Takayama is an excellent destination for families, offering a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and hands-on activities. Known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, rich history, and vibrant festivals, the city provides a fascinating glimpse into traditional Japanese life. Families can explore the charming old town, visit unique museums, and take part in interactive cultural experiences that make history come alive for all ages.
Beyond its historic charm, Takayama is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, from the peaks of the Northern Japan Alps to the peaceful rivers and forests of Hida. Whether you’re visiting the traditional houses of Hida Folk Village, hiking scenic trails, or sampling local street food, Takayama offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions that are both educational and entertaining.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Takayama
Takayama offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions that blend culture, history, and outdoor adventure, making it a great destination for travelers of all ages. Here are some of the top spots to include on your family itinerary:
Gattan Go!! Rail Biking
For families looking for a bit of adventure, the Gattan Go!! rail biking experience is a must-try. Ride along old train tracks through tunnels, over bridges, and past beautiful mountain scenery, following a route that once connected local mountain villages. This unique activity offers various course options, including a family-friendly short route and a longer, more challenging course for those seeking a bit more excitement. Safety measures are in place, making it suitable for families with children, and bikes can be paired to allow parents to ride alongside their kids.
Shinhotaka Ropeway
Take your family to new heights with a ride on the Shinhotaka Ropeway, Japan’s only double-decker cable car. This thrilling ride offers stunning panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps, making it a perfect adventure for both kids and adults. The ropeway ascends to over 2,156 meters, providing breathtaking 360-degree views, and the observation deck at the top offers a chance to walk above the clouds.
Recommended
(Seasonal) 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Alpine Splendor - Shinhotaka Ropeway and Kamikochi
- Spots:
- NaganoTakayamaMatsumotoKamikochiShinhotaka
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityTakayamaMatsumoto
Takayama Squirrel Park
A hit with younger children, the Squirrel Park offers the chance to interact with friendly squirrels in a safe, enclosed environment. Kids can feed the squirrels, watch them play, and even observe their acrobatic climbing skills up close. The park provides special gloves and food to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, making it a fun and memorable stop for families.
Takayama Showa Museum
Take a trip back in time to the Showa era at this quirky museum, filled with nostalgic displays that recreates everyday life in Japan during the 1950s and 1960s. The museum is filled with vintage toys, retro electronics, and classic memorabilia, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. Kids will enjoy the hands-on exhibits and old-fashioned arcade games, while adults can take a nostalgic walk down memory lane, making it a hit for the whole family.
Takayama Jinya
Step back in time at Takayama Jinya, a beautifully preserved government outpost from the Edo period. This historic building offers families the chance to explore tatami-matted rooms, view original artifacts, and learn about the region’s feudal history. The surrounding grounds offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture, with meticulously maintained pathways and historic structures, making it an immersive experience for the whole family.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Explore Scenic Old Japan in Takayama and Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)
Step back in time at this open-air museum, where over 30 traditional farmhouses from the Hida region have been carefully relocated and preserved. Families can wander through these historic thatched-roof houses, try hands-on traditional crafts, and explore scenic nature trails that change with the seasons. It’s an immersive way for families to experience rural life in Japan as it was centuries ago.
1-Day Tour from Takayama: Hida's Hidden Gems - Hida Folk Village, Limestone Caves and the Shinhotaka Ropeway
- Spots:
- TakayamaShinhotaka
- Pick-up:
- Takayama
- Drop-off:
- Takayama
Higashiyama Walking Course
Perfect for families who enjoy the outdoors, the Higashiyama Walking Course takes you through old temples, quiet shrines, and peaceful forest paths. It’s a great way to stretch your legs while discovering some of the town’s lesser-known historical sites, all while enjoying beautiful views of Takayama.
Hands-On Activities the Whole Family Will Love
Takayama offers a variety of hands-on experiences that the whole family can enjoy, adding a creative and interactive element to your trip. From crafting your own traditional souvenirs to learning about the region’s history through immersive workshops, these activities provide a deeper connection to the local culture.
Hida Takayama Crafts Experience Center
Get creative with a visit to the Hida Takayama Crafts Experience Center, where families can make their own traditional crafts. From sewing your own sarubobo doll, the iconic red faceless charm of the Hida region, to crafting intricate Japanese paper designs, this is a great way to create lasting memories together.
Sake Brewery
Explore Takayama’s rich brewing tradition with a sake brewery tour. While adults can sample some of the region’s finest sakes, kids can get involved by learning about the brewing process and trying non-alcoholic amazake, a sweet, fermented rice drink that offers a unique taste of Japanese culture.
Seasonal Festivals
If your visit aligns with one of Takayama’s famous seasonal festivals, don’t miss the chance to witness the colorful spectacle. The Takayama Festival, held in spring and autumn, features elaborate floats, traditional music, and live performances that capture the vibrant spirit of this historic town, making it a highlight for families.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What activities are good for families in Takayama?
Families love exploring the Miyagawa River morning markets, visiting engaging spots like the Showa-kan or Hida Folk Village, and joining fun workshops such as onigiri or temple cooking classes.
Is Takayama safe and easy for children?
Yes—Takayama is stroller-friendly, peaceful, and easy to walk around. Even the narrow streets are calm, and many ryokan and restaurants welcome families. There are also plenty of things for children to enjoy, including morning markets, traditional sweets, hands-on activities, and small museums with interactive displays.
How long should families stay in Takayama?
A 2-night stay is ideal—it gives time to enjoy museums, markets, light tours, and short day trips to Shirakawa-go or the Hida Folk Village without feeling rushed. That said, Takayama also makes a great base for families, with enough to see and do to keep both adults and children engaged for 3–5 days or more.
Are there family-friendly attractions nearby?
Yes! Nearby attractions include Hida Folk Village (an open-air museum), interactive craft workshops, calm river strolls, and kid-oriented experiences like the "Squirrel Forest."
Can I do a family-friendly tour?
Absolutely. We offer child-friendly tours covering Takayama highlights and day trips—complete with easy transport and relaxed pacing to suit young families.