This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Explore the spiritual side of Takayama with this peaceful temple walk through quiet hills and centuries-old shrines.
A Peaceful Path Through Takayama’s Temple District
Takayama is often celebrated for its Edo-period streets and lively morning markets, but just beyond the old town lies a quieter side of the city. We spent some time in the afternoon walking the Higashiyama Walking Course—a scenic, self-guided path through forested hills and temple-lined streets. The full course is quite long at 5.8 km (4 miles), so we only did part of the path with our kids.
This walking route winds through one of the most historic parts of Takayama, home to over a dozen temples and shrines.
Temples, Shrines, and Stories Along the Trail
Takayama was once both a castle town and a spiritual center, and this trail reflects that mix of history and faith. The Higashiyama district is packed with historic buildings, some dating back more than 1,300 years.
We followed clearly marked signs in both English and Japanese as we made our way through quiet neighborhoods and wooded slopes. Here are the stops that stood out to us along the trail:
Unryuji Temple (雲龍寺)
This was the first temple we came to. It has a striking main gate that was once part of Takayama Castle. It set the tone for the rest of the walk with its strong presence and quiet setting.
Higashiyama Hakusan Shrine (東山白山神社)
Nestled in a cedar grove, this Shinto shrine dates back to 719 AD. The peaceful setting and towering trees made us feel like we had stepped into another world.
Daioji Temple (大雄寺)
We paused here to admire the beautiful wooden gate and the simple elegance of the grounds. It was a peaceful spot to rest and reflect.
Shorenji Temple (照蓮寺)
This temple was built using wood from a single giant cedar tree. As we walked through the entrance, we couldn’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship of the local carpenters.
Hida Kokubunji Temple (飛騨国分寺)
This was one of the final stops and the most impressive. The three-story pagoda and ancient ginkgo tree—said to be over 1,200 years old—capped off our walk with a stunning view.
Why We Loved the Higashiyama Walking Course
This route gave us space to slow down. There were no big crowds or noisy tour groups—just the sounds of birds, rustling trees, and the occasional temple bell. Best of all, there’s no admission fee. You can take your time, stop for photos, and enjoy your time in the open spaces.
How to Get to Higashiyama Walking Course
On Foot
- From JR Takayama Station, walk east toward the old town. Head past the Takayama Jinya and continue toward the Takayama Museum of History and Art until you reach Hokke-ji at the end of the road.
- Follow signs for “Higashiyama Walking Course” or “東山遊歩道.”
- Total walking time from the station: 15 minutes.
Do We Recommend Higashiyama Walking Course?
If you enjoy quiet walks and a deeper sense of place, then yes—this course is absolutely worth it. We loved how easy it was to explore without a guide, and how naturally the temples blended into the landscape. It’s an ideal way to spend a slow afternoon in Takayama, especially if you’re looking for something peaceful and less crowded.
More to Explore Nearby
After strolling the quiet temple paths and wooded hills of the Higashiyama Walking Course, explore more of Takayama’s preserved history and hidden corners:
- Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine – Takayama’s most important shrine and the spiritual home of the autumn festival floats.
- Kusakabe Heritage House – A showcase of Edo-period merchant life, located near the walking route’s entrance.
- Takayama Old Town – Enjoy traditional shops, sake breweries, and local sweets in this well-preserved district.
- Jinya Asaichi Morning Market – Stop by this morning market for seasonal produce and handmade crafts.
