HISTORY
The History of Hida Takayama
Hida Takayama is located in the mountains of northern Gifu Prefecture, a land once known as Hida-no-kuni.
The area has been settled for more than 10,000 years, and is home to numerous National Important Cultural Properties and expressions of traditional culture that have long histories. Visitors can still see ruins, ancient tombs, and festivals from the Jomon period, and can learn about the legends of that era, which makes it a popular tourist destination in Japan.
The Ruins
People have lived in this region since ancient times, and pieces of pottery and other items used as many as 10,000 years ago have been found within the city of Takayama. Visitors will also find ancient burial mounds and temples here. The character Ryomen Sukuna from the popular manga Jujutsu Kaisen is actually based on a legendary figure from this area. You will find sculptures and other images of Sukuna, and the limestone cavern in which he is said to have once lived.
The Takayama Festival
The Takayama Festival has been held in various forms for centuries. It has been recognized by UNESCO as a part of Japan’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, is registered as Important Folk Cultural Properties in both Tangible and Intangible forms, and is considered one of Japan’s “three most beautiful” festivals. The festival is held twice a year in spring and summer, with the floats described as “moving Yomeimon,” after the famous gate at Nikko. They are decorated with unique sculptures made by the famous Hida no Takumi woodworkers of the region, karakuri dolls, and embroidered cotton rugs and tapestries. This historic festival was strongly influenced by Kyoto’s Gion Festival.
The Hida no Takumi
In the past, those who lived in Hida-no-kuni were required to travel to the capital to build palaces and temples from wood. The buildings of Takayama and the ancient capital of Nara were built by the highly-skilled Hida no Takumi. Their working environment was so harsh that some people even ran away, but the skills acquired there have been passed down over the generations to the present day.
villa-rizo
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01.Entrance
A tranquil entrance beckons guests in.
Experience the soothing sense of repose that forms the heart of Japanese culture. -
02.Bedroom
This space combines the natural warmth of wood with ancient Japanese balance and harmony, a concept known as “wa.” The bedroom features lighting designed by a home builder, relieving guests of all fatigue the moment they walk in. -
03.Water garden
The gentle sounds of the water feature have a calming, soothing effect.
The soft wounds of the water can be heard in the garden — which is visible from the entrance hall and the living room — and various other parts of the villa.
