Complete Gifu Travel Guide: Castles, Hot Springs & Traditional Villages

Gifu Prefecture, located in central Japan, offers visitors a perfect blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and traditional culture. From the majestic Gifu Castle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, this region showcases Japan’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re interested in samurai history, relaxing hot springs, or experiencing authentic rural Japan, Gifu has something for every traveler.

Gifu City: Castle Town with Rich History

Gifu City serves as the prefectural capital and is famous for its historical significance and natural beauty. The city’s most iconic landmark is Gifu Castle, perched atop Mount Kinka, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Must-See Attractions in Gifu City

Gifu Castle: Originally built in the 13th century, this castle played a crucial role during Japan’s Warring States period. The current reconstruction houses exhibits about the famous warlord Saito Dosan and the Sengoku era. The panoramic views from the castle tower are breathtaking, especially during sunset.
Gifu Park: Surrounding the castle, this beautiful park features seasonal flowers and walking paths. The Gifu City Museum within the park offers insights into the region’s natural history and cultural heritage.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying Gifu’s famous uyiro (traditional Japanese sweets) and Gifu beef, known for its exceptional quality and flavor.

Nagara River: Traditional Cormorant Fishing

The Nagara River is one of Japan’s most beautiful waterways, famous for its traditional cormorant fishing (ukai) that has been practiced for over 1,300 years. This ancient fishing technique involves trained cormorants catching fish at night, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Nagara River Activities

Cormorant Fishing Tours: Available from May to October, these evening tours allow visitors to watch this traditional fishing method from boats on the river.
River Cruises: Enjoy scenic boat rides along the Nagara River, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage.
Summer Fireworks: The river hosts spectacular fireworks displays during summer festivals.

Takayama: Preserved Edo-Period Town

Takayama, often called “Little Kyoto,” is one of Japan’s best-preserved historical towns. Its well-maintained Edo-period architecture and traditional atmosphere make it a favorite destination for travelers seeking authentic Japanese culture.

Exploring Takayama’s Old Town

Sanmachi Suji: This historic district features beautifully preserved merchant houses, sake breweries, and traditional shops. Walking through these narrow streets feels like stepping back in time.
Takayama Jinya: This former government office from the Edo period offers a glimpse into historical Japanese administration and architecture.
Hida Folk Village: An open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof houses and local crafts from the Hida region.

Takayama’s Local Specialties

Hida beef: Premium wagyu beef known for its marbling and tenderness
Sake: Takayama is famous for its sake breweries, many offering tastings and tours
Traditional crafts: Wooden furniture and lacquerware unique to the Hida region

Shirakawa-go: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Shirakawa-go is perhaps Gifu’s most famous destination, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique gassho-zukuri (praying hands) farmhouses. These steeply thatched roofs are designed to withstand heavy snowfall and create a distinctive architectural style.

What Makes Shirakawa-go Special

Gassho-zukuri Houses: These traditional houses feature steep thatched roofs that resemble praying hands, designed to handle heavy winter snow.
Seasonal Beauty: Each season offers different charms - cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and magical snow-covered landscapes in winter.
Cultural Experience: Many houses are open to visitors, offering insights into traditional rural Japanese life.

Best Times to Visit Shirakawa-go

Winter (January-February): Magical snow-covered landscapes and illumination events
Spring (April-May): Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery
Autumn (October-November): Beautiful fall colors
Summer (June-August): Lush green rice fields and comfortable temperatures

Gero Onsen: Premier Hot Spring Resort

Gero Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, known for its high-quality alkaline waters and beautiful natural setting along the Hida River.

Gero Onsen Experience

Hot Spring Quality: The alkaline waters are said to have beautifying effects and are particularly good for the skin.
Riverside Ryokan: Many traditional inns are located along the river, offering stunning views of seasonal scenery, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Japanese kaiseki meals featuring local ingredients and seasonal specialties.

Hot Spring Etiquette

Bathing Times: Most ryokan offer both indoor and outdoor baths, with separate facilities for men and women
Yukata: Traditional cotton robes provided by your accommodation
Towel Usage: Small towels are used for modesty and washing, not for soaking in the bath

Mino City: Traditional Washi Paper Town

Mino City is famous for its traditional washi (Japanese paper) production and the spectacular “Mino Washi Akari Art” festival held annually in autumn.

Mino’s Paper Culture

Washi Making: Experience traditional paper making at local workshops
Mino Washi Akari Art: This annual festival transforms the city with beautiful paper lanterns and illuminated artworks
Historical Architecture: The city features well-preserved merchant houses and traditional streetscapes

Planning Your Gifu Trip

Getting Around Gifu

By Train: JR Takayama Line connects major cities, with limited express trains from Nagoya
By Bus: Highway buses connect major destinations, especially useful for Shirakawa-go
By Car: Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring rural areas

Recommended Itinerary

3-Day Gifu Adventure:

Day 1: Gifu City (castle and park)
Day 2: Takayama (old town and folk village)
Day 3: Shirakawa-go (UNESCO site)

5-Day Extended Trip:

Add Gero Onsen for relaxation
Include Mino City for cultural experiences
Explore additional rural areas

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms and comfortable weather
Autumn (October-November): Beautiful fall colors and clear skies
Winter (December-February): Snow-covered landscapes, especially magical in Shirakawa-go

Travel Tips

Advance Booking: Popular ryokan in Gero and hotels in Takayama book up quickly, especially during peak seasons
Seasonal Clothing: Winters can be cold with heavy snow, especially in mountainous areas
Local Transportation: Consider purchasing regional passes for cost-effective travel
Cultural Respect: Remember to be respectful when visiting traditional villages and religious sites

Gifu Prefecture offers an authentic Japanese experience away from the crowds of major cities. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, hot springs, or traditional culture, this region provides a perfect introduction to rural Japan’s beauty and heritage. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of this remarkable destination.