Under $100: Takayama, Japan

Takayama, Japan, is a spot everyone should add to their list of places to visit sometime during their lifetime. It’s considered one of the best “traditional” towns in Japan and has been well preserved.

In the morning visit some of the markets. These morning markets run from 7 a.m. until noon. It’s the perfect place to pick up a quick snack that will energize you through the morning. Nothing should cost more than $10.

Next, take a morning stroll through the town. It’s filled with traditional, low-roofed buildings. These buildings are rare in other parts of the world and make the town of Takayama charming and pleasant. Along this walk, stop into the houses available for touring. They are homes of former merchants and kept in the conditions one might find from the time.

Visit the Takayama Matsuri Yataikaikan and the Nikko-kan, both museums within walking distance of each other. The Takayama has a rotating display of floats that date back to the 17^th century and are made of ornate carvings, lacquer and metalwork. Both of the museums won’t run you more than $20.

Just a quick walk from the Takayama Station Area is a great restaurant for dinner. It’s called Heianraku and the food is amazing. Don’t plan on spending more than $35 for a full dinner. It offers Chinese and Japanese home-style cooking. There are also vegetarian options.