Nagaragawa Ukai Museum – Preserving the Ancient Art of Cormorant Fishing

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Ambience & Setting
Nestled along the scenic banks of the Nagara River in Gifu, the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum celebrates one of Japan’s oldest living traditions — ukai, or cormorant fishing. This unique cultural practice, dating back over 1,300 years, involves fishermen (called usho) using trained cormorants to catch river fish, illuminated by the glow of firelight at night. The museum’s modern architecture, designed to blend with the surrounding river landscape, creates a calm and immersive setting that honors this ancient art form.

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Highlights of the Visit
• Cormorant Fishing Heritage: Engaging exhibits trace the history and techniques of ukai, showcasing traditional tools, fishing attire, and the deep bond between fisherman and bird.
• Interactive Displays: Multimedia presentations and short films bring to life the nighttime fishing scenes that have fascinated emperors, poets, and travelers for centuries.
• Observation Area: A panoramic deck overlooks the Nagara River, offering views of the same waters where ukai demonstrations still take place each summer.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about the lives of the usho, who serve under the Imperial Household Agency — one of Japan’s rare surviving cultural lineages.
• Seasonal Events: From May to October, the museum pairs beautifully with live evening ukai performances on the river nearby.

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Practical Info
• Location: 1-2 Minato-machi, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (closed Mondays, or next day if Monday is a holiday)
• Admission: Around ¥500 for adults; discounts available for students and groups
• Access: About 15 minutes by bus or taxi from Gifu Station

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Why It’s Worth Visiting
• Offers a deep and respectful look into one of Japan’s most enduring traditions.
• Combines cultural storytelling, historical preservation, and scenic beauty.
• A perfect prelude to witnessing the real ukai experience on the Nagara River.
• Ideal for travelers interested in Japanese folklore, craftsmanship, and rural heritage.

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The Nagaragawa Ukai Museum is more than a museum — it’s a living tribute to harmony between humans and nature, preserving an ancient art that continues to illuminate Gifu’s cultural identity.