Takayama as we see it

Takayama has a long history as the source of timber for temples and houses all over Japan. Located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu prefecture, this town has retained its picturesque quality. Takayama is Denver's Japanese Sister City and the relationship has been going since 1960.

Hotel:

We will be staying one night at the Washington Plaza Hotel, and three nights in the mountains at the Open Heart Pension owned and run by the Hirakawa family. (Osamu Hirakawa is the president of the Takayama Denver Friendship Association. He and his wife, Kyoko, are first rate musicians and they hold music camps and concerts at the pension.)

Some things to do in Takayama

Here is a list of some suggested sites to see / things to do in Takayama. The Takayama Denver Friendship Association (TDFA) will take the lead in our touring, as we do in Denver when Takayama people visit Denver.

• Since the fall matsuri (festival) is going on, the parades will be the main attraction, but you may also want to ...
• Stroll down to the morning market along the river
• Shop or just wander through the old town area
• Explore the famous Hida Folk Village
• Take a day trip to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the Yatai Kaikan, a museum of festival floats.
• Here is a nice resource for touring in Takayama.