A Local Hike and Cycle Through the Mountain Trails of Hida Takayama Where History and Traditional Life Come Alive

Hida Takayama, a Town Alive With Nature and History

Hida Takayama, in northern Gifu Prefecture, is a town embraced by deep mountain ranges. During the Sengoku period in the late 16th century, warlords battled over this land, and traces of that era remain in the ruins of an old mountain castle. Today, about 90% of the area is forested, with clear streams and quiet valleys offering a sense of calm to those who visit.

Stone walls of the Matsukura Castle ruins seen on the hiking trail

In this rich natural setting, the craftsmanship of the Hida no Takumi—renowned artisans of traditional woodworking—has been handed down for over 1,300 years. Hida Takayama is not just a sightseeing spot, but also a living landscape where the bond between people and the mountains continues, and where daily life and history gently intertwine.

Cycling to Kitayama Park

The tour begins with a guided bike ride from the city center. After a gentle 1 km ride—about 10 minutes—you arrive at Kitayama Park, a peaceful spot cherished by locals. This historic park once served as a base for Kanamori Nagachika, a military commander of the Sengoku period. Set on a small hill, it offers sweeping views of Hida Takayama. Standing where he once stood, you will find yourself drawn into the town’s layered past.

Overlooking the historic city of Hida Takayama (photo is for illustration purposes only)

From here, you can see the ruins of Matsukura Castle in the distance—your next stop. The sight builds anticipation for the hike ahead.

A Hike to the Ruins of Matsukura Castle Through History and Scenic Beauty

Matsukura Castle was built in the 1580s atop Mt. Matsukura, which rises to 856.7 meters above sea level. Later, it is said that Kanamori Nagachika—a retainer of Oda Nobunaga—led an assault on the stronghold. From the summit, looking out over Kitayama, you can almost sense the tense standoff between defender and attacker. Standing here, you’re invited to reflect on the choices and emotions of the warlords who once shaped this land. This connection to history is what makes the hike uniquely rewarding.

Walk the forest path with a guide, each step echoing with the spirit of the Sengoku era

Built to follow the natural slope of the mountain, Matsukura Castle was a formidable fortress, cleverly designed to use the terrain for defense. The 3.7 km hiking trail leads you past the ruins of the Honmaru, Ninomaru, and Sannomaru citadels, as well as massive stone walls believed to be the largest of their time. As you climb, the past begins to come alive around you.

Colorful Hoba-zushi bento: salmon, Hida beef, and mushrooms

During the hike, enjoy a Wabunka-exclusive hoba-zushi bento, made with seasonal local ingredients. This traditional Hida dish features vinegared rice wrapped in magnolia leaves, said to have antibacterial and anti-mold properties, and topped with flavorful ingredients. Once a convenient meal for farmers and mountain workers, its natural packaging reflects the wisdom of a time when people lived closely connected with nature.

On clear days, take in the sweeping view of Mt. Norikura rising beyond the city

At the summit, Takayama stretches out below, with Mt. Norikura and the Northern Alps towering in the distance. It’s a breathtaking scene once seen by the warlords themselves, a place where nature and history converge and time feels suspended.

Experience Mountain Life in Hida Folk Village

The final stop is Hida Folk Village, a village museum surrounded by the natural beauty of Hida. Traditional thatched-roof houses from old farming and mountain communities have been relocated here to preserve the lifestyle and wisdom of the region. Inside, you will see grand homes with thick beams like those in shrines and castles, alongside demonstrations of straw crafts and folk tools, for a glimpse into how people lived closely with wood and nature. The fresh mountain air felt on the hike now lingers within these walls.

In the wheel-shaped rice fields of Hida Folk Village, the traditional scenes of rice planting come back to life

Unlike popular tourist spots like Shirakawa-go, no one lives here, so you can explore the houses at your own pace. As you stroll, pause and rest whenever you like—time seems to slow, as if you’ve stepped back into the heart of an old mountain village.

A traditional bracken flour hut with a waterwheel

Hida Takayama, Where Mountains, History, and Life Connect

The Hida Takayama you will discover on this tour goes beyond a typical tourist destination. Walking along mountain ridges, tracing stone walls, and feeling the worn beams and hearths of traditional homes, you touch the memories of people who lived in harmony with nature.

From Mt. Matsukura’s summit, enjoy panoramic views of Takayama city below

Here, history, culture, and nature come together. This layering of time leaves a lasting impression that lingers in your heart. Past and present, mountains and people, life and craft: all gently connected in Hida Takayama.