Hida Kokubunji Temple
The existing Hida Kokubunji Temple was built on the site of the Tenpyo-era Kokubunji Temple. Its three-tier pagoda, constructed on the site of a seven-tier pagoda in 1821, is said to be the only tower of that construction found among Kokubunji temples throughout Japan. The present "hondo" main hall was erected on the site of the Tenpyo-era "kondo" main hall. The principal deity, a statue of Bhaisajyaguru(Yakushinyorai), is from the Tenpyo era, and the Avalokitesvara bodhisattva(Shou Kanzeon Bosatsu)is the principal deity of the Kokubun Nunnery. Both have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The ginkgo tree in front of the main hall, called "milk ginkgo," is a 1,200-year-old natural monument that is worth seeing.
Old townscape
The old townscape of Takayama preserves the appearance of a castle town and merchant town from the Edo era. The street is lined with old-fashioned sake breweries and folk art museums. Visitors can enjoy atmospheric scenery with rickshaws and waterwheels. The Miyagawa River flows next to the area, allowing carp and other river fish to be seen in the clear water during the warm season, refreshing visitors in body and mind. Come and stroll through the "Little Kyoto of Hida," which, in recent years, has received three stars in France's Michelin travel guide.
Kusakabe Folk Museum
The Kusakabe Folk Museum, designated a national Important Cultural Property, features the low, deep, dignified eaves of a private home in snowy country. Within its massive structure are beautiful projecting lattices and other popular architectural features of merchant homes. The beauty of the space expressed by exquisitely assembled beams and wide earthen floors is a culmination of private home architecture that fully adopts the techniques of the Edo era. The many highlights include an open hearth that offers a peek into the era, and a large Buddhist altar that charms viewers. After your tour, enjoy a heartwarming service of tea and rice crackers from the museum director.
Miyagawa Morning Market
Nearly every morning, a morning market is held on the streets(Shimosannomachi)along the Miyagawa River. Known as one of Japan's three major morning markets, this market is loved by locals and tourists alike. Its shops, which vary in number with the season and weather, offer specialty products from Takayama as well as seasonal vegetables, folk crafts, and handicrafts from the region. There are also shops offering dango dumplings and sake, so you can enjoy eating and walking as you search for souvenirs.
Takayama Jinya
The Edo Shogunate, casting an eye on Takayama's abundant timber and mineral resources, placed Hida Province under the direct control of the Shogunate and destroyed Takayama Castle in 1692. Following that, Takayama Jinya was used as the magistrate's office. After the Meiji Restoration, it was still used as the prefectural headquarters and prefectural office. As it is the only jinya surviving today, it has been designated as a cultural property and has been restored to its Edo-era condition. Every day the area in front of the gate hosts a Jinya morning market, as beloved as the Miyagawa morning market.