Foodie Adventure, Showa Era and the Old Town - Half-Day Tour

We're kicking off this amazing tour at Takayama Station at 10am! Your guide will be there to greet you and give you a quick overview of what you can expect from the day. From there, you'll head straight to the incredible Morning Market, where you'll kick off your culinary journey with a taste of the local treats! The market is buzzing with activity and there's a fantastic variety of local produce and handmade goods on offer.

After enjoying the market, you will stroll through the picturesque streets of Takayama’s Old Town. This area is famous for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture, with narrow lanes lined by traditional wooden buildings, merchant houses, and sake breweries. As you explore, your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the local history and culture, bringing to life the town’s rich heritage and centuries-old traditions.

In Takayama’s Old Town, you will have the opportunity to try some of its renowned and delightful street food. You’ll taste a selection of local favourites, including the locally famed Wagyu Beef in the form of Hida Beef Stick, Bun, and Sushi. Additionally, you’ll get to enjoy Gohei Mochi, a local delicacy made from pounded rice, shaped onto a stick, and grilled with a savoury-sweet miso sauce, making for a truly immersive culinary experience.

At around 11:45am, you will take a break for lunch at a popular local restaurant, where you’ll savour a bowl of Takayama Ramen. This iconic dish is a staple of the region and a must-try for any visitor. Takayama Ramen features thin, curly noodles served in a soy sauce-based broth that is both savoury and slightly sweet. The soup is often infused with chicken or pork, creating a rich and flavorful experience. Topped with slices of tender Chashu (roast) pork, green onions, and bamboo shoots, each bowl is a harmonious blend of taste and tradition.

Following lunch, you will visit the Takayama Showa-Kan, a museum dedicated to the Showa era. Step back in time and experience the nostalgia of Japan from 1926 to 1989. The exhibits offer a detailed look at everyday life during this period, featuring a wide range of displays from household items and school supplies to vintage toys and cultural memorabilia. You’ll see meticulously recreated scenes of old Japanese living rooms, kitchens, and shops, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the past and a deeper understanding of the era’s lifestyle and culture.

After exploring the museum, you’ll indulge in a delightful pudding dessert, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Japanese Purin, a creamy custard similar to flan, is known for its rich texture and sweet caramel sauce. This famous store offers creative variations, infusing local flavours and artistic presentations, making each spoonful a delightful surprise.

The final stop on your tour is a sake-tasting session at 2:10pm. You will learn about the traditional brewing methods and savour the distinct flavours of Takayama’s sake. Your guide will explain the significance of sake in Japanese culture, making this a perfect conclusion to your culinary journey.

After the tasting, you are free to continue exploring on your own or accompany the guide back to Takayama Station, where they will ensure you have all the information you need for the rest of your stay.