Day 4: From Tokyo to Takayama

Sake, Ryokan Traditions & Mountain Views

Day four took us out of Tokyo and into the heart of the Japan Alps. Between glimpses of Mount Fuji, historic streets, and one of the most memorable stays of our trip, Takayama quickly became a favorite.

Journey to Takayama

We began the morning with a taxi ride to Shinagawa Station, where we boarded the Nozomi bullet train bound for Nagoya. From there, we transferred to the Hida Limited Express for the scenic ride into Takayama.

On the way, the skies cleared just enough for us to spot Mount Fuji from the train window—one of those moments that feels almost cinematic. The ride itself was smooth and efficient, showcasing why Japan’s rail system is world-famous.

Tokyo (Shinagawa) → Nagoya (Nozomi Shinkansen): ~1 hour 40 minutes
Nagoya → Takayama (Hida Limited Express): ~2 hours 30 minutes
Total Travel Time: About 4 hours

Exploring Takayama’s Old Town

Once we arrived, we headed straight into Takayama’s Old Town, known for its Edo-period architecture, wooden merchant houses, and narrow streets that feel like a step back in time. One highlight is Takayama Jinya, a former government outpost from the 17th century that’s been carefully preserved.

Sake Brewery Hopping

Takayama is also famous for its sake breweries, many of which have operated for centuries thanks to the region’s pristine water and cold climate. We went brewery hopping, which works much like a wine tasting—pay a small fee (around ¥300–500 / $2–$3.50 USD), and you’re given a cup to sample as many types of sake as you’d like.

Each brewery had its own character, some offering sweet, fruity varieties and others more dry and refined. A few even paired their tastings with food—we grabbed bao buns at one, which turned out to be the perfect snack between sips. The experience was both fun and educational, and it quickly became one of my favorite parts of the entire trip.

Ryokan Stay at Hidatei Hanaougi

That evening, we checked into Ryokan Hidatei Hanaougi, a traditional Japanese-style inn surrounded by trees. The property is an 8-minute drive from JR Takayama Station and 7 minutes from Hida Kokubun Temple, offering both tranquility and convenience.

We stayed in the Shakkyo Room, which came with its own private onsen bath. From the moment we arrived, we slipped off our shoes at the entrance, were served tea, and given traditional yukata robes to wear around the property.

Dinner was a highlight: a beautifully prepared kaiseki meal (multi-course banquet) served in a private room. Each dish was crafted with seasonal ingredients and presented with artistry. Between the quiet setting, the soothing onsen, and the hospitality, it felt like one of the most authentic and memorable nights of our honeymoon.

Day 4 Travel Guide

🚅 Train:
- Tokyo (Shinagawa) → Nagoya (Nozomi Shinkansen): ~¥11,000 ($75 USD) per person
- Nagoya → Takayama (Hida Limited Express): ~¥6,000 ($40 USD) per person
- Total: ~¥17,000 ($115 USD) per person one way
🏯 Takayama Old Town / Jinya: Entry around ¥440 ($3 USD)
🍶 Sake Breweries: Tastings ¥300–500 ($2–$3.50 USD) per cup; some include food pairings
🏨 Ryokan: Hidatei Hanaougi (Shakkyo Room with Private Onsen) — ¥25,000–40,000 ($170–$275 USD) per night per person, includes breakfast & dinner
🛁 Onsen: Included in stay (private & public baths available)

💰 Estimated daily spend (excluding ryokan): ¥18,000–20,000 per person ($125–$140 USD)

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