Photo of Takayama

About Takayama

A fascinating historic city in Japan's mountainous Gifu Prefecture, riverside Takayama is a wonderful gateway to the region's hot springs, as well as an intriguing cultural destination. Accommodation options range from simple ryokans to chic concept hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Takayama are in the atmospheric old town, but we do have two favourites hidden in the peaceful countryside.

Heritage enthusiasts will adore discovering the narrow streets of the Sanmachi Suji historic district. Lined with wooden houses dating back to the Edo Period, the area is also home to many characterful museums, eateries and shops. The Takayama Showa Museum, Takayama Jinya, Takayama Museum of History & Art and the Hikaru Museum are all excellent. The city has famously hosted the biannual Takayama Festival since the mid-1600s, and the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall displays some of the stunning gilded floats which feature in the parade.

Follow the Higashiyama Walking Course or venture beyond the city for hiking and cycling paths aplenty. The Great Limestone Cave of Hida is striking, as are the region’s mountains, forests and hot springs. Hide away in one of the best places to stay in Takayama and feast on delicious cuisine in a charming setting.

The Best Places to Stay in Takayama

For a City Stay

  • Eph Takayama is a trendy concept hotel in the Hida Takayama Onsen district. Rooms are done in earthy tones and furnished with light, natural wood pieces and original fusuma artwork. Enjoy delicious fusion breakfasts before heading out to explore the city.
  • Hidatei Hanaougi offers a classic Japanese experience, with futon bedding and low seating in the guestrooms, as well as shared access to relaxing hot spring baths. Savour seasonal dishes in the atmospheric restaurant or the intimate private rooms. For couples, friends and families.
  • Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan is an authentic ryokan just steps from Takayama's historic old town. The hotel offers Japanese or Western-style rooms. Beds are topped with crisp linens, indulgent hot spring baths await, and bikes are available for hire from the hotel.

For a Rural Hideaway

  • Hirayu Onsen Mozumo is a tranquil, adults-only ryokan hidden in the forest. Set alongside the Mozumo River, the hotel's sliding doors reveal generous terraces with indulgent baths fed by natural hot spring water. An intimate and restful romantic escape.
  • Kakurean Hidaji offers a boutique hideaway amongst the Fukuji Ho hot springs. Traditional rooms have siting areas with tatami matting, rejuvenating open-air hot spring baths, and big cosy beds. Feast on rustic seasonal cuisine in beautiful surroundings. For couples looking to unwind.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport, two hours by car or train from Takayama, or to Toyama Airport, just over an hour away.
  • You may want the flexibility of driving if you're exploring beyond the city limits. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn, when temperatures range between 20 and 25°C. This is the best time for outdoors activities.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Takayama

Best Hotels in Takayama

  • Cup of Tea: Ensemble Takayama (Gifu) 8 rooms from €92

    Families  -  Great for families with options for separated upper and lower levels plus loft beds. All rooms sleep either 4 or 6
    Groups  -  Groups can enjoy the 8 rooms and communal lounge
    Sights nearby  -  Take a stroll around Old Town Takayama, home to merchant houses, shrines, temples, and souvenir shops
    Local markets  -  Discover local produce at the morning market across the street
    Air conditioningNo pets

    A former food warehouse then bank, turned minimalist inn, in the centre of town. Cosy rooms with shower and alcove or loft beds, enveloped in warm wood made from Japanese cedar. No restaurant, but there's a kitchen available plus many eateries nearby. A chic city stay at a reasonable price. See More

    Check Availability
  • Tokyu Stay Hida Takayama Musubi no Yu Takayama (Gifu) from €120

    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in the tranquil ambience of a traditional Onsen, set against a backdrop of cypress woods and lush Japanese gardens.
    Local exploring  -  Delve into the heart of Takayama, uncover the enchanting architecture and culture of this secluded Japanese Alps town
    Foodies  -  Enjoy a culinary journey with Hoba-miso grill and Hida beef in the local ingredient-focused restaurant
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the historic Sanmachi Street, a journey back to 17th-century Japan, just minutes away
    Air conditioningRestaurantParking

    A 4* hotel in Takayama, offering a modern twist on a classic concept. Spacious rooms in 'modern' and 'classic' styles feature walls adorned with local art and traditional crafts. A range of onsens and a fabulous restaurant ensure a serene escape in this historic city. See More

    Check Availability
  • The Green Hotel Takayama (Gifu) 189 rooms from €94

    Local exploring  -  Discover local landmarks such as Nakabashi Bridge and Takayama Traditional Buildings Preservation Area
    Total relaxation  -  There's an open-air bath, indoor bath, sauna and relaxing Japanese garden
    Sights nearby  -  There are many historical temples & shrines to visit in Takayama & the UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakawa is a 50-minute drive
    Restaurant  -  Guests can sample Japanese cuisine at Rokutei, or try European meals at Summit
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A striking hotel in Hida Takayama Onsen. Guests can opt for Japanese or Western style rooms, some with views to die for. There are hot-spring baths (open-air and indoor), a sauna and zen garden, plus restaurants serving Japanese, Chinese and French cuisine. The perfect spot for a chilled city stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Wat Hotel & Spa Takayama (Gifu) 116 rooms from €95

    Local exploring  -  Discover the nearby Sanmachi Suji area, home to a range of shops and stalls, plus plenty of galleries and eateries
    Families  -  Reasonably priced rooms, family open-air baths and good location for getting to local attractions
    Sights nearby  -  Hida Takayama is an ideal base for exploring the Japanese Alps, as well as all the attractions in the city
    Restaurant  -  Lamp restaurant offers a buffet menu with a variety of Japanese and Western cuisine
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A comfortable hotel in downtown Takayama. Rooms in gold and turquoise are minimalist and serene, with soft lighting. There's a restaurant serving buffet meals, a sultry piano bar and the chic rooftop boasts a natural hot spring with panoramic views. A good choice for a reasonably priced city break. See More

    Check Availability
  • FAV Hotel Hidatakayama West Takayama (Gifu) 38 rooms from €101

    Groups  -  There are several large rooms which are ideal for groups travelling together, plus a bar serving local snacks and sake
    Local exploring  -  The train station is a short walk away so it's the ideal base for exploring the area
    Families  -  Kids will love the fun bunkbeds in the family suites
    Sights nearby  -  Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Takayama Old Town where some of the buildings are more than 300 years old
    Air conditioningDisabled accessViewsParking

    Situated in the heart of Takayama, this comfortable hotel has light, spacious rooms with sitting areas, kitchenettes and washing machines. The large rooms with bunkbeds are especially good for groups or families, plus there's a bar serving snacks. A great choice for a budget-conscious city break. See More

    Check Availability
  • Hotel Wood Takayama (Gifu) 70 rooms from €121

    Local exploring  -  A great location for history buffs as Takayama Museum of History & Art, Fuji Folk Museum & Showa-kan Museum are all nearby
    Short break  -  The hotel is within walking distance of Takayama Train Station so it's an ideal base for sightseeing
    Sights nearby  -  Enjoy strolling past the beautifully preserved Edo-period houses and museums that line the streets in Takayama’s old town
    Local markets  -  It's close to many morning markets for the freshest of food and veg
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessNo pets

    A wooden structure with zen at its heart, in the heart of Takayama old town. The warm theme continues throughout with comfortable rooms, a lounge designed around a sunken fireplace and a calming zen room. Complimentary tea and a large public bath complete the picture for a relaxing stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • The Machiya Hotel Takayama (Gifu) 14 rooms from €124

    Groups  -  There is a separate villa with its own kitchen, two bedrooms and a lovely river view from the balcony — perfect for small groups
    Local exploring  -  Explore Takayama Old Town with its traditional shops & sake breweries. Make sure to try Hida beef & 'mitarashi' mochi dumplings
    Families  -  There are several connecting rooms, plus the Deluxe Loft Room is ideal for families with fun bunkbeds & a separate seating area
    Sights nearby  -  Takayama Station is nearby so you can easily visit the UNSECO World Heritage sites of Shirakawa-go Village and Hida Furukawa
    Air conditioningTennisGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A charming hotel in a renovated building in the centre of town. Rooms feature high ceilings, wood-lined tubs and original artwork. There's a tea lounge with locally sourced Japanese tea, two private baths infused with the scent of cypress wood, plus a cute courtyard garden. A delight for the senses. See More

    Check Availability
  • Ryokan Asunaro Takayama (Gifu) 18 rooms from €148

    Total relaxation  -  Enjoy free coffee in the lobby, relax in the Hida Takayama onsen, and soak up the serene atmosphere of this historical property
    Short break  -  It's a short walk to the train and bus stations so ideally situated for a sightseeing break
    Local exploring  -  Set in the heart of Tayakama, many of the city's highlights are within walking distance
    Restaurant  -  Traditional Kaiseki fare is served in the dining room
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This ryokan is in the centre of bustling Takayama yet, once inside, it's like a different world. Spacious guest rooms are filled with the warmth of natural wood while the communal areas reflect the building's history and character. It's the perfect spot to experience traditional Japanese culture. See More

    Check Availability
  • Yatsusankan Takayama 18 rooms from €210

    Total relaxation  -  Relax in the open air covered hot spring baths from Nagareha Onsen or book an indoor bath for more privacy
    Full of character  -  The hotel is separated into 3 Towers — Kogetsu, Shogetsu and Kangetsu — and each has an individual style and decor for the rooms
    Traditional  -  Eyecatching, distinctive features to the interior include traditional tatami flooring, latticework windows and sunken hearths
    Restaurant  -  Enjoy the 'Hida Supper' with authentic seasonal meals created with local ingredients from the hotel's farm and the region
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViewsParking

    An historic hotel in the heart of Hida, offering a rural sanctuary for travellers. Traditional Japenese style rooms, with authentic features including tatami flooring and Japanese decor. Enjoy delicious, seasonal local cuisine, and the use of relaxing hot spring baths. Utter bliss. See More

    Check Availability
  • eph TAKAYAMA Takayama 12 rooms from €215

    Romantic Break  -  With charming suites and attentive staff, book this hotel for a romantic getaway in a historic Japanese town
    Local exploring  -  The hotel's location makes it perfect for local sightseeing, with Takayama's main attractions close by
    City Style  -  With contemporary interiors and a convenient city location, book this hotel for local Takayama charm
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the local Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine; dating back to 5 B.C, it is renowned for its festivals and puppet performances
    Disabled accessNo pets

    This culture-concept hotel is situated in the Hida Takayama Onsen district of Takayama. Interiors are warm and inviting, with exposed wood accents complemented by natural hues. Each room features original fusuma artwork inspired by Takayama’s natural landscape and traditional Mino yaki coffee cups. See More

    Check Availability
  • Ichinomatsu Japanese Modern Hotel Takayama (Gifu) 12 rooms from €289

    Local exploring  -  Kamikochi is a scenic spot in the southern part of the Hida Mountain where you can enjoy magnificent nature and clean air
    Families  -  A good size of hotel for families, plus it's reasonably priced and kids will love the fun mini breakfast boxes
    Sights nearby  -  Gifu Perfecture is home to 48 wonderful waterfalls and stunning scenery
    Local markets  -  Close to Takayama Jinya and Miyagawa Morning Market
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    A small hotel in a residential area of downtown Takayama. Streamlined rooms (some with tatami floors and futons) give a relaxed feel, plus there's a complimentary breakfast (alternate Japanese bento box or Western fare). A garden with a hot spring bath completes the picture for a serene city stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Miyama Ouan Kyoritsu Resort Takayama (Gifu) 72 rooms from €237

    Total relaxation  -  The amazing mountain views, hot spring baths, a sauna and a calming garden make for a relaxing stay
    Local exploring  -  It's a five-minute walk to the bus station so a great spot for those wanting to explore the area
    Sights nearby  -  Visit picturesque Kappa Bridge, a graceful suspension bridge over the flowing Azusa River in the serene Kamikōchi Valley
    Restaurant  -  Miyama Sakura, the on-site restaurant, serves locally-inspired fare
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Nestled in the tranquil Hida Mountains, this resort offers a magical escape with glorious views. Rooms feature tatami floors and futons, plus there are indoor and outdoor baths. The restaurant serves traditional Kaiseki food and there are complimentary noodles every night. A haven for relaxation. See More

    Check Availability
  • Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan Takayama (Gifu) 28 rooms from €237

    Total relaxation  -  Some rooms have semi-open-air baths so you can enjoy a relaxing time overlooking the hotel's gorgeous 'stone garden'
    Local exploring  -  Conveniently situated for tourist attractions such as the old townscape, Takayama Jinya, and the morning market
    Families  -  Spacious family suites and free rental of baby equipment such as strollers and toys
    Local markets  -  Many traditional crafts can be found at local markets including pottery (Shibukusa, Koito and Yamada ware) plus wooden furniture
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    An elegant hotel in the heart of historic Takayama Old Town. Spacious suites in neutral tones have soaking tubs and separate sitting rooms. The indoor hot spring bath features special toiletries for both men and women plus there's a sushi restaurant serving authentic fare. A stylish city escape. See More

    Check Availability
  • Hanaougi Bettei Iiyama Takayama (Gifu) 15 rooms from €309

    Total relaxation  -  Allow for a soothing experience delivered through exceptional hospitality and a calming spa experience tailored for you
    Local exploring  -  Despite its off-centre location, you're well placed for exploring both the city and beyond
    Garden  -  A beautiful traditional Japanese courtyard complete with a Koi pond
    Hideaway  -  An oasis amongst the hustle and bustle of Takayama
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViewsParking

    A tree-themed adult hideaway in a secluded corner of Takayama city. The traditional ryokan boasts bespoke rooms with tatami mat floors and earthy colours; the best with private terrace and outdoor hot spring onsen. Delicious Kaiseki cuisine features the best produce from the Northern Alps. See More

    Check Availability
  • Hirayu Onsen Mozumo Takayama (Gifu) 10 rooms from €260

    Romantic Break  -  Privacy is key here with romantic rooms, in-room dining and private onsens, all within a secluded setting
    Private Onsen  -  All rooms have either a cypress or granite private outdoor onsen
    Local exploring  -  Explore Takayama Old Town which is a 50-minute drive away
    Great walks  -  Connect with nature and enjoy spectacular alpine vistas in Chubu-Sangaku National Park
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    An adult-only ryokan situated between mountains and natural hot springs in Takayama. Stylish rooms offer beautiful simplicity with contemporary Japanese design and private baths. There's a lush garden with forest views, plus delicious in-room dining. The perfect grown-up stay in a tranquil setting. See More

    Check Availability
  • Ryokan Tanabe Takayama (Gifu) 22 rooms from €307

    Short break  -  A great location for a sightseeing base as it's within walking distance of the city's main attractions, including the old town
    Local exploring  -  Ryokan Tanabe is close to Takayama Train Station, making it easy for guests to discover Takayama and its surrounding areas
    Local markets  -  Explore Takayama’s Old Town. Stroll to the riverside market, then explore the beautifully preserved merchants’ houses
    Sights nearby  -  The property is close to the 16th-century Hidakokubun-ji Temple and the iconic Nakabashi Bridge is nearby
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    A traditional, high end, timber-fronted ryokan, dating back to 1934, in the centre of Takayama's Historic District. Perfect for an authentic experience with a hot spring onsen, futon beds, tatami-matted floors, and elaborate kaiseki dinners served in your room. An authentic stay. See More

    Check Availability
  • Wanosato Takayama 8 rooms from €481

    Back to Nature  -  With its off-the-beaten track riverside setting, Wanosato provides a truly relaxing, back to nature experience
    Full of character  -  The main building is a carfeully restored 160 year old farmer's house with a rare traditional thatched roof
    Romantic Break  -  Hide away with your significant other amid beautiful countryside and savour the fabulous food
    Total relaxation  -  At Wanosato the emphasis is on communing with nature and relaxing in your forest hideaway
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViewsParking

    A stunning riverside ryokan set in original 160 year old thatched houses. Just eight individually designed, authentic rooms plus a traditional "irori" hearth sitting centre stage. There are two onsens on site (one rock, one cypress) and delcious, elaborate Kaiseki cuisine. Tradition at its best. See More

    Check Availability
  • Hidatei Hanaougi Takayama (Gifu) 48 rooms from €456

    Foodies  -  Dinner and breakfast at the hotel are provided in a private room called a Sanmachi Komichi, an authentic experience for foodies
    Total relaxation  -  With hot spring baths, excellent quality food and comfortable private suites, book this hotel for total relaxation
    Romantic Break  -  The hotel hosts baths sourced from a local natural hot spring, perfect for lounging on a romantic break
    Local markets  -  Shop like a local with a trip to the Miyagawa Morning Market, with vendors selling fresh regional delicacies
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This charming Japanese inn feels like an oasis of calm in Takayama. Guestrooms have traditional tatami mats and local cedar wood accents, in addition to sliding screens leading to open-air terrace baths. Sample seasonal dishes at the hotel's chic restaurant after sightseeing. See More

    Check Availability
  • Kakurean Hidaji Takayama (Gifu) 12 rooms from €491

    Active Holiday  -  With the mountains a stone's throw away and lots of winter sports available nearby, book this hotel for an active winter break
    Back to Nature  -  Located in a beautiful natural landscape beside a river, book this hotel for a tranquil back-to-nature retreat
    Romantic Break  -  The romantic atmosphere at this adults-only hot springs hotel is perfect for a couples' getaway
    Sights nearby  -  Take the Shinhodaka Ropeway for superb views of the Northern Alps from the air; enquire at the hotel for a local transfer
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    This hideaway hotel is nestled amongst the Fukuji Ho hot springs in the foothills of Japan's Northern Alps. Guestrooms have a sitting room with tatami mats and a sunken table connected to a Japanese-style bedroom, in addition to private open-air baths. Sample rustic, seasonal cuisine at dinner. See More

    Check Availability