T a k a y a m a 2

We have half a day in Takayama before we set forth for Shirakawa-go. The morning markets of Jinya-mae and Miyagawa are a must-go for all tourists. We got up especially early so that we could visit both markets as they would close by noon during winter.

 Getting to the market is not difficult when you have such friendly sign as guide.

 One of the two morning markets at Takayama.

 Morning view of the Miyagawa River, and soon it would be frozen by the winter cold.

 Sculpture found along the bridge.

 Miyagawa Market come to life after the rain stopped.

 A form of ikebana perhaps?

 We love the Japanese pickles, they go so well with the plain porridge.

 Creatures resting by the river side.

 Orange carp surviving the cold water.

 Hairy tree.

A barn by the river.

 A samurai protecting the town of Takayama.

 Stall vendors displaying their produce.

 It must be freezing cold for them during the winter months.

 Chatting is the way to pass the day.

 $8.00 for a basket of sweet tasting apples.

Balls made of vine and bark of catnip-like plant that certainly would attract the playful cat.

We left Takayama for Shirakawa-go in the afternoon. Our original plan was to rent a car so that we could use it for the next few days to Shirakawa-go and Oku-hida. Unfortunately, due to my poor understanding of the Japanese car rental policies, I did not convert my local driving licence to an international one. Nonetheless, we packed light and bought bus tickets to continue to our destinations instead.

And another travel trip awaiting....