Things To Do
in Gifu
Gifu is a historic city in central Japan set along the Nagara River, offering a mix of castle ruins, riverside scenery, and traditional crafts. It serves as a gateway to the surrounding nature and UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go, while preserving a calm urban rhythm with excellent local cuisine. The city is known for Gifu Castle on Mount Kinka and the summer Ukai cormorant fishing on the Nagara River.
Visitors can enjoy lush parks, riverside strolls, and easy day trips to scenic valleys and historic villages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gifu Castle, perched atop Mount Kinka. Enjoy a scenic hike up the mountain, taking in the panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Don't forget to stop by the castle's museum to learn about its rich history.
After descending, explore the historic Sanmachi Suji district, where traditional wooden houses line the streets. Sample local delicacies like 'Hida beef' at one of the many charming restaurants. Visit the Gifu City Museum of History to delve deeper into the region's cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Nagaragawa River, where you can enjoy the illuminated cityscape. Dine at a riverside restaurant, savoring local cuisine while listening to the gentle flow of the water. End your day with a visit to a traditional onsen to unwind and relax.
Begin your day at the historic Kinkazan Kanon-ji Temple, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens. Participate in a morning meditation session led by a local monk, allowing yourself to connect with the tranquility of the surroundings. Capture stunning photographs of the temple's architecture and nature.
Head to the nearby Shoho-ji Temple to explore its unique rock gardens and intricate wooden structures. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony here, learning about the significance of this age-old practice. Take some time to reflect in the peaceful surroundings, absorbing the spiritual ambiance.
Wrap up the day with a visit to the nearby Gifu Great Buddha, where you can witness a spectacular sunset casting golden hues across the statue. Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, sampling a variety of small dishes and drinks. Consider taking a leisurely walk around the area to appreciate the night lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍱Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-130 |
| 🛍️Souvenir/shopping | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and riverside scenery
- Access to Shirakawa-go and scenic day trips
- Safe, walkable center with friendly locals
- Delicious river fish and rustic miso flavors
- Limited English in some areas
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to big cities
- Travel times to certain areas can be longer
- Seasonal crowds at popular viewpoints
- "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello
- "おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu)" - Good morning
- "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "駅はどこですか？ (Eki wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the station?
- "これはいくらですか？ (Kore wa ikura desu ka?)" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)" - Do you speak English?
- "ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)" - Thank you
- "失礼します (Shitsurei shimasu)" - Excuse me / Goodbye
Places to Visit in Gifu
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping views over the city and Nagara River, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Wide riverbanks and bridges perfect for long exposure and golden-hour photography.
Quiet lanes with traditional storefronts and atmospheric night photography.
Classic thatched-roof houses framed by mountains when visiting Shirakawa-go.
Food in Gifu
Gifu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salt-grilled sweetfish from the Nagara River, a seasonal specialty found in riverside eateries.
Must-Try!
Pounded rice cake skewered on a stick and brushed with a sweet miso glaze.
Rich miso-flavored broth with udon noodles; enjoyed in cozy city eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls along the river offering grilled fish and light snacks.
Local stalls and small eateries where you can try simple bites and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly on trains and in public areas; avoid loud conversations.
Remove shoes in homes, certain temples, and some traditional restaurants.
Be punctual, bow politely, and use polite language when interacting with locals.
Ask permission where required, especially inside temples or private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Gifu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is typically included in the price.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards common in cities; IC cards (Suica, PASMO) work on many trains and some shops; mobile payments are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and cherry blossoms create pleasant walks through parks and riverbanks.
Hot and humid with peak river activity; plan for Ukai fishing events and long days of exploring.
Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage in the mountains and along rural roads.
Cool to cold with possible snow; cozy onsen trips nearby and peaceful city ambiance.
Gifu at Night
Hiking in Gifu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible routes to the castle site with rewarding city views; include ropeway option for easy ascent.
Scenic hikes around the UNESCO village with valley vistas.
Airports
How to reach Gifu by plane.
Primary international gateway near Nagoya; accessible from Gifu via train, with connections through Nagoya.
Nagoya’s domestic airport; convenient for short domestic hops and access to central Japan; travel to Gifu via rail and bus connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many parks, museums, and kid-friendly attractions provide options for a family visit.
A student population centers around the city’s campuses; plenty of affordable cafes and study spaces.
A significant elderly population with accessible infrastructure in central areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in schools and regional leagues; enjoy community games during warm months.
Local clubs and school teams compete in regional leagues; public fields are common.
Traditional martial arts practiced widely and sometimes demonstrated in parks and community centers.
Seasonal paddling and boating on the Nagara River, especially in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gifu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-focused dishes, tofu, and rice-based options; inform staff in advance about dietary needs.