Customizable Takayama Private Walking Tour

Takayama , Japan

Customizable Takayama Private Walking Tour

Active

(5 reviews)

4h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the charm of Takayama on a fully customizable 4-hour private tour tailored to your interests. Start your journey at a time that suits you—8 AM, 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, or 12 PM.

Your guide will meet you at your hotel or, if preferred, at the Takayama Tourist Information Center next to JR Takayama Station's East Exit.

Work with your guide to craft the perfect itinerary, selecting from a variety of must-see destinations and cultural highlights. Whether you're drawn to Takayama's historic streets, vibrant markets, or tranquil walking paths, this tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Possible stops include:

Available options

8-Hour Tour

Duration: 8 hours<br/>Pickup included

4-Hour Tour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Experience 3-5 sites mentioned in the 'What to Expect' list

Local English Speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Sanmachi Suji, Takayama’s historic district, offers a glimpse into Japan's Edo period with its preserved wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and boutique shops. Stroll its charming streets for culture and local flavors.

Stop 2 Pass by

Miyagawa Morning Market in Takayama is a vibrant riverside market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and street food. Stroll through lively stalls, meet friendly vendors, and discover Takayama's authentic flavors and culture.

Stop 3 Pass by

Jinya Morning Market, set in front of Takayama Jinya, offers a quieter, more traditional atmosphere compared to Miyagawa Morning Market. It features fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and a historical backdrop, making it ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, authentic experience.

The Higashiyama Walking Course in Takayama offers a serene 3.5 km path through temples, shrines, and traditional streets. Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, it provides stunning views and a peaceful escape from the bustling area.

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is a serene and historic landmark in Takayama, known for its beautiful traditional architecture and tranquil surroundings. Nestled against a lush forested backdrop, the shrine offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the lively streets of the city. Its timeless design reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region, making it a perfect spot for those seeking to connect with Japan’s traditions.

Stop 6

The Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall showcases beautifully preserved, intricate floats from the famous Takayama Festival. Featured in the Michelin Green Guide, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich festival traditions.

Stop 7

The Kusakabe Folk Museum offers foreign visitors a fascinating look into traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Housed in a historic merchant’s residence, it showcases intricate folk art and artifacts from Takayama’s past.

Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato) is an open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof farmhouses from the Hida region. Visitors can explore preserved homes, experience local crafts, and enjoy stunning mountain scenery. The village offers a glimpse into rural Japanese life and culture, making it a must-visit spot for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Hirase Shuzo Brewery, established in 1623, is one of Takayama's oldest sake breweries, renowned for its premium sake crafted using local rice and pristine mountain water. Visitors can enjoy sake tastings and learn about traditional brewing techniques in a historic setting. Its commitment to preserving centuries-old practices makes it a must-visit for sake enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

What's not included

Private transportation

Lunch fees

All Fees and Taxes

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

We may not be able to guide you to high-cost attractions such as theme parks or locations far from the tour area. In some cases, you may be required to cover the guide’s admission or transportation fees.

Meeting point

Please meet your guide in front of the Takayama Information Center located at the East Exit of JR Takayama Station. The guide will be holding a yellow sign with the DeepExperience logo.

About Takayama

Takayama is a charming mountain town in the Japanese Alps known for its well-preserved Edo-era streets, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into Japan's past with its historic districts, vibrant festivals, and delicious local cuisine, particularly its famous Hida beef and sake.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Sannomachi Street)

This well-preserved Edo-era district features beautifully maintained merchant houses, wooden facades, and traditional shops. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Takayama's cultural heritage.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free to explore (individual shops may charge)

Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)

An open-air museum featuring 30 traditional thatched-roof houses from the Hida region, showcasing the rural life and architecture of the Edo period.

Cultural/Historical 1-2 hours 600 JPY

Takayama Morning Market

A lively market offering local produce, crafts, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample regional delicacies.

Cultural/Market 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to enter (costs vary for food and items)

Takayama Jinya

A historic government office from the Edo period, now a museum showcasing the region's history and the samurai era. It features exhibits on local governance, trade, and daily life.

Historical/Museum 1 hour 320 JPY

Shirakawa-go

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, known as gassho-zukuri. This remote mountain village offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life.

Cultural/Historical Half-day to full day Free to enter the village (individual houses may charge for entry)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hida Beef

A premium type of wagyu beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It's often served as sukiyaki or grilled.

Main Course Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Gohei Mochi

Grilled rice cakes skewered on bamboo sticks, often served with sweet soy glaze or miso paste.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (check for miso or soy sauce if vegan)

Mitarashi Dango

Sweet rice dumplings skewered and grilled, brushed with a sweet soy-based glaze.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (check for soy sauce if vegan)

Hoba Miso

Grilled miso paste on magnolia leaves, often topped with vegetables and Hida beef.

Main Course Contains miso (fermented soybean paste), may contain beef

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Japanese Alps Mountain biking River rafting in the summer Onsen bathing Traditional tea ceremonies Strolling through the old town Visiting temples and shrines Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It's the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60Hz (varies by region)Hz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Takayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. The town is well-maintained, and the locals are friendly and helpful.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas late at night

Getting there

By air

Chubu Centrair International Airport • 100 km
Nagoya Airfield (Komaki Airport) • 150 km

By train

Takayama Station

By bus

Takayama Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are punctual and cover most tourist areas. A day pass is available for unlimited rides.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Sannomachi Street) Kamisannomachi Higashiyama

Day trips

Shirakawa-go

60 km • Half-day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, known as gassho-zukuri. This remote mountain village offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life.

Kamikochi

50 km • Full day

A scenic alpine area in the Japanese Alps, offering stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities.

Gero Onsen

30 km • Half-day

A famous hot spring town known for its beautiful natural surroundings and historic inns. It's one of Japan's three most famous hot spring resorts.

Festivals

Takayama Festival (Takayama Matsuri) • April 14-15 (Spring Festival) and October 9-10 (Autumn Festival) Winter Light-Up Festival • December to February Hida Folk Village Festival • Various dates throughout the year (check schedule)

Pro tips

Visit the Takayama Tourism Association for a free map and guide, as well as information on local events and attractions
Try the famous Takayama ramen, a local noodle dish with a rich, miso-based broth
Experience a traditional ryokan stay, complete with multi-course kaiseki meals and onsen baths
Explore the old town in the evening when the streets are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere
Visit the morning market for a taste of local culture and to sample regional delicacies like gohei mochi and mitarashi dango