Things To Do
in Gifu
Gifu, Japan is a picturesque prefecture located in the center of Honshu, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and traditional crafts. The area is famous for its historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go, characterized by its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Gifu is also renowned for its beautiful rivers, such as the Nagara River, which is ideal for cormorant fishing.
Visitors to Gifu can enjoy a blend of modern attractions and traditional experiences, making it a unique destination in Japan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Gifu Castle, accessible via a scenic ropeway ride. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
After lunch, head to the Gifu Great Buddha (Great Buddha of Gifu) for a serene experience. Spend some time exploring the nearby Gifu Park, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya, trying regional dishes like Hida beef. Take a relaxing night walk along the Nagara River to see the illuminated castle.
Visit the historic village of Shirakawa-go, famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. Take your time to explore the village and learn about the local culture.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Shirakawa-go, then venture to the nearby Shokawa Valley for hiking amidst stunning scenery.
Return to Gifu City and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing an elaborate multi-course meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi meal | $20 |
| 🍵Matcha tea | $5 |
| 🍜Ramen bowl | $10 |
| 🍺Local beer | $6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical attractions.
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially Hida beef.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation can be less frequent in rural areas.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "お手洗いはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Gifu
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, especially picturesque during the winter when covered in snow.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and city, especially beautiful during sunset.
Capture the tranquil beauty of the river, particularly during the cormorant fishing season when boats are on the water.
Food in Gifu
Gifu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A premium quality wagyu beef from the Hida region, known for its rich flavor and tenderness.
Must-Try!
A sweetfish often grilled and enjoyed during summer, symbolizing the region's rivers.
A variation of the traditional pork cutlet, flavored with a rich red miso sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held along the Nagara River, this market offers fresh local produce, seafood, and handmade crafts.
Enjoy local snacks like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sweet treats while exploring the castle area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always use polite language and gestures; bowing is a common form of greeting.
Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or traditional accommodations, and use provided slippers.
Maintain a low volume in public transport and restaurants to respect the tranquility of the environment.
Safety
Tipping in Gifu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected as part of the experience, so it's best to avoid tipping.
Cash is still widely used in Japan, though credit cards are accepted in many establishments; it's advisable to carry some yen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms bloom in late March to early April, making it a stunning time for outdoor activities and photography.
Expect warm temperatures and vibrant greenery, with opportunities for river activities and festivals.
The foliage transforms into beautiful shades of red and orange, ideal for hiking and scenic drives.
Expect cold temperatures and snow, particularly in Shirakawa-go; it's a great time for winter sports and hot springs.
Gifu at Night
Hiking in Gifu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This trail offers stunning views and cultural experiences as it passes through historic post towns along the ancient Nakasendo Road.
A popular hiking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Kinka, where Gifu Castle is located, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Airports
How to reach Gifu by plane.
Located approximately 1.5 hours from Gifu City, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and offers a range of transport options to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Gifu has a significant population of young families, attracted by its safe environment, educational institutions, and family-friendly activities.
With a growing aging population, Gifu has many services and amenities catering to senior citizens, making it a popular place for retirement.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a beloved sport in Gifu, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds during the season.
With many cycling paths along the Nagara River, cycling is a popular recreational activity among locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gifu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine features a lot of fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options; inquire ahead.
Gluten-free options may be limited; however, certain rice-based dishes and fresh vegetables are widely available.