The Mogi Family Shows the Way: Explore Hidden Itineraries and Onsen Ryokans in Central Japan

Text / Edited and Reported by the MOOK Scenic Spots & Lifestyle Network Editorial Team
 
Japan has always been a top overseas travel destination for Taiwanese, and in recent years there's been a growing trend among Taiwanese travelers to explore second- and third-tier Japanese cities. A booking website invited the hyper-popular Facebook page “Even Though Mom Says I Can’t Marry into Japan”—Mogi-san and Mrs. Mogi—to travel across Central Japan, exploring untouched highlands, Kamikōchi, and Matsumoto. They filmed a series of travel videos offering fans a 360° view to experience the unique charm of Central Japan up close and personal.

Matsumoto is located in Nagano Prefecture, while Takayama is in Gifu Prefecture. Whether you depart from Tokyo or Nagoya, it takes just over two hours by Shinkansen to reach either place. Although these locations are in two different prefectures, Takayama and Matsumoto are actually only about a two-hour drive apart. Kamikōchi lies between Takayama and Matsumoto, but private vehicles aren't allowed there—consider staying overnight in Hirayu and taking a 30-minute bus ride to and from Kamikōchi instead.

1. The Mogi Family’s Takayama Hidden Route: Railbike – Miyagawa Morning Market – Takayama Showa-kan – Sanmachi Old Street – Feast on Hida Beef – Shin-Hotaka Ropeway – Paragliding
Known as “Little Kyoto of Hida,” Takayama features numerous historic wooden buildings and streets. What better way to enjoy Takayama than staying at an onsen ryokan or traditional inn, eating Hida beef and Takayama ramen? The Takayama Castle Site, Takayama Showa-kan, Sanmachi Old Street, and Akahashi offer a strong taste of old Japan. The nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site “Shirakawa-go Gassho Village” is also well worth a visit.

The Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan, where the Mogi family stayed, is just a short walk from the old street. In addition to onsen baths and authentic kaiseki meals available in-room, its spacious interior made Mrs. Mogi want to spend the whole day inside the hotel. She was deeply impressed by the hotel’s attentive and refined customer service, and even after living in Japan for many years, she still had nothing but praise.