Takayama Jin-ya | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

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Takayama Jin-ya

Japan’s only magistrate’s office standing since Edo Period.

1 Sep 2026 See More

Stepping into Takayama Jin-ya feels like traveling back through centuries of history. It is also the only Edo-period magistrate's office in Japan that remains fully preserved today. After the shogunate placed Hida under its direct control, this became the central institution overseeing politics, taxation, and judicial matters, bearing witness to the disciplined government culture of the Edo period.

Inside the jin-ya, glimpses of history are everywhere: the impressive main hall reflects the authority officials once held; traces of interrogations and old instruments of punishment offer insight into the Edo-period judicial system; and Japan's largest and oldest surviving onkura rice storehouse tells the story of storing rice collected as annual tribute.

One highlight during your visit is the makimuki usagi nail covers on the beams and pillars, which symbolize protection from fire and evil. Don't forget to look for them—the craftsmanship and ingenuity are evident in every detail.

Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

Shinhotaka Ropeway

Far east of Takayama City, in Okuhida Hot Spring Villages, a ropeway takes you to Shin Hotaka Onsen. From the starting point, Shinhotaka-Onsen Station, to the terminal, Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station, ride the 1st and then 2nd ropeway to enjoy a 3,200m-long journey in the sky.
- Gifu
- Ropeway
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The Shinhotaka Ropeway is Japan's only double-decker ropeway, carrying travelers up to a spectacular height of more than 2,000 meters above sea level. As the ropeway slowly climbs, the majestic ridgelines of the Northern Alps unfold before your eyes, with each season revealing completely different scenery.

Once you reach the mountaintop observation deck at Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station, the unobstructed 360-degree panoramic view is breathtaking. Don't forget to buy a rich matcha ice cream at the summit, sit down, and quietly gaze at the rolling sea of clouds and endless mountains while taking in the tranquility far from the crowds and the vast beauty of nature.
Hida Takayama Old Townscape

Hida Takayama Old Townscape is said to be a town where the original landscape of Japan remains, as the streets from the Edo period still remain, and the charming town houses and noren (curtains) of old stores continue to be seen.
- Gifu
- Famous Places
1 Sep 2026 See More

Hida Takayama has long been known as “Little Kyoto.” It prospered during the Edo period thanks to its woodworking craftsmanship and commerce under direct shogunate control, and its old streets have fully preserved their rustic appearance, with traditional black wooden lattice windows.

Strolling through the old streets, you’ll find unique craft shops everywhere. Sake breweries display round sugidama cedar balls outside, signaling that new sake is ready and inviting visitors in to taste the smooth sake. Freshly grilled senbei are crisp and fragrant, while Takayama miso, brewed using traditional methods, is a must-buy souvenir.

When you’re tired from exploring, I personally recommend visiting the long-established Suzuya (寿々や). In its rustic, cozy atmosphere, enjoy a steaming pot of Hida beef shabu-shabu. The beautifully marbled beef melts in your mouth after a quick swish through the broth, warming both your heart and stomach during your trip.
Mosaic Tile Museum Tajimi

Mosaic tiles are small tiles with less than 50 cm² of surface area. This museum opened in 2016 in Kusahara-cho, Tajimi City, which produces the most mosaic tiles in Japan.
- Gifu
- Museums
1 Sep 2026 See More

If you like quieter small cities, I recommend Tajimi, just about a half-hour train ride from Nagoya. The moment I stepped off the train, I fully felt the charm of this historic pottery town, far from the hustle and bustle and filled with a relaxed atmosphere. It has long been one of Japan's major pottery centers and is known nationwide for Mino ware, a tradition passed down for a thousand years. Its deep-rooted craftsmanship can be felt throughout the streets and alleys.

Besides strolling along the historic Honmachi Oribe Street and browsing the tasteful pottery shops lining both sides, you can feel the artisans' dedication everywhere.

When you get tired, enjoy fragrant soba noodles or charcoal-grilled eel over rice at the century-old restaurant Unagi no Uoseki. In the afternoon, stop by Kissahishiya Bunguten, which combines stationery with a retro space, for coffee and experience the pottery town's unique slow pace and cultural charm.

It's a small town with a rich cultural heritage that's worth visiting.