Travel guide
Takayama
Situated more than 650m above sea level and surrounded by the brooding peaks of the Japan Alps, Hida Takayama is a castle town at the foot of Takayama Castle, built in the 16th century.
It is a town of old wooden houses standing side-by-side, highlighted by projecting lattice and eaves of uniform height, draws visitors' attention.
The Takayama-matsuri Festival, believed to have begun in the 16th to 17th century, is one of the three largest and most beautiful festivals in Japan and held in spring and fall.
During the festival, intricate floats roam the city. The floats, utilizing the essence of Hida's traditional techniques, are dazzling and magnificent.
In spring, Hie-jinja Shrine plays a main role, while in the fall Sakura-yama Hachiman-gu Shrine plays a main role.
Tens of thousands of Japanese descend on the town in spring and again in autumn to join the celebrations.
Even if you are not in town during the festival you can catch a sight of the yatai (floats) in the Yatai Museum.
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