Things to do in Gifu
Discover the best attractions and experiences Gifu has to offer
Historic Monuments
Gifu’s historic sites reveal feudal-era charm, from ancient castles to preserved traditional villages.
Gifu Castle
A castle perched atop Mount Kinka with panoramic views over the city and rivers.
Shirakawa-go
World Heritage village famed for its iconic thatched-roof gassho-zukuri houses.
Magome-juku (Nakatsugawa)
Historic Edo-era post town with preserved streets along the Nakasendo route.
Museums
Explore regional culture, history, and traditional crafts through well-curated displays.
Gifu City Museum of History
Displays tracing the city’s development from ancient times to modern days.
Hida no Sato (Hida Folk Village)
Open-air museum with traditional farmhouses and rural life exhibits.
Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall (Yatai Kaikan)
Showcases the ornate festival floats and related artifacts from Takayama.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites and temples reflect the spiritual heritage of the region.
Gujo Hachiman Shrine
Shinto shrine in Gujo reflecting local religious traditions and history.
Hida Kokubun-ji Temple
Historic Buddhist temple in the Hida region with ancient roots.
National & Theme Parks
Natural beauty and alpine scenery make for memorable outdoor experiences.
Chūbu-Sangaku National Park (partly in Gifu)
Alpine landscapes with hiking routes through the Northern Japanese Alps.
Shirakawa-go and Gassho-zukuri villages
UNESCO heritage area set in a dramatic mountain landscape.
Okuhida Alps (hot springs area)
Mountain scenery paired with onsen towns and outdoor trails.
Neighborhoods
Historic and scenic districts invite leisurely explorations on foot.
Takayama Old Town (Sanmachi Suji)
Charming lanes lined with preserved merchant houses and eateries.
Nakatsugawa & Magome-juku area
Strolling streets of a restored Edo-era post town.
Gujo Hachiman Old Town
Picturesque canal-lined district with traditional architecture.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to soak in Gifu’s character.
Walk along the Nagara River in Gifu
Stroll the riverside and soak up city views and life.
Stroll through Takayama Old Town
Explore historic streets and sample local flavors at your pace.
Nagara River Cormorant Fishing (Ukai) — seasonal
Seasonal traditional fishing demonstrations on the river.
Gastronomy
Regional flavors shine in seasonal dishes and local specialties.
Hida beef (Gyu)
Tender, flavorful wagyu beef famous in the Takayama region.
Gohei mochi
Grilled rice cakes coated with miso and sesame for a rustic bite.
Regional miso specialties
Rich miso varieties featuring prominently in local dishes.
Nightlife
Evenings in Gifu offer cozy bars, sake nooks, and live-spirited atmospheres.
Sake bars in Takayama
Sample local sake in atmospheric old-town venues.
Izakayas in Gujo
Relaxed spots for drinks and light bites after day trips.
Evening riverside strolls in Gifu
Peaceful night walks along the Nagara River banks.
Entertainment
Festivals and performances bring Gifu’s culture to life.
Takayama Festival (Yama & Yatai)
One of Japan’s most famous festival celebrations with ornate floats.
Gujo Odori Dance
Seasonal traditional dances performed by locals.
Shirakawa-go seasonal light-ups
Evening illuminations highlighting the village’s charm.
Sports
Active pursuits amidst mountain scenery and clear rivers.
Hiking in the Hida Mountains
Trails that showcase alpine flora and sweeping valley views.
Canoeing on the Nagara River
Calm water routes with scenic riverbanks.
Skiing in Okuhida (winter)
Snowy slopes and hot springs within reach.
Off the Track
Little-known routes for curious travelers seeking something different.
Nakasendo walk: Magome-juku day-trip
Escape crowds on a stretch of the ancient Nakasendo.
Cycling the Kiso Valley routes
Rural landscapes and timbered villages by bike.
Hidden waterfalls near Takayama countryside
Short hikes to lesser-visited cascades.