30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Gifu Prefecture | Dec 2025
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What activities can I do in Gifu Prefecture?
Gifu Prefecture, located in the Chubu region of Japan, offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Gifu Prefecture: 1. Explore Takayama: Known for its beautifully preserved old town, Takayama is a must-visit destination in Gifu. Wander through narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, visit the Takayama Jinya, a former government office, and explore the morning market for local crafts and fresh produce. 2. Hike in the Northern Alps: Gifu Prefecture is home to part of the Northern Alps, including the iconic Mount Norikura and Mount Ontake. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy various trails, stunning alpine scenery, and even hot springs along the way. 3. Visit Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These unique thatched-roof houses are beautifully preserved and offer a glimpse into rural Japan's traditional way of life. 4. Take a boat ride on Nagaragawa River: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Nagaragawa River, which flows through Gifu City. Admire the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains, bridges, and cherry blossoms during the spring season. 5. Explore Gero Onsen: Gero Onsen is one of Japan's top hot spring resorts, known for its healing properties. Soak in the mineral-rich waters while taking in the picturesque views of the Hida River. 6. Visit Gujo Hachiman: Known as the ""Water City,"" Gujo Hachiman is famous for its well-preserved castle town and intricate waterways. Explore the historic streets, visit Gujo Hachiman Castle, and try your hand at making traditional food replicas or joining a bon dance during summer. 7. Discover Inuyama: Visit Inuyama Castle, one of Japan's oldest original castles, and explore the surrounding area. Don't miss the opportunity to see the traditional cormorant fishing on the Kiso River during the summer months. 8. Enjoy the Gifu Great Buddha: Located in the Shoho-ji Temple in Gifu City, the Gifu Great Buddha is one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues. Admire the impressive craftsmanship and explore the beautiful temple grounds. 9. Experience caving in the Ryusen-do Cave: Located in the town of Iwamura, Ryusen-do Cave is a limestone cave known for its stunning rock formations and underground waterfalls. Take a guided tour to explore this natural wonder. 10. Try local cuisine: Gifu Prefecture is known for its delicious regional specialties. Don't miss out on trying Hida beef, a high-quality wagyu beef, along with other local dishes like Hoba Miso, a specialty of Takayama, and Ayu fish from the Nagaragawa River. These are just a few of the many things to do in Gifu Prefecture. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or traditional culture, Gifu offers a rich and diverse travel experience.
When is the best time to travel to Gifu Prefecture?
The best time to travel to Gifu Prefecture, Japan, largely depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. However, the most popular time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons. Spring (March to May): This is a beautiful time to visit Gifu Prefecture as the cherry blossoms (sakura) bloom, creating stunning landscapes. The weather is mild, and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring historic sites, and visiting the famous Takayama Spring Festival. Autumn (September to November): Gifu Prefecture is known for its picturesque autumn foliage, particularly in places like Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Gujo Hachiman. The weather is pleasant, and you can witness the vibrant colors of the leaves, attend local festivals, and indulge in seasonal delicacies. If you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy lower accommodation rates, consider visiting Gifu Prefecture during the off-peak seasons: Summer (June to August): Summers in Gifu Prefecture can be hot and humid, but it is a great time to explore the region's natural beauty. You can visit the stunning waterfalls, go hiking in the mountains, or enjoy water activities in the rivers and lakes. Winter (December to February): Gifu Prefecture experiences cold winters, but it offers unique experiences such as snow activities in the Japanese Alps. You can go skiing, snowboarding, or soak in hot springs while enjoying the snowy landscapes. The popular Hida Takayama Winter Festival is also held in February. Overall, Gifu Prefecture has something to offer in every season, so choose the time that aligns with your interests and preferences.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Gifu Prefecture
Gifu Prefecture, located in the Chubu region of Japan, is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in Gifu: 1. Traditional Crafts: Gifu is famous for its traditional crafts, such as Mino Washi paper, which has been designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Visitors can experience paper-making workshops and explore the history of this unique craft. Gifu is also renowned for its ceramics, including the famous Seto and Tokoname pottery. 2. Historic Sites: Gifu is home to several historic sites that offer a glimpse into Japan's past. The iconic Gifu Castle, located atop Mount Kinka, provides panoramic views of the city and hosts various cultural events throughout the year. In the neighboring city of Seki, visitors can explore the Seki Sword Tradition Museum and learn about the region's long history of sword-making. 3. Traditional Festivals: Gifu is known for its vibrant festivals, which showcase the local culture and traditions. The Takayama Festival, held in spring and autumn, is one of the most famous festivals in Japan, featuring elaborate floats, traditional music, and dance performances. The Gujo Odori, a summer dance festival held in Gujo Hachiman, allows visitors to join in the dance and experience the lively atmosphere. 4. Natural Beauty: Gifu is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including the picturesque Hida Mountains and the clear waters of the Nagara River. The region is known for its hiking trails, hot springs, and outdoor activities such as river rafting and canoeing. The iconic Shirakawa-go village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination, famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. 5. Local Cuisine: Gifu is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of delicious dishes. The region is known for its Hida beef, a high-quality wagyu beef, which can be enjoyed in various forms, including sukiyaki and yakiniku. Other local specialties include river fish, such as ayu (sweetfish) and ayu sushi, as well as the famous local sake, called ""Hida no Takumi."" 6. Onsen (Hot Springs): Gifu is dotted with numerous hot springs, offering relaxation and rejuvenation. Gero Onsen and Takayama Onsen are among the most famous hot spring resorts in the region, known for their therapeutic properties and beautiful surroundings. Visitors can soak in the mineral-rich waters while enjoying the serene atmosphere. Overall, Gifu Prefecture offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience traditional Japan.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Gifu Prefecture
When visiting Gifu Prefecture in Japan, there are several unique shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home. Here are some popular choices: 1. Traditional Craftsmanship: - Mino Washi Paper: Gifu is famous for its high-quality washi paper, which is used in various traditional crafts such as origami, calligraphy, and decorative items. - Hida Sashimono Woodwork: Hida region is known for its exquisite woodworking techniques, producing furniture, boxes, and small wooden crafts. - Seki Cutlery: Seki City is renowned for its traditional Japanese knives and cutlery. You can find a wide range of kitchen knives and blades made by skilled craftsmen. 2. Local Food and Beverages: - Hida Beef: One of Japan's top-quality beef brands, Hida beef is known for its marbling and tenderness. You can buy it fresh or in various processed forms like jerky or canned products. - Gifu Sake: Gifu Prefecture has a long history of sake production, and you can find a wide variety of local sake brands. Look for bottles labeled as ""Gifu Sake"" or try visiting local breweries for a tasting experience. - Local Snacks: Gifu offers unique snacks like Hida Konjac, a jelly-like food made from konjac root, and Kinka Sushi, a local specialty sushi wrapped in a bamboo leaf. 3. Traditional Crafts and Artwork: - Shunkei Lacquerware: Shunkei lacquerware from Takayama is known for its elegant simplicity and natural wood grain patterns. You can find various lacquerware items like bowls, trays, and chopsticks. - Hida Furniture: Hida-Takayama is famous for its traditional Japanese-style furniture. Consider purchasing small decorative pieces or even full-sized furniture to bring a touch of Japanese craftsmanship to your home. 4. Local Specialty Products: - Hida Furukawa Merchandise: Hida Furukawa is a charming town in Gifu known for its traditional streets and white-walled houses. Look for souvenirs like postcards, keychains, or small crafts featuring the town's iconic sights. - Hida Folk Village Crafts: Hida no Sato is an open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof houses and local crafts. You can find handmade items like woven baskets, pottery, and wooden crafts. Remember to check the regulations and customs restrictions of your home country regarding the import of food, plants, and wooden products before purchasing any souvenirs. Enjoy your shopping experience in Gifu Prefecture!
Gifu Prefecture travel review
Gifu Prefecture: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Japan Nestled in the heart of Japan, Gifu Prefecture is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by avid travelers. With its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Gifu offers an authentic and immersive experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. One of the highlights of Gifu is its stunning mountain ranges, including the iconic Mount Ontake and the picturesque Northern Alps. These mountains are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot spring bathing. The region's diverse flora and fauna provide a perfect backdrop for nature lovers, and the panoramic views from the mountain peaks are simply awe-inspiring. For those seeking a cultural experience, Gifu is home to numerous historical sites and traditional villages. The historic city of Takayama is a must-visit, known for its well-preserved Edo period streets and traditional wooden houses. Strolling through the narrow lanes of the Sanmachi Suji district, visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of old Japan, with local shops selling traditional crafts, sake breweries, and mouthwatering street food. Another cultural gem in Gifu is Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These unique thatched-roof houses are a testament to the ingenuity of the local people, who have adapted their architecture to withstand heavy snowfall in the winter. Visitors can explore the village, learn about the local customs and traditions, and even stay overnight in one of the farmhouses for a truly immersive experience. Gifu is also known for its vibrant festivals, which showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. One of the most famous festivals is the Takayama Matsuri, held in spring and autumn, where elaborately decorated floats are paraded through the streets accompanied by traditional music and dance. The festival attracts thousands of visitors from all over Japan and provides a fascinating glimpse into the local traditions and customs. Food lovers will delight in Gifu's culinary offerings, which are known for their simplicity and use of locally sourced ingredients. The region is famous for its Hida beef, a premium wagyu beef renowned for its marbling and tenderness. Visitors can savor this delicacy in various forms, from sukiyaki to grilled steak, at local restaurants and yakiniku establishments. Gifu is also known for its river fish, such as ayu (sweetfish) and hida-gyu (amago trout), which can be enjoyed in traditional Japanese dishes. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Gifu is easily accessible from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, making it a convenient destination for both domestic and international travelers. The local transportation system is well-developed, with efficient train and bus networks connecting the various attractions within the prefecture. Whether you are seeking adventure in the great outdoors, a cultural immersion in traditional Japan, or simply a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Gifu Prefecture has something to offer for every traveler. With its natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Gifu is truly a hidden gem waiting to be explored.