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If you’re looking for the “must-do” activities in Takayama – the Miyagawa Morning Market has to be near the top of the list. This charming little market is set up in one of the most scenic spots in town – alongside the river. Although the market itself is pretty small, there is a lot to see and do here. In this article we will share everything you need to know to plan your own visit to the lovely Miyagawa Morning Market.
We loved exploring Takayama and the morning market was definitely one of our personal highlights. Our kids loved exploring the stalls, trying new snacks and even feeding the fish. In fact, we loved it so much we visited a few times during our stay. So we wanted to pull this guide together – both to inform you and also hopefully encourage you to take a visit too.
We have included plenty of practical info to help you plan your own trip – such as prices on the market, possible tours and some things to watch out for. We really hope that this article inspires you and answers all of your questions.
KEEP IT SIMPLE – Why not just book a tour from Nagoya? We are particularly impresed with this Takayama and Shirakawa-go tour from Nagoya. It includes the Takayama morning market and much more – and it is better value that taking a train and going independently!
Where is the Miyagawa Morning market?
The Miyagawa Morning Market runs along the east bank of the Miyagawa River in Takayama (between Kaji Bridge and Yayoi Bridge). This is right in the heart of Takayama and it is only a 10 minute walk from the Takayama central train station.
Travelling from Nagoya? Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE – Nagoya to Takayama by train
The full length of the market is around 300m and it takes around 5 – 10 minutes to stroll the full length of the market if you don’t stop too much. If you are planning to shop and enjoy the market we recommend allowing around 30 minutes – 1 hour.
What time is the Miyagawa Morning market open?
The Miyagawa Morning market runs from 8 AM – 12 PM in the winter and 7 AM – 12 PM in the summer. The market runs daily. The market is generally quiet between 7 AM – 8AM. By 8AM it is getting pretty busy, with the peak between 9 AM – 10 AM. After this the market starts to wind down. If possible we recommend visiting earlier in the morning for the best experience.
How much does it cost to visit the Miyagawa Morning market?
Nothing! It is totally free to visit the Miyagawa Morning market – just show up in the morning and pursue it at your leisure. You do however need to consider the cost of getting to Takayama – travel around Japan is not cheap! If you are traveling independently you can take a train from Nagoya to Takayama for around £30 or $35 each way. Alternatively, you can book this Takayama tour from Nagoya (on KLOOK) – it is great value for money and includes the morning market and a tour of the Shirakawa-go Praying Hands Village. Win win.
What things can you see at the Morning market?
For a relatively small (and slightly touristy) market – there is a surprising amount to see and do here. You can experience a wide range of local street food treats and snacks. Here are a few of our top picks:
Tamaten
Don’t miss Tamaten (made from egg white and sugar). It is super unique and very tasty. It is somewhere between a marshmallow, a macaroon and meringue. The Tamaten kiosk is located towards the north side of the market (look out for a little shop to the right if you are walking north up the market). It only costs a few dollars (depending how much you buy) – and it really is a unique tasty treat!
Cookie cup coffee
Cookie cup coffee. This is probably one of the most unique and popular stalls in the market – attracting instagramers and coffee lovers! You can even enjoy a coffee in a cookie cup (yep, you read that right—drink your coffee and then eat your cookie cup). They serve a selection of different coffee types – for example you can get a macchiato (600 yen) or an espresso shot (700 yen). The cookie is lined with a protective sugar coating so the cup doesn’t immediately dissolve to mush. The coffee sweetens at the sugar dissolves – BUT you do have around 3 – 5 minutes to drink your coffee shot before the sugar fully dissolves and the cup starts to soften. So don’t get too distracted with photography. The staff at the stall are lovely and they also give babychinos for kids.
There are also a couple of stalls selling Japanese waffles and pancakes. Alternatively, keep your eye out for fresh croissants if you’re looking for a more familiar fix. There are also several gift shops with dried fruits, pickles, traditional snacks and Japanese gifts. If you are traveling with kids, you can also buy fish food and feed the fish in the river.
What are prices like on the Miyagawa Morning market?
You probably know that Japan has a reputation for being super expensive. Fortunately, this market is not too expensive. Most snacks and drinks range in price from 100 yen – 400 yen. The super unique coffee in a cookie cup costs 600 – 700 yen. So prices range from £0.50 – £3.50 or $0.60 – $4.00
What other things can you see and do in Takayama?
DON’T MISS THIS – Takayama – Self Guided FREE walking tour
- Walk along the Takayama Traditional Heritage Street – very close to the south of the market – don’t miss the beautiful heritage street with its charming wooden edo period buildings & shops
- Explore the Higashiyama Walking Course – something of a hidden gem in Takayama – you can walk between a set of scenic temples and take in the lovely scenery.
- Cook on an Irori – If you stay at the Murasaki Ryokan you can cook on a traditional open fire for a small additional charge (1,000 yen).
- Visit the Takayama Traditional Culture & Crafts Square – They host demonstrations and craft activities throughout the day.
- Visit the Nakabashi Red Bridge – One of the most iconic landmarks in Takayama – a great spot for photography or just taking a moment!
- Explore the Takayama Jinya – The Takayama Jinya is one of the cultural buildings in Takayama – explore and learn about the history, culture and politics of the region.
- Take a dip at the Utopia Inari-yu Onsen – it would’t do to visit Takayama and not take a dip at a traditional Japanese bath. Don’t miss this charming, affordable, tattoo friendly public onsen.
- Explore the Hida no Sato Open Air Museum – take a few hours to stroll around this hamlet museum and learn about traditional agriculture and rural life in the Hida valley.
- Ninja Cafe – it may be a little tick-box touristy but we love the ninja themed cafe in Takayama. Throwing star toast and ninja drinks. You can even costume up and do ninja training with your breakfast!
- Visit the Mountain Onsen Village – Consider a day trip to Hirayu Onsen town – you can take a bus from Takayama station.
- Visit Shirakawa-go Praying Hands Village – One of the most iconic and prominent attractions in the region, this village has UNESCO world heritage status for a good reason!
