Takayama Jinya - A Guide

Takayama Jinya is a historic building located in the Takayama area of Nagano, Nagano, Japan. It was once the administrative center of the Hida Province during the Edo period (1603-1868) and is now a popular tourist attraction.

History

Takayama Jinya was built in 1692 as a government office to manage the Hida Province. It was used by officials from the Tokugawa Shogunate, Japan's feudal government, to collect taxes, enforce laws, and maintain order in the region. The building was also used as a residence for the governor of the province.

After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Takayama Jinya became the headquarters of the local government and was used as a police station, courthouse, and prison. It was later abandoned and fell into disrepair until it was restored and opened to the public in 1970.

What to See

Takayama Jinya is a well-preserved example of Edo-period architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the daily life of government officials during that time. The building includes a reception hall, living quarters, administrative offices, and a courtroom. There are also displays of historical artifacts, including weapons, documents, and clothing.

One of the most interesting features of Takayama Jinya is the torture chamber, where prisoners were interrogated and punished for crimes. The room includes various torture devices, such as the "iron maiden" and the "water torture" device.

Visitor Information

Takayama Jinya is located at 1-5 Hachiken-machi, Takayama, Nagano, Japan. The approximate latitude and longitude are 36.1406° N, 137.2532° E. The building is open to the public from 8:45am to 5:00pm daily. Admission is 440 yen for adults and 130 yen for children.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the building in English or Japanese. The tour takes about 50 minutes and includes a visit to all the rooms and exhibits. Audio guides are also available in several languages.

Overall, Takayama Jinya is a fascinating and educational attraction that provides a unique glimpse into Japan's feudal past. It is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in history or architecture.