19 Incredible Things to Do in TAKAYAMA, Japan [2024 Guide]

Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Takayama, Japan!

Takayama is one of the most charming and historic cities in central Japan. If you are overwhelmed with the tourists in Kyoto or the crowds of Tokyo, Takayama is the perfect Japanese destination for you.

Takayama is great to visit in spring and autumn for the Takayama Festival, which is held twice a year.

But it’s also a wonderful choice for a summer visit when the weather will be sublime.

In Takayama, you can while away the hours wandering the winding streets and admiring the adorable wooden houses.

You can shop for traditional crafts and dine on local specialties. Or you can even take day trips to exciting nearby locations like the stunning Japanese Alps.

No matter what you are looking for, Takayama won’t disappoint!

READ MORE: Plan your trip to central Japan with our Japan Travel Guide.

The Best Things to Do in Takayama

No matter what your interests are, there are plenty of incredible things to do in Takayama!

Takayama Station is well connected to other Japanese cities. No matter what your plans are for your Japan itinerary, just hop on a train into Takayama Station and begin exploring.

From the Takayama Jinya, to the Kusakabe Folk Museum, to the sake breweries, traditional houses, nearby villages, and more, there is so much to see here.

1) Meander Through a Morning Market

The best way to start any day in Takayama is at one of the morning markets. There are two major morning markets in Takayama.

The first is called Miyagawa Market, and it’s located on the Miyagawa River. (Gawa actually means river in Japanese.)

The Miyagawa Market sells both food and traditional local crafts. Many of the vendors speak English, and they will be excited to talk to you about their products. 

The other market, the Jinya-mae Market, is more of a food market. Here you will be able to peruse an enticing amount of fresh, local produce.

The stalls at this market also sell prepared foods, like homemade jam.

Don’t be surprised if one of the vendors lets you sample the jam by dropping some directly into your hands!

Fruit from this market is the perfect way to start a morning. 

If you have time, you should definitely book into a walking tour of the city.

2) Stroll Along the Miyagawa River

No trip to Takayama is complete without a relaxing walk along the Miyagawa River.

This river contains some of the cleanest and clearest water you will ever see. It actually seems to sparkle like a…