Teddy Bear Eco Village in Hida Takayama

I found a sign for the Teddy Bear Eco Village when I went to Takayama.

Eco? Teddy bears?  

I am a teddy bears lover, so there was no reason for me not to go.

When I arrived, I saw a building that had been renovated from a 180-year-old traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse.

Inside, there are over 1,000 antique bears that exude a sense of history, as well as teddy bears created by famous artists.

Bears which were inspired by a famous anecdote involving President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt, along with bears that have brought comfort to people in various countries, were packed tightly together, making the most of the traditional house’s high ceilings.

　  

In the spirit of global environmental awareness, the exhibition also features bears like Michael Jackson’s “Earth Song” bear, as well as bears made from items which were washed ashore or discarded items.

Moreover, visitors allowed to take photos of every bear.

　    

I got so excited—despite my age—that I snapped photos nonstop.

Among them are wood- carved bears that are typical of Hida Takayama.

Visitors can play a little game inside. The goal is to find the bears and small items listed on the sheet of paper they are given at the entrance. It is like a treasure hunt and a lot of fun. I tried it, and it turned out to be surprisingly difficult—I couldn’t find two of them and had to give up. I went back three times and checked the same spots over and over, but I just couldn’t find them. The kind receptionist eventually told me where they were, but I’m sure I never would have found them no matter how hard I looked.

Also, the attached shop sold a lot of kinds of bears, so I am sure visitors will find one they love. There was a workshop for kids where they could make their own teddy bears without using thread or glue. It’s wonderful for them to be able to create their own original bear. I plan to take my grandchildren there next time.

At the café, visitors can relax and enjoy a cup of tea while looking at the bears. These bears are waiting for you just a short trip away from Takayama, a town often called “Little Kyoto.” I highly recommend it.