If we're lucky, we'll be able to see Mt Fuji from the right side of the train. It is visible from the Tokyo Youth Hostel on a clear day also. The ride is fast but one of frustration, as it seems that most of the trip is spent inside tunnels. Takayama is located on the western side of the Japan Alps, and is always a favorite stop. There are Edo Period buildings, sake breweries, a morning market, and various museums, temples, and shrines.
Wood carved objects are famous in the area and range from inexpensive to very.
Also known as Hida Takayama for the region, old style thatched roofed farm houses, gassyouzukuri , are common. There is also a standup coffee shop where a cup is only Y200. After this we'll walk to the station and catch a bus to the Hida Folk Museum , a place where traditional architecture is on display in a reconstructed village from buildings brought from the surrounding region, especially the area to the west around the Mihoro Dam. In the afternoon, we have a choice of many museums. PM - Up early and then hike to the station.