Gifu Prefecture

Introducing Gifu Prefecture

Gifu Prefecture, located in central Japan, is known as the "Flying Mountains and Nobi Waters." To the north lies the Hida Mountains (part of the Japan Alps), rising over 3,000 meters above sea level, while to the south lies the Nobi Plain, where the pristine Nagara, Kiso, and Ibigawa rivers converge. Home to the World Heritage-listed Shirakawa-go Gassho Village, Gero Onsen, one of Japan's three most famous hot springs, and the well-preserved Edo-style streets of Takayama City's Sanmachi Old Street, Gifu Prefecture is a destination where nature and culture blend seamlessly.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring (March-May):

Cherry Blossom Season: Gifu Park and the historic streets of Takayama City are ablaze with cherry blossoms.
Shirakawa-go: The post-snow melt Gassho-style village and the spring-ploughed terraced fields create a striking contrast.

Summer (June-August):

Summer resorts: climbing Mount Norikura and rafting on the Kiso River.

Takayama Festival (July):

One of Japan's three most beautiful festivals, a tour of gorgeous street stalls.

Autumn (September-November):

Spectacular fall foliage views: Tsurusen Gorge, Natani-dera Temple, and the Hakusan Super Forest Trail's red leaf tunnel.
Hida Beef Season: Enjoy premium Wagyu beef in the Takayama region.

Winter (December-February):

Shirakawa-go Illumination (January-February): A fairytale-like snowy Gassho-style village. Reservations required.
Hirayu Otaki Icefall: A spectacular icefall illuminated by a spectacular light show.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended tourist attractions

Shirakawa-go Gassho Village:

How to Enjoy: Climb to the observatory to overlook the village, visit the Wada family (Gassho-style houses), and enjoy the winter illuminations (reservations required).
Getting There: Take the Nohi Bus from Takayama Station for approximately 50 minutes.

Takayama City Sanmachi Ancient Street:

Features: Edo-style streets, recommended for trying Hida beef skewers and hoba miso yaki.
Magome-juku: An old post station on the Nakasendo Road, with Edo-era buildings preserved on both sides of the cobblestone road.

Hot springs and food

Gero Hot Spring:

Recommended: After soaking in the hot springs, try some Hida beef dishes and visit the foot baths in the hot spring district.

Hida Beef:

Must-try restaurant: Maruaki BBQ in Takayama, where they serve melt-in-your-mouth A5-grade Wagyu beef.

Governor Hachiman:

Features: The summer "Gujo Dance" festival, experience making handmade food models (1200 yen/person).

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Most Popular FAQs for Gifu Prefecture

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

Gifu Prefecture, located in central Japan, is historically significant as a strategic location during the Sengoku period, particularly under Oda Nobunaga. It is known for traditional crafts, historic castles, and preserved cultural sites reflecting Japan's feudal era.

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

Gifu Prefecture is in the Chūbu region of central Japan. Visitors can reach it via JR trains from Nagoya (approximately 30–60 minutes to Gifu city). Local buses, taxis, and walking are commonly used to explore towns and attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions open between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (fall foliage) are the most scenic times to visit.

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

Fees vary by attraction: Gifu Castle (~200–300 yen), Gifu Great Buddha (~200 yen), craft workshops (~500–1,000 yen). Tickets are usually purchased offline at the site; some attractions offer online booking.

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

Booking is generally not required except for guided tours, workshops, or special seasonal events. Advance booking a few days ahead is recommended for these activities.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Gifu city highlights can be explored in 1–2 days. Including nearby towns, castles, and scenic areas, 3–5 days provides a more complete experience.

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

• Gifu Castle and Mount Kinka
• Nagara River for cormorant fishing
• Shōhō-ji Temple and Gifu Great Buddha
• Historic districts in Takayama
• Mino and its traditional paper-making workshops

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

Guided tours are available in Japanese and sometimes English. Audio guides may be offered at major attractions, mostly in Japanese and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Panoramic view from Gifu Castle on Mount Kinka
• Along the Nagara River, especially during cormorant fishing
• Historic streets and traditional houses in Takayama and Mino
• Seasonal scenic spots, such as cherry blossoms or autumn leaves

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with Gifu Castle and Mount Kinka, walk through historic streets, visit Shōhō-ji Temple, enjoy a Nagara River boat tour, then explore craft villages or nearby hot springs.

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

Night views from Gifu Castle and seasonal illumination events are available. Special guided tours may occur during festivals.

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

Weekends and holidays are busiest. Weekdays, especially mornings, are less crowded.

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

Public toilets, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and rest areas are widely available at tourist spots.

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

Most urban attractions are accessible, but mountain hikes (e.g., Mount Kinka) may be challenging. Some temples and historic sites have uneven surfaces.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred in smaller shops and rural areas, though credit cards and mobile payments are accepted in many urban locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Gifu city and Takayama offer local Japanese cuisine, cafes, sushi bars, ramen shops, and restaurants serving Hida beef and regional specialties.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants; halal options are limited and may require advance research.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Options include traditional ryokans, modern hotels, guesthouses, and inns in Gifu city, Takayama, and Mino.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Takayama Old Town
• Shirakawa-go UNESCO World Heritage village
• Hida Folk Village
• Okuhida Onsen hot spring area

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenirs include Mino washi paper, traditional crafts, local sake, Hida beef products, and regional sweets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

JR trains and buses connect Gifu with Nagoya, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and other Chūbu region destinations. Taxis and rental cars are convenient for exploring rural areas.