Bounded by mountains, Gifu prefecture is best known for its serene landscapes. It is perhaps best known for being home to the towns of Takayama and Shirakawa-go, as well as its age-old tradition of cormorant fishing. Although Gifu is indeed rich in natural beauty, there’s actually a lot more that you can discover here. From historical and traditional sites to modern and offbeat attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Gifu! If you’re planning a trip here soon, you’ll need a fitting accommodation. You can check out some of the hotels to stay in Gifu that offer deluxe amenities. Or perhaps homey retreats are your speed, so take a look at the cozy Airbnb vacation rentals as well. Also, you can’t miss out on some of the most exciting activities here! Check out some of our picks for the best things to do in Gifu, Japan.
1. Go shopping at Toki Premium Outlets
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Toki Premium Outlets in Gifu is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of stores and brands to choose from. The outlet mall features over 140 shops, including Japanese and international brands, such as Nike, Adidas, and Coach. Visitors can expect to find a range of products, including fashion, accessories, sportswear, and home goods. One of the main advantages of shopping at Toki Premium Outlets is the discounted prices, with many items offered at significantly lower prices than their original retail value.
In addition to shopping, the outlet mall also features a variety of dining options, from fast food chains to sit-down restaurants, serving Japanese and international cuisine.
Toki Premium Outlets
Address: 1 Chome-2 Tokigaoka, Toki, Gifu 509-5127, Japan
Website: Toki Premium Outlets
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
2. Visit Ryujin Falls
A visit to Ryujin Falls in Yumori Park is an unforgettable experience. It is one of fifty famous waters of Gifu Prefecture, and it is known for its clear water that changes colour up to seven times a day. The falls are associated with a Dragon God legend and drop 12 meters (39.37 feet). There are five other waterfalls near Ryujin Falls, including the Borin Falls, which is said to have been created by scales lost by the Dragon God during his ascent to the heavens.
At the base of the waterfall, visitors can enjoy the refreshing mist and take in the breathtaking scenery. The area around the falls is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and birds.
Ryujin Falls
Address: Kawaue, Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture (located in Yumori Park)
3. Zen out in the rural tranquility of Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans 68 hectares (170 acres) and is composed of three historic villages. Each of the villages features beautiful ancient farm homes called gassho-zukuri, which translates to “constructed like hands in prayer”. Their distinct architectural style features thatched roofs that resemble clasped hands. You can even opt to spend the night in one of the houses, as many of them have been converted into family-run bed-and-breakfasts. Set against the beauty of the countryside, Shirakawa-go would be a great place to visit for anyone that appreciates architectural gems as well as being close to nature.
Shirakawa-go
Address: Ono District, Gifu, Japan
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4. Tour iconic film locations from the anime Your Name
If you are a fan of anime, then you might have heard of the blockbuster hit, Your Name! Most of this tear-jerker was set in the fictional town of Itomori, which was inspired by Hida City in Gifu. The movie also features several scenic real-life locations that you can visit. In particular, you shouldn’t miss the Hida-Furukawa Station (where the protagonist, Taki, first arrives in Itomori) as well as the Hida City Library (where Taki is seen doing research on the town). You can also try some of the delicious, traditional dishes at Ajidokoro Furukawa - including some of their gohei mochi, just like in the film!
5. Enjoy relaxing hot-spring soaks at Okuhida Garden Hotel Yakedake
Located at the Shinhirayu Onsen of the famed Okuhida Hot Springs area, Okuhida Garden Hotel Yakedake boasts relaxing hot springs, coupled with breathtaking views of the surrounding forests. In addition to their hot springs, Okuhida Garden Hotel Yakedake also features Korean-style saunas and even a karaoke train! If you’d like some privacy, you can even reserve the hot spring baths for a fee. If you’d like to see more of the area, you can also check out the Fukuji Onsen Morning Market, which is just a 15-minute walk from the hotel, or the scenic Kamikochi area, which is about half an hour away.
Okuhida Garden Hotel Yakedake
Address: 506-1432 Gifu, Takayama, Okuhidaonsengo Hitoegane 2498-1
Website: Okuhida Garden Hotel Yakedake
6. Savour tender beef cuts at Hidagyu-Tohta
In addition to its natural beauty, Gifu is also known for its premium products - particularly, its Hida Beef! Made from cows raised in the verdant pastures of Hida in Gifu, these beef cuts are said to be so tender that they almost melt in your mouth! One of the best places to try some Hida beef is at Hidagyu-Tohta. Hidagyu-Tohta is a beloved restaurant in Gifu that has established their reputation of providing the freshest, top-quality meats. They serve everything form beef sirloin, fillets, to shabu-shabu and sukiyaki, among many others. However, if you can’t visit the restaurant during your stay, worry not! You can easily have their premium beef delivered right to your doorstep.
Hidagyu-Tohta
Address: Yoro-cho, Yoro-gun, Gifu Prefecture 503-1245
Website: Hidagyu-Tohta
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5pm - 9:30pm; Sat - Sun: 11:30am - 1:45pm, 4pm - 9:45pm
7. Ride the unique double-decker Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
If you enjoy sightseeing or taking beautiful photos, a ride along Shin-Hotaka Ropeway should definitely be on your itinerary! The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway is about 3,200 m (10,498.69 ft) long, and will take you over 1,000 meters (3,280.84 ft) up one side of the Hotake Mountain Range. This includes Oku-Hotakedake, one of Japan’s highest peaks!
This exciting thing to do in Takayama, Gifu, involves riding two separate ropeways. The first ascends about 200 meters (617 ft). Meanwhile, the second is noted for its double-decker gondola cars - the first of their kind in the entire country! In between the two stations, there is also an onsen (or hot spring) and some dining options that you can enjoy!
Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
Address: Takayama-shi, Gifu Prefecture Okuhida Onsenkyo Shin-Hotaka
Website: Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:45pm (daily)
Price: From 27 USD
8. Relive the age of shoguns at Takayama Jinya
Constructed in 1816, Takayama Jinya once served as an important local government office. In fact, it the entire complex was used for this purpose officially until as recent as 1969! Today, it is a protected National Historic Site and remains open to the public as a museum. As the only remaining building of its kind, its distinguishing features - from its stylized wooden roofs to its stone storehouses (called Kura) - are so well-preserved that it looks as though it was frozen in time. The museum also showcases fascinating artifacts from that era, including some actual documents of past feudal lords, which can tell you all about the history of the Hida Region.
Takayama Jinya
Address: 1-5 八軒町 Takayama, Gifu 506-0012, Japan
Website: Takayama Jinya
Opening hours: 8:45am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 4 USD
9. Explore the celebrated sake breweries of Hida Takayama (from USD 16.0)
With its cold climate and pristine waters, Gifu is home to some of the best producers of sake. On your next visit to Gifu, be sure to sample the finest sake at the famed breweries of Hida Takayama! Many of these renowned breweries have been in the business of producing sake for several centuries so you can be sure that the quality of their liquor is top-notch! Most of them also welcome visitors and allow them to try their various products. One brewery you should definitely check out is Harada Sake Brewery, which can be found along Sanmachi Street. There, you can try around 12 to 14 samples of their best sake! You can even take home the ochoko (or drinking cup) as a unique souvenir.
Harada Sake Brewery
Address: 10 Kamisannomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0846, Japan
Website: Harada Sake Brewery
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6pm (daily)
byFood experience
1) Sip and stroll: unveiling Takayama’s sake secrets at its oldest breweries
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Takayama with a local, English-speaking tour guide. While strolling through the historic old town, you’ll discover a wealth of history and craftsmanship at each of the seven sake breweries in the itinerary, each offering a unique story and flavor.
Dive into the secrets that have crafted Takayama’s vibrant sake culture - the mountain climate and the pure waters that nurture the rice. And here’s the cherry on top - after the tour, you can treat your senses to a delightful sake tasting, featuring a curated selection of this exquisite liquor.
Tour and Sake Tasting at Takayama’s Oldest Sake Brewery
Duration: 0.5hours
10. Snack on local delicacies at Miyagawa Morning Market
What better way to start your mornings in Gifu than to explore the best that it has to offer? Located along the Miyagawa River in Gifu, the Miyagawa Morning Market would be a great place to enjoy a lovely morning walk, while checking out and trying the some of the most delicious local delicacies! You can shop for some of the freshest fruits and vegetables in town, or enjoy a hearty meal at one of the many food stalls in the area. You can also find some unique souvenirs for your loved ones or simply to remember your trip by!
Miyagawa Morning Market
Address: Shimosannomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0841, Japan
Opening hours: 7am - 12pm (daily, from April to October); 8am - 12pm (daily, from November to March)
11. Soak in the silky waters of Gero Onsen
Gero Onsen is a hot spring resort that can be found in Gero, a city in Gifu. Once named one of the three best onsens in Japan, Gero Onsen remains one of the highest-quality hot springs in Japan. In fact, the springs have earned the nickname, “beauty hot springs” because of how silky and smooth your skin is sure to become after taking a dip! The secret behind this is that the onsen is alkaline-based, which prevents skin irritation and improves circulation. So, if you’re looking to feel completely refreshed and relaxed on your next trip to Gifu, be sure to soak in the pristine waters of Gero Onsen!
Gero Onsen
Address: 758-15 Yunoshima, Gero, Gifu 509-2207, Japan
12. Pick up hyperrealistic food samples at Sample Village Iwasaki
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Walk by any Japanese restaurant and you might notice some food that’s perennially on display. Of course, these aren’t actual meals – just hyperrealistic samples! Have you ever wondered where these are made? Opened in 1932, Sample Village Iwasaki was the first “replica workshop” in the country. Today, it is said to supply more than half of all the replica food samples in Japan! You can visit their workshop in Gifu to learn more about how these fascinating pieces are made, and maybe even try your hand at crafting some of these samples that look good enough to eat!
Sample Village Iwasaki
Address: 250 Hachimancho Jonancho, Gujo, Gifu 501-4224, Japan
Website: Sample Village Iwasaki
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
13. Discover the fascinating Otaki limestone caves
Why not inject some thrilling pursuits into your sightseeing in Gifu? Some outdoor adventure can be found just a few kilometers from Gujo’s town center, at the fascinating Otaki limestone caves! Although there are actually three different caves that can be found, the Otaki cave is definitely the most popular.
To get to the cave, you will need to take a ride on a small cable car, which will take you up to the entrance. You can then complete the rest of the walk at your own pace. Along the way, you can marvel at the cave’s interior waterfall - at about 30 meters (98.43 ft) high, it is the tallest underground waterfall in Japan! The steps are somewhat steep and narrow, which makes the trek fun, but also a bit of a challenge – be sure to remain cautious!
Otaki limestone caves
Address: 2298 Hachimancho Akuda, Gujo 501-4205, Gifu Prefecture
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 8:30am - 5pm (closed on Mon - Fri)
14. Admire the eye-catching Udatsu roofs of Mino
The city of Mino in Gifu is renowned for its special washi paper as well as its historical streets, which, to this day, look almost exactly like they did during the early Edo period (1603–1868). One of the defining characteristics of these historical streets is the houses that feature Udatsu roofs. Udatsu are firewalls built on both ends of a roof – but what makes these special, however, are the intricate designs that are carefully embellished onto them. These found were mostly in the homes of wealthy merchants, who not only wanted to protect their properties from fire, but also wanted to flaunt their wealth – resulting in beautifully crafted Udatsu. If you’d like to see these marvelous historical and architectural treasures, you should definitely visit the “Udatsu Townscape" in Mino.
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Udatsu Townscape in Mino
Address: Waki-machi, Waki-machi, Mima-shi, Tokushima
Website: Udatsu Townscape in Mino
15. Immerse in the nostalgic Showa scenery of Gifu Seiryu Satoyama Park
If you’re looking for a lighthearted and fun way to spend the day out, take a stroll around Gifu Seiryu Satoyama Park. With its brilliantly made Showa-inspired scenery, you’ll definitely feel as though time has stopped at the park! In addition to immersing yourself in its nostalgic scenery, the park has a ton of activities that you can enjoy! If you love being crafty, you can try your hand at their popular pottery and rice cracker-making classes. You can also snack on some delicious local delicacies at the food stalls, or take a refreshing dip at Satoyama no Yu, the park’s footbath and hot spring facility.
Gifu Seiryu Satoyama Park
Address: 2292-1 Yamanoue-cho, Minokamo City, Gifu Prefecture 505-0003
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily, from March - November); Thu - Tue: 10am - 5pm (closed on Wed, from December - February)
Price: Free
16. Marvel at the impressionist beauty of Monet's Pond
The impressionist Claude Monet is best known for his beautiful landscape paintings, which are characterized by their bright colors and artful strokes. What if, on your next visit to Gifu, you visit a place that looks as though it was one of his serene landscapes come to life? Officially called Namonaki Pond, this pond at the Nemichi Shrine in Gifu has earned the nickname “Monet’s Pond” after becoming popular on social media. With its blossoming lilies, turquoise water, and colorful Japanese carp – it’s little wonder that this has been compared to Monet’s paintings!
Monet's Pond
Address: 441 Itatori, Seki, Gifu 501-2901, Japan
17. Take a scenic train ride on the Yoro Railway
The Yoro Railway can take you along its scenic route. Marvel at the natural beauty of the Gifu countryside! Completed in 1919, trains here were originally steam-powered, but have been upgraded since then. Ride on one of the pretty trains, which are covered in different decor, for almost 60 kilometers (38 mi). You can view the green fields and mountains, with flowering plants covering some sections of the track. You can then go down at any of the stations and see the sights and sounds of each place you stop at. You’ll enjoy a relaxing ride here on this train.
Yoro Railway
Address: 910 Kido-cho, Ogaki-shi, Gifu
Website: Yoro Railway
Price: Up to 9 USD
18. Indulge your samurai fantasies at Sekigahara Warland
Live like a samurai, even just for a day, at Sekigahara Warland! This private museum features on the historical Battle of Sekigahara. Outside the museum, you can find over 200 life-sized statues in the likeness of soldiers, warlords, and other important figures during the war, including the Eastern Army’s leader Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Western Army’s leader Ishida Mitsunari, to name a few. Inside, you can see actual battle gear, as well as the elaborate garments worn by warlords to show off their wealth and authority. You can even try on some armor and a helmet and have your picture taken in them!
Sekigahara Warland
Address: 1701-6 Sekigahara, Sekigahara-chō, Fuwa-gun, Gifu Prefecture
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily, from April to November); Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm; Mon - Fri: 10am - 3pm (from December to March)
19. Tour the legendary Sunomata Castle
Nestled on the banks of the Nagara and Sai Rivers is the breathtaking Sunomata Castle. Also known as “Ichiya-jo” – which roughly translates to “one night castle”- the castle is said to have been built in literally a single night! The original castle was constructed in 1566 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was one of the generals of the famous samurai warlord, Oda Nobunaga. In addition to its historical value, it is also one of the most beautiful spots in Gifu to see the cherry blossoms. In fact, there are over 1,000 cherry blossom trees that line the riverbanks where the castle is found!
Sunomata Castle
Address: 742-1 Sunomata, Sunomata-cho, Ogaki-shi, Gifu Prefecture
Website: Sunomata Castle
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 2 USD
20. Make fried tofu offerings for luck at Chiyobo Inari Shrine
The shrine is so beloved by the locals that they refer to it as “Ochobo-san”. The Chiyobo Inari Shrine is dedicated to the Inari Okami, the deity of agriculture. It is believed that when you light a candle and offer fried tofu for the fox servant of Inari at the shrine, you will be granted good luck and prosperity. Locals used to wish for bountiful harvests, but today, many people make offerings in hopes that their businesses will flourish. After making your offerings and prayers, you can also enjoy some tasty snacks at the many restaurants lined right outside the shrine!
Chiyobo Inari Shrine
Address: 1985 Hiratacho Sango, Kaizu, Gifu 503-0312, Japan
21. Go cormorant fishing in the Nagara River (from USD 205.0)
If you are planning to travel to Gifu during the summer months (particularly, from May 11th to October 15th), you shouldn’t miss cormorant fishing along the Nagara River. Cormorant fishing – called “Ukai” – is a traditional method of night fishing. It is done by Fishing Masters (called “Usho”), who work with cormorant birds to fish. With only some Kagari-bi (or fishing fire lanterns) to light the way, the lights against the pristine Nagara river is a truly beautiful sight and a quintessential part of summer in Gifu! If you’re lucky enough to catch the first day, you can even take part in the opening celebrations, where there are traditional drum performances and fireworks!
Nagara River
Address: 1-2 Minatomachi, Gifu, 500-8009, Japan
byFood experience
1) Experience Gifu’s Eco Tour: Nagara river fishing and Ayu cuisine
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Nagara River, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. After stepping onto the traditional wasen (a Japanese boat), you’ll be guided by a local fisherman, ready to unveil the secrets of the traditional fishing technique. The Nagara River’s crystal-clear waters are the perfect habitat for the prized Ayu (sweetfish), a local delicacy celebrated for its pristine flavors.
Your exploration continues beyond the riverbanks. At La Lucanda, an Italian dining establishment that harmoniously combines locally sourced ingredients with imported Italian delicacies, savor a sumptuous five-course meal showcasing three exquisite renditions of Ayu - crispy-fried, succulently roasted, and the delightful Komochi variety, brimming with delectable eggs.
Gifu Eco Tour: Nagara River Fishing & Ayu Cuisine
Duration: 4hours
22. Hike up to the splendid mountaintop Gifu Castle
Set atop Mt. Kinka, along the banks of the Nagara River, is the majestic Gifu Castle. Built in 1201, the ancient warlord, Oda Nobunaga, wanted the stronghold to be in a strategic position – high enough to spot any enemies as they approach.
Today, this tourist spot in Gifu boasts one of the most stunning views of any castle in Japan. Its highlight is the viewing deck, where the view of the river and the surrounding areas is sure to take your breath away! You can also take tours of the castle and see actual armor and weapons used by soldiers in the past, or view actual documents of warlords at the Archives Museum!
Gifu Castle
Address: Gifu City Kinkazan castle tower 18
Opening hours: 9:30am – 5:30pm (daily)
23. Visit the futuristic library of Minna No Mori Gifu Media Cosmos By Toyo Ito
Designed by one of the most celebrated Japanese architects, Toyo Ito, Gifu Media Cosmos is one of the most captivating, modern spaces in Gifu today! Also known as ‘minna no mori’ – which translates to mean 'everyone’s forest’ – Gifu Media Cosmos was intended to serve as a space for learning and personal development. It is divided into three sections: the city library, a cultural events area, and a community exchange center, where you can avail of various services, including language classes and even free counseling sessions. All these are complemented by excellent views of the nearby Gifu Castle and Mt. Kinka – perfect for a relaxing day out!
Minna No Mori Gifu Media Cosmos
Address: 40-5 Tsukasamachi, Gifu 500-8076, Gifu Prefecture
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
24. Meditate in the serene Kobuji Temple
If you’d like to be close to nature or learn more about the local traditions on your next trip to Gifu, a visit to the serene Kobuji temple would be a great addition to your itinerary. Located right at the foot of Mt. Kinka – close to Gifu Castle and Iwato Park – Kobuji temple is a traditional Buddhist temple. Surrounded by nature, it is the perfect space for introspection and meditation. You might also catch the daily prayers or participate in some customary practices done at Buddhist temples.
Kobuji Temple
Address: 944-99 Nagamori, Gifu, 500-8229, Japan
Website: Kobuji
25. Enjoy traditional Japanese meals at Hotel Harmonie Terrasse
Posted by Japan tour conductor Thai on Monday, 15 May 2017
Hotel Harmonie Terrasse is known for their relaxed atmosphere and modern style. However, in addition to their top-notch rooms and amenities, the hotel also boasts excellent dining options. The traditional meals served at their in-house restaurant are a must-try for anyone looking for the best authentic Japanese cuisine! Afterwards, you can also enjoy some coffee and sweets at their modern café. Surrounded by the lush hillside, you’ll also be able to enjoy each meal with a fantastic view of Gifu’s natural beauty!
Hotel Harmonie Terrasse
Address: 537-3 Higashiyama, Nagarashidami, Gifu 502-0012
26. Browse adorable stationery and crafts at Yanagase-Souko
No trip to Gifu would be complete without going on a shopping spree! And if you’re a fan of unique stationery and crafts, you’re in luck. You can find the cutest knick-knacks at Yanagase-Souko! Yanagase-Souko is a popular shopping area in Gifu. Although the outside looks very retro, once you step in, you’ll discover all sorts of stylish, one-of-a-kind items! In addition to specially designed stationary, you can also find clothes made by up-and-coming fashion designers, as well as accessories hand-crafted by the best local artists! You definitely won’t come out empty-handed after seeing what Yanagase-Souko has to offer!
Yanagase-Souko
Address: 10 Kanagawa Building, Yayoicho, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture 500-8831
Website: Yanagase-Souko
Opening hours: 12pm - 7pm (daily)
27. Breathe in refreshing plum fragrances at Anpachi Hyakubaien Plum Orchard
Anpachi Hyakubaien Plum Orchard is one of the best places in Gifu to see the plum blossoms. The orchard features over 1,300 plum trees in all, with 100 different species. When these are in full bloom, the refreshing fragrance of plum blossoms fill the air and hundreds flock to see these beautiful trees. After viewing the plum blossoms, you can enjoy hearty meals like dumplings, udon, and sweet sake at the food stall around the area. With such beautiful scenery and delicious food, a trip to the Anpachi Hyakubaien Plum Orchard is sure to be the perfect thing to enjoy with that special someone on your next trip to Gifu!
Anpachi Hyakubaien Plum Orchard
Address: 3208 Sotozenko, Ampachi, Anpachi District, Gifu 503-0129, Japan
28. Chill out in the monastic peace of Eihoji Temple
Kokeizan Eihoji Temple located in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture was established by the Nanzen-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. The temple was founded in 1313, and contains two buildings which are listed as National Treasures. These two buildings are the Kannon-do and Kaisan-do. Many other structures and shrines here share a mix of Chinese and Japanese design cues. There is also a stunning Zen pond, with an iconic bridge spanning over it. The beauty of the temple grounds and gardens have given the place the designation as a place of National Scenic Beauty.
Eihoji Temple
Address: 1-40 Kokeizancho, Tajimi-shi, Gifu-ken 507-0014
Opening hours: 5am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free admission
29. Ride the retro attractions at Enakyo Wonderland
Enakyo Wonderland is a place where you can spend he day having a lot of fun. It houses tons of attractions and craft activities, and many of the attractions are suitable for you and toddlers to enjoy. The popular pirate-themed “Caribbean” water-park (which is open in the summer) has lots of fun activities for both adults and children, from water-slides to an adventure playground. The large Ferris wheel and roller coaster tower over the park are also popular rides here. Enjoy a whole host of food and souvenirs, which you can take home after your fun time here.
Enakyo Wonderland
Address: Nakatsugawa shi Gifu prefecture Nokokawa 5735-209
Website: Enakyo Wonderland
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm
Price: 10 USD for adults
30. Admire the lush Japanese countryside on the Akechi Railway
The Akechi Railway is a great train trip that offers a nice train ride that is a unlike the crowded subways of the city. The route connects the towns of Ena and Akechi, and passes by many scenic fields and rolling hills. The pretty single coach trains take riders back to simpler times. There are bike-friendly trains that travel from time to time, too. The whole trip takes around 50 minutes, and is a must-visit for anyone who visits the Gifu region.
Akechi Tedsudo
Website: Akechi Tetsudo
Opening hours: First train departs 6:46am (daily)
Price: 11 USD for full-day pass
31. Pick up precious stones at the Stone Museum Hakusekikan
The village of Hirukawa is one of the largest mineral producers in Japan, with granite being the main product. The stone museum is recognizable by the large 1/10 scale replica of the pyramid in Egypt, which towers over the area. It houses a large collection of stones, which have their own descriptions. You can participate in stone-hunting activities too if you want some gems to bring home, or go through a stone maze like an adventurer. You can visit the museum shop to buy souvenirs, and also have other hands-on activities, like making your own stone jewelry to bring home after your trip.
Stone Museum Hakusekikan
Address: 5263-7 Hirukawa, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 509-8301, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD
32. Meander around on the historic cobblestones of Magome-juku
Once a rest town for travelers, Magome-juku is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its Edo-era houses. Magome is the birthplace of Toson Shimazaki, a noted writer in the Meiji Era. You can walk along the cobblestone street in the heart of town, and admire the beautifully restored houses. There are a few shops along this road, including a soba place and a coffee shop.
Magome-juku
Address: Magome, Nakatsugawa City, Gifu
Website: Magome-Juku
33. Enjoy a nine-course meal of Ayu sweetfish (from USD 85.0)
Indulge your taste buds in a symphony of flavors with this exclusive Ayu sweetfish dining experience in Kawaramachi. Over the course of a sumptuous nine-course meal, you’ll savor this delicacy in a myriad of delectable ways.
Picture yourself relishing the smoky perfection of charcoal-grilled ayu, savoring the delicate crunch of ayu tempura, and delighting in the creative twist of ayu sushi rolls. Each dish showcases the versatility of ayu sweetfish, prepared to perfection by the expert chefs. But the highlight is the unforgettable Ayu Ramen, where a light yet intensely flavorful broth brimming with umami envelops a tender fillet of ayu, carefully grilled over charcoal.
Ayu Sweetfish Regional Dining Experience in Gifu
Duration: 2.5hours
34. Watch geisha performance on a boat in Nagara river (from USD 185.0)
Picture yourself on a boat, the gentle breeze of Nagara River caressing your skin, as you’re transported into the world of “funa asobi” – the captivating boat play. This Nagara river boating and banquet along with a geisha performance promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.
As you set sail, immerse yourself in the elegance of Japanese culture with a sake tasting featuring premium varieties. Delight in fine dining that celebrates the Nagara River’s natural resources, highlighted by the renowned local ayu sweetfish. But the true magic unfolds with the graceful dances of geisha and maiko, professional entertainers who will leave you mesmerized. Let this unique journey awaken your senses with a fusion of nature’s serenity, cultural richness, and culinary excellence.
Nagara River Boating and Banquet with Geisha Experience
Duration: 2.5hours
Enjoy no less than the best at Gifu
Whether you’re looking forward to tasting the best food, shopping for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, exploring historical sites, enjoying the outdoors, or simply unwinding with that special someone, you’re sure to find something aligned with your speed at these best things to do in Gifu prefecture!
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