I did not finish writing about our Japan trip last year because by the time I got to this post, it was already the beginning of May. With spring in the air and tulips in full bloom, it simply felt out of context to recount snow flurries in this city of gold marsh.
We visited Kanazawa (金沢) during a three-hour layover on our way from Shirakawa-go to Kyoto. Continue reading “Kanazawa in the Snow”
After spending a bitter-cold and somewhat uncomfortable night in our farmhouse, we woke up to a pleasant surprise!
Looking out the window
The snow was coming down like down feathers… Continue reading “Shirakawa-go in the Snow”
The best way to experience Shirakawa-go is to stay overnight at one of the farmhouses.
Deep in the remote mountains of Gifu Prefecture
lies a little village Continue reading “Shirakawa-go”
The best street food I had in Takayama is Hida Beef Sushi
Hida Beef comes from the black-haired cattle of Gifu Prefecture. It is known for its beautiful marble pattern, luscious color and delicate texture. Continue reading “A Foodie’s Day in Takayama”
Sometimes the best moment of a trip comes from spontaneity.
While touring a sake brewery in Takayama, we found a flyer for the “Hida Region Sake Brewery Gathering” 藏元試飲會. We decided to check it out.
Hida Takayama (飛彈高山) has what it takes to produce the best sake: an ideal climate, pristine mountain stream and high quality local-grown rice.
There are six breweries in the city opening to the public. They are easy to identify – just look for the giant cedar ball hanging outside the entrance.
Next to the float museum, Sakurayama Hachiman-gū (桜山八幡宮), dates back to the fourth century.
After a restful sleep and a bountiful breakfast at our lovely ryokan, we set out for the morning market.
Kokubun-ji is the oldest temple in Takayama. It was originally built in 746 by Emperor Shomu as one of several provincial temples dedicated to the peace of the nation. The original temple was burnt down. The oldest surviving building in the temple is the wooden Main Hall, dates from the 16th century.
Koto no Yume 古都の夢 is a Japanese style inn in Takayama. Conveniently located in a quiet neighborhood, five minutes from the train station by walk.
Upon arrival, we were guided into the main living area and was served a cup of tea accompanied by Japanese sweets. Continue reading “Japanese Ryokan in Takayama”
Travel-Gourmand.com 