Today involved a 5.5 hour drive with a stop in Matsumoto to explore the castle. We started out by saying goodbye to the owner of our local 7 Eleven. She was very cute and gave us chocolate. Due to limited time, we did a quick run through of the old Edo period streets of Takayama. We could have spent more time taking in the area, but the city does not require all that long of a visit. Takayama, along with Kanazawa, has some of the best preserved old streets in the country. Shimo Ninomachi, Shimo Sannomachi, Kami Ninomachi, and Kami Sannomachi all make up the old quarter. The buildings are all made of a dark brown wood and give visitors a chance to feel what a city would have been like long ago.
In the past, Takayama had ample timber and not enough agricultural production. Thus, instead of paying taxes through rice like other regions, the city paid by sending their well-trained carpenters. Its location in the mountains makes it not the easiest city to visit. If you do come this way, make a point of eating its renown ramen and try to time your visit during one of the city's famous festivals. Keep in mind if you are coming by car, parking is hard to find and is usually costs.
The drive took us through the mountains and provided some stunning scenery. Once in Matsumoto, we headed straight for the castle. It is one of Japan's best preserved castles. Construction was completed between 1593 and 1594. The entire area covered 39 hectares. The original was much more impressive due to the extensive moat and wall defense system. There were three moats! The samurai and commoners lived separately within the walls with the families of higher status living much closer to the keep itself. Over the centuries, the castle has changed hands between many clans. Inside the castle, there are paintings that depict the many battles it has witnessed. The castle felt smaller than I expected, but I am really glad we were able to make the pit stop!
We made it to our lovely host around 9:00 and spent the evening chatting with her family.
In the past, Takayama had ample timber and not enough agricultural production. Thus, instead of paying taxes through rice like other regions, the city paid by sending their well-trained carpenters. Its location in the mountains makes it not the easiest city to visit. If you do come this way, make a point of eating its renown ramen and try to time your visit during one of the city's famous festivals. Keep in mind if you are coming by car, parking is hard to find and is usually costs.
The drive took us through the mountains and provided some stunning scenery. Once in Matsumoto, we headed straight for the castle. It is one of Japan's best preserved castles. Construction was completed between 1593 and 1594. The entire area covered 39 hectares. The original was much more impressive due to the extensive moat and wall defense system. There were three moats! The samurai and commoners lived separately within the walls with the families of higher status living much closer to the keep itself. Over the centuries, the castle has changed hands between many clans. Inside the castle, there are paintings that depict the many battles it has witnessed. The castle felt smaller than I expected, but I am really glad we were able to make the pit stop!
We made it to our lovely host around 9:00 and spent the evening chatting with her family.
