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If you’re exploring Takayama in 2024, make sure that you plan a visit to the Takayama Jinya. This is one of those “must see” attractions. It is situated right in the heart of Takayama and it is very affordable to visit. It is also super significant and packed with history (more on this soon…) You only need an hour or two free in your itinerary and you can even fit this into a walking tour around town. There are however a few things you need to know before you go…
In this article we will share all of the details you need to plan your trip including prices, opening times, transport info, top tips and even a suggested one day itinerary showing how you can fit this attraction into a fun and action packed day exploring Takayama.
A visit to the Takayama Jinya really is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the culture and heritage of Takayama and explore a traditional building (which is not actually a temple or religious building – Takayama Jinya is actually a traditional government building). Exploring a place like this really does give you that exhilarating “I am in Japan” feeling – so read carefully and definitely stick this one in your list of things to do.
KEEP IT SIMPLE – The easiest way to arrange your trip to the Takayama Jinya (and see lots of other gems around down) is to book this awesome half day English Guided tour of Takayama on KLOOK
How much does it cost to explore the Takayama Jinya?
Entry costs 440 yen for adults (which is around £2 or $2.50). High school students and younger are free of charge. You do not need to pre-book tickets. You can buy them from the ticket office when you arrive.
What are the opening hours at Takayama Jinya?
Takayama Jinya is open daily from 8:45 AM to 5 PM (April to October) and 8:45 AM to 4:30 PM (November to March). It is closed from the 29th of December to the 3rd of January. We recommend allowing at least 45 minutes – 1.5 hours for this one, so if possible aim to arrive before 4pm.
Suggested one day itinerary for Takayama including the Jinya
Here is a great way to fit the Takayama Jinya into your itinerary:
- 8am Explore the Miyagawa Morning Market & try some local nibbles
- 9am Explore the Takayama Heritage street
- 9.30am Visit the Nakabashi Red Bridge & get some photos
- 10am Visit the Takayama Jinya
- 11.30am Grab a local ramen or Hida Beef lunch (we recommend LE MIDI for some of the best ramen in town – its only 5 minutes from the Jinya)
- 12.30 Walk to Hida No Sato Folk Village and explore this traditional hamlet with Praying Hands houses and museum exhibits
- 5pm Return to Takayama town center and try some local food
Alternatively check out our amazing Free self-guided walking tour of Takayama
TOP TIP: If you are hoping to visit the Shirakawa-go Praying Hands village from Takayama, we recommend doing this on a separate day. Ideally we recommend allowing a full day to visit Shirakawa-go Village.
Why visit the Takayama Jinya?
Takayama Jinya, located in the heart of Takayama city in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, is a historical site with deep cultural and historical significance. Originally built in 1615, it served as the regional government office for the Hida Province during the Edo period under the Tokugawa shogunate. Takayama Jinya stands out as the only remaining building of its kind in Japan, making it an invaluable architectural and historical treasure. Its preservation offers a unique glimpse into the administrative functions and lifestyle of the Edo period officials.
The complex of Takayama Jinya includes several well-preserved buildings and rooms that were once used for various governmental functions. You can explore the main building, which houses the offices where magistrates worked, as well as residential quarters that provide insights into the daily lives of those who lived and worked there. The spacious tatami rooms, wooden corridors, and traditional sliding doors reflect the architectural style of the era. Additionally, the administrative office, courtrooms, and interrogation rooms give a sense of the judicial and administrative processes of the time.
One of the most significant features of Takayama Jinya is its beautiful garden. The meticulously maintained garden showcases traditional Japanese landscaping, complete with a koi pond, stone lanterns, and manicured plants. It offers a serene and contemplative space for visitors, enhancing the historical ambiance of the site. The kura (storehouse) within the complex is another point of interest, where visitors can see historical artifacts, including documents, tools, and furniture used during the Edo period.
Highlights of the Takayama Jinya
- Onkura – Rice Storehouse dating back to around 1600
- Nengumai – Rice Tax payment store
- Oshirasu Ginmisho – Law Court / Interrogation Room
- Ohiroma – Conference Room
- Zashiki – Guest Room
- Onyakusho Goyouba – Offices
- Guard House and Gates
- Gardens
- Courtyard
What is the best way to get to the Takayama Jinya?
1 Travel to Takayama
Step 1 is to travel to Takayama. Most people will be arriving from Nagoya – the closest big city. You can either take the bus or train (the bus is cheaper but also slower and less comfortable). The train is included in a JR Pass. Find out more about how to travel from Nagoya to Takayama by train.
2 Get to the Jinya
Step 2 – you will need to get to the Jinya itself. Takayama is a pretty small town and everything you are likely to see is within a few kilometers. So most people just walk around the town to get from place to place. It takes around 15 minutes to walk to the Takayama Jinya from the Central Station.
