Mino

What are the most recommended things to do in Mino?

Walk along the picturesque Mino town streets lined with traditional merchant houses.
Visit the Mino Washi Museum to learn about the town's famous handmade Japanese paper (washi).
Explore Mino River and enjoy seasonal scenery, especially autumn leaves and cherry blossoms.
Shop for authentic washi paper souvenirs and crafts in local stores.
Participate in hands-on workshops for washi-making and other traditional crafts.
Photograph historic buildings and bridges reflecting traditional Japanese architecture.

Introducing Minong

Mino City is located in the central Nakano region of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its production of traditional Japanese paper. Located in central Honshu, west of Tokyo, Mino City has a total area of 117.01 square kilometers and a population of 19,266 as of 2020. The city's economy is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. The current mayor is Michimasa Ishikawa. The city tree is maple, and the city flower is plum. On May 31, 1999, the buildings in Mino's central streets were designated as an Important Preservation Area for Groups of Traditional Buildings.

Climate and best time to travel

Mino City, Japan, showcases an endless variety of scenery throughout the four seasons. Each season offers a unique blend of mountains, rivers, and the sky, creating a unique charm. Therefore, there's no set time to visit. If you enjoy cherry blossoms, spring (March to May) is the perfect time to visit Mino City, when the blossoms are in full bloom. The pink blossoms are both romantic and eye-catching. If you prefer autumn's pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, autumn (September to November) is the ideal time to visit Mino City.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

【Recommended attractions】

→ Utsuki housing street

This is one of Mino City's most famous tourist destinations. Its streets retain the charm and atmosphere of the Edo period, and the area boasts a sake brewery, a historical museum, and a cafe.

→Mino Japanese Paper Village Hall

To better understand Mino Washi, visit the Mino Washi No Sato Kaikan, where you can admire a variety of exquisite washi works and learn about the craftsmanship behind washi.

→ Katachi Valley

Katachi Valley is a beautiful natural attraction with crystal clear water and lush trees on both sides, making it ideal for hiking and picnics.

【Recommended Play Time】

2-3 days

Most Popular FAQs for Mino

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Mino is a historic town in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, renowned for producing traditional Japanese paper (washi) for over 1,300 years. The town preserves Edo-period merchant houses and offers cultural insights into traditional crafts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Mino is in Gifu Prefecture. From Nagoya, take the Meitetsu Main Line to Inuyama Station, then a local train or bus to Mino-Ota Station. Local taxis and walking routes connect the town’s historic district.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most shops and museums open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Best times to visit are spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for colorful leaves.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Walking through the town is free. Museums like the Mino Washi Museum charge a small fee (~300–500 JPY), payable onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is generally not needed for walking or museum visits. Workshops may require reservations a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours for the historic district, museums, and riverwalk; a full day if participating in workshops or exploring surrounding areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Mino Washi Museum
Historic merchant houses and preserved streets
Mino River and its scenic bridges
Local craft shops and washi workshops

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Japanese; limited English tours may be arranged through local tourist offices. Audio guides are rare.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Bridges over Mino River, especially during autumn and spring
Historic streets with Edo-period houses
Local workshops with traditional craft displays
Seasonal festivals or decorations along main streets

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Mino-Ota Station → walk through the historic streets → visit Mino Washi Museum → explore riverside → shop for souvenirs → optional washi-making workshop → return to station.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Special illumination events may occur during festivals, but standard night visits are limited. Workshops and seasonal events are best checked in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Moderate crowds during weekends and festivals. Weekday mornings are least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, small cafes, souvenir shops, and benches along the river are available.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most streets are flat and accessible, though some historic houses have steps. Children can enjoy hands-on workshops; wheelchair access may be limited in certain buildings.