Takayama is a charming highland city in west-central Japan, about four hours by train from Hakone. Surrounded by 10,000-foot mountains, it has often been called “Little Kyoto” due to the richness of its cultural treasures. The historic Sanmachi Suji district is filled with dark-wood houses dating from the 18th century. The Japanese come to Takayama for its old-fashioned atmosphere, its sake breweries and its famous Hida no Sato folk village, a collection of centuries-old farmhouses.

The greatest pleasure here is the simple one of wandering the lovely streets, attending the lively morning market along the river and perhaps sampling one of the fine local sakes.