Out of Town Blog
Gifu Tourist Spots: Top Things to Do and Must-See Attractions in Gifu Prefecture
Gifu Prefecture is home to unique tourist spots that offer a mix of history, nature, and local culture. Travelers can explore well-preserved mountain villages, such as Shirakawa-go, famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. The region is also renowned for its scenic rivers, hot springs, and breathtaking mountain views.
If you’re into outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty, from hiking and skiing to river kayaking and even bungee jumping. Cultural sites, such as Gifu Castle and historic towns, showcase the area’s fascinating past. For anyone planning a trip, there are numerous top things to do in Gifu that cater to a variety of interests.
Best Things to Do in Gifu Prefecture
Explore Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is famous for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. These houses have steep, thatched roofs shaped to handle heavy winter snow.
Wandering the village streets, you’ll see how families once lived and worked here. Highlights include the Wada House, which is open to the public, and the Shirakawa-go Open-Air Museum, where several farmhouses are preserved.
For the best view, head up to one of the observation decks for a panoramic look at the village and the mountains. Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a magnet year-round for its scenery and history.
Visit Takayama’s Old Town
Takayama’s Old Town is a well-preserved area dating back to the Edo period. The narrow streets are lined with wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and craft shops.
Sanmachi Suji, the main historical street, is a favorite for a stroll. Local shops sell crafts, sweets, and souvenirs. Many buildings are open to visitors, including the Takayama Jinya, which was once a government office.
Every spring and autumn, Takayama hosts lively festivals with elaborate floats. Sampling Hida beef at a local restaurant is a highlight. Takayama Old Town is easy to explore on foot and offers a glimpse of traditional Japan.
Relax in Gero Onsen
Gero Onsen is one of Japan’s top hot spring resorts and has a long history dating back to the 10th century. The area is known for its high-quality spring water, which is gentle on the skin and believed to bring health benefits.
Visitors can stay at traditional ryokan inns or enjoy various public bathhouses. Many hotels have open-air baths with views of the river and mountains. For those not staying overnight, there are free foot baths around town.
After a soak, travelers can wander the small shops and streets of Gero. The town lights up at night, which gives it a calm and pleasant atmosphere.
Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway
The Shinhotaka Ropeway offers stunning mountain scenery high above the Japanese Alps. It’s actually the only double-decker gondola in Japan, taking guests over forests and rivers to observation decks with wide views.
At the top, there are several viewing platforms, walking trails, and a cafe. In the summer, visitors see lush green forests. In winter, snow covers the peaks, creating a white landscape great for photos.
Cool mountain air and clear skies give the area a peaceful atmosphere. The ropeway is enjoyable in any season and lets travelers see Gifu’s natural beauty from above.
Scenic Nature Spots in Gifu
Hike the Kamikochi Valley
Kamikochi Valley is a scenic area in the Japanese Alps. Many visitors come for the clear Azusa River and hiking trails that wind through forests and wetlands. The valley is open from mid-April to mid-November, when the weather is mild and the mountain views are especially beautiful.
The walking paths range from easy strolls to more challenging treks. Popular spots include the Kappa Bridge, a well-known viewpoint, and several observation decks providing sights of Mount Hotaka and Mount Yakedake. Wildlife is common here; visitors might see monkeys or various birds along the trails.
Kamikochi is car-free to protect the environment. Buses and taxis provide access from nearby cities, making it easy for travelers to visit. The walkways are suitable for beginners, and the area is a favorite for nature lovers seeking fresh air and quiet surroundings.
Admire Gujo Hachiman Castle
Gujo Hachiman Castle stands on top of a small mountain overlooking the town of Gujo Hachiman. The castle is a rebuilt wooden structure and is known for its traditional Japanese design and panoramic views. Visitors can reach the castle by hiking up a path through the forest, which takes about 20 minutes from the town center.
The interiors showcase historic displays and traditional armor. From the top floor, the windows give a wide view of Gujo Hachiman and its surrounding rivers and green hills. Visiting in autumn is especially popular, as the leaves around the castle change to bright red and orange.
Nearby, the town of Gujo Hachiman offers quaint streets, water canals, and old-fashioned houses. This makes it easy for visitors to enjoy both the castle and the atmosphere of a preserved Japanese town.
See the Gifu Great Buddha
The Gifu Great Buddha sits in Shoho-ji Temple in Gifu City. This massive Buddha statue is over 13 meters tall and was completed in the early 1800s. The statue is made using a wooden frame, covered with bamboo, clay, and finally gold leaf.
Visitors come to admire both the size of the statue and the detailed work on its features and robes. The temple hall is peaceful and softly lit, with benches for quiet reflection. Information panels explain its history and construction.
The surrounding temple grounds are calm and offer space to relax. The site is easy to find within Gifu city and makes a good stop for travelers interested in Japanese religious art and Buddhist culture.
Stroll Along Ena Valley
Ena Valley, or Ena Gorge, is a section of the Kiso River known for its unusual rock formations and gentle waters. The area is famous for its seasonal scenery, especially when cherry blossoms bloom in spring or when leaves turn colors in autumn.
Many people take short cruises or pleasure boats to see the rocky cliffs from the water. There are also walking trails along the riverbank, lined with parks and viewing spots. Fishing and picnicking are popular in this area as well.
A visitor center offers maps, rental bikes, and information on local plants and wildlife. Ena Valley is not far from the town of Ena, making it a convenient nature getaway for those wanting both water views and quiet paths.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Tour Gifu Castle
Gifu Castle stands on top of Mount Kinka, giving a wide view of Gifu City and the Nagara River. Once home to the famous samurai lord Oda Nobunaga, the castle played an important role in Japanese history during the 1500s.
A ropeway takes visitors up the mountain, making access easy. The castle building houses a small museum that displays armor, weapons, and historical documents. Around the base of Mount Kinka, people can walk forest trails and enjoy scenic picnic spots.
On clear days, the observation deck provides views reaching as far as Nagoya. At night, the castle lights up, creating a striking scene against the dark sky. Gifu Castle is well-known for its connection to Japan’s warlord period and offers a clear sense of the region’s past.
Experience Cormorant Fishing on the Nagara River
Cormorant fishing, or ukai, is a 1,300-year-old tradition that takes place on the Nagara River every summer. Fishermen use trained cormorant birds to catch sweetfish, working from wooden boats with lanterns lighting the water.
Visitors can watch these fishing demonstrations from special viewing boats. The event usually runs from May to October. Guests witness the skills of the fishermen and the way they guide the birds using leashes and signals.
This fishing method is rare and unique to a few places in Japan, with Gifu being one of the main locations. The experience helps preserve local culture, and the atmosphere on the river at night feels peaceful and historic.
Visit Hida Folk Village
Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum that displays over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region. These houses include thatched-roof farmhouses and storehouses, many built in the 1700s and 1800s.
Guests can step inside the buildings to see how rural families lived. Exhibits include old furniture, tools, crafts, and farming equipment. Workshops sometimes let visitors try activities like making straw crafts or painting wooden charms.
The village layout surrounds a small pond, with walking paths connecting each house. In every season, the scenery changes, offering different views of gardens and rural landscapes. Hida Folk Village gives insight into mountain life in central Japan and shows building techniques suited for heavy snow.
Unique Festivals and Seasonal Events
Attend Takayama Festival
The Takayama Festival happens twice a year—in April (Sanno Festival) and October (Hachiman Festival). It’s best known for its parade floats, called yatai, which are decked out with intricate carvings and rich, colorful fabrics. Some floats even have mechanical dolls (karakuri ningyo) that perform little shows during the procession.
At night, those floats light up with lanterns, casting a really enchanting glow through Takayama’s old streets. You can wander alongside them, grab a bite from food stalls, and catch live festival music echoing through the crowd.
This festival is often named among Japan’s most beautiful, and its traditions stretch back over 300 years. If you’re thinking of going, book your stay early—it gets crowded, especially if cherry blossoms are blooming at the same time.
Enjoy Gujo Odori Dance
Gujo Odori is a lively dance festival in Gujo Hachiman that runs from mid-July to early September. Every night, people gather for simple, easy-to-follow circle dances—and yes, visitors are welcome to jump in. There are ten dances in total, each with its own rhythm and steps, but you’ll pick them up quickly enough.
Things really ramp up during Obon in mid-August, when dancing goes on all night for four days. Streets fill with the sound of clapping and the wooden beat of “tebura” clappers, with lanterns strung overhead.
With over 400 years of history, Gujo Odori is recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. It’s a relaxed, open event—good for families or groups who want to experience something truly local.
Join the Shirakawa-go Light-Up
The Shirakawa-go Light-Up happens on select winter nights in the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go. Those iconic thatched-roof farmhouses get illuminated against the snowy landscape, and honestly, it’s a bit surreal—almost like stepping into a postcard.
This usually takes place in January and February, but you’ll need to book ahead since they limit access to avoid overcrowding. Photographers especially love it—the contrast of warm lights on snow is pretty unforgettable.
People wander through the village or head up to the observation deck for the best view. There are local snacks, and sometimes a few houses open up for special events. It’s a rare glimpse of historic village life in winter.
See Seki Hamono Knife Festival
Seki, known as the city of blades, throws the Seki Hamono Knife Festival every October. It’s a celebration of more than 700 years of sword and knife-making. The main draw is the outdoor market, where you can browse and buy Seki blades, kitchen knives, and tools straight from the folks who make them.
There are live demos of traditional swordsmithing and knife sharpening—watching the artisans at work is pretty fascinating. You’ll also find stage shows, food stands, and hands-on experiences, like making your own mini-blade or keychain.
Collectors, chefs, and anyone curious about Japanese craftsmanship tend to flock here. If you’re after a unique souvenir or want to see some rare blades, this is the place.
Family-Friendly Activities
Visit Gifu Park
Gifu Park, right at the base of Mount Kinka, is a go-to for families who want some nature and a bit of history. There are wide lawns, a pond, flower gardens, and plenty of shady paths to wander.
People come here to ride the ropeway up to Gifu Castle, check out the Nawa Insect Museum, or just relax under cherry blossoms in spring. There’s also a Japanese garden and quiet spots for a picnic if you want a break from sightseeing.
Nearby, you’ll find tea houses, souvenir shops, and easy bus connections. Families appreciate the clean bathrooms and clear signs in both English and Japanese. Bring a camera—the flowers and castle views are worth it.
Explore Yoro Park and Yoro Falls
Yoro Park, close to the well-known Yoro Falls, is a big green space with playgrounds, art installations, open fields, and trails through the woods. Kids have slides, swings, and climbing frames, while parents can chill out in the shade.
The “Site of Reversible Destiny” is a quirky highlight—an art space full of odd landscapes and colorful sculptures that invite you to wander, climb, or just puzzle over what’s going on. Maps and clear paths make it easy to get around safely.
The stroll to Yoro Falls is short and peaceful, and the sound of the water is especially refreshing in summer. There are snack stands near the entrance, so you can easily spend a few hours here.
Discover Roadside Stations (Michi-no-Eki)
Michi-no-Eki—roadside stations—are way more than just highway rest stops in Gifu. Many have farmers’ markets, local food stalls, info desks, and even play areas for kids.
The popular ones have souvenir shops with regional snacks and gifts, plus open seating so families can enjoy a meal together. Facilities are clean and kid-friendly, and some bigger stations host weekend events or craft workshops.
You’ll usually find maps and brochures in several languages, making it easy to plan your route or learn about rural life.
Traditional Food and Local Cuisine
Taste Hida Beef
Hida beef comes from black-haired Japanese cattle raised in Gifu’s mountains. It’s prized for its marbling, which makes it melt-in-your-mouth tender and super flavorful.
In Takayama, you’ll find Hida beef served as steak, sushi, or grilled on a hot plate. The careful marbling and prep really set it apart from other Japanese beef, if you ask me.
If you’re curious, look for local inns, steakhouses, or izakayas featuring Hida beef. Prices vary by cut, but plenty of places offer affordable lunch sets. It’s especially good paired with local sake or fresh mountain veggies.
Sample Ayu Sweetfish
Ayu sweetfish thrive in Gifu’s clean rivers, like the Nagara. Summer is peak season, when the fish are freshest. Most places serve ayu grilled with salt over charcoal, which keeps it moist and brings out its delicate, sweet flavor.
There are even festivals for ayu season, and some restaurants let you catch and grill your own. Sometimes ayu shows up in sushi or cooked with rice. Local chefs love working with it—it’s a point of pride, since the fish is so closely tied to Gifu’s rivers.
The best way to eat ayu? Fresh and simple. Locals say you really notice the mild sweetness that way.
Try Gohei Mochi
Gohei mochi is a classic snack made from steamed rice, shaped into ovals, skewered, and grilled over charcoal. It’s brushed with a sauce that mixes soy, miso, sesame, and sometimes walnuts.
This treat is a little sweet, a little savory—the sauce is bold, and every shop seems to tweak the recipe just a bit for their own spin.
You’ll spot gohei mochi at roadside stands, festivals, and markets. It’s cheap, filling, and a fun way to try something local. Watching it grilled fresh is half the fun, honestly.
Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots
Gifu Prefecture hides plenty of spots with deep history, peaceful scenery, and that old-school Japanese feel. These places are great if you want to dodge the crowds and see a quieter side of Japan.
Explore Magome-juku and the Nakasendo Trail
Magome-juku is a beautifully restored post town in the Kiso Valley, once one of 69 stops along the historic Nakasendo Trail connecting Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). You can stroll along stone-paved lanes, duck into old wooden inns, and snack on regional treats from little shops.
The Nakasendo Trail to Tsumago is about 8 km and popular with hikers who want a taste of Japan’s countryside. The walk takes you through forests, past waterfalls, and into tiny villages. Signs are in both Japanese and English, and there are a few rest stops for a quick break or a snack.
Highlights:
- Gorgeous town views
- Historic buildings and museums
- Chilled-out rural walk
- Local snacks—gohei mochi and soba noodles are a must
If you’re after a slice of Edo-period Japan and want to take things slow, Magome-juku is pretty much perfect.
Uncover Ibi Valley
The Ibi Valley, tucked in southwest Gifu, is all about calm rivers and lush green mountains. It’s slower-paced, with lots of nature activities—ideal if you like the outdoors but not the crowds.
Things to do in Ibi Valley include:
- Hiking: Trails with views of the Ibi River and terraced rice fields
- Onsen: Small hot spring inns where you can soak surrounded by forest
- Camping and fishing: Plenty of riverside spots for a picnic or some lazy fishing
The valley is also home to the Chiyoho Inari Shrine, where people come to pray for luck. Local markets and food stalls serve up classic street food like kushikatsu.
Most people find the area peaceful and genuinely welcoming—a good spot to unwind after more hectic sightseeing.
Walk Around Mino’s Historic Townscape
Mino’s old streets are lined with traditional paper-making shops and merchant houses. The town’s reputation for washi paper stretches back centuries, and you’ll still find it made by hand. Some buildings have stood here for hundreds of years—quite a few are even registered as cultural properties.
Strolling through the Udatsu Wall Historical District is a bit like stepping into the past, with its beautiful plastered walls and tiled roofs. Shops run by local artisans show off washi goods like lanterns and postcards, all crafted with impressive skill. Come autumn, the Mino Washi Akari Art Festival fills the streets with glowing paper lanterns, which is honestly pretty magical after dark.
Key sights:
- Mino Washi Museum: Watch craftspeople create paper using ancient techniques
- Old merchant streets: Perfect for quiet strolls and photography
- Seasonal festivals: Lively but less crowded than bigger events
Mino’s a great place to get a feel for local craft and architecture that really transports you.
Art, Crafts, and Shopping in Gifu
Shop for Mino Washi Paper
Mino Washi, a traditional Japanese paper, is made using methods that have been handed down for over 1,300 years. Most of this craft happens in Mino City, where artisans use natural fibers to create paper that’s surprisingly strong, soft, and often decorated with lovely patterns.
Shops around town sell all sorts of washi goods—stationery, wall art, lanterns, umbrellas, you name it. If you’re curious, you can even try a papermaking workshop and bring home your own creation.
The Mino Washi Akari Art Festival is a highlight, with lanterns lighting up the streets at night and showing off just how much this craft means to the community. It’s neat to see how something as simple as paper gets transformed into art.
Visit Seki Traditional Swordsmith District
Seki City’s legendary for its sword making—seriously, it’s been going on for 700 years. Craftsmen here are still known worldwide for their swords and knives.
If you’re interested, you can watch demonstrations at some of the forges and see just how much work goes into forging and sharpening. The Seki Sword Tradition Museum displays historical swords, tools, and armor, giving you a sense of how much patience and skill this craft takes.
The shops sell handmade kitchen knives, scissors, and even tiny pocketknives. Chefs and collectors come from all over for these, mostly because they’re so sharp and durable. Around town, you’ll spot monuments and signs sharing Seki’s proud blade-making history.
Explore Local Markets
Gifu’s local markets are a treasure trove for souvenirs, fresh foods, and handmade crafts. Morning markets in places like Takayama draw a mix of locals and tourists hunting for pickles, miso, pottery, and whatever fruit’s in season.
It’s a good place to meet the people behind the stalls and try regional snacks—think Hida beef or local rice treats. Sometimes you’ll stumble on festivals or live demos, with artisans weaving baskets or working with wood.
But honestly, markets are about more than just shopping. They’re a window into daily life and a way to see how these traditions keep going.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top summer attractions in Gifu Prefecture?
In summer, Shirakawa-go’s traditional farmhouses are a big draw. The Itadori and Nagara rivers are hot spots for kayaking and paddleboarding. Shoppers head to Toki Premium Outlets, while nature lovers might check out the clear waters at Monet’s Pond or hike around Ena Gorge for some pretty spectacular views.
What activities are recommended in Gifu during the winter season?
Winter in Gifu means you can ski and snowboard at Dynaland ski resort. Shirakawa-go looks especially magical under a blanket of snow. The Shinhotaka Ropeway has fantastic panoramic mountain views and is easy for all ages.
Which must-see locations should visitors prioritize when in Gifu Prefecture?
Don’t skip the historic Shirakawa-go village with its unique gassho-zukuri houses. Hida Takayama’s old town, Magome-juku’s Edo-period charm, and the natural beauty of Yoro Falls are all worth a visit.
What are the popular experiences in Gifu City for tourists?
Most people head to Gifu Castle on Mt. Kinka for the views. Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River is a classic summer tradition. Walking around Gifu Park and checking out the museums are also popular.
What culinary specialties should travelers try in Gifu?
Hida beef is the star here—served grilled or in hot pot, it’s a must. Ayu (sweetfish) from the Nagara River is often grilled and super fresh. Don’t miss out on local miso dishes or soba noodles, either.
Which historical sites or cultural landmarks is Gifu known for?
Gifu’s packed with cultural gems like Gifu Castle, the atmospheric old post town of Magome, and the Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village—think traditional homes, local crafts, that sort of thing. If you’re wandering further, Chiyoho Inari Shrine and the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawa-go are definitely worth a look, too.
Gifu Travel Tour Packages You Should Try
Klook.com
(function (d, sc, u) {
var s = d.createElement(sc),
p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0];
s.type = “text/javascript”;
s.async = true;
s.src = u;
p.parentNode.insertBefore(s, p);
})(
document,
“script”,
“https://affiliate.klook.com/widget/fetch-iframe-init.js”
);
Follow and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for more Travel related updates.
Read:
- Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Takayama, Japan
- The Ultimate Shirakawa-go Travel Guide
- Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Shirakawa-Go, Japan
Gifu Tourist Spots: Top Things to Do and Must-See Attractions in Gifu Prefecture
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog
Please visit:
Our Sponsor