Ichii-Ittōbori (Yew Carving) 

Nestled in the heart of Gifu Prefecture's Hida region lies a treasure trove of craftsmanship known as Ichii Itto Bori. This revered woodwork tradition, hailing from the enchanting landscapes of Hida Takayama, is a testament to the intricate artistry and rich cultural heritage of Japan.

Ichii Itto Bori, or yew tree carving, embodies the essence of Hida's natural bounty, utilizing the revered yew tree – a symbol of Gifu Prefecture's botanical wealth. What sets this craft apart is its minimalist approach, using only the simplest of tools to carve intricate designs into the aged yew wood.

At the heart of Ichii Itto Bori lies a reverence for nature's timeless beauty, with artisans selecting only the most precious yew wood, some dating back 400 to 500 years, from the renowned forests of Hida. Each piece of yew wood boasts a unique blend of reddish "Akadata" and whitish "Shirata" hues, adding depth and character to every creation. As time passes, the wood's color evolves, acquiring a lustrous sheen that further enhances its aesthetic appeal.

immerse yourself in the captivating world of Ichii Itto Bori and embark on a journey through the centuries-old tradition that continues to enchant and inspire.

Shibukusayaki Pottery  

Step into the enchanting world of pottery in Hida Takayama and explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Shibukusayaki. Established in the 19th century, this pottery factory has been a beacon of artistry and tradition, drawing pottery masters from across Japan to its humble abode. Nestled in the heart of Shibukusa, the kilns where the magic happens, Shibukusayaki pottery embodies the essence of local nature and culture, creating pieces that are as unique as the artisans who craft them.

What sets Shibukusayaki pottery apart is its distinctive style, characterized by hand-painted patterns in vibrant colors adorning pristine white chinaware. Each stroke of the brush tells a story, capturing the beauty of Hida Takayama's landscapes and traditions. From intricate floral motifs to geometric designs, every piece of Shibukusayaki pottery is a masterpiece of artistry and skill.

The main products of Shibukusayaki pottery are tableware, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a passion for perfection. Every plate, bowl, and cup is lovingly handmade, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike. This dedication to craftsmanship means that mass production is not an option, making each Shibukusayaki piece a rare and cherished treasure.

Yamadayaki Pottery

Established in the 18th Century, this is the oldest pottery factory in the region. From the beginning, it has produced earthenware which farmers’ and merchants’ families could use every day. Its products are characterized by the brown color and the heavy texture. Collectors will enjoy the depth of the earthy natural aesthetic.

Koitoyaki Pottery

Step into the captivating world of pottery in Hida Takayama and behold the exquisite craftsmanship of Koitoyaki.

Established in the 17th century, this pottery factory has weathered the tides of time, closing down twice only to rise again, stronger and more resilient. It wasn't until after World War II that the current kilns were erected, breathing new life into the age-old tradition of Koitoyaki pottery.

What sets Koitoyaki pottery apart is its distinctive deep cobalt blue glaze, a hallmark of its heritage and legacy. Each piece bears the mark of centuries of tradition, with an originality that captivates the eye and stirs the soul. From vases to teapots, bowls to plates, every item crafted at the Koitoyaki pottery factory is infused with a sense of history and craftsmanship that is truly unparalleled.

One of the unique aspects of Koitoyaki pottery is its evolution over time. When you first lay hands on a piece of Koitoyaki pottery, you'll notice its surface feels slightly rough to the touch. But fear not, for with each use, the pottery will gradually smooth out, revealing a lustrous sheen that is a testament to its enduring quality. Moreover, the cobalt blue glaze undergoes a transformation, deepening in color and intensity, imbuing each piece with a richness and depth that only time can bestow.

Hida Furniture

Nestled amidst the lush forests of Takayama City and its picturesque surroundings lies a treasure trove of exquisite craftsmanship known as Hida Furniture. Blessed with abundant forest resources, this region is home to a multitude of skilled artisans, affectionately known as the "Hida no Takumi," who possess traditional woodworking skills passed down through generations.

The legacy of furniture making in Hida Takayama traces its roots back to the 20th century, when skilled craftsmen first began fashioning timber into timeless pieces of art. Characterized by its sturdy structure, achieved through intricate wood bending techniques and impeccable processing methods, Hida Furniture stands as a testament to the ingenuity and skill of its creators.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Hida Furniture embodies a deeper connection to the land from which it originates. Crafted from locally sourced timber, each piece carries with it the essence of the region's forests, nurtured and cherished by the hands of its people. Whether it's the warmth of walnut or the elegance of cherry wood, every piece of Hida Furniture is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship of the region.

more info

Shiroyama Park

In the Sengoku period, Shiroyama Park is blessed with nature and has a quiet atmosphere in the area of the ruins of Takayama-jo Castle. It is also selected as one of the 100 best forests in forest bathing.

HIDA-NO-SATO (HIDA FOLK VILLAGE) / all year round

The village museum is lined with more than 30 of Hida's most famous private houses, including gassho-zukuri (gassho-zukuri style) that endured heavy snowfall, shaping the rural landscape of the past.

In addition to displaying many of the lifestyle and living tools of rural villages, each house also offers demonstrations, experiences, and seasonal events such as straw work, sashiko, and braid.

Sky Park

TAKAYAMA JINYA

Takayama Jinya is the only site in Japan of a provincial governor/magistrate’s office where the main building still remains. We introduce you here to six features that you must not miss amongst the many highlights of a tour of Takayama Jinya.

Nakahashi

The Red Nakahashi is a representative bridge of Hida Takayama that spans the Miyagawa River that runs through the center of Takayama City. The Red Nakahashi Bridge is always passed at least once when you stroll through the old streets of Takayama. The red Nakahashi also changes its expression depending on the season, and no matter which season you ask, you can find beautiful scenery.

old town atmosphere

Takayama, located in Hida, a region in the north of the Gifu prefecture, is a pulsing city full of life. Wood culture is the key word when visiting Takayama. Since the ancient era of Nara (710 AD), wood carving techniques have been improved in this city surrounded by mountains. It is not uncommon to find, even in places such as Kyoto, structures or wooden statues made in Takayama.

asaichi(Morning markets)

Morning markets are held every morning in two areas in Takayama. You can buy seasonal ingredients such as vegetables, fruits and pickles made by farmers. It's worth getting up early to spend time surrounded by the pleasant sounds of the river and the fresh morning air.

飛騨一之宮水無神社

位山