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Hida no Sato: A Journey into Old Japan

Explore traditional thatched-roof houses and immerse yourself in the rural heritage of the Hida region at this open-air museum in Takayama.

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Hida no Sato, or Hida Folk Village, is an open-air museum in Takayama showcasing over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region. Relocated to this site in 1971, these buildings, dating back to the Edo Period (1603-1868), offer a glimpse into the architectural styles and rural life of Japan's mountainous past.

A brief summary to Hida no Sato Open Air Museum

  • Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy softer lighting for photography.
  • Wear slip-on shoes as you'll need to remove them when entering the houses.
  • Check the schedule for craft demonstrations and workshops at the Hida Takayama Crafts Experience Center.
  • Consider purchasing the combination ticket for the bus and entrance fee for a discount.
  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the village and its exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Takayama Station, Hida no Sato is approximately a 30-minute walk. Head southwest from the station, following the main road. The route is well-signposted with some uphill sections towards the end. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Sarubobo Bus operates from Takayama Nohi Bus Center (next to Takayama Station) to Hida no Sato. The bus ride takes about 10 minutes. A one-way fare is approximately ¥210. Consider purchasing a combination ticket (around ¥1000) at the Nohi Bus Center, which includes round-trip bus fare and admission to Hida no Sato.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at Takayama Station. A taxi ride to Hida no Sato takes around 10 minutes. The estimated fare is ¥1500-¥2000. There are no tolls on this route.

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Discover more about Hida no Sato Open Air Museum

Hida no Sato is an open-air museum that transports visitors back in time to the rural Hida region of Japan. Established in 1971, the museum features over 30 carefully preserved and relocated traditional houses, offering a unique window into the past. These buildings represent various aspects of life in the mountainous Hida region, from farmhouses to village head's residences, showcasing the architectural styles and cultural heritage of the Edo Period (1603-1868). The iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with their steeply pitched thatched roofs resembling hands joined in prayer, are a highlight of the village. These structures were designed to withstand the heavy snowfall common in the region. Visitors can explore the interiors of these houses, discovering tools, utensils, and artifacts that depict daily life in a bygone era. Some houses feature lit fireplaces, adding to the immersive atmosphere. Hida no Sato also offers insights into local crafts and traditions. Demonstrations of weaving, lacquerware, and other traditional crafts provide a hands-on experience. The adjacent Hida Takayama Crafts Experience Center offers workshops where visitors can create their own souvenirs, such as sarubobo dolls and wind chimes. The village hosts seasonal events and festivals throughout the year, providing a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors.

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