Explore Gifu
A Timeless Blend of Tradition, Nature, and Adventure

Gifu Prefecture, located in the heart of Japan, is a destination rich in cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities. From the historic villages of Shirakawa-go to the scenic rivers of Gujo Hachiman, Gifu offers a diverse and unforgettable travel experience.

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Best Food in Gifu: Must-Try Local Dishes

Gifu’s cuisine is deeply connected to its mountainous terrain and fresh local ingredients.

  • Hida Beef: One of Japan’s top wagyu beef varieties, known for its rich marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Keichan (Grilled Chicken): A local favorite featuring chicken marinated in miso or soy sauce and stir-fried with vegetables.
  • Ayu (Sweetfish) Cuisine: A delicacy often grilled with salt and enjoyed during the summer along Gifu’s pristine rivers.
  • Hoba Miso: A traditional dish where miso, mushrooms, and vegetables are grilled on a magnolia leaf.
  • Gohei Mochi: A skewered rice cake coated in a sweet and savory miso sauce, perfect as a street food snack.

Gifu Festivals & Events: Seasonal Highlights

Gifu is home to vibrant festivals that celebrate its deep history and scenic beauty.

  • Takayama Festival (April & October): One of Japan’s most stunning festivals, featuring elaborate floats and traditional performances.
  • Gujo Odori (July-September): A mesmerizing summer dance festival where visitors can join locals in traditional dances.
  • Ukai Cormorant Fishing (May-October): A 1,300-year-old fishing tradition on the Nagara River, using trained cormorants to catch fish.
  • Mino Washi Akari Art Exhibition (October): A festival showcasing stunning lantern art crafted from handmade Mino washi paper.
  • Oyada Maple Festival (November): A breathtaking autumn foliage festival held in Oyada Shrine, surrounded by vibrant maple trees.

Outdoor Activities in Gifu: Things to Do Year-Round

Gifu’s rugged terrain and pristine rivers make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Hiking in Kamikochi: Explore stunning alpine scenery in one of Japan’s most beautiful highland valleys.
  • Rafting on the Nagara River: Enjoy thrilling white-water rafting or a serene boat cruise through Gifu’s scenic landscapes.
  • Skiing in Okuhida & Meiho: Experience top-tier ski resorts with breathtaking mountain views and excellent powder snow.
  • Gero Onsen Hot Springs: Relax in one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, known for its healing waters.
  • Cycling in Hida Furukawa: Ride through picturesque rural landscapes and traditional townscapes.

Must-Visit Places in Gifu: Top Attractions

Gifu is home to stunning cultural landmarks and natural wonders.

  • Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs.
  • Takayama Old Town: A beautifully preserved historic district filled with Edo-period merchant houses and sake breweries.
  • Gujo Hachiman Castle: A scenic hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
  • Gifu Castle & Mount Kinka: Explore the reconstructed castle of warlord Oda Nobunaga and take in breathtaking views from Mount Kinka.
  • Mino City: A historic town famous for its production of Mino washi paper, a traditional craft recognized by UNESCO.

Getting Around Gifu: Public Transportation Guide

Gifu’s transportation network makes it easy to explore the region efficiently.

  • Tokaido Shinkansen (Gifu-Hashima Station): Connects Gifu to major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
  • JR Takayama Main Line: Provides scenic access to Takayama and Hida from Nagoya.
  • Nagaragawa Railway: A charming local train line offering stunning views of Gifu’s river valleys.
  • Highway Buses: Direct connections from Nagoya, Osaka, and Tokyo to Gifu’s top destinations.
  • Rental Cars: Recommended for exploring remote areas like Shirakawa-go and Kamikochi.

Best Hotels in Gifu: Where to Stay

From traditional ryokan inns to modern resorts, Gifu offers accommodations for every traveler.

  • Luxury Hotels: Stay at Takayama Green Hotel, featuring elegant rooms and a luxurious onsen.
  • Traditional Ryokan: Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Ryokan Asunaro in Takayama.
  • Hot Spring Resorts: Unwind in Suimeikan Ryokan in Gero Onsen, known for its world-class baths.
  • Budget-Friendly Hotels: Comfortable and affordable stays like Gero Onsen Bosenkan.
  • Countryside Stays: Enjoy a traditional farm stay experience in Shirakawa-go Minshuku Inns.

Gifu’s Cultural Heritage: Experience Unique Traditions

Gifu preserves its rich history through samurai-era sites, traditional crafts, and local arts.

  • Hida Folk Village: A beautifully recreated open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof houses.
  • Mino Washi Paper Making: Participate in a hands-on workshop to create your own handmade washi paper.
  • Takayama Morning Markets: Browse fresh produce, local crafts, and street food at these historic markets.
  • Samurai & Ninja Experiences in Gujo: Try on traditional armor or learn ninja skills at Gujo Hachiman Castle.
  • Hida Sake Tasting: Visit historic breweries in Takayama to sample local sake varieties.

Best Souvenirs from Gifu: What to Buy

Take home a piece of Gifu with these locally made specialties.

  • Mino Washi Paper Goods: Traditional handcrafted paper used for lanterns, fans, and stationery.
  • Sarubobo Dolls: A lucky charm originating from the Hida region, symbolizing good fortune and happiness.
  • Hida Lacquerware: Beautifully crafted wooden bowls and trays with exquisite lacquer coatings.
  • Local Sake & Umeshu: Premium sake from Hida and fruity umeshu (plum wine) from Gifu’s breweries.
  • Gifu Wagasa (Traditional Umbrellas): Elegant handmade umbrellas crafted using centuries-old techniques.

Plan Your Gifu Adventure Today!

From historic villages and stunning mountain landscapes to delicious local cuisine and cultural experiences, Gifu is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're soaking in an onsen, strolling through ancient streets, or savoring Hida beef, Gifu promises an unforgettable journey.

For more travel inspiration, check out our Japan travel guides and start planning your trip to Gifu today!