Takayama or Kanazawa – Which City Should You Visit?

Travellers to Japan are spoiled with options of places to visit. This can make it hard to pick places to visit, outside maybe the largest cities. Destinations such as Takayama or Kanazawa often pop up as options, especially if travelling to the Chubu region of central Japan.

So what you are to do if you can’t decide between Kanazawa and Takayama?

Well, let me just say, that I thoroughly adored both. The two cities were highlights of my trip that helped me flesh out my Japan itinerary. Visiting them one after the other made it easy to see the strengths of each and their differences. That’s why I think I’m well-placed to help you with this tough choice.

Why Visit Takayama

Takayama is a small city in the Gifu Prefecture of Japan. While I wouldn’t think of it as a major destination, there were plenty of tourists around when I went.

Visit Takayama and you’ll quickly see what its appeal is. In the city centre, you’ll find the old houses of the Sanmachi Historic District.

Not only is this area full of traditional architecture and an old-fashioned atmosphere, but it’s also where you can try Hida beef, a specialty of the prefecture. Together with Takayama ramen, Hida beef in its many forms makes the city a fun foodie option.

Another major draw for Takayama is the Hida Folk Village on the city’s outskirts. It’s full of Gassho-style homes (like Shirakawa-go) that are interesting to learn about. You also have a variety of onsen options with Takayama, from ones in town to the many at Okuhida Onsen-go.

You can get to Takayama easily from places such as Nagoya and Matsumoto.

• Famous for its Hida beef and Takayama ramen
• The traditional architecture of the Old Street
• See the old houses at Hida Folk Village
• Close proximity to onsens and ryokan 

Why Visit Kanazawa

Kanazawa rests on the coast of the Sea of Japan in the Ishikawa Prefecture. It’s a historic and green city that bears similar charms to Kyoto but without the crowds.

When you visit Kanazawa, the city’s teahouse districts or chaya, are usually a major focal point. These pockets around the city centre are home to rows of old wooden teahouses, as well as venues selling the city’s iconic gold leaf ice cream.

Speaking of food, Kanazawa’s coastal location means that seafood is certainly on the menu. Head to the Omicho Market to try some.

Among the various other attractions in Kanazawa, from its castle remains, hillside parks, and many museums, one remaining attraction stands apart. Kenrokuen Garden is a superb garden, said to be one of the finest in Japan, that will convert even the most enthusiastic with its scenery.

Kanazawa is super easy to reach, thanks to direct train services from Osaka and Kyoto.

• Marvel at the city’s teahouse and samurai districts
• Home to one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan
• Treat yourself to seafood and sushi at the market
• It’s a simple train ride from Osaka and Kyoto

Which is better to visit, Takayama or Kanazawa?

Before I help you decide, allow me to share one useful thing to know. The good news is that you can visit Shirakawa-go from both as a day trip. So, no matter which you pick, you still have that opportunity open to you.

But yes, my pick of the two cities would be to go to Kanazawa.

Both cities have historical attractions and food to explore. But Kanazawa is the larger destination, and it simply has more to see and do. Once you’ve visited its teahouse districts, a castle, gardens, etc. you still have a bunch of museums waiting for you.

From a practical standpoint, Kanazawa is also just easier to reach from larger cities. Takayama isn’t a hard place to reach, but a direct line with two of Japan’s most popular destinations is hard to beat.

If you’ve been to both cities in Japan, which do you recommend, Kanazawa or Takayama? Are there other benefits or drawbacks to these destinations that you think should sway people’s decision? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.