Japan - 8 April 2023

Early start to catch our train at 8:30, and we almost missed it due to a platform mixup! Made it with a few seconds to spare, and settled in for the ride. Tried homeschool, but it was a rather bumpy journey and Miss Maxine started to feel a little motion sick. Based on her history, we stopped that and cuddled, and maybe both her and mama had a little nap to pass the time.

Arrived in Takayama, to find it really quite chilly! Found our Ryokan and checked in. A lovely big space with tatami mats and futon beds. Something we are really getting used to. The most difficult is sitting/eating around a coffee height table without any back support. 

Put on layers and most of our warm clothes then ventured out to walk a circular route to see some of the towns highlights, and of course show case Cherry Blossoms in full bloom - The Kitayama Walking Route. 

 

About half way through the route we stopped by the Ichii Cafe and spoiled ourselves with a hot drink and some delicious cakes.  

Apparently Takayama is famous for its Sankō Matsuri Festivals. Unfortunately, we will miss it by only a few days, its the 14/15th of April. The Takayama Spring Festival, known locally as the Sanno Matsuri, is one of Japan’s most famous/popular festivals. It’s held at Hie Shrine in Takayama. The festival has three main attractions: a display of elaborate floats called yatai, a parade with mikoshi (shoulder borne portable shrines), and a kind of marionette performance.

In April, it’s a spring festival — a spectacular prayer for a good harvest. The Autumn Festival, held at Hachiman Shrine in October, is similar and about giving thanks.

The real celebration is actually about Takayama’s artisan tradition, showcased in the floats and marionettes. Takayama, which is set in a valley among forested mountains, has a long tradition of woodworking. This can be seen in the town’s well-preserved historic core, with its 19th century lattice-fronted wooden row houses. All this skilled craftwork also made the town wealthier than many, which allowed it to host such an extravagent festival.  Some of this craftwork could also be seen in the miniature museum, the level of detail was incredible.

Came back inside for a little reprieve from the weather, to warm up and have some downtime, then braved it all again in search of dinner. Options locally were: Hida Beef (a brand name of wagyu beef), gyozo dumplings or ramen. Maxine chose dumplings tonight. A poky little restaurant with only 15 seats, but a proprietor who spoke relatively eloquent English and some really yummy dumplings, a good choice Maxine! While at the restaurant, it started sleeting outside! Rushed home and the girls insisted on a public bath to warm up before bed. 

Aiming for the local market early in the morning, so trying for an early-ish night.