2024 Takayama Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Encountering Snowfall During a March Trip to Japan! The Snowy Hida Takayama Old Town.

One of the goals of this trip was to visit the World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go. Although driving in the snow was a bit troublesome and colder than expected, the scenery blanketed in white snow was well worth it! The old town of Takayama is less than an hour's drive from Shirakawa-go, and it's definitely worth adding this spot to your itinerary. Strolling through the century-old shops on the old street is a delightful experience. There are many handicraft shops, restaurants, cafes, etc., all great places to enjoy the snow. At the end of the old street, there's a red bridge that looks even more beautiful under the snowscape. Don't miss out if you like to take photos!

Stepping Back in Time in Takayama

During my trip to explore Gifu prefecture, we stayed for 2 nights at Hida Takayama, a quaint town with a famous old town, Sanmachi Suji. As we strolled along the old streets of Sanmachi Suji, I couldn't help but feel like I had stepped back in time. The traditional wooden houses with their latticed windows and sloping roofs added to the old-world charm. The streets were lined with traditional sake breweries, tea houses, and craft shops, each with its own unique character. I also tried that was a local snack that was delicious. It's called Gohei Mochi, a grilled rice cake skewered on a stick and coated with a sweet miso sauce. Trust me, it's a must-try! One of my favorite discoveries was a quaint little gallery showcasing local artisans' souvenirs and crafts. We bought ourselves birds made of paper, as they were so cute (and cheap!). If you ever find yourself in this part of Japan, make sure to take a leisurely stroll through Sanmachi Suji. You won't be disappointed by its timeless beauty and the warm hospitality of its locals. #japan #urbanexplorer #takayama #tripblazers #summervacation #awesomepic

TAKAYAMA - Essence Of Traditional Japan

Takayama, a charming city located in the heart of central Japan, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of traditional culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. With a history dating back over 1300 years, Takayama is a place where ancient traditions seamlessly intertwine with modern life. One of the main attractions in Takayama is its beautifully preserved old town. Wander through the streets of Sanmachi Suji, lined with well-preserved Edo-period merchant houses, sake breweries, and traditional shops. The historic wooden architecture and narrow lanes create an enchanting atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the breathtaking scenery surrounding Takayama. Kamikochi, a pristine highland valley located nearby, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Another highlight of the area would be the UNESCO listed Shirakawago, a village with its renowned traditional steep thatched roofs design. Culinary delights await in Takayama, with the famous Hida beef taking center stage. Indulge in mouthwatering Hida beef sushi, grilled skewers, or hot pot dishes, all showcasing the region's prized delicacy. Whether you're exploring its historical streets, reveling in the festivities, or immersing yourself in nature, Takayama offers a truly unforgettable experience that captures the essence of traditional Japan in a modern world. How to get there: Takayama is conveniently connected with buses and railways to Nagoya city. #日本 #japan #summervacation #awesomepic #takayama #oldtown #gifu

Takayama in bloom

Takayama is a beautiful city located in the Gifu Prefecture of Japan. The city is known for its traditional wooden houses, narrow streets, and local craftsmanship, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore traditional side of Japan. The scenery is stunning though right now the city is filled with tourists so you would need to get up early to enjoy emptier streets. The city is surrounded by mountains, with breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks in the distance. There are a few must-see museums but the highlight of the visit is definitely exploring the old town. The traditional wooden houses are fascinating to see, with the intricate carvings on their facades a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the locals. Be sure to visit the morning market - with many local shops selling traditional snacks, crafts and souvenirs. Some places accept cards but do bring cash for those that do not. I recommend that you book your meals in advance, as walk in availability is very limited. Takayama is famous for Hida beef, which is a type of wagyu beef raised in the region. The local sake was also a treat, with breweries where you can try different varieties for a very reasonable price.

Hotel Wood

#staycation address: 80番２, 80-2 Kamininomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0845 facilities: double bed able to combine to 1. bed feels too hard for some reason, it is said to be a brand used by athletes. hotel provides onsen facilities (public bath, gender segregated), lounge facilities are amazing. hotel provides free sake (wow) and draft beer. room wise it’s 25m2, spacious for staycation and to visit the little town. hotel is located very centrally at the historical district. very convenient and near the train and bus station.

Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall

#artshunting located 178 Sakuramachi, Takayama City this is an interesting exhibition which reflects the Japanese heritage. Takayama festival happens in gifu, which 11 Floats will be displayed during the festival. it happens during spring and autumn of the year. other than seeing it’s grandeur during the festival walk, the rest of the time the museum houses these 11 floats (called yetai) for the fall Takayama festival. They rotate the floats 3 times a year (March, July, and November) putting 4 on display each time. Each floating hall has an intricate design and various meaning. they put in a lot of effort in the design of the float, even the uniform of the staff are very formal and structured. cost 1000yen

Nice beef and great town

This is Takayama situated in Hida region, Gifu prefecture. You can take the Hida limited express train from Nagoya and it would take approximately 140 minutes to reach there~ Takayama retains a traditional touch like their old shopping streets. They are also famous for Hida beef! Be sure to try it out over there~ There are also a few ONSEN resorts to enjoy in that area! #celebratewithtrip

Onsen!!

Booked this place for a family trip in Japan 🇯🇵 The highlight of the place is that it has a few onsens for you to choose from, you can use all you like as long as it's available, all natural! Nothing beats soaking in the onsen in cold weather ❄️ They also provide different types of shampoo, and you can choose based on your own preference. We also had a wonderful traditional dinner and breakfast at this place, food was really good 👍 Cozy room, lovely host, and wonderful meals and hospitality!

Mikoto Sushi (Takayama)

A small friendly sushi restaurant with great sushi. The sushi is fresh and the price is reasonable. Don't miss the Hida beef sushi too. Strongly recommended. Fresh sushi is served. The owners are friendly and the service is fast. The sushi set comes with the miso soup which is super Delicious!

Hida Takayama offers several attractions. In the morning, you can walk along the Miyagawa River to visit the market. In the afternoon, you can walk around Meiji Kinenkan and its surrounding museums and historical buildings. At the end of the day, you can treat yourself to an authentic beef dish in Hida city. I had two surprises here: an edible coffee cup and yummy Hida beef sushi.

#japantravel

#traditionaljapaneseonsen

Takayama - Japan: Takayama’s old town has been preserved with old style Japanses buidling along the street. We can walk aroud to enjoy shopping local products and try some local food there which the beef is quite famous.

I haven't visited the morning market for a long time. I went to the high mountains of Japan to visit the famous Miyayama Asaka. The Takayama City is not very big. I can measure it with my footsteps. From the middle of the Meiji period, the farmer's wife here began to set up stalls to sell vegetables, which gradually developed into a city. I heard that here you can feel the alternation of the four seasons, where you can hear the authentic alpine language. This is not the same as ours. The gap between their booths is very large, and the amount of things is not much. On one side, there is a booth on the side of the store. They are very enthusiastic, even if you don't buy anything, you can try it. I bought a pendant made of burlap, whose flower language is eternal love. As time goes on, the color will become deeper and deeper.

Miss Guo's 100 City Travel Plan||37th City||Japan Takayama went to Japan seven or eight times, from Kyoto to Osaka, Takamatsu to various small villages, found that Kyoto is more than a year, prices They have all gone up a lot, and many Japanese have found that Kyoto is becoming more and more impetuous. Followed by "Your Name" to the Takayama City on the edge of Nagoya. It is called Little Kyoto. There are a lot of tourists. The Machimachi Street has the taste of Japanese architecture in the Edogawa era. The street is still hidden. A lot of interesting shops are very similar to the three-year-old Japanese street in Kyoto. Below is Raiders How to get to Takayama? The nearest city to Takayama is Nagoya, you can take the bus to Takayama at Nagoya Meitetsu Station, about 2 hours. You can also get off at JR in the mountains. Alpine is suitable for playing for a few days? It is suitable for two days and one night. If you go to Shirakawa Township, you can spend another day. Takayama City must-see attractions? Sanmachi Street

The third leg of the Japanese Spring Festival holiday

Matsubaen, the ultimate Japanese hot spring experience.

Matsubaen fulfilled all my fantasies about Japanese hot springs. It was like a surprise blind box trip, but the result was beyond my imagination. We chartered a car from Takayama to avoid the fatigue of the journey. It was only a 1-hour drive and we arrived easily. Budget-friendly friends can choose to take the Nohi bus from Takayama Bus Station and go directly to Fukuchi Onsen. The hotel is just off the bus, which is very convenient. 【Japanese-style tranquility, a place to heal the body and mind】 The hotel environment is a pure Japanese-style garden, so quiet that you can hear the breath of your soul. The Japanese-style room we stayed in had floor-to-ceiling windows. As soon as we opened them, we could step outside and get close to nature. The fireplace added interest. Although the air conditioning was warm, the ceremonial sense of making a fire made the atmosphere more warm. The tatami bed was carefully laid out by the staff every day, and it was restored to its original cleanliness during the day, showing the intimate details. 【The joy of hot springs, like a fairyland】 The hot spring experience is wonderful! There are both public baths and private baths. When there are few people, the privacy is excellent, like an exclusive enjoyment. Men and women can soak together, the door can be locked, and privacy is worry-free. Soaking in the hot spring in winter, watching the snow and pine trees, the fog and clouds in the mountains, the steam is steaming, like a fairyland. The snowy mountain view is like a poem and a painting. You can soak at any time 24 hours a day. Wearing a bathrobe, warmth is always with you. 【Food feast, satisfy the taste buds】 With the worry of "not eating enough", every meal is conquered by food. The perfect combination of kaiseki cuisine and wagyu beef is full. Pictures 8 and 9 record the grand dinner for two days. The Japanese breakfast in Picture 10 is also rich, satisfying every moment of taste buds. 【Surrounding exploration, unlimited fun】 Although the hotel is beautiful, the surrounding area should not be missed. Skiing, watching foxes, black bear ranch, Shinhotaka, hot spring group, ice cave, each has its own characteristics, just a short drive, you can start a new day of exploration. Matsubaen, a healing journey of body and mind, a feast of taste buds, a close contact with nature, and an unforgettable hot spring experience.

Hida Takayama

Hida Takayama is located in Gifu Prefecture, surrounded by the high-altitude Hida Mountains. The town still retains historical buildings from the Edo period, giving it a nostalgic atmosphere as you stroll through the old streets. When visiting this area, you must try the local delicacies. Hida beef skewers are a must-try, and since it's Takayama beef, you can't go wrong with any shop. After enjoying the beef skewers, continue your stroll through the old streets. When it started to rain heavily, I took shelter in a shop and saw many people lining up to buy Hida beef sushi. I joined the line, and it was worth it. For 1000 yen, you get three pieces of sushi with three different flavors of 5M beef, and I'm still savoring the taste. I couldn't eat anything else after that. Miyagawa Morning Market: If you have time, be sure to visit this morning market. It mainly sells various local souvenirs, vegetables, and fruits, and it ends at 12:30 PM. On the bridge before the Miyagawa Morning Market, there are two interesting statues on either side: the Long Hand Statue and the Long Foot Statue. Hida Kokubunji Temple is also worth a visit, especially its three-story pagoda, which is said to be the only one in the area.

Shinhotaka Ropeway: A Journey into the Japan Alps

The **Shinhotaka Ropeway** is an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Japan’s Northern Alps, offering stunning panoramic views from one of the highest cable cars in the country. Located in **Takayama, Gifu Prefecture**, this two-stage ropeway lifts visitors to a dizzying altitude of **2,156 meters** above sea level, providing a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding mountains, particularly Mount Hotaka. ### **History of Shinhotaka Ropeway** Opened in **1970**, the Shinhotaka Ropeway was designed to make the rugged beauty of the Japan Alps more accessible to travelers. The ropeway is unique for its **double-decker gondolas**, the first of their kind in Japan, and has become a popular attraction for those seeking unparalleled mountain vistas and an escape into nature. ### **What to Expect** - **Two-Stage Journey**: The ropeway has two sections—the first is a short ride to **Nabedaira Kogen**, a scenic plateau with hot springs and hiking trails. The second stage takes you from **Shirakabadaira Station** to the upper **Nishihotakaguchi Station**, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the Japan Alps. - **Observation Deck**: At the top station, an **observation deck** awaits, where you can soak in the majestic peaks and deep valleys. In the winter, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered paradise, while summer brings lush greenery and wildflowers. - **Hot Springs**: After a day of exploration, relax in the outdoor **hot springs** at Nabedaira Kogen, surrounded by nature. ### **Tips for Visiting** - **Best Time to Visit**: The ropeway is open year-round, but each season offers something different. Winter is perfect for snow enthusiasts, while autumn provides spectacular **fall foliage**, and spring/summer is ideal for hikers. - **What to Wear**: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so bring layers and comfortable shoes for hiking or walking around the observation areas. - **Local Delicacies**: Don’t leave without trying **Hida beef** at one of the nearby restaurants—this high-quality beef is a specialty of the region. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or adventurer, the Shinhotaka Ropeway offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Japan Alps. #ShinhotakaRopeway #JapanAlps #HidaBeef #MountainViews #100waysoftravel

飛驒の里 - 高山市

It takes about 40 minutes to walk to Takayama Station. This area has beautiful old villages, traditional cottages, and a beautiful little lake in the middle. Please note, I went to work before I was there, but the next time I was there, I was a little short. When the train leaves Takayama Station, the 8-minute bell rings. The image of the arrival of Hida is a miniature Shirakawa town, but the impression of the village has not faded from the carpet. The bottom of July is gone, the weather is hot and rainy, and it is lucky. If you have a written record, you can also receive mail from the small station. Slowly and slowly go, each person's small time mail cannot be done, even though the region is not big, but the value of the engagement can be obtained. The most important thing is that when winter comes and the world is covered in snow, others will provide free shoes and leasing services, and snowy people will travel in the snow.#飛驒の里 從高山站要步行約40分鐘。這地方是一個美麗的古村莊，擁有傳統的房屋，中間有一個美麗的小湖泊。請注意，有巴士前往那裡，但班次很少。當天我們是架車由高山駅駕車去需時只有8分鐘。 飛驒の里就像是縮小的白川鄉，但它的印象卻絲毫不減。七月底去的，天氣比較熱但沒有下雨，運氣真好。如果你有筆記本的話，他們也有小站可以收集郵票。 慢慢行的話，一個多小時便可以行完，雖然地方不大，但係值得一到。 最重要的是，如果冬天下雪嘅時候來到，他們提供免費靴子租借服務，幫助您在雪地裡行走。

A cozy trip to Takayama: A comfortable stay at the Takayama Miyama Hotel.

🚶‍♂️ Exploring Takayama During my trip to Takayama, the Takayama Miyama Hotel was my cozy little nest. From the hotel, it's less than a 15-minute walk to the Takayama Jinya and the Miyagawa Morning Market, making it super convenient to explore. 🏞️ Nearby attractions Hida no Sato: Just 2.1 km from the hotel, it's a great place to learn about local culture. Hida Folk Village: Also not far away, you can experience traditional Japanese rural life. 🏨 Hotel experience The hotel's amenities include free Wi-Fi and vending machines, which is really convenient for someone like me who needs to be online all the time. 🍽️ Food experience The hotel's restaurant serves delicious meals, and it's great to have a drink in the bar/lounge at night to end the day. 🛏️ Room experience The room is very spacious, with new decor and facilities, and a large bathroom, making it very comfortable to stay in. The view from the balcony is beautiful, and even though it's close to the railway, it's not noisy. ♨️ Hot spring experience The rooftop hot spring can be reserved for a private pool, and the water quality of the carbonated spring is particularly clear, making it very relaxing to soak in. 🌟 Personal experience The service at this hotel is really warm, and the waiters' English is very good, making communication a breeze. The hot spring tax is 150 yen per person per day, and although it's an extra charge, I think it's worth it considering the hot spring experience. 🚉 Transportation experience The hotel is very close to Takayama JR Station and Nohi Bus Station, just a 4-minute walk away, which is a godsend for someone like me who doesn't like to drag luggage around. 🍴 Dining experience There are many dining options around the hotel, including a popular beef restaurant, which is very convenient if you're hungry at night.

Japan 7-Day In-Depth Tour Super Detailed Guide is Here

Hello everyone! Here we are going to reveal the exciting ways to enjoy a 7-day tour in Japan! Secret routes, various delicacies and good items, all in one go, come and take a look! We guarantee you will travel comfortably and have a great time! -- Japan 🇯🇵, a country where deep history and modern technology blend, is full of attractions such as 🍣 cuisine, 🌸 cherry blossoms, and 🗻 Mount Fuji. Whether you cherish ancient charm or pursue trends, you can find happiness here! 👘 Kimono, 🎎 culture, 🏮 festivals, these authentic Japanese elements will make you fall in love with this country! -- Route Overview: DAY1: Shanghai - Nagoya; Depart from Shanghai, fly all the way, and comfortably arrive in Nagoya to start our journey in Japan! DAY2: Tokyo; Now, we will spend the whole day lingering in the bustling Tokyo, feeling the endless charm of this city. DAY3: Mount Fuji Fifth Station - Oshino Hakkai - Lake Suwa; Famous Mount Fuji Fifth Station, experience the mystery of Oshino Hakkai and the tranquility of Lake Suwa, feel the natural scenery of this day. DAY4: Takayama Jinya - Takayama Sanmachi Suji - Shirakawa-go; Let's trace the footsteps of history in these three historical sites: Takayama Jinya, Takayama Sanmachi Suji, and Shirakawa-go. DAY5: Fushimi Inari Taisha - Kinkaku-ji - Shinsaibashi; Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha for tranquility, admire the garden art at Kinkaku-ji, and finally experience the bustling city at Shinsaibashi. DAY6: Osaka Castle Park - Nara Park - Todai-ji; A full day tour of Osaka Castle Park, Nara Park, and Todai-ji, we will feel the unique culture and charm of this day. DAY7: Nagoya - Shanghai; End the wonderful journey in Nagoya, fly back to the bustling Shanghai, and end our trip with full memories. -- Must-Visit Attractions: 🏯 Osaka Castle Park: 🌸🌸🌸 An ideal place for cherry blossom and plum blossom viewing, the park is rich in vegetation 🌳🌳🌳, come and feel the lush greenery different from the city! 🛍️ Shinsaibashi: Speaking of shopping paradise 👜👒👠, how can we miss Shinsaibashi, which is also a great place to taste delicacies 🍣🍜🍤! This is a lively gathering place, definitely not to be missed! ⛩️ Fushimi Inari Taisha: Here is a passage formed by thousands of torii gates ⛩️⛩️⛩️, one of the representative landscapes of Kyoto, every time you walk through, it feels like stepping into an ancient myth. Remember to bring your camera 📸 and leave beautiful memories! -- Some Tips: 1️⃣ Airport Transportation: Japan's railway system is well-developed, taking JR or subway from the airport to the city is very convenient. Remember to check the route and time in advance 🚄 2️⃣ Time Difference Adjustment: Japan is one hour ahead of China, try to adapt in advance before departure to prevent your schedule from being disrupted 🕰️ 3️⃣ September Climate: The weather in Japan in September is mainly cool and moderate, with occasional rainy days ☔️ Enjoy the autumn atmosphere in Japan 🍁 4️⃣ Language Communication: Japanese people's English is generally not very good, preparing some daily Japanese words may be more convenient 💬 5️⃣ Luggage Packing: Japanese products are worth buying for their quality and design, leave some space in your luggage for shopping 🛍️ 6️⃣ Power Plug: Japanese plugs are different from domestic ones, remember to bring a converter plug in case you can't plug it in 🔌 Do your homework, budget carefully, and hope everyone has a pleasant trip to Japan 🛫🌸 -- Looking forward to you leaving beautiful memories in Japan, if you like my travel guide, don't forget to follow and like 😉

Road trip is always the best!🚞

#100WaysOfTravel

Nice view at Takayama

Snowy weather! #japan

Mountain Sakura Hermitage: The blend of Japanese and Western styles in Takayama Onsen Village, a dual enjoyment of Hida beef and sulfur hot springs

Mountain Sakura Hermitage, located in Takayama Onsen Village, is a hot spring inn that combines Japanese and Western styles. It offers hot springs and Western-style rooms, making it an excellent choice for experiencing Japanese hot spring culture. Hot Spring Experience: At Mountain Sakura Hermitage, you can feel a faint sulfur smell in the hot springs, with the water appearing reddish-brown and rich in minerals. In addition to the exclusive private baths in the rooms, the inn also has two indoor private baths and two outdoor private baths. The indoor baths are relatively small, and the experience of soaking while facing the wall is somewhat cramped, while the outdoor baths allow you to fully enjoy the natural scenery and take photos. The public women's bath is beautifully designed, with a wide bath surface, allowing you to enjoy the mountain view while soaking during the day. The indoor bath is also spacious, and the water quality is even richer. Gourmet Experience: The dining experience at Mountain Sakura Hermitage is unforgettable. Upon check-in, the staff will make a reservation for dinner in advance. We chose the earlier time of 5:30 to leave time to enjoy the free ramen. Dinner includes sukiyaki, sashimi, and Hida beef barbecue. The texture of Hida beef is amazing, melting in your mouth with a faint milky aroma. Although breakfast is somewhat ordinary, the hotel's offering of free milk, drinks, coffee, beer, and highballs for unlimited consumption is extremely satisfying. Convenient Transportation: From Takayama Station, you can take the Nohi Bus and reach Hirayu Onsen in an hour. It is only a 5-minute walk from Hirayu Onsen Station to the inn, making transportation very convenient. The town is filled with hot spring hotels, and even the drainage channels are filled with milky white hot spring water, creating an atmosphere full of hot spring village characteristics. Whether it's a hot spring trip or a gourmet exploration, Mountain Sakura Hermitage can be the perfect choice for your Takayama trip, allowing you to experience an unforgettable journey nourished by both nature and culture.

Step back in time at Takayama

If you’re looking to experience the charm of rural Japan, a visit to Hida Folk Village in Takayama is a must. Nestled in the picturesque mountains, this open-air museum offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese life. The village is home to meticulously preserved farmhouses and buildings from the Hida region, showcasing architectural styles that have stood the test of time. Each structure provides a unique insight into the craftsmanship and daily life of past generations. Wander through the serene streets, and you’ll encounter traditional thatched-roof houses, ancient tools, and handcrafted artifacts that bring history to life. Tips: Visit Hida Folk Village in the morning to avoid crowded. #takayama #hidatakayama #gasshozukuri #japanvibes #japantrip

Best Mountains & Onsens

#japantrip Takayama is a city larger than tokyo. Physically that should give you an idea of how much there might be to do and see for the holiday goer. Famously called Gifu's crown jewel, Takayama offers so much in the form of culture, architecture, festivals and drool worthy food and onsens. As for the views it is constantly surrounded by the scenic Japanese Alps. The Takayama festival, a feather in it's cap, is considered as amongst the most beautiful festivals in Japan. The charming rural town has sights that are reminiscent of the Edo era. The architecture dates to the 16th century and the narrow alleys of teahouses and sake breweries feel a world away from Japan’s fast-paced cities like Tokyo. The three-sister mountain ranges of Hida, Kiso and Akaishi are said to be the home of mountain spirits, giving this destination in the Japanese Alps a celestial level of serenity. #japantrip #gifu #japan #beautiful #nature #mountains

Strolling Through Time on Takayama Old Street

Takayama Old Street, located in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, is a historic street that makes you feel as if you've traveled back in time to the Edo period. The well-preserved traditional buildings and ancient alleys showcase the unique historical and cultural charm of Japan. Takayama Old Street is famous for its traditional wooden machiya buildings, each retaining the appearance of the Edo period. Walking along the stone-paved streets, you can admire the exquisite woodwork and quaint architectural designs, immersing yourself in a rich historical atmosphere. The shops and teahouses here are filled with rustic charm, with many establishments boasting a history of over a hundred years, selling traditional handicrafts, local delicacies, and regional sake. Come to Takayama Old Street, travel through time, experience Japan's ancient history and culture, and feel the enduring charm! 🏯🍡🌸

Wake Up Your Ears This Summer! Six Japanese Wind Chime Festivals in 2024.

In Japanese anime, summer often features the sound of 'wind chimes.' In the second season of 'Natsume's Book of Friends,' titled 'Humans and Yokai,' characters gather in the courtyard to enjoy snacks and flowers, with wind chimes ringing in the breeze. Every time the wind blows and the chimes ring, it feels like a voice saying 'hello!' Especially on sweltering nights, the sound of wind chimes brings a refreshing coolness. Every July and August, various wind chime festivals are held across Japan. Let's take a look! 01 Kumano Taisha Enmusubi Wind Chime Festival Since ancient times, wind chimes in Japan have been used to convey wishes and thoughts. The famous haiku poet Santoka Taneda once wrote, 'As if you want to come and see me, I hear the wind chimes now.' The Kumano Wind Chime Summer Festival focuses on wishes for romantic relationships. As the summer breeze gently blows, it makes lovers' hearts flutter and helps singles find good matches. 02 Hōtokuji 'Feel the Coolness' Wind Chime Festival Starting July 13, about 3,000 wind chimes will be hung along the wind chime path at Hōtokuji, swaying in the wind like a dazzling rainbow. The ancient temple's dry landscape garden creates a picturesque summer scene. Additionally, there are wishes for warding off bad luck and ensuring safety! From August 31 to September 16, weekend evenings will feature a light show, offering another wonderful experience. 03 Sakura-yama Wind Chime Festival Sakura-yama Hachiman Shrine in Gifu Prefecture is one of Japan's famous matchmaking shrines. During the wind chime festival, the ema hall of Sakura-yama Hachiman Shrine will be adorned with about 2,000 wind chimes in summer colors, creating a dreamy atmosphere that complements the beautiful flower water nearby. Thousands of wind chimes ring in the wind, like a symphony of summer, creating a magical experience! Every Saturday evening from July 27 to August 24, a lighting event will be held, allowing visitors to enjoy the enchanting wind chimes under the night sky. The simultaneous ringing of the wind chimes makes one forget the summer heat. 04 Minase Shrine Good Fortune Wind Chime Festival It is said that the sound of wind chimes was originally used to ward off disasters brought by the wind and to pray for safety. From late July to early September, Osaka's Minase Shrine hosts a wind chime festival focused on wishes for good fortune. Visitors hang their written wishes on the wind chime path and then proceed to the main hall to pray. Located in Shimamoto Town, Mishima District, Osaka Prefecture, Minase Shrine is known for its blessings for academic and athletic success. It also features 'Rikyu Water,' selected as one of Japan's 'Top 100 Famous Waters,' which is said to make tea leaves more fragrant. 05 Sannoji Wind Chime Festival Sannoji Temple in Fukuoka Prefecture is famous as one of the 88 sacred sites of Sasaguri Shikoku. Due to the numerous cute tanuki (raccoon dog) figurines found throughout the temple, it is also known as 'Tanuki Temple.' From May to early October each year, Sannoji holds a wind chime festival. The 4,000 colorful wind chimes decorated by the temple's priests create a spectacular and resonant scene! In September, the evening lights make the night view even more stunning. Visitors can also paint and offer their own wind chimes on-site. 06 Kobō Kannon Wind Chime Festival Located in Nara Prefecture, Kōbō Kannon Temple of the Kōyasan Shingon sect holds a wind chime festival from early July to late September each year, with over 2,500 wind chimes decorating the temple. These wind chimes come from all over Japan, including Ryukyu glass wind chimes from Okinawa, Beppu wind chimes combining wind chimes and bamboo crafts, and Kiyomizu ware wind chimes from Kyoto. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to call this a showcase of Japanese wind chime craftsmanship. Additionally, visitors can purchase about 90 types of wind chimes from all over Japan, including Nara wind chimes, Odawara wind chimes from Kanagawa, and Nambu wind chimes from Iwate, at the wind chime exhibition and sale in front of the temple office. This summer, make sure to visit Japan for a wind chime festival! As the wind chimes sway, may all your wishes come true.

🌸 Takayama's Top Onsen Hotel: A Royal Experience! 🏨✨

Hey, wanderlust warriors! 🌍 Let's dive into the serene world of Hida Takayama Onsen Takayama Green Hotel, a gem with over 50 years of history that even the Japanese royals couldn't resist. 🤴👑 Imagine stepping off the train at Takayama Nishi Station and being whisked away to your Japanese retreat in just 6 minutes. 🚋 That's convenience at its best! Once you arrive, get ready to slip into tranquility with their tatami rooms, where dedicated staff prepare your futon nightly. 🛏️ Zen vibes, check! Feast like a Shogun at their hearty breakfast buffet 🍱 and let the "Hida Milk" from the vending machine wash away your fatigue after a soothing dip in the open-air onsen. 🛁 The service? Impeccable! While the old wing may show its age, the new wing is where modern luxury meets tradition. 🆕🎎 Don't forget to rent a bike and explore the old street charm, just a 15-minute scenic stroll away. 🚲🌸 Address: Nishinoisshiki-machi 2-180, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, 506-0031, Japan #Takayama #TakayamaHotel #TakayamaTravel