Enjoyable in Hida Takayama! Authentic Edomae-style sushi, Matsuki Sushi

The current “Hida Kokubunji Temple” was rebuilt on the ruin of the Kokubunji Temple built in Tempyo era. Especially, the “Triple-Storied Pagoda” rebuilt in 1821 on the ruin of "Seven-Storied Pagoda" is said to be the only pagoda among Kokubunji Temples in Japan. The current “Hondo” (main temple pavilion) was rebuilt on the site of old Kondo pavilion built in Tempyo era. The principal image of Buddha "Yakushi Nyorai Onzo" made in Tempyo era and the principal image of Buddha “Seikanzeon Bosatsu” of "Kokubunniji Temple” are designated as National Important Cultural Treasures. There is a huge ginko tree called “Chichi-icho”over 1200 years old, standing in front of Hondo pavilion, is designated as Natural Monument.

Old Town is well preserved in Takayama from the Edo period, in the style of the castle town and the merchant town as they were. In this town, you can see a line up of unique old houses such as traditional sake brewery and folk art museum, as well as old fashioned rickshaws and waterwheels with the atmosphere of the period. Miyagawa River runs through just aside the street, where you can find carp and river fish swimming in the clear water in warm seasons; you can feel relaxed and refreshed mentally and physically, soothing away the tiredness from your trip. This area is called "Little Kyoto of Hida" and has recently won three-stars in the Michelin tour guidebook. Why don’t you take a walk?

The “Kusakabe Mingeikan” designated as National Important Cultural Treasure is the typical and popular architecture of private houses in the deep snow region, with low, deep, and heavy eaves and elegant slender latticework windows (degoshi) in the dignified structure. This archetecture is featured by its aesthetic space represented by dynamically arranged bold beams and an unfloored room, This can be deemed to be a compilation of a private house architecture in which the traditional techniques, as it was in Edo era, are integrated and optimized. The Irori (open hearth provided on the floor) telling daily lives of old days, the large Buddhist altar, and other items will fully attract visitors. It is surely enjoyable to visit and watch the popular folk building. After looking around in the museum, you will receive warm hospitality service with tea and rice cracker from the director of the Museum.

Morning market is held almost every morning on the street (Simosanno-cho street) along the Miyagawa River. This morning market is nominated as one of the three biggest morning markets in Japan and popular among tourists and local citizens. In this market, many shops, of which number depends on seasons and weather conditions, are selling local seasonal vegetables, folk crafts, and traditional handworks, in addition to local specialties of Takayama. Some shops are serving foods and drinks. It is also recommended to walk around trying to taste local snacks such as Dango (sweet rice dumpling) and sake, seeking for souvenirs.

The Edo government placed the Hida Province under the direct control of the Edo government in 1692, aiming to take over rich forestall and mineral resources of Takayama, and demolished the local Takayama Castle. After that, this Takayama Jinya functioned as the regional government office of magistrate during the Edo period. After the Meiji Revolution, it also functioned as prefectural government office or prefecture office. As this is the only remaining Jinya in Japan, the Takayama Jinya is designated as Cultural Treasure and has been restored almost to the appearance that was in Edo period. In front of the entrance gate, Jinya Asaichi morning market is held every morning and is popular together with Miyagawa Asaichi.