Takayama — The historical district during the Tanabata Festival

An old merchant town overflowing with a traditional Japanese atmosphere and perfectly suited for a stroll!

Located at the center of the castle town, the three main streets that make up the most popular part of Takayama's Historical District served as a bustling merchant town in times past. This area is referred to as Sanmachi-dori, and it is distinguishable by the distinctive, old architecture and shops that remain to this day. These streets, brimming with shops and stalls of all kinds, are the heart of Takayama and are not to be missed!

Among these stores are old-fashioned Japanese sweet shops, stores selling traditional crafts, and shops selling local specialties such as 'mitarashi dango' rice ball snacks and skewered Hida beef etc. You can buy a popular 'sarubobo' protection charm or taste some sake at one of the many breweries in town － especially recommended during the winter!