My last article wrote about a 150-year-old tea house in Sanmachi Suji, Takayama. Actually, earlier on the same day we visited Gassho Village, we got to the Miyagawa Morning Market really early.
Miyagawa Morning Market
The Miyagawa Morning Market, steeped in a century-old history, is a traditional open-air market located in Hida Takayama City. We arrived early in the morning during February, and the market opens from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. It stretches along the Miyagawa River, and you’ll find an array of fresh produce, local crafts, and delightful snacks.
From seasonal fruits and vegetables to pickled delicacies, the market offers a feast for the senses. The most enjoyable aspect of exploring Japanese markets is that prices don’t skyrocket just because there are many tourists. When you see the price, there’s an irresistible urge to snag a bargain and take it home. And those Hida Takayama apples—oh, they’re fragrant and delightful!
For over 300 years, it has been at the heart of the city’s culinary and social life. As you explore, you’ll find an array of stalls selling fresh local produce, crafts, and delightful snacks. Whether you’re in the mood for seasonal fruits and vegetables, pickled delicacies, or handmade souvenirs, this market offers a feast for the senses.
The weather was close to freezing, and after finishing his Hida beef skewers, the son spotted a shop selling ice cream made from Hida Takayama milk. Moreover, it was a renowned establishment called “Takayama Pudding Tei”
Frost Ice Cream Supervised by ‘Pudding King’ Tokuhiko Tokoro from Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Made with high-purity Hida mountain milk. Available in Pudding, Mixed (Pudding + Soda), and Soda flavors. Each cone costs ¥380.
After waiting in line, we finally got to taste it! Even the kids weren’t afraid despite the freezing temperature. Eating that ice cream was delightful and made everyone happy—what matters most!
Right next to the Takayama Pudding Tei, there’s a modest little shop made entirely of wooden old houses. Upon closer inspection of the sign on the wall, you realize they sell coffee. A cup costs ¥230.
Local residents and travelers who enjoy coffee, besides savoring their favorite brew, also linger by this ancient electric heater for warmth. And here’s the special part: above the heater sits an iron kettle, where an elderly grandmother boils hot water daily using spring water to make her coffee.
While waiting for coffee, you can also warm up by the side. The charming little coffee counter has a distinct flavor. The wooden house, delicate window panes, and vintage tungsten light bulb add to its nostalgic ambiance.
The silver-haired grandmother brewing coffee looks quite stylish! Her subtle makeup, combined with an ultra-chic gray down jacket, happens to be in this year’s Pantone trending color. Even the feather embellishment on her collar and her hair color complement each other seamlessly. In a small blue canister, she keeps white sugar, which you can freely use.
For just ¥230, you can enjoy a cup of excellent Italian coffee. It has a smooth taste with minimal acidity and is medium-roasted. Plus, it comes with a dollop of cream.
Honestly, this shop doesn’t have any remarkable decor, and the coffee isn’t of estate-level quality. However, being able to breathe in the aroma of coffee in the near-freezing air here in Japan is a truly delightful life experience.
