Around Takayama


　Though a journey to Takayama alone will be full of interest, if you have an extra day or two to spare why not explore the surrounding countryside? Or make Takayama a stopover while touring around this very scenic and historic region of Japan... You will find that throughout the region there are regular and efficient bus and train services, as well as pleasant places to stay. If you need help in planning your tour, either the Hida Tourist Information Office or Tourist Information Centers will be happy to help you.

Norikura Skyline 3,200 meter-long ropeway

　The mountains around Takayama (the Hida mountains) are part of the Japan Alps National Park and they are exceptionally beautiful. Within reach of Takayama by bus or taxi, for example, is Mount Norikura, a dormant volcano soaring to over 3,000 meters. A magnificent road (the Norikura Skyline) takes you to the spectacular vantage point of Tatamidaira; from there, buses connect to famous hot-spring resorts such as Hirayu or Shin Hotaka. From Shin Hotaka, a 3,200 meter-long stretch of ropeway provides a spectacular panorama of the Japan Alps.

　Continuing westwards, a bus can be taken from Hirayu to the rocky splendor of the Kamiokochi valley and thence to Matsumoto, an attractive town with a fine castle: the moats and walls of the 16th century donjon are designated National Treasures.

Matsumoto Castle Kenrokuen landscaped garden

　Going north from Takayama by train will take you to Toyama and the Japan Sea coast and from Toyama it is only a short distance by express train to Kanazawa, famous for its Kutani ceramics, old samurai houses, and a landscaped garden (Kenrokuen) that is considered one of the most beautiful places in Japan.

Some suggested routes

Takayama-Norikura
By Nohi Bus via the Norikura Skyline to Tatamidaira (1 hr. 40 mins.). Or by taxi (1 hr. 30 mins.)

Norikura-Hirayu
From Tatamidaira, bus to Hirayu (45 mins.)

Hirayu-Hotaka
From Hirayu, bus to Shin Hotaka (40 mins.) From Shin Hotaka by two ropeways to Nishi Hotaka Guchi (20 mins.). (Direct bus service Takayama-Shin Hotaka: 1 hr. 40 mins.)

Hirayu-Kamikochi
By Nohi Bus (1 hr.)

Kamikochi-Matsumoto
By Bus (1 hr. 40 mins.)

Takayama-Toyama-Kanazawa
Express train to Toyama (1 hr. 40 mins.). From Toyama to Kanazawa by express train (40 mins.). Total time, Takayama-Kanazawa, 2 hrs. 30 mins.


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