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Destinations › … › Japan › Gifu

Gifu City

calendar_monthMar–May, Oct–Novbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberMid-rangeprice
Gifu CityYour own route Plan a trip here →

Gifu City, located in central Japan, offers a blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The Kiso River runs through the city, providing scenic views and opportunities for riverside walks.

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Visitors can explore traditional wooden houses and experience local culture. The city is less crowded than major tourist destinations, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of its attractions.

Sightseeing

Gifu Castle: perched on a hill, offers panoramic views
Nagara River: known for cormorant fishing, a unique sight
Kinkazan: a mountain with hiking trails and a cable car
Gifu Great Buddha: a large bronze statue, impressive to see
Gifu City Museum of History: showcases local heritage and artifacts

"Experience the heart of Japan"Gifu City

Things to do

Take a boat ride on the Nagara River: enjoy the scenery
Visit the Gifu Castle: hike up for historical insights
Explore the traditional streets of Yanagase: shop and eat local
Attend a cormorant fishing demonstration: a unique cultural experience

Local food and drinks

Hōba Miso: grilled miso on magnolia leaves
Gifu's Ayu Fish: sweetfish, often grilled or sashimi
Katsuobushi: dried bonito flakes, used in local dishes
Soba Noodles: a popular dish, often served cold
Local sake: try varieties from nearby breweries
Local traditions - Gifu City 歌川国貞 Utagawa Kunisada · Public domain

Local traditions

Cormorant Fishing Festival: held in summer, showcases fishing techniques
Gifu Lantern Festival: features beautiful lantern displays in winter
Gifu Fireworks Festival: a summer event with impressive fireworks
Traditional Craftsmanship: known for Mino ware pottery and washi paper

Do's and don'ts

Try local dishes at small eateries
Visit during the cormorant fishing season
Explore the surrounding nature trails
Respect local customs and traditions
Don't rush through the historical sites
Don't expect extensive English-speaking services
Don't miss the local festivals if you're in town
Don't ignore the weather, it can change quickly

Views from Gifu City Tower

The Gifu City Tower offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains. Standing at 100 meters, the observation deck provides a great spot to see the Kiso River winding through the landscape. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of the iconic Mount Kinka. The tower is especially beautiful at sunset, when the sky turns shades of orange and pink. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on your day of exploring the city.

Strolling through Yanagase Street

Yanagase Street is a lively area filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. This pedestrian-friendly street is perfect for an evening stroll. You can find local delicacies like Gifu's famous basashi, raw horse meat, served in various izakayas. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the neon lights add a unique charm after dark. Don’t forget to stop by a few of the small shops selling traditional crafts, perfect for souvenirs.

Experience Ukai fishing

Ukai, or cormorant fishing, is a traditional practice in Gifu City. During the summer months, you can watch skilled fishermen use trained cormorants to catch fish in the river. The experience is both fascinating and educational, showcasing a method that dates back over 1,300 years. Evening shows are particularly captivating, as the fishermen light torches to attract fish, creating a magical atmosphere on the water. It’s a unique way to connect with Gifu's cultural heritage.

Practical

At a glance

Founded
600 AD
Population
410.000
Accessibility
Some areas are hilly, plan accordingly
Price level
Mid-range

Things to know

Public transport can be limited, especially on weekends
Some attractions may have seasonal hours, check ahead
English signage is not always available, learn a few phrases
Be cautious of steep hills when exploring the city
history_eduHistoryexpand_more

Gifu City has a rich history dating back to the 8th century, when it was known as a center for trade and culture. The city played a significant role during the Sengoku period, particularly under the leadership of Oda Nobunaga.

In the Edo period, Gifu became a hub for the production of Mino pottery and washi paper. Today, remnants of its historical significance can be seen in its architecture and cultural practices.