heritage House, while Takayama Station is also just a short walk away. You’ve also got an onsen on site, as well as a spa, a bar, and a spacious lounge where you can kick back between excursions.
Rooms here cost between $135 and $350 USD per night, depending on your dates and room category. Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!
Budget – $
Chisun Grand Takayama is a budget-friendly hotel that still offers comfort and a convenient central location. It’s just a two-minute walk from Takayama Station, and it’s close to attractions like the Fuji Folk Museum and Takayama Festival Float Exhibition Hall, so it’s super easy to explore the city here.
The hotel also has a spa and wellness center and sauna. Guests can also enjoy free bicycle rentals, which make it easy to explore the area at your own pace and cover a lot of ground in a short space of time.
Expect to pay between $75 and $300 USD per night. Secure the best prices by booking your stay here!
Still searching for the right place to stay? Browse all the top hotels in Takayama here.
Related Read: Need more info before booking a room? See our complete Where to Stay in Takayama guide to discover the different areas and hotel options at a range of budgets!
Renting a Car in Japan
Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
- Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
- Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
- Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
- A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
- Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Takayama truly captures the charm of old Japan—from its beautifully preserved streets and morning markets to the nearby mountain villages that feel frozen in time. Whether you’re here for the food, history, or traditional crafts, we hope this guide helps you plan the perfect trip to Takayama!
Don’t forget to check out our other Japan blogs here for more travel inspiration, including detailed itineraries, food experiences, and where to stay guides. Or check out some of our most popular guides below to get started!
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