Sanmachi Street

Sanmachi Street is a beautifully preserved historic district that represents the traditional townscape of Hida-Takayama. With rickshaws traveling along the street, visitors can enjoy the feeling of stepping back in time. Located in the heart of the former castle town, this area flourished as a merchant quarter, and beneath the rows of wooden lattice-fronted buildings, small canals flow quietly—still used today for daily household water and for sprinkling streets in summer. At traditional sake breweries, spherical cedar leaf decorations known as sakabayashi hang under the eaves, signaling the arrival of freshly brewed sake, while long-established shop curtains line the street. One of Sanmachi Street’s most iconic landmarks is the vivid red Nakabashi Bridge, selected as one of the “33 Best Cherry Blossom Spots of Hida and Mino.” From mid to late April, cherry blossoms pair beautifully with the red bridge, while in autumn, colorful foliage creates a picturesque seasonal contrast. The bridge is illuminated at night in both spring and autumn, adding to its charm. The area is also perfect for strolling and snacking, with many shops offering local street foods such as Hida beef nigiri sushi, meat buns, mitarashi dango, and nostalgic dagashi sweets. When you need a break, enjoy these local flavors while leisurely exploring the atmospheric streets of Takayama.