Takayama Jinya

Housed in a traditional Edo Period government complex, this interesting museum tells of Takayama's significance to the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Takayama Jinya is a former government outpost that now functions as a museum, showcasing Takayama's grand history. Admire its traditional architecture, learn about the government processes that took place within its halls and browse exhibits of official documents.

Though the original outpost dates back to the 17th century, the current building is a reconstruction from 1816. This government office was built to supervise the rich wood resources in the Hida Province surrounding Takayama.

Examine the typical Edo Period architecture of the outpost, which features wooden shingle roofs and an imposing entrance. The structure is primarily supported by dark cypress beams, sourced from local forests. In winter, a light sprinkling of snow covers the site.

Explore the simple, open rooms of the interior and notice the traditional tatami mats carpeting the floors. These spaces once served as offices, conference rooms and residential areas for government officials. Of particular interest is an interrogation room, where suspects were questioned for crimes.

Venture next door to an earthen storehouse, which dates back to the 1600s. This building, used to keep rice, is the largest traditional storehouse in Japan. Today, it houses a museum devoted to the history of Takayama Jinya. Wander around the exhibits and look at belongings, old maps and town plans that were used by Takayama's feudal lords.

Visit Takayama Jinya early to catch the morning markets, which is set up in front of the outpost. This farmers’ market, which has operated for over 3 centuries, sells a variety of dried foods, homemade pickles and wild vegetables.

During the Takayama Spring Festival, the streets around Takayama Jinya come alive with parades and colourful decorations. Stop by the Ippon-sugi Hakusan Shrine to see traditional lion dances.

Find Takayama Jinya in Takayama's old town, a well-preserved district of traditional shopfronts, saké breweries and cottages in the east of the city. Walking here from Takayama's central station will take around 10 minutes. Takayama Jinya is open daily and has a small admission fee.