Takayama, Japan Hotels, Vacations, Tourism

On the Gifu-ken side of the Central Alps range, in an area known as Hida, lies the lovely town of TAKAYAMA , 110km northeast of Nagoya. Once an enclave of skilled carpenters, employed by emperors to build palaces and temples in Kyoto and Nara, Takayama is now a sprawling modern town, although most of its old merchant houses, small museums, tranquil temples and shrines are clustered into a compact area. Add the area's specialized crafts and cuisine, not to mention warm-hearted locals, and you'll realize why it brings in the crowds. The best time to visit is out of season or during the week, when it's quiet … more »