We are located in the Utsue village, which is one of the several small settlements situated in the strips of valleys that extend north from the central town of Hida Takayama. This quiet town still maintains the nostalgic mood of rural Hida, but the tranquil countryside scenery is not the only highlight it has to offer. Here are some locations of interest that makes this small settlement slightly unique
Utsue Shiju-Hattaki Falls Prefectural Nature Park
A popular hiking spot in the Hida Takayama area, this park is most famous for the waterfalls that can be viewed as you hike up the mountain trail. The name "Shiju-Hattaki" refers to the number 48 in Japanese. While there aren't exactly 48 waterfalls, the number is a way of expressing a large number of amount of things in old Japanese. In addition to the waterfalls and calming scenery, there is also a botanical park nearby where seasonal flowers can be viewed. There is a ¥200 entry fee per person (¥100 for children). The park is closed during the winter season.
Utsue 48 Waterfalls Spa - Yuyukan
Yuyukan is a popular public hot spring facility, frequently used by locals and people from other parts of Takayama. In addition to the large bath it also has an outdoor bath and sauna. There is also a restaurant where visitors can eat lunch or dinner in the evenings (last order is 7:15 p.m. for weekdays, 8:45 p.m. for weekends). Photo credit: www.48taki.com
Hiramekido
Hiramekido is a curry & coffee shop located within the Utsue settlement. Apart from its tasty dishes and drinks, the establishment is widely known as a renovated kominka (traditional Japanese home) with its unique features. It also boasts a serious collection of manga, which visitors are free to read. Photo credit: hiramekido.com
Yawaiya
Another establishment made by renovating an old traditional house, Yawaiya is a local folk craft store, collecting various items from the local region and other parts of Japan. The owner is also a writer and scholar, extremely well informed about Japanese folk craft culture and the local history.
Yasuke
Soba is one of Japan's most beloved comfort food, and Yasuke serves one of the best you can find in the Hida region. The building is also charming, as it was constructed by renovating an old local warehouse once used for storing rice.