Nestled in the heart of Central Japan, Gifu Prefecture is a place where time-honored craftsmanship, samurai history, and breathtaking natural beauty converge. Known for its preserved Edo-period towns, UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic battlefields, and rejuvenating hot springs, Gifu offers travelers a deeply rewarding experience (often without the crowds).
Why Visit Gifu?
Gifu Prefecture is located in the heart of Japan’s main island, Honshu, nestled between the Kinki and Chubu regions. Though landlocked, it serves as a cultural and geographical crossroads, connecting east and west Japan. Gifu shares borders with Aichi, Nagano, Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui, Shiga, and Mie Prefectures, making it an ideal base for travelers exploring central Japan.
Historically, Gifu played a key role in Japan’s unification during the Sengoku (Warring States) period. The famous warlord Oda Nobunaga used Gifu Castle as a strategic base to launch his campaign to unify the country in the 16th century. The name "Gifu" itself was chosen by Nobunaga, symbolizing his ambition to rule all of Japan. This rich historical legacy is preserved through landmarks like Gifu Castle and the nearby battlefield of Sekigahara, where a decisive conflict in 1600 shaped the future of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Culturally, Gifu is known for its traditional crafts and enduring customs. The city of Mino is famed for its exquisite washi (Japanese paper), a craft with over 1,300 years of history. In the town of Gero, one of Japan’s top three hot spring resorts invites visitors to relax in natural onsen waters. Most uniquely, Gifu is home to the ancient practice of cormorant fishing (ukai) on the Nagara River in Gifu City, a tradition dating back more than 1,300 years that continues today with imperial patronage. This blend of history, craftsmanship, and living tradition makes Gifu a fascinating destination for cultural travelers.
Where to go in Gifu?
Whether you’re chasing fall foliage, soaking in a mountain onsen, or tracing the steps of legendary warriors, Gifu promises unforgettable adventures across all seasons.
Here's are some of our favorite destinations in Gifu Prefecture to get you started planning your next trip:
1) Gifu City
Best for: History buffs, samurai fans, scenic views
The capital of the prefecture, Gifu City is steeped in samurai history and offers dramatic views from atop Mount Kinka. The city is most famous for Gifu Castle, once the stronghold of warlord Oda Nobunaga. Ride the ropeway up to the mountaintop for sweeping vistas of the Nagara River below.
At night, witness the traditional ukai (cormorant fishing) held on the Nagara River from May to October—a 1,300-year-old spectacle performed by Imperial fishermen. Nearby, explore the Gifu Park area, visit a giant Buddha, or take a gentle stroll along the historical alleys.
2) Takayama
Best for: Traditional Japan lovers, festival goers, heritage seekers
Takayama is arguably Gifu’s most popular travel destination, beloved for its preserved Edo-period architecture, sake breweries, and artisan shops lining the streets of its historic old town.
Don’t miss the Takayama Jinya, a rare surviving government outpost from the samurai era. For nature lovers, the nearby Hida Folk Village offers a picturesque collection of traditional houses and mountain scenery year-round.
The city also hosts one of Japan’s most famous festivals, Takayama Matsuri (held in both spring and autumn) featuring grand floats and ornate decorations.
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hida Takayama and World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go
- Spots:
- TakayamaNagoyaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
3) Seki
Best for: Craftsmanship enthusiasts, hands-on travelers, samurai culture
Seki City is the legendary home of Japan’s most skilled swordsmiths. For over 700 years, Seki has produced some of the finest Japanese blades, from samurai swords to today’s high-end kitchen knives.
Visit the Seki Traditional Swordsmith Museum and, if your timing is right, attend the Hamono Festival in October, where master bladesmiths perform live forging demonstrations and display artisan cutlery.
You can even buy handcrafted knives at local shops—great as both souvenirs and high-performance tools.
Recommended Tour: Embark on a captivating tour from Nagoya to explore the oldest castle in Japan, a National Treasure teahouse, a "city of swords," and the charms of Central Japan on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Samurai Swords and Japan's Oldest Castle.
Learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating a samurai sword, meet a bladesmith and learn how to properly sharpen a kitchen knife, and stroll along the streets of Inuyama where you can indulge a wide array of street food under the shadow of Japan's oldest original castle.
4) Shirakawago
Best for: Photography, winter travel, UNESCO World Heritage lovers
With its steeply pitched gassho-zukuri farmhouses, Shirakawago is one of Japan’s most iconic villages. These A-frame homes, designed to withstand heavy snowfall, offer a glimpse into mountain life from centuries past.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the village is magical year-round—lush and green in summer, flaming red in fall, and blanketed in white during winter’s illumination events.
Visit the Wada House, a well-preserved residence offering a peek into rural life, or take in panoramic views from the Shiroyama Observatory.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's Takayama & Shirakawa-go Private Tour from Nagoya gives you a comprehensive glimpse into the cultural traditions and architectural wonders of Takayama and Shirakawa-go. And included a private transportation and guide providing the convenience of private hotel pick-up and drop-off service and eliminating the need for arranging transportation, maximizing your time for exploration.
[START FROM NAGOYA] Takayama & Shirakawa-go Private Tour
- Spots:
- TakayamaNagoyaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
5) Sekigahara
Best for: Military history buffs, battlefield tourism, cultural heritage
The small town of Sekigahara was the site of the decisive 1600 Battle of Sekigahara, which led to the founding of the Tokugawa shogunate. This battle literally changed the course of Japanese history.
Today, the Sekigahara Battlefield Historic Site includes monuments, strategic viewpoints, and an interactive museum featuring a 360° battlefield diorama.
History walks around the site make for a fascinating journey through Japan’s feudal past.
6) Gujo-Hachiman
Best for: Waterways, traditional culture, summer festivals
Often called the "Venice of Japan," Gujo-Hachiman is famous for its pristine waterways, canals, and charming Edo-style townscape. Water flows through the town in beautifully maintained channels and springs, reflecting a community deeply connected to nature.
Every summer, the town bursts into celebration with the Gujo Odori, one of Japan’s longest traditional dance festivals. Locals and visitors alike dance in the streets nearly every night for over 30 days.
Also notable are the town’s artisan shops that specialize in plastic food samples, which originated here.
Recommended Tour: Embark on a family-friendly journey on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Gujo Hachiman’s Crafting Culture & Castle in the Clouds to Gujo Hachiman, a small-yet-picturesque mountain village nicknamed "Little Kyoto" where Japan’s exceptional craftsmanship and timeless traditions come alive.
7) Gero Onsen
Best for: Hot spring lovers, relaxation seekers, romantic getaways
One of Japan’s top three hot spring towns, Gero Onsen is nestled in a mountain valley along the Hida River. Known for its mineral-rich alkaline waters that leave your skin feeling silky smooth, it’s a top-tier onsen destination.
Stay at a traditional ryokan and enjoy private or public baths, kaiseki meals, and riverside relaxation. For a casual dip, several free public footbaths are available throughout the town.
8) Magome (Nakasendo Trail)
Best for: Hikers, cultural explorers, scenic day trips
A beautifully preserved post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail, Magome transports visitors back to the Edo period with its stone-paved streets, wooden inns, and mountain scenery. This charming village was once a key stop for travelers journeying between Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) and is now one of the most accessible and atmospheric portions of the ancient trail.
Wander through the village to enjoy local crafts, soba noodle shops, and gohei mochi. Consider traveling as the samurai once did and hiking the Nakasendo trail from nearby Tsumago. The hike is well-marked, moderately difficult, and takes around 3 hours through forests, waterfalls, and scenic passes.
Recommended Tour: Step into the past and experience life in rural Japan as you hike the Nakasendo trail from Tsumago-juku to Magome-juku on Snow Monkey Resort's highly rated 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail.
Popular
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Hiking the Historic Nakasendo Trail
- Spots:
- NagoyaKiso Valley
- Pick-up:
- Nagoya
- Drop-off:
- Nagoya
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Gifu Prefecture?
Spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) are ideal, offering cherry blossoms or vibrant foliage. Winter is best for Shirakawago’s snow-covered beauty and onsen escapes.
Is Gifu a good destination for first-time visitors to Japan?
Yes. Gifu offers a mix of well-preserved history, natural beauty, and authentic experiences—all without the overwhelming crowds of more tourist-heavy regions.
Are there any tours of Gifu
Yes, we at Snow Monkey Resorts are proud to offer 1-day tours lead by English-speaking guides throughout many destinations in Gifu and Central Japan.
How do I get to Gifu from Tokyo or Osaka?
From Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya, then transfer to local or limited express trains. From Osaka, it’s about 2.5 hours via train or bus depending on your destination within Gifu.
We at Snow Monkey Resorts are proud to offer many day tours in Gifu departing from Nagoya, Takayama, and Kanazawa. Of these locations, our tours starting in Nagoya are the most accessible for travelers coming from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.
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!
