History and culture enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy the city of Takayama, located in the Hida region of Japan’s mountainous Gifu Prefecture. The city has a well-preserved historic district called Sanmachi, where you can stroll along a long road of wooden merchant’s houses and sake breweries that date back to the Edo Period (1603–1868). In addition, you can see historic farmhouses in the Gokayama Historic Village and unusual gassho-style buildings in Shirakawa Village. There are several good museums, including the Kusakabi Folk Museum and the Hida Archaeology Museum. For a break from art and history you can go hiking along scenic mountain trails, visit waterfalls, temples, gardens, and hot springs.
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Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
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