Takayama museums are renowned for their rich history, culture, and art. The city is home to several museums that showcase the unique heritage of the area, including the Hida Folk Village Museum, the Takayama Jinya, and the Hida Takayama Museum of Art. In this article, we will provide detailed information about each of these popular museums, including the types of art and artifacts on display, special exhibitions, history and background, and availability of guided tours.
Hida Folk Village Museum
The Hida Folk Village Museum is a living history museum that showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Hida region. The museum features over 30 traditional houses and buildings that have been relocated from around the area, including farmhouses, merchants’ houses, and storehouses. Visitors can explore these houses and learn about the daily lives of the people who once lived in them.
One of the museum’s main exhibits is the “Ekimae-zukuri” exhibit which showcases the traditional architectural style of the merchant houses that were located near the station. The exhibit features the large wooden storehouses, called “kura,” which were used to store goods, such as silk and sake.
The museum also holds special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the art and culture of the Hida region. These exhibitions may include traditional crafts, such as lacquerware and pottery, as well as textiles and costumes.
Guided tours in English are available and will give you a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Hida region.
Takayama Jinya
The Takayama Jinya is a historic government office that was used by the Edo period officials. The Jinya served as the administrative and judicial center of the Hida region during the Edo period. The building has been well-preserved and is open to the public as a museum.
Visitors to the Jinya can explore the various rooms, including the reception room, the governor’s office, and the prison cells. The rooms are filled with artifacts from the Edo period, including documents, furniture, and weapons. The Jinya also features an exhibition on the history of the Hida region during the Edo period, including the role of the Jinya in the administration of the region.
Guided tours in English are available and will give a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Hida region during the Edo period.
Hida Takayama Museum of Art
The Hida Takayama Museum of Art is a modern art museum that showcases the works of local and regional artists. The museum features both permanent and temporary exhibitions, with a focus on the art and culture of the Hida region.
The permanent collection at the museum includes paintings, sculptures, and crafts by local and regional artists. The museum also regularly holds special exhibitions, which may feature the works of a specific artist or a particular theme.
The museum also holds special workshops, lectures, and other events that give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the art and culture of the Hida region.
Guided tours in English are not available but the museum provides audio guide service to help visitors understand the art and culture of the Hida region.
In conclusion, Takayama museums offer a unique glimpse into the history, culture, and art of the Hida region. Whether you’re interested in traditional architecture, Edo period history, or contemporary art, there is something for everyone to explore and discover in Takayama’s museums.
