Takaoka Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the Toyama region of Japan, Takaoka is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its traditional crafts to its stunning temples, there is something for everyone to explore and discover in this captivating destination.

One of the highlights of Takaoka is its rich heritage in metal crafts. The city is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship in copperware, particularly its famous Takaoka Copperware. Visitors can witness the intricate process of creating these masterpieces at the Takaoka Copperware Museum, where skilled artisans demonstrate their skills and showcase their exquisite creations.

For those seeking a spiritual experience, a visit to Zuiryu-ji Temple is a must. This magnificent Zen temple is one of the three great temples of the Hokuriku region and is known for its stunning wooden architecture. Take a tranquil stroll through the temple grounds, admiring the beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere that surrounds this sacred place.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the enchanting scenery that Takaoka has to offer. The city is nestled between the majestic Tateyama mountain range and the Sea of Japan, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Take a leisurely hike through the lush forests of Mount Tateyama or enjoy a relaxing stroll along the pristine beaches.

History buffs will be captivated by the historical sites that dot the city. The Takaoka Castle ruins offer a glimpse into the city's feudal past, with remnants of its once-mighty fortress. The Takaoka Daibutsu, a monumental bronze statue of Buddha, stands tall as a symbol of peace and tranquility.

To indulge in some retail therapy, head to Takaoka Mikurumayama Shopping Street. This bustling arcade is lined with shops selling everything from local crafts to fashion and food. Sample some of the city's famous street food, such as grilled seafood and traditional sweets, as you browse through the vibrant shops.

Local name: 高岡市 Population: 167.8 thous. (2019)Area: 80.92 mi²Elevation: 66 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 36°44'41"N, 137°1'1"E

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ToyamaJapan

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Takaoka Top Attractions

Takaoka Attractions - What to See and Explore

Takaoka offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Imizu Jinja, Kosugimaruyama Site, Sakuradani Kofun, Zuiryū-ji. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Sacred and religious sites
Imizu Jinja
Imizu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Kojo neighborhood of the city of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, Japan. It one of four shrines claiming the title of ichinomiya of former Etchū Province.
Archaeological site
Kosugimaruyama Site
The Kosugimaruyama Site is an archaeological site with the ruins of a late Asuka period pottery production site located in what is now the Aoidani neighborhood of the city of Imizu, Toyama Prefecture in the Hokuriku region of Japan. It has been protected as a National Historic Site since 1990.
Archaeological site
Sakuradani Kofun
The Sakuradani Kofun Cluster is a group of kofun burial mounds located in the Ōta neighborhood of the city of Takaoka, Toyama in the Hokuriku region of Japan. Two of the tumuli were designated as a National Historic Site of Japan in 1934.

Temple
Zuiryū-ji
Zuiryū-ji is a Buddhist temple in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, Japan. The temple belongs to the Sōtō-school of Japanese Zen Buddhism.
Archaeological site
Kaga Domain Maeda Clan Graves
Kaga Domain Maeda clan Graves is a National Historic Site covering the monumental mausoleum of the Sengoku samurai and early Edo period daimyō of Kaga Domain, Maeda Toshinaga located in the city of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture and the large Nodayama cemetery containing 80 graves...
Historical place • Forts and castles • Aquarium
Takaoka Castle
Takaoka Castle was a flatland-style Japanese castle in what is now the city of Takaoka, Toyama Japan. It was originally constructed in 1609, and was only used for a few years before being dismantled. The site of its ruins are now a park.
City • Area
Imizu
Imizu is a city located in Toyama Prefecture, Japan. As of 28 February 2018, the city had an estimated population of 93,447 in 37,734 households and a population density of 850 persons per km². Its total area was 109.43 square kilometres.
36°45'4"N • 137°1'37"E
Takaoka Art Museum
Art museum • Museum
Botanical garden
Futagami Manyo Botanical Gardens
The Futagami Manyo Botanical Gardens are botanical gardens located in Takaoka, Toyama, Japan. The garden site occupies about 10,000 m², and contains both wildflowers and many plant varieties mentioned in the Man'yōshū anthology.
36°46'49"N • 137°6'29"E
Hai wang wanpaku
Park
Universities and schools
Toyama Prefectural University
Toyama Prefectural University is a public university at Imizu, Toyama, Japan. The predecessor of the school was founded in 1962, and it was chartered as a university in 1990.

Day trips

Takaoka – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Takaoka, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kenroku-en (Kanazawa), Hakuba Happoone Winter Resort (Hakuba), 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (Kanazawa).

23 milesSW
Garden embodying the Japanese style
Kenroku-en, Kanazawa
Kenroku-en, located in the city of Kanazawa, Japan, stands as one of the country's most beautiful and significant historical gardens. This expansive park, which translates to "Garden of the Six Sublimities," embodies the traditional attributes of a perfect landscape:...
45 milesE
Ski area, Outdoor activities, Sport venue
Hakuba Happoone Winter Resort, Hakuba
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the Hakuba Happoone Winter Resort is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe. Renowned for its powdery snow and expansive terrain, this ski resort in Hakuba, Japan, offers a diverse range of...
24 milesSW
Sleek showcase for contemporary art
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa
The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, located in the culturally rich city of Kanazawa, Japan, stands as a beacon of modern artistic expression in a region traditionally known for its historical contributions to arts and crafts.
23 milesSW
Historic castle with lush grounds
Kanazawa Castle, Kanazawa
Kanazawa Castle, a historic fortress nestled in the heart of Kanazawa, Japan, stands as a testament to the country's feudal past. This grand castle, which dates back to the late 16th century, was the seat of the powerful Maeda Clan, who ruled the Kaga Domain.
44 milesS
Sacred and religious sites, Temple
Hida Kokubun-ji, Takayama
Nestled in the serene city of Takayama, Japan, Hida Kokubun-ji stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. This ancient temple, established in the 8th century, is the oldest standing structure in Takayama, offering a glimpse into the...

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Best Time To Visit Takaoka

Learn when is the best time to travel to Takaoka weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

April and May are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in August.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in March, April and May. Most of it rains in January, July, September and December.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Takaoka?

The top attractions to visit in Takaoka are:

What is the best time to visit Takaoka?

April and May are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in August. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.