Hello from MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN TAKAYAMA!
Takayama is famous for the traditional streetscape made up of dark, wooden buildings, but for a change of pace, we recommend making a stop at the Takayama City Library.
Designed to evoke the feel of Hida region’s very first elementary school from the Meiji era, the Western-style architecture provides a charming contrast to the traditional atmosphere of the surrounding area. The combination of white and green on the outer facade gives the building a fresh and welcoming look.
If you’re a fan of Japanese literature, then this library is a must-visit. The Takayama City Library served as the setting in Hyouka, a novel by Honobu Yonezawa which was also adapted into an anime. Yonezawa was a famous mystery writer born right here in Takayama city. He is also the author behind Kuroyojo (The Darkest Prison), which was adapted into a film.
The ground floor of the library is home to a warm, wood-themed kids’ space, making it a great stop for families with children. There is also a designated area where you can eat and drink. The library also provides mult-language travel brochures and pamphlets, useful for visitors to Takayama city.
If you’re interested in a unique spot right here in Takayama city with ties to Japanese literature, then be sure to add a visit to Takayama City Library to your travel plans while in the city. It is about 18 minutes by foot from JR Takayama Station.
