Takayama Old Town
Street food, sake breweries and ancient crafts at Sanmachi-Suji District
What to see in Takayama Old Town
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Japanese Alps, Takayama’s Old Town takes visitors on a journey to a bygone era where tradition and craftsmanship thrived. Known locally as Sanmachi Suji, this meticulously preserved district of narrow streets and wooden merchant houses offers a window into life during Japan’s Edo Period (1603–1868). Once a thriving center of trade and artisanal excellence, Takayama has maintained its historic allure, earning the nickname "Little Kyoto of the Hida Region".
Takayama rose to prominence during the Edo era as a center for carpentry, timber, and sake production. Its strategic location in the mountains made it an ideal place for artisans and merchants to thrive under the Tokugawa Shogunate. Unlike many Japanese cities, Takayama escaped the ravages of war and modernization, leaving its historic core beautifully intact.
While wandering through the streets of the old town, you cannot miss the historic and well-preserved merchant houses, such as the Yoshijima Heritage House and the Kusakabe Folk Museum. Here, you can admire the minimalist yet elegant interior design and learn about traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Additionally, a visit to Takayama Jinya, a well-preserved Edo-era government office, offers further insight into the history and administration of the region.
When strolling through Sanmachi Suji, it’s possible to observe the traditional dark-wood houses, many of which date back over two centuries. These homes, once occupied by wealthy merchants, now house quaint shops, museums, sake breweries and tea houses.
Attractions near Takayama Old Town
What to Eat in Takayama Old Town
Takayama is a food lover’s dream, especially for those who want to experience the famous Hida beef, one of the region’s signature dishes. Known for its marbled texture and rich flavor, Hida beef is a must-try when visiting the city. You can enjoy it in a variety of ways: as sukiyaki (a sweet soy-based hot pot), shabu-shabu (thinly sliced beef cooked in a hot broth), or simply grilled as teppanyaki. One of the best places to savor this luxurious beef is at Hida Beef Restaurant Gyū, which specializes in expertly cooked Hida beef steaks.
Takayama is known for its rich, locally made sugi-miso, a savory paste used in everything from soups to grilled dishes. One of the best ways to experience it is through Hoba Miso, where miso is grilled on a magnolia leaf, often with mushrooms or Hida beef, adding a smoky depth of flavor.
Miso is also a main ingredient in many Takayama street food delights such as Gohei Mochi. This must-try snack is rice dumplings skewer grilled and coated in a sweet-savory miso glaze. Gohei Mochi are a usually found in the historic Sanmachi Suji district and are a perfect companion while strolling through the old merchant streets while looking for its famous sake.
The nearby Takayama Morning Market, located in front of the Takayama Jinya, is another fantastic spot for local food. Here, you can sample fresh produce, pickled vegetables, and small snacks like the crispy Sugi-miso Rice Crackers or freshly prepared Soba noodles.
How to Get to Takayama Old Town
Takayama Old Town is located in city of Takayama. Check our Takayama page to get details on how to Takayama from major cities nearby.
Takayama Old Town is very close to the station. Once at Takayama train station you can walk a short for 15 minutes to reach the Sanmachi-Suji District .
Where to Stay near Takayama Old Town
Takayama is a small city but already very developed for tourism and thus it offers a wide variety of charming accommodations. Whether looking for luxury, tradition, or affordability, Takayama has the perfect option for a memorable stay.
For a luxurious, traditional experience, ryokans like Oyado Koto No Yume provide an elegant setting with tatami-mat rooms and beautiful garden views, perfect for those seeking a peaceful, authentic Japanese stay.
If you're looking for a more modern option with great amenities, hotels like Hotel Associa Takayama Resort offer spacious rooms, stunning mountain views, and an onsen baths, ideal for relaxation after exploring the area.
For budget travelers, hostels such as K's House Takayama Quality Hostel offer a cozy, affordable stay with both dormitory and private rooms, making it a great choice for those looking to meet fellow travelers without sacrificing comfort.
Top Hotel Recommendation in Takayama
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