20251216 Takayama, Japan

20251215 We settled into Mina’s Samurai House with 4 Bedrooms, 9 Beds and 1 car Parking in one of the Ancient Towns in Japan. Phil and Sharyn take a short walk for supplies and much needed wine after a long trip with three boys, as we settling in for a movie before a good night’s sleep.
The history of Takayama is rooted in its success during Japan Edo, a period (1603–1868), a time when Japan was ruled by the shoguns (military leaders). It thrived as a timber-rich strategic town governed directly by the Shogunate. The government established the Takayama (magistrate’s office) and designed the town’s orderly, grid-like streets, leading to its nickname, “Little Kyoto.” The town was originally developed in the late 1500s by Kanamori Nagachika, who constructed Takayama Castle and its surrounding castle town. Supported by abundant high-quality wood, skilled carpenters, and rich natural resources, Takayama grew into an important center for administration, trade—especially sake brewing —and culture. Today, its Edo-period atmosphere remains remarkably intact in the Old Town area of Sanmachi Sujj.

Mina's SamuraiHouse, our home for the next few days.

This Japanese samurai armor (yoroi), it’s what greeted us as we entered the entrance, it’s  what was worn by members of the military nobility in feudal Japan.

Shoes are taken off at the door, and slippers are worn inside to respect different customs and make visitors feel welcome. Over time, wearing slippers indoors became common throughout Japan.

We walk into a traditional Japanese kitchen/lounge.

AKotatsu (a low, heated table covered by a heavy blanket), situated on a tatami mat area for comfortable seating, I’m not so sure about comfortable.🤷‍♀️

Hanging on the wall is this vintage blue silk Japanese tsukesage kimono with a butterfly and floral pattern.

The road was clear of snow but this is our street.

20251216 The town markets were on, so we bundled up and went exploring. There was lots of unusual food to try, and we sampled a few things and bought some traditional treats that have been made for four generations. 

Takayama morning market is one of the biggest markets in Japan situated on the Miyagawa River side, it has over sixty shops and stalls in approximately 350 meters.

Miyagawa River has a rich history tied to spirituality, commerce, and nature, notably as the sacred "River of the Gods" flowing to Ise Jingu in Mie, renowned for its pristine water quality used for purification rituals and recreation.

Hamish, Owen and Phil pose in front of the Miyagawa River while checking out the Koi and Rainbow Trout.

I hi-ittbori is a traditional craft originated in the late Edo period, developed by master carvers in Takayama.

The streets are lined with these wooden Christmas decorations and looked very christmassy, so cool. 

We all rushed out with no breakfast so we go in search of a place to eat and found Chuuka Soba Kajibashi restaurant located by the Kajibashi Bridge. The meal was definitely different for breakfast but also very tasty.

Ash enjoys a bowl of yummy noodles, just what the doctor orders on a cold icy day.

Phil scoffed down his big bowl of rice followed by Toro Nigiri, he loves his raw foods.

Ash hates his photo being taken but we managed to sneak this one in with his Mum and brother Owen.

Phil ordered the Toro Nigiri, sushi made with the fatty belly portion of tuna, not my cup of tea but he enjoyed it.

A simple dish but man it was nice.

After a late breakfast we continued our journey around the town taking in the sites and unusual sculptures and a much different shopping experience than home.

The statues are a symbol of cooperation, representing the idea that when people work together, they can achieve anything.

This statues are based on Japanese folklore creatures (yokai) and are believed to have protected the village from evil spirits and disease.

This is one of many Japanese Shrines, or jinja, and places of worship for the Shinto religion, an indigenous faith of Japan. The history of these shrines is deeply intertwined with the country's cultural and spiritual development.

Found this in a window, Charcoal-Grilled Sweetfish, known as aya and a popular seasonal specialty in Japan, often enjoyed during the summer months. The fish are skewered to resemble them swimming and grilled over charcoal until the skin is crispy and the flesh is tender.

The statues are of Hello Kitty, dressed as Sarubobo, a traditional good-luck charm and mascot of the Hida region, translates to “baby monkey” in Japanese. Traditionally, these faceless red dolls were handmade by mothers and grandmothers for their children and grandchildren to bring happiness, good fortune, and safe childbirth.

We stopped for a Hot Chocolate to warm us up and a tasty treat at the Takayama Cafe.

Who doesn’t love a yummy Cheesecake and the mint adds a special twist.

Then Phil turns up with the boys and of cause ice cream is Owie’s favourite.

Hamish on the other takes after Grandma and chooses the cheesecake.
 
 

After stepping outside after our treat we ran into these Korean geisha who were very excited to have a photo with people from Australia.

This is a common sight in front of shops and homes, it reminds me a lot of Europe—so pretty.


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