Take a step back in time and visit Takayama, known for its panoramic mountain views, beautifully preserved Edo-period streets and traditional houses. At the heart of it all lies Takayama Jinya, an old government building that has seen use for almost 300 years until only half a century ago. Located 10 minutes from the train station, it is Japan’s last remaining provincial governor’s office from the Edo period and is the centrepiece from which to tell the story of Takayama's history.
In the Early Edo period, Hida Province was under the direct rule of the Kanamori Clan and their feudal lords. Builders of Takayama castle, whose ruins you can still visit in Shiroyama Park today; The Kanamori Clan used Takayama as residence from which to govern Hida. In 1692 the Tokugawa Shogunate focused its attention on Hida province, likely due to its sprawling forest and mountain resources, and as such control was given over.
Since then, the Jinya has seen 25 generations of provincial magistrate until 1868 when imperial rule was restored to Japan. In 1929 It was designated as a national historic landmark and is the only provincial government office where the main building remains intact amongst 60 in the final days of the shogunate. Takayama Jinya continued to play a role at the centre of Hida’s government through the Meiji period and up until 1969. In 1996 Its appearance was then later restored to its likeness in the Edo period. Today, as you enter the grounds, you may see Tokugawa’s iconic sigil distinguished by three inwardly pointing, circularly enclosed hollyhock leaves.
Alongside an extensive history of Takayama and Gifu, what else can you expect to find inside Takayama Jinya? As you step inside you may immediately notice a pattern framed against the walls. You may find it insignificant at first however this pattern, called The Seigaiha, painted throughout the entryway walls would have overwhelmed visitors with its impressiveness during the Edo period. The pattern imitates waves of the ocean spreading infinitely and is said to evoke a wish for everlasting peace and prosperity. Spread through the house along the wooden beams you may also notice small black decorations. When you look closer you will find they take the shape of rabbits. The Mamuki Rabbits hide nails driven into the beams and this practice can be observed throughout many older Japanese buildings, often taking shapes such as animals, flowers and family crests. Mamuki Rabbits have many children and its motif in this use signifies the perpetuation of lineage through one’s descendants. See how many rabbits you can spot as you uncover the mystery of the house.
If you're still looking for a place to stay on your journey through time in Takayama. Just opposite Takayama Jinya is one of Murasaki Ryokan’s newly refurbished hostels, equipped with comfy rooms, 10 minutes from the train station, at the edge of Takayama’s old Town. Set to open Summer 2024, it’s the perfect place from which to experience the rich history of Takayama.
Hostel Murasaki Ryokan
Hostel MIYAGAWA by Murasaki Ryokan
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