(83 Reviews)
98% Recommended

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX

Travel Lifestyle Specialist

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
Learn more about me.

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than 25 years of travel industry experience, Rey specializes in providing knowledge-based guidance to corporate, government, higher education, and leisure travelers. Rey is committed to providing his clients with honest and straightforward advice throughout the travel planning process.  He places a special emphasis on being responsive to his clients’ needs while making each client feel comfortable and equipped to make informed travel decisions. Rey thrives on helping people fulfill their travel goals and dreams. As an experienced world traveler who has visited six continents and 45 countries, Rey uses his first-hand knowledge to help guide and advise his clients.   Rey has worked in the travel industry for more than 25 years and has experience with travel brands such as American Express, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, and Travel Leaders. A native Houstonian, Rey enjoys spending time with his young family, volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America, and practicing yoga.  Rey also serves as a frequent travel expert on local television networks, including ABC News-KTRK-13, Fox Morning News KRIV-26, and Great Day Houston-KHOU 11. He has been quoted in the New York Times, Travel Weekly, and CNN.com.Rey graduated from Hampton University with honors in 1995 with a degree in History.                  

Email meCall Me

Rey Alton

Can Be Reached At

1-713-592-8000 ext:1

close

Takayama Travel Agent Expert

Takayama is a picturesque city located in the Japanese Alps, in Gifu Prefecture. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets and traditional wooden houses, Takayama offers a glimpse into Japan's past. The city's charming Old Town is filled with historic merchant houses, shops, and sake breweries. Takayama is also famous for its Takayama Matsuri, one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals, featuring elaborate floats. The nearby Hida Folk Village showcases traditional rural life, while the surrounding mountains provide opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature. With its combination of history, culture, and natural beauty, Takayama is a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience. 

 Top 5 Places in Takayama:

• Old Town (Sanmachi Suji) – A well-preserved historic district filled with traditional wooden houses, shops, and sake breweries.


• Takayama Jinya – A former government building with Edo-period architecture, offering insight into Takayama’s history and governance.


• Hida Folk Village – An open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof houses and rural life from the Hida region.


• Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall – A museum dedicated to the ornate floats used in the famous Takayama Festival.


• Shirakabe Dozogai – A scenic area with picturesque white-walled merchant houses, offering a charming atmosphere for a stroll.

Top 10 Activities in Takayama:

• Stroll Through Takayama’s Old Town – Explore the historic streets lined with traditional merchant houses, shops, and sake breweries.


• Visit Takayama Jinya – Step inside this historic government building to learn about Takayama’s administrative past.


• Explore Hida Folk Village – Wander through the open-air museum, experiencing traditional life with old farmhouses and crafts.


• Admire the Takayama Festival Floats – Visit the exhibition hall to see the intricate festival floats and learn about Takayama’s vibrant cultural heritage.


• Tour the Hida Beef Restaurants – Savor Takayama’s famous Hida beef, known for its high quality and tender texture, at local restaurants.


• Hike in the Japanese Alps – Take a hike or nature walk through the beautiful surrounding mountains, offering stunning views and fresh air.


• Visit the Morning Markets – Experience the morning markets (Asaichi) where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and regional specialties.


• Relax in an Onsen – Enjoy a traditional hot spring bath at one of Takayama’s nearby onsen resorts for a relaxing experience.


• Explore the Takayama Museum of History and Art – Learn about the city’s rich cultural history through a collection of local artifacts and art.


• Enjoy the Takayama Matsuri (if visiting in spring or autumn) – Attend one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals, featuring grand floats, traditional performances, and a festive atmosphere.