Take part in a Japanese calligraphy lesson, learning all about the nation’s three alphabets – kanji, hiragana and katakana – and trying your hand at writing your own characters under the guidance of an expert instructor.

Delight in a visit to Ishii Miso brewery, which was founded in 1868. See behind the curtain to discover how the soybean paste continues to be produced by a unique traditional method, and enjoy a taste of the delicious produce with lunch at the brewery.

Come face-to-face with playful Japanese macaques – commonly known as snow monkeys – at the Jigokudani Monkey Park in the heart of the geothermal Jigokudani Valley. Admire the social monkeys and get up close as they gather in the natural hot springs which dot the landscape here.

Enjoy a Sarubobo-making experience. An amulet particularly common in Takayama and the nearby Hida region, Sarubobo are red dolls with no facial features. Learn how to make the dolls and perhaps find some good luck yourself.

Explore the beautiful post town of Magome, wandering along restored stone walkways among the town's traditional wooden buildings. You’ll then set out on a scenic walk along the historic Nakasendo trail though the Kiso Valley to Tsumago, which is also regarded as one of Japan’s best-preserved post towns.