The appeal of Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
We introduce the features and attractions of Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture—including sightseeing highlights, recommended spots, popular destinations, beautiful natural scenery, breathtaking views, spiritual sites such as shrines and temples, Japan Heritage sites, cultural and historical heritage, art museums, and historic buildings.
About Gifu City
Gifu City is situated in the northern part of the Nobi Plain, with the Nagara River flowing through the city area from northeast to southwest; the historic city center developed on the alluvial fan formed by the river. Downstream from this alluvial fan, one can observe micro-topographical features such as abandoned river channels, natural levees, and back-marsh wetlands.
The Nagara River is renowned as one of Japan’s three clearest rivers; its mid-stream basin was selected as one of the “100 Famous Waters of Japan” in 1985. It was also chosen for the “55 Best Swimming Areas in Japan” (1998) and the “88 Best Swimming Areas in Japan” (2001)—the only river site selected in either list.
Furthermore, the river is famous for its cormorant fishing (*ukai*) tradition, which boasts a history of over 1,300 years, and the sounds associated with the river have been recognized as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan.”
Water transport utilizing the Nagara River has existed since ancient times, and ports located at the apex of the alluvial fan—specifically Nakagawara Port (Kawahara-machi district), Nagara Port (Ukaiya district), and Kagashima Port (Kagashima district)—flourished as hubs of economic activity.
During the late medieval period (the Sengoku or Warring States period), figures such as Saito Dosan and Oda Nobunaga built castles and residences on Mount Kinka and at its foot, leading to the development of a castle town to the west.
Although the political center shifted to Kano Castle in the early modern period (the Edo period), the Owari Domain established a Nagara River administrative office near Nakagawara Port, recognizing the area’s importance for water transport, and the city transformed into a commercial hub.
Waterborne trade on the Nagara River thrived further, fostering wholesale businesses dealing in timber, Japanese paper (*washi*), and thread, as well as handicraft industries producing items like paper lanterns and round fans (*uchiwa*) from materials such as Mino *washi* and bamboo; these lanterns and fans, in particular, remain traditional industries of Gifu City to this day.
The former town of Kano, located in the southern part of the area, served as both a castle town for the Kano Domain and a post town on the Nakasendo route; the atmosphere of the old Kano-juku post station still lingers there today.
Although the local industry has declined from its peak—partly due to the relocation of factories overseas—it once flourished in the post-war era through the textile trade, sourcing fabrics from places like Ichinomiya (Aichi Prefecture) and Hashima (Gifu Prefecture) to manufacture and sell clothing.
During its heyday in the mid-Showa period, Gifu-made ready-to-wear clothing sold as fast as it could be produced, earning the region a reputation as one of Japan’s three major fashion hubs, alongside Osaka and Tokyo. The “Gifu-Made” exhibition held in 1961 was the nation’s first comprehensive trade fair dedicated to ready-to-wear apparel.
Situated just a 20-minute rapid train ride from Nagoya Station, the area is part of the Chukyo (Nagoya) metropolitan region and functions as a satellite city and commuter town for Nagoya. Indeed, three residential skyscrapers—Gifu City Tower 43, Gifu Sky Wing 37, and Gifu East Rising 24—stand in front of the station, connected by a pedestrian deck.
At the same time, as the seat of the prefectural government, the city serves as a central hub for administration, commerce, and information within Gifu Prefecture.
Source: Wikipedia
Mount Kinka
Characteristics of Mt. Kinka
Rising to an elevation of 329 meters (at the location of the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan’s triangulation point), Mt. Kinka is located in the heart of Gifu City and was formerly known as Mt. Inaba. Gifu Castle—associated with historical figures Saito Dosan and Oda Nobunaga—towers over the summit, making the mountain, like the Nagara River, a symbol of Gifu City.
A ropeway allows visitors to easily reach the summit, and well-maintained hiking trails offer the opportunity for a casual hike.
Source: Official website of the Gifu Convention and Visitors Bureau
Location: Tsukidani, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture
Gifu Castle (Inabayama Castle)
岐阜城
Characteristics of Gifu Castle (Inabayama Castle)
Perched atop the rocky summit of Mount Kinka, Gifu Castle was renowned as an impregnable fortress; it was said that “he who controls Mino controls the realm.” During the Sengoku (Warring States) period, it served as the stronghold of Saito Dosan, the protagonist of the novel *Kunitori Monogatari* (The Story of Conquering the Land).
Later, Oda Nobunaga captured the castle and became its lord; he is credited with renaming the area “Gifu” and changing the castle’s name from “Inabayama Castle” to “Gifu Castle.” However, in August 1600—during the prelude to the Battle of Sekigahara—Nobunaga’s grandson Hidenobu sided with the Western Army.
Consequently, the castle was attacked by the Eastern Army and fell after a fierce battle. Tokugawa Ieyasu, the commander-in-chief of the Eastern Army, departed from Edo on September 1 and stayed at Gifu Castle on September 13, two days before the Battle of Sekigahara.
The current castle structure, a three-story, four-level reinforced concrete building, was reconstructed in 1956 and stands as a symbol of Gifu City.
The interior houses a historical exhibition room, while the upper level serves as an observation deck popular with many visitors.
Access is available via the Gifu Kinkazan Ropeway, which operates at approximately 15-minute intervals to the summit station.
Source: Gifu Prefecture Tourism Federation Official Website
Address: 18 Tenshukaku, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture
Gifu Great Buddha (Shōhō-ji Temple)
Characteristics of Gifu Great Buddha (Shōhō-ji Temple)
Counted among Japan’s three great Buddha statues, this figure holds the distinction of being the largest dry-lacquer Buddha in the country.
It was completed in April 1832 (the third year of the Tenpo era) after a painstaking construction process spanning 38 years.
The hall stands 23.6 meters tall, housing a seated Buddha statue that measures 13.63 meters in height, with ears 2.12 meters long and a nose 0.36 meters high.
Its structural framework utilizes a massive ginkgo tree as a central pillar, with a wooden skeleton; the exterior was crafted from high-quality bamboo and clay, then covered with pages from the *Issaikyo* (Complete Buddhist Scriptures) pasted on with adhesive, finished with lacquer, and adorned with gold leaf.
A statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha) is enshrined within the statue’s interior.
With its gentle, smiling expression and majestic presence, the Great Buddha Hall offers a serene atmosphere—a true space for healing.
Kago Great Buddha (with the wooden seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai): Gifu Prefecture Designated Important Cultural Property Wooden seated statue of Amida Nyorai: Gifu Prefecture Designated Important Cultural Property
Sources: Gifu Convention and Visitors Bureau Official Website; Kinpozan Shoho-ji Temple Official Website
Address: 8 Daibutsu-cho, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture
Nagara River
長良川
Characteristics of the Nagara River
Despite flowing through the heart of Gifu City, the river retains its clear, clean water and is cherished by many. In the summer, the riverbanks bustle with people enjoying the water.
The Nagara River originates at Mt. Dainichi in Takasu, Gujo City; after merging with numerous tributaries, it flows into Ise Bay as one of the “Three Rivers of Kiso.”
The water in the river’s mid-reaches is recognized as one of the “100 Famous Waters of Japan,” and this area is also the site of the Gifu Nagara River Cormorant Fishing (*ukai*) tradition, which has been preserved since ancient times.
Nagara River Promenade
A 1.3-kilometer riverside path extending upstream from Nagara Bridge has been developed into a promenade, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll while taking in views of the Nagara River and Mt. Kinka.
During the cormorant fishing season, this spot offers a close-up view of the spectacle against the backdrop of the illuminated Gifu Castle.
Cherry Blossoms along the Nagara River Embankment
Approximately 400 cherry trees—including the Somei-Yoshino variety—are planted along the left bank of the Nagara River.
In early April each year, the area stretching from the riverbank to the Japan-China Friendship Garden in Gifu Park is blanketed in cherry blossoms in full bloom, drawing crowds of visitors for *hanami* (cherry blossom viewing) both day and night.
Source: Official website of the Gifu Convention and Visitors Bureau
Location: Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture
Nagaragawa Cormorant Fishing
Characteristics of Cormorant Fishing on the Nagara River
The Gifu-Nagaragawa Cormorant Fishing tradition takes place on the clear waters of the Nagara River—selected as one of Japan’s “100 Remarkable Waters”—against the backdrop of Mt.
Kinka and Gifu Castle, which towers at its summit and evokes the romance of the Warring States period. Amidst the pitch-black darkness, the *ukai* (cormorant fishing) spectacle unfolds—a classical fishing method where the cormorant master and the birds work in perfect unison, illuminated by the brilliant glow of the *kagaribi* (fire baskets) reflected on the water’s surface. This mystical atmosphere transports viewers away from the present day, offering a glimpse into a world from ages past.
Cormorant fishing is a method in which a master maneuvers the birds to catch fish; boasting a history of approximately 1,300 years, it has long enjoyed the patronage of powerful rulers. Lord Oda Nobunaga is said to have protected the tradition by granting official status to the cormorant masters, while Tokugawa Ieyasu frequently visited Gifu to watch and support the practice, even having *ayu-zushi* (sweetfish sushi) prepared in Gifu and transported to Edo.
The tradition has also been cherished by many cultural figures. When Matsuo Basho visited Gifu and witnessed the fishing, he composed the haiku: “Amusing, yet soon a sense of sadness—the cormorant fishing boat.” Additionally, the renowned actor Charlie Chaplin visited twice and famously praised the spectacle as “wonderful.”
There are six cormorant masters on the Nagara River—officially titled “Cormorant Masters of the Board of the Ceremonies of the Imperial Household Agency”—and their skills have been passed down through generations.
A complete set of 122 cormorant fishing implements used on the Nagara River has been designated as a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property, while the fishing techniques themselves are recognized as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Furthermore, the sounds associated with the practice—such as the masters’ “ho-ho” calls to encourage the birds and the rhythmic tapping on the sides of the boats—have been selected as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan.” Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River in Gifu takes place every night from May 11 to October 15, except during times of high water and on the single day off (scheduled around the time of the Harvest Moon).
Source: Official website of the Gifu Convention and Visitors Bureau / Official website for Cormorant Fishing on the Nagara River
Location: Nagara, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture
Gifu City specialties and souvenirs
Ayu-shaped Confectionery: “Nobori-Ayu” (Ascending Sweetfish)
A signature confection of Gifu, distinguished by its sleek form—modeled after young *ayu* (sweetfish) frolicking in the clear waters of the Nagara River—and its spirited, small face; it also features an aroma and flavor created by the combination of *castella* sponge and *gyuhi* (soft rice cake), truly living up to the fish’s reputation as the “fragrant fish.”
Mizu Uchiwa
These are Gifu *uchiwa* (flat fans) that offer a cool, transparent appearance.
I understand they were named for this look, which resembles water.
A distinctive feature of Gifu fans is that they are not simply made of plain paper but undergo special processing, such as lacquering; we offer a wide variety of these fans.
Shop:Tomijiro Sumii Shoten
Address: 46 Minato-machi, Gifu City
Gifu Japanese Umbrellas
We sell Gifu Japanese umbrellas—certified as a National Traditional Craft—along with related items such as umbrella sleeves and stands.
Our shop is located in a 100-year-old traditional townhouse and features an adjoining studio where visitors can experience making Gifu paper lanterns and Japanese umbrellas, helping to share the traditional crafts of the Nagara River basin.
Shop:Wagasa CASA
Address:29 Minato-machi, Gifu City
Gifu Lanterns
Gifu lanterns—characterized by delicate bamboo frameworks and graceful painted designs on Mino washi paper—are designated as Traditional Crafts by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. Crafted from high-quality materials and expert workmanship, the soft glow of these lanterns brings a sense of the seasons and tranquility to everyday life.
Shop:Ozeki
Address:1-18 Oguma-cho, Gifu City
Restaurant
Gifu Tanmen Gifu Main Store
“Gifu Tanmen,” a local ramen specialty of Gifu City, is a true “soul food” for the prefecture’s residents. The Gifu main branch is the birthplace of this dish and is so popular that lines form outside every day. It features a healthy bowl combining a *paitan* (white broth) soup—which is light yet rich in flavor—with an abundance of vegetables such as cabbage, garlic chives, and bean sprouts. Infused with the flavor of garlic, it offers an addictive taste.
Keichan Hosoe
“Keichan Hosoe” in Gifu City is a popular restaurant specializing in “Keichan,” a local Gifu delicacy. True to its name, the shop focuses exclusively on this dish, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The interior offers a relaxed atmosphere with both counter and table seating, making it an inviting spot even for solo diners.
The menu is simple, featuring just two varieties: Miso-flavored Keichan and Soy Sauce-flavored Keichan. The miso version includes onions, while the soy sauce version features cabbage, allowing diners to enjoy distinct flavor profiles. You cook the meat yourself on a built-in tabletop griddle; the sizzling sounds and savory aroma are sure to whet your appetite. You can also customize your meal with toppings like egg or cheese, or add udon noodles to finish off the dish.
Hida Ushiittoya Bakuroichidai Gifukanda
Located in Kanda-machi, Gifu City, “Bakuro Ichidai Gifu Kanda” is a renowned yakiniku restaurant that is a must-visit for anyone wishing to truly experience the excellence of Hida beef. The restaurant purchases whole Hida cattle—carefully selected for quality—and prepares each cut using the optimal cooking method; it is a popular establishment where a commitment to quality, flavor, and presentation shines through in every detail. With its sophisticated and serene atmosphere, it is the perfect venue for special occasions or for creating memorable moments during a trip.
A key attraction of “Bakuro Ichidai” is the craftsmanship that maximizes the unique flavor of each cut of Hida beef. Enhanced by the savory aroma of charcoal grilling, every dish boasts a quality that impresses even the most discerning gourmets. This excellence explains why the restaurant is frequented not only by locals but also by tourists from outside the prefecture. If you are looking to savor authentic Hida beef in Gifu, this is a premier destination you simply must visit.
Source: Gifu Convention and Visitors Bureau Nap
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