Sanmachi Suji Old Town, Takayama Overview
Three parallel streets of dark timber merchant houses with deep eaves and fine lattice fronts, preserved since the Edo period when Takayama was under direct shogunal control and grew rich on Hida timber. Six sake breweries still operate along them, each hanging a cedar ball outside when the new brew is ready. Free and always open, so walk it early before the coaches arrive.
