Early Morning Bliss in Takayama
Our day began in the tranquil setting of the Takayama Green Hotel, where the serene ritual of an early morning onsen awaited us. This quintessential Japanese experience, renowned for its mineral-rich waters, soothed both body and mind, providing a perfect prelude to a day of exploration. The onsen at Takayama Green Hotel, known as Tenryo no Yu, features a variety of hot-spring baths, including open-air and indoor options, each offering a unique and rejuvenating experience. There’s something incredibly peaceful about starting the day in these warm, therapeutic waters, especially when surrounded by the beauty of Takayama’s natural landscape. The gentle steam rising from the baths and the soft morning light filtering through the trees made the experience even more enchanting.
After indulging in the onsen, we headed to the hotel’s breakfast buffet. The spread was a delightful mix of both Western and Japanese cuisine, offering everything from freshly baked bread and pastries to traditional dishes like grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. The freshness of the ingredients and the attention to detail in the presentation set a delightful tone for the adventures that lay ahead. Well-nourished and energized, we were ready to begin our exploration of Takayama.
Exploring Miyagawa Morning Markets
Our first stop was the Miyagawa Morning Markets, a bustling hub of activity nestled alongside a picturesque river. The market is one of the most famous in Takayama and is a treasure trove of handcrafted items, local produce, and delightful street food. As we wandered through the stalls, we encountered vendors selling everything from delicate pottery and intricate textiles to fresh fruits and pickled vegetables. The market was alive with the sounds of vendors calling out to customers and the scent of freshly made treats wafting through the air.
Despite the hearty breakfast we had earlier, the sight of a freshly baked chocolate croissant proved irresistible. Paired with a refreshing cold coffee, it was the perfect mid-morning treat. As we enjoyed our snack, we took in the vibrant atmosphere of the market, watching locals and tourists alike engage in lively exchanges with the friendly vendors. The market’s setting along the river, with the water gently flowing by and the surrounding mountains in the distance, added to the charm of the experience.
Hida Kokubunji Temple: A Step Back in Time
Next on our itinerary was a visit to Hida Kokubunji Temple, the oldest temple in Takayama, founded in 746 CE by Emperor Shōmu. The temple grounds are steeped in history and feature several significant structures, including a three-story pagoda and a majestic 1,200-year-old ginkgo tree, both designated as Important Cultural Properties. As we walked through the temple grounds, the sense of serenity and timelessness was palpable. The towering ginkgo tree, with its massive trunk and spreading branches, stood as a silent witness to centuries of history.
The temple’s main hall, dating back to the Muromachi period, houses several significant Buddha statues, adding to the spiritual and historic ambiance of the place. The calmness of the temple grounds, coupled with the beauty of its architecture, provided a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the morning market. It was easy to lose track of time here, surrounded by the quiet beauty and deep history of the temple.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Shorenji and Soyu Hondo Temples
Our journey continued with a visit to Shorenji Temple, a quaint and serene spot known for its beautiful entrance and traditional Buddhist bell. However, the temple’s use as a bus station somewhat diminished its sacred atmosphere. Despite this, the temple offered a peaceful space for reflection and provided a glimpse into the everyday life of Takayama’s residents.
Soyu Hondo Temple was our next destination. Initially, we thought it didn’t offer goshuin (temple stamps), but after a bit of exploration, we found that it did. The temple is well-maintained and provides a peaceful retreat, much like the other temples we visited. The process of collecting goshuin has become a cherished part of our travels, each stamp serving as a beautiful reminder of the places we’ve visited and the spiritual significance they hold.
Exploring Takayama
Wandering through the streets of Takayama, we stumbled upon numerous charming shops. One such visit led us to purchase an antique kokeshi doll, a traditional Japanese wooden doll, a perfect memento from our trip.
Afternoon Adventures in Takayama
After exploring the temples, we spent some time wandering through the streets of Takayama, stumbling upon numerous charming shops along the way. One such visit led us to purchase an antique kokeshi doll, a traditional Japanese wooden doll that is both a piece of art and a piece of history. These dolls, with their simple yet elegant designs, are a symbol of Japan’s rich cultural heritage and made for the perfect memento from our trip.
Our wanderings also took us to Shiroyama Park, a lovely escape into nature with its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. The park offered a pleasant break from the city, and while we didn’t have time to explore the nearby bush walk, we enjoyed the serenity of the surroundings. Among the curiosities of the park were signs warning to be cautious of bears—a reminder of the untamed nature that still exists close to the city. Fortunately, we didn’t see any bears during our visit!
Lunch at Center4 Hamburgers: A Culinary Delight
As the afternoon approached, we sought out a place to eat and were guided by a friendly local, who spoke Italian, to Center4 Hamburgers. This cozy eatery, nestled behind an antique shop, is known for its delicious burgers made with 100% Takayama beef. The restaurant’s quirky, vintage decor added to its charm, and the meal did not disappoint. We savored every bite of our hamburgers, which were juicy and flavorful, along with a Caesar salad, onion rings, and fries. The meal was a culinary highlight, showcasing the best of Takayama’s local produce and providing a satisfying end to our morning adventures.
Afternoon Relaxation: A Well-Deserved Rest
After a morning full of exploration, we returned to our hotel for a well-deserved rest. The plan was simple: enjoy the onsen, sip on some coffee, indulge in a massage, and relax until dinner. Walking an average of 15,000 steps per day in the summer heat, with sudden showers adding to the exhaustion, this downtime was essential. The onsen provided another opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, while the massage helped soothe tired muscles and prepare us for the evening ahead.
Conclusion: A Day Well Spent in Takayama
Our day in Takayama was a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and culinary delight. From ancient temples and vibrant markets to delicious meals and serene parks, every moment was filled with discovery and joy. As we unwind and reflect on our experiences, we look forward to more adventures in this beautiful corner of Japan. Takayama, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, has left a lasting impression on us, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of our journey through Japan will bring.
I hope you have enjoyed this Takayama travel guide! If you have any questions or need more travel tips, don’t hesitate to contact me.
Marco
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