Frequently Asked Questions About Gifu Prefecture

Gifu Prefecture is a wonderful destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s culture, history, and natural beauty. From ancient castles to modern hot springs, Gifu has something for everyone. Start your journey at the city of Gifu, where you can explore its old-fashioned shopping street and historic sites such as Takayama Old Town or Gujo Hachiman Castle Ruins. Then head out into nature with visits to the beautiful Chubu-Sangaku National Park or Mount Kinka—the highest mountain in Japan. Enjoy a relaxing soak at one of Gifu’s famous hot springs like Gero Onsen before heading back to the city for some delicious local cuisine.

Which time of the year is best to travel in Gifu Prefecture?

The best time to visit Gifu Prefecture is during the spring and autumn months. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, beautiful foliage and mild temperatures, while in autumn there are spectacular views of brilliant red and gold leaves contrasting against the area’s majestic mountains and rivers. In addition, summer experiences hot and humid conditions that can make sightseeing difficult, while winter can be quite cold and snowy. Regardless of the season, Gifu Prefecture offers a wide range of attractions throughout the year that make it an ideal destination for travelers from all over the world. There are also many cultural festivals in Gifu Prefecture throughout each season. The annual Takayama Matsuri festival in April is particularly well-known and attracts many visitors. With a variety of landscapes and activities, Gifu Prefecture is an ideal destination for any traveler looking to experience the true beauty of Japan.

What are the fun things to do in Gifu Prefecture?

There are many great things to do in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Here are some of the best:

 

1. Visit Mount Kinka, the highest mountain in all of Japan. Enjoy breathtaking views and take part in various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and paragliding.

 

2. Explore the Shirakawago area and its traditional Gassho-style farmhouses that were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

 

3. Take in beautiful nature at Lake Biwa – Japan’s largest lake – or visit Mieji Temple, one of the oldest temples in all of Japan.

 

4. Sample delicious local dishes such as Ogura Toast (a type of Japanese grilled toast) and Hida beef – a type of high-quality wagyu beef.

 

5. Enjoy traditional crafts such as pottery, lacquerware, washi paper and bonsai trees.

 

6. Participate in cultural festivals throughout the year such as Takayama Matsuri (April), Gifu Great Summer Festival (July) and Gifu Fireworks Festival (August).

 

7. Learn about Japanese culture at the various museums located around Gifu Prefecture, including the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway Museum which features an 8 km stretch of beach road made entirely out of concrete where visitors can drive cars or ride bicycles.

 

8. Take part in outdoor activities such as river rafting, canyoning and fishing.

 

9. Relax in one of the many onsens (hot springs) located in Gifu Prefecture.

 

10. Shop for souvenirs from traditional markets like Takayama’s Hida no Sato Morning Market or Fukui’s Echizen-ya Shopping Street.

The Gifu Prefecture offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best places to visit in the area:

 

1. Shirakawago – A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional thatched-roof houses called gassho-zukuri.

 

2. Mount Kinka – The highest mountain in all of Japan and home to several hiking trails, campsites and paragliding spots.

 

3. Ogaki City – Located at the heart of Gifu Prefecture, Ogaki is known as a castle town due to its many historic sites such as Kasuga Shrine and the ruins of Chogakuji Castle.

 

4. Gero Onsen – One of Japan’s three most famous hot springs, with its waters believed to have healing properties.

 

5. Takayama Old Town – A charming town with old-style buildings from the Edo period and a variety of shops and restaurants selling traditional Japanese dishes and souvenirs such as washi paper and bonsai trees.

 

6. Magome-juku – An important stop on the Nakasendo Highway during the Edo period, this picturesque village is home to many historic sites such as Honjin Inn and Shiryuji Temple.

 

7. Gujo Hachiman Castle Ruins – The ruins of one of the oldest castles in Japan, built in the late 16th century.

 

8. Chubu-Sangaku National Park – Located at the intersection of Gifu and Nagano Prefectures, this national park is home to many beautiful mountains, forests and valleys.

 

9. Gifu Aquarium – A popular aquarium located near Lake Biwa with over 100 species of fish and other aquatic creatures on display.

 

10. Kasamatsu Park – One of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, boasting 4,000 trees in full bloom from late March to early April each year.