Takayama is beautiful on the 12 April 2024. Due to its terrain, Sakura was blooming at this time of the year.

The old buildings were conserved and now serves as tourist attractions with many shops, cafe and restaurant to explore.

It was fun to wander around town on foot, spotting Sakura trees and enjoying spring time.

Hida beef is the attraction cuisine and perhaps a tourist trap. It’s costly and I am not particularly impressed by it.

Shops closes early and I found myself back in the hotel to enjoy the onsen facilities. That completed the Japanese vacation experience for me.

I stayed in Mercure Takayama and found the experience pleasant and nice. Conveniently situated near the train station and just a short walk from the old town. It even has a common fireplace at the lobby. Imagine sitting here in winter during off peak season.

In short, it was a relaxing getaway from the busy city.

On the next day, I visited the morning market and found a little bakery nook selling freshly baked Croissant!

I finally understood the beauty of it. Unlike the greasy and lumpy stuff back home, this one is light, crispy and had delicately sweet bean paste fillings that was still piping hot. Having this with coffee while looking at a river with Sakura flowers overhead, suddenly the noisy market became a compliment to the overall experience.

Then I visited the open air folk village. A conserved village that allows you to catch a glimpse of medieval Japan. This park is designed to highlight the 4 seasons. But the Sakura had not bloomed yet. Otherwise, the old cottages with Sakura trees would have been picture perfect.

In summary, I found Takayama very enjoyable at this time, just a few days before the grand shrine parade.

May all be well and happy