Takayama Festival

[4] The festivals are famous for the large ornate floats, or yatai, which roam around the city at night.

The floats date back to the 17th century, and are decorated with intricate carvings of gilded wood and detailed metal-work, similar in style to art from Kyoto during the Momoyama period, and blended with elements from the early Edo period.

The unique ornaments of the yatai floats look even more resplendent in the darkness of the night".

[6] The floats are moved around the city by people but are wheeled carts and the bearers are not required to endure the load.

During inclement weather, the outer doors to the Yatai Kaikan are open so visitors may view them.

The Yatai Kaikan is located in the northern end of Takayama's old town, a 15–20 minute walk from the station.

The three marionettes “on Hotei Tai (the god of fortune)” require 9 puppet masters to manipulate the 36 strings which make the marionettes move in a lifelike manner, with gestures, turns and other movements.