Standing on the banks of the Nagara River in Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum introduces visitors to one of Japan's oldest living traditions. For more than 1,300 years, cormorant fishing, known as ukai, has been practised on the Nagara River using trained cormorants to catch Japan’s famous ‘ayu’ (‘sweetfish’).
The museum explores the history, techniques, and cultural significance of this remarkable tradition through interactive exhibitions and displays, as well as historic artefacts.
Whether you are planning to watch an evening cormorant fishing demonstration or simply want to learn more about this unique aspect of Japanese culture, the museum provides an engaging introduction to a centuries-old tradition that continues to thrive today.
Ukai (Cormorant Fishing)
Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River is one of Japan's best-known traditional fishing methods and has been practised for more than thirteen centuries. During the fishing season, skilled fishermen guide wooden boats along the river at night while trained cormorants dive beneath the surface to catch ayu (sweetfish). The practice has been carefully preserved and continues as both a working fishing method and an important cultural tradition.
The Nagara River's cormorant masters are appointed by the ‘Imperial Household Agency’, a distinction unique to a small number of traditional fishermen in Japan. Their role helps preserve both the fishing method and the customs that have been passed down for centuries, ensuring the tradition remains an important part of Gifu's cultural heritage.
Discovering Ukai Through Interactive Exhibits
- Introduces over 1,300 years of cormorant fishing (‘ukai’) on the Nagara River
- Explores the history, techniques, and cultural significance of ukai
- Features interactive exhibits, artefacts, videos, and hands-on displays
The museum introduces visitors to every aspect of ukai, from the history of the tradition and the lives of the cormorant masters to the specialized boats, equipment, and techniques used on the river. Interactive displays, videos, and artifacts explain how the relationship between the fishermen and their birds has developed over generations.
Visitors can examine traditional fishing equipment, learn about the training of cormorants, and discover the seasonality of the fishing industry. Models and videos illustrate the teamwork required between the fishermen, the birds, and the boat crews, while additional exhibits introduce the surrounding natural environment and the ecology of the Nagara River.
From the museum's observation areas, visitors can also enjoy views of the Nagara River and the surrounding landscape, offering a glimpse of the setting where this centuries-old tradition continues today.
Touring the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum
Most visitors spend around one to two hours exploring the museum before continuing to other attractions along the Nagara River. During the cormorant fishing season, many people combine the museum with an evening ukai viewing cruise, while at other times of the year it offers a comprehensive introduction to the tradition through its permanent exhibitions.
Main Attractions
- Permanent exhibitions explaining the history and techniques of Nagara River cormorant fishing.
- Historic fishing equipment, boats, and traditional artefacts.
- Interactive displays and presentations.
- Observation spaces overlooking the Nagara River.
Visitor Information
- Hours: 9:00 to 19:00 (seasonal variations apply)
- Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays (December 29th to January 3rd), as well as selected maintenance days.
- Admission: ¥600 Adult Tickets, ¥300 Child Tickets
- Visit time: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.
- Important note: The museum can be enjoyed throughout the year, while live cormorant fishing demonstrations on the Nagara River operate seasonally.
Access
The Nagaragawa Ukai Museum is located alongside the Nagara River in Gifu City, approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station. The museum is also within walking distance of the cormorant fishing boat departure area, making it an ideal place to visit before an evening ukai cruise.
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Nagoya area, and other regional destinations. We can also arrange for both custom tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
With door-to-door service, we can pick you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighboring regions.
For more information, please check our standard charter rates or contact us for a custom trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum?
The Nagaragawa Ukai Museum is a cultural museum in Gifu City dedicated to the history, techniques, and traditions of cormorant fishing on the Nagara River.
What is ukai?
‘Ukai’ is a traditional fishing method that uses trained cormorants to catch ‘ayu’ (sweetfish). The practice has continued on the Nagara River for more than 1,300 years.
How long should I spend at the museum?
Most visitors spend between one and two hours exploring the permanent exhibitions and interactive displays.
Can I visit the museum without watching a cormorant fishing demonstration?
Yes. The museum provides a comprehensive introduction to the tradition and can be enjoyed throughout the year, even outside the cormorant fishing season.
When is the best time to visit?
The museum is open throughout the year, but many visitors choose to combine it with an evening cormorant fishing demonstration during the fishing season.
