Explore Natural Sites: 11 Things To Do In Takayama, Gifu

1. Shiroyama Park

If you’ve just arrived in Takayama and need a small retreat to relax in, then there’s no better place than Shiroyama Park. The spacious park has a large variety of trees and foliage, and there are several walking trails, which end at the towering Takayama Castle.

Shiroyama Park

Address: 1-1 Shiroyama, Takayama 506-0822, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Shiroyama Park

2. Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine

Ancient Japanese shrines are fascinating and worth visiting, whether you’re interested in their history, architecture, or are just seeking a place of worship. Takayama’s oldest shrine is the Sakurayama Hashimangu, which holds the local Autumn Festival every October, featuring large float lanterns. This shrine is located near the river and is surrounded by large trees that only add to its serene atmosphere.

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine

Address: 178 Sakuramachi, Takayama 506-0858, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine (in Japanese)

3. Shinhotaka Ropeway

The Sinhotaka Ropeway is the ideal way to view the Japanese Alps and breathe in that fresh mountain air. And during a clear day, you’ll be able to view the snow covered mountain tops from the observation deck.

Shinhotaka Ropeway

Address: Okuhidaonsengo Kansaka, Shinhodaka, Takayama 506-1421, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Shinhotaka Ropeway (in Japanese)

4. Ciao Ontake Snow Resort

With the Japanese Alps in close proximity to Takayama, it makes sense to get out there and do some skiing. The Ciao Ontake Snow Resort is well equipped and has English-speaking staff on hand to make your visit enjoyable and memorable. The region receives so much snow that it’s possible to ski at this resort even during the warmer months of the year.

Ciao Ontake Snow Resort

Address: 1739-1 Takanemachi Hiwada, Takayama 509-3403, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Ciao Ontake Snow Resort (in Japanese)

5. Hida Minzoka Mura Folk Village

Experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle by visiting the Hida Minzoka Mura Folk Village or Hida no Sato. This picturesque village features the traditional houses that the region is known for, and the best part is that visitors can get close and personal with them. There’s also plenty of interactive exhibits and museums that will give you greater insight about the village.

Hida Minzoka Mura Folk Village

Address: 1-590 Kamiokamotomachi, 506-0055, Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Chubu, Japan

Website: Hida Minzoka Mura Folk Village

6. Takayama Food and Culture Walking Day Tour

Take in the sights, sounds, and glorious tastes of Takayama with this 2.5-hour tour. Exploring the historic parts of Takayama, and the various stores dealing in miso, sweets, tofu, and sake, is the main highlight of the tour. Moreover, visitors will interact with the local business owners and experience the hustle and bustle of the morning market.

Takayama Food and Culture Walking Day Tour

Address: 1-22-2 Showamachi, iCafe Takayama, Takayama 506-0053, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Takayama Food and Culture Walking Day Tour

7. Hikaru Museum

The Hikaru Museum is an impressive anthropological and archeological museum that houses artifacts and art works from the past. Visitors will be in awe at all the ancient Mayan, Egyptian, and Japanese items on display. Furthermore, the museum’s architecture gives one the impression that it’s from a different era.

Hikaru Museum

Address: 175 Nakayamamachi, Takayama 506-0051, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Hikaru Museum (in Japanese)

8. Hida Daishonyudo Cave

There’s a unique limestone cave near Takayama, which can be accessed via a shuttle bus. The Hida Daishonyudo Cave takes around an hour to explore entirely. There’s also an accompanying museum built right next to the cave, which houses a range of some intricately detailed artifacts.

Hida Daishonyudo Cave

Address: 1147 Nyukawacho Hiyomo, Takayama 506-2256, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Hida Daishonyudo Cave

9. Takayama Jinya

The Takayama Jinya is a collective of government buildings that served as the headquarters of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan between the 17th and 19th centuries. The buildings have many rooms that are fun to explore, and free guided tours in English are available at times.

Takayama Jinya

Address: 1-5 Hachikemmachi, Takayama 506-0012, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Takayama Jinya

10. Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall

One of the most notable floats festivals in Japan is held right here in Takayama. So what happens to these immaculately constructed floats once the festival season ends? Well, they’re lovingly displayed together with lifelike statues of people wearing their traditional garments at the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall. It’s open throughout the year, and it takes around 30 minutes to view the entire exhibition.

Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall

Address: 178 Sakura-machi, Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall

11. Sanmachi Suji

Takoyama’s historic district is where you’ll find Sanmaji Suji, often referred to as Sanmachi-dori. This rustic part of the town will blow you away with its large variety of miso shops, sake breweries, traditional crafts shops, and classic Japanese sweet shops.

Sanmachi Suji

Address: Kamiichino-machi, Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan

Website: Sanmachi Suji

Nature and culture all in one spot

One of the best things about Takayama is that gorgeous natural environments are in close proximity to important historic buildings. Takayama is also home to a prominent floats festival, and many local small businesses that have much to offer travelers of all kind.