A Step Back in Time: Discovering Takayama and Furukawa

During our two-week adventure in Japan, my friends and I decided to step away from the bustling cities for a few days and explore the serene countryside near Nagoya. As we brainstormed places to visit, my friends suggested Takayama, a name I hadn’t heard before. Without knowing what to expect, I eagerly agreed and entrusted my friends to plan this leg of our trip. What unfolded was an incredible week-long journey through the stunning Hida region, including a memorable day tour to the charming town of Furukawa. This trip opened my eyes to the hidden gems of Takayama and Furukawa, underrated destinations that deserve a spot on every traveler’s Japan itinerary.

Located in Gifu Prefecture, Takayama and Furukawa offer a glimpse into Japan’s traditional heritage. Unlike the usual tourist hotspots like Nagoya, Tokyo, and Kyoto, these towns exude a peaceful charm with their well-preserved streets, local cuisine, and breathtaking countryside views.

Our week in the region gave us ample time to soak in its beauty, culture, and history. Takayama, often called “Little Kyoto,” enchanted us with its historic old town and vibrant morning markets. Meanwhile, Furukawa impressed us with its picturesque canals, koi fish, and slower pace of life.

Takayama

We made Takayama our home base during this part of our Japan trip, and it couldn’t have been a better choice. We stayed at a wonderful hotel we found through highly rated reviews on TripAdvisor. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and welcoming, with traditional Japanese touches that added a special charm. It provided everything we needed to relax after our days of sightseeing.

What made it even better was the unbeatable location—just a short walk from Takayama’s train and bus stations, as well as its main attractions. Being so close to everything made our travels easy and stress-free, whether we were wandering through the old town or catching transportation for day trips. It was the perfect base to explore not only Takayama but the surrounding Hida region as well.

Places to visit in Takayama

With nearly a week in Takayama, we had plenty of time to experience the town’s unique charm and culture. From strolling its historic streets to trying fun activities like biking around town and visiting the vibrant morning markets, every moment was memorable. Here are some highlights from our time in this beautiful destination.

• Hida no Sato Open Air Museum – A fascinating collection of traditional thatched-roof houses showcasing rural life and craftsmanship in the Hida region.
• Takayama Old Town – A beautifully preserved area with Edo-period streets, historic architecture, and a nostalgic atmosphere.
• Sanmachi Suji – The heart of Takayama’s old town, lined with sake breweries, artisan shops, and cozy cafés.
• Hida Kokubun-ji – Takayama’s oldest temple, featuring a three-story pagoda and a centuries-old ginkgo tree.
• Santuario Sakurayama Hachiman Otorii – A sacred Shinto shrine with a grand torii gate and a serene setting perfect for peaceful reflection.
• Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine – A historic Shinto shrine known for its role in the Takayama Autumn Festival, featuring beautifully decorated festival floats and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Nakabashi Park – A picturesque riverside spot featuring the iconic red Nakabashi Bridge, ideal for photos and leisurely walks.

These are just a few of the incredible sights you can explore in Takayama, each offering a glimpse into the town’s rich history and cultural heritage. Every spot has its own unique charm and story to tell. Visiting these attractions truly felt like stepping back in time, immersing us in the traditions and atmosphere of Japan’s past.

Furukawa

During our stay in Takayama, my friends and I took a side trip to the charming town of Hida-Furukawa, a hidden gem that’s perfect for a day of exploration. The journey from Takayama to Hida-Furukawa was quick and convenient, with a scenic 15-minute ride on a local train offering stunning views of the countryside. Once we arrived at the Hida-Furukawa train station, we stepped into a peaceful town filled with a laid-back atmosphere.

Places to visit in Furukawa

Using Google Maps, we pinned the must-see tourist spots that caught our interest and planned a route that allowed us to cover as much as possible. Excited to begin, we wasted no time and set off on our self-guided tour. From its tranquil canals and historic streets to its unique cultural landmarks, Hida-Furukawa offered a perfect mix of sights and experiences. Here are the places we managed to visit during our memorable afternoon in this hidden gem of the Hida region.

• Enkoji Temple – A serene Buddhist temple known for its tranquil garden and historic architecture, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of Hida-Furukawa.
• Setogawa (Setogawa Canal) – A picturesque canal lined with traditional white-walled storehouses and colorful koi fish.
• Hida Takumi Carpentry Museum – A fascinating museum showcasing the craftsmanship of Hida’s master carpenters, featuring traditional tools and intricate woodwork techniques.
• Shinshuji – A beautiful Zen temple nestled in a quiet setting, known for its peaceful atmosphere and connection to the local community.
• Honkoji – An ancient temple with stunning architecture and a rich history, offering insight into Hida-Furukawa’s spiritual heritage.

These were just a few of the places in Hida-Furukawa that we got to see, but there’s so much more to discover in this charming town. Our group chose to take it slow on this trip, enjoying the peaceful vibe instead of rushing to see everything. The summer heat was also quite unberable, which made us move at a slower pace. Even with the warm weather, we had a great time exploring. Hida-Furukawa’s quiet beauty and unique charm made it a memorable part of our journey.

Travel Budget

To help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit, here’s a breakdown of my estimated expenses during my visit to Takayama and Hida-Furukawa. Don’t forget to use my promo code ‘MARXTEMINDKLOOK’ for extra discounts when booking activities through Klook.

Transportation:

• Nagoya to Takayama (v.v.)
  • Roundtrip bus ticket – ₱2,540
• Takayama to Furukawa (v.v)
  • Roundtrip train ticket – ₱190
• Local bus rides in Takayama – ₱200

Accommodation:

• Mercure Hida Takayama (4D/3N) – ₱20,700
• AirBnb in Takayama (2D/1N for 3 adults and 1 child) – ₱5,000 (₱1,250 per person)

Tour:

• Hida no Sato Open Air Museum Entry Ticket – ₱300
• Bike rental (1 hour)- ₱200

Food:

• Food and drinks for 5 days – ₱6,000

Summary of travel expenses:

• Transportation – ₱2,930
• Accommodation – ₱31,250
• Tour – ₱500
• Food – ₱6,000

Approximate total expense per person: ₱31,380

Where to book hotels and activities in Takayama and Furukawa?

Unlock exclusive hotel deals and uncover the best activities and attractions in Takayama and Furukawa through the following travel apps below.

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