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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly used in tourist areas)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 1.99 million
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for comfortable weather and scenic beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries including the US, EU, and UK can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days for tourism. Others may require a visa obtained in advance. Japan offers e-visa options for some nationalities. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Travelers must have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds.
About Gifu Prefecture
Gifu Prefecture, located in Japan’s Chubu region, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and traditional culture. Nestled in the mountainous heart of Honshu island, it is renowned for its well-preserved Edo-period towns, such as Takayama, where visitors can stroll through charming streets lined with wooden merchant houses and sample local crafts. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go features iconic thatched-roof farmhouses that showcase unique architectural heritage. Nature lovers can explore the dramatic landscapes of the Japanese Alps, including the Kiso Valley and the Hida Mountains, which provide excellent hiking and outdoor activities. Gifu’s cultural appeal is highlighted by the ancient practice of ukai, or cormorant fishing, on the Nagara River, a tradition dating back over 1,300 years. The prefecture’s accessibility from major urban centers makes it an attractive destination for travelers seeking authentic Japanese culture away from the bustle of big cities. Whether interested in history, nature, or traditional festivals, Gifu offers a diverse and immersive experience.
Top Attractions
1. Takayama Old Town – A beautifully preserved historic district with Edo-period architecture, traditional shops, and morning markets. 2. Shirakawa-go – A UNESCO World Heritage village famous for its distinctive gassho-zukuri thatched houses. 3. Gifu Castle – Perched atop Mount Kinka, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. 4. Nagara River – Known for traditional cormorant fishing displays held during summer evenings. 5. Hida Folk Village – An open-air museum showcasing traditional rural architecture and crafts from the Hida region.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking in the Japanese Alps, exploring historic towns on foot, participating in seasonal festivals, and experiencing traditional crafts such as pottery and woodworking. The unique cormorant fishing tours on the Nagara River offer a rare cultural spectacle. Outdoor enthusiasts can also engage in cycling, river rafting, and hot spring bathing in local onsens.
Gifu Prefecture Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Chubu
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy hiking in the Japanese Alps, exploring historic towns on foot, participating in seasonal festivals, and experiencing traditional crafts such as pottery and woodworking. The unique cormorant fishing tours on the Nagara River offer a rare cultural spectacle. Outdoor enthusiasts can also engage in cycling, river rafting, and hot spring bathing in local onsens.
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack layers for variable mountain climates and comfortable walking shoes. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet behavior in public spaces. Carry cash as some smaller shops may not accept cards. Safety is high, but always stay aware of weather conditions in mountainous areas.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $250
153 Available Tour Excursions in Gifu Prefecture
Ninja Cafe Takayama is a facility where visitors can have an authentic samurai/ninja experience in the conveniently located historical city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. The store displays historical helmets, swords, and tea utensils that are important for learning about old Japan. Why don't you don a ninja costume, experience authentic ninja training, and learn about the natural history of Japan and the role of the ninja? Ninja Cafe Takayama is a facility that both adults and children can enjoy. Please come to Ninja Cafe Takayama when you visit Nagoya, Gifu, or Takayama to create memories of your trip to Japan.
Price: $38.28
Duration: 1 hours
Craft your own professional Damascus kitchen knife in the legendary sword town of Seki, Gifu! Guided by a master bladesmith who have experience over 50years, you’ll sharpen, polish, and engrave your own knife — then test its sharpness on fresh vegetables. As a limited-time bonus, you’ll receive a handcrafted mini knife souvenir, a signed certificate, and enjoy a delicious Japanese lunch. ・Personalized Damascus knife-making experience ・Hands-on polishing, sharpening, engraving and assembly ・Test the sharpness of your finished blade ・Free mini knife souvenir (limited availability) ・Signed certificate of completion Delve into the rich history of Japanese Samurai swords and Seki City. Gain a deeper appreciation for the value of traditions. Whether you’re a knife enthusiast, a samurai fan, or simply looking for a unique cultural activity in Japan, this experience offers an unforgettable journey into traditional craftsmanship — and you’ll take home a blade that’s truly one of a kind.
Price: $313.23
Duration: 5 hours
If you're seeking an authentic connection with a local family, this is for you! We are a warm, fun-loving family of four, deeply rooted in Takayama. Here, you won’t just learn to cook Japanese food—you’ll experience how locals live and savor life together. Our 200-year-old wooden townhouse stands on Old Town’s main street, yet stepping inside feels like entering a quiet world where time slows down. Its small quirks remind us of its beauty and history. We’ll welcome you with Japanese tea and snacks before guiding you in preparing a traditional meal in our kitchen. As we cook side by side, we’ll share stories of life in Takayama and living in harmony with nature and the seasons. Hisa and Bob pour their hearts into every class. This is more than a cooking lesson—it’s a moment of connection, culture, and feeling at home far from home. Feel free to write us your request on food or any restrictions, we are happy to accommodate as much as possible!
Price: $215.78
Duration: 3 hours
Experience the untouched beauty of mountain streams on this immersive river trekking tour in Takayama. Guided by certified experts from the Japan Mountain Guides Association, you’ll explore landscapes created by the eruption of the volcano while learning about the deep mountain culture that forms the roots of life in Takayama. One highlight of the tour is enjoying hand-dripped coffee, brewed using fresh spring water collected during the trek by a professional barista—an authentic taste of nature’s gifts. A locally sourced lunch of fresh sandwiches and soup is also included. Centered around the theme of “water,” this tour is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culturally curious travelers who want to reconnect with the land and its traditions.
Price: $140.00
Duration: 5 hours
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way toexplore both of the ancient post towns! You can travel between Magome and Tsumago by infrequent direct bus. Nakasendo was one of the two highways during the Edo period connecting Tokyo with Kyoto, running through the Kiso Valley. Travelers at that time walked along the highway, stopping at "post towns" for rest. Some of those post towns have been well preserved and show tourists today exactly what Japan was like hundreds of years ago. Stunning forests, beautiful villages and traditions, we would love to recommend it to everyone interested in Japanese nature and history. This private tour is a walking day tour. A private vehicle is not included. Public transportation or local taxis may be used. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs.
Price: $153.13
Duration: 6 hours
Hida-Osaka is situated 40 minutes south from Takayama, and 40 minutes north from Gero either by train or bus or car. It's the best choice for those who are looking for the off-the-beaten path in Japan. The frozen waterfall gets as big as 15 meters (50 feet) high and 5 meters (16 feet) wide. It starts forming in early November and will drop and disappear by the end of April. The local guide who knows the area better than anyone will take you to the waterfall in all its beauty. The trail is about total 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and takes about 4. 5 hours round trip. It’s a complete snow trail which requires snowshoes and spikes. The trail starts at an altitude of 1,800 meters (5,900 feet). There, the air gets as cold as -20 ℃ (46 ℉), and the snow piles up as high as 2 meters (6.6 feet). Physical toughness and the ability to walk and stay outside in these conditions is necessary for this tour. During the tour, the guide will prepare a hot outdoor lunch.
Price: $191.42
Duration: 8 hours
This facility is visitors can have an authentic samurai/ninja experience in the conveniently located historical city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. The store displays historical helmets, swords, and tea utensils that are important for learning about old Japan. Why don't you don a ninja costume, experience authentic ninja training, and learn about the natural history of Japan and the role of the ninja? Ninja Cafe Takayama is a facility that both adults and children can enjoy. Please visit us when you come to Nagoya, Gifu or Takayama.
Price: $48.72
Duration: 1 hours
Walking tour with expert guide and multifacedet artist: I am the only foreigner expert guide living in Japan for almost 20 years, and living in Takayama for almost 10 years. I speak Italian, English and Japanese. More than 20 years in customer service and hospitality. Where and what: Takayama's downtown Sanmachi Suji, the old town of Takayama, with the traditional houses since Edo period and much more... I will present to you the best of this city within 30 minutes, from different aspects: Geography Economy Art & Culture History Local crafts, focal foods For the guide and the dear guests: All the expences such as drinks, food, tickets etc., must be covered by the dear guest, tour guide included. All expences other than the tour reservation fee, are considered as extras and are not included in this service. Help the guide improve, tips are welcome!
Price: $26.29
Duration: 0 hours
While many Machiya buildings have lost their original appearance, our house still shows how life was in those days. Machiya architecture follows a certain format, and how each house pursued beauty within that format is quite different. Our townhouse was formerly run as an obstetrics and gynecology clinic. The combination of the main house and the clinic is very unique, and the strange harmony of the two is very beautiful. You will get to know the Machiya architecture and enjoy Japanese tea with seasonal fruits and sweets.
Price: $104.41
Duration: 2 hours
Shirakawa-go, A world heritage site that you should see once when you visit this region. Then walking to enjoy nature-rich Shirakawa-go with local guide.(About 2 hours).Local guide explain not only Shirakawa-go but also Japanese culture/history. Guide will meet you at Shirakawago-bus terminal or Guide possible to pick up your hotel in Takayama (near JR station) If you need hotel pick up please let us know hotel address. If you need hotel pick up we will pick up you in front of hotel 7:15-7:45am. Not less than 2 person. Please let us inform when you need chinese or Italian or French guide. we are normally doing English our tour. we can arrange other your private tour.(e.g. Kamikochi, Inside Takayama city,etc..)
Price: $104.41
Duration: 2-4 hours
You can experience History and culture of Takayama. This is walking tour around oldtownship in Takayama city. local guide could satisfy you!!! You can make food sample like photo if you want. Please let us know if you want to do it. If no request anything guide will not do this expelience. this tour include food sample of Takoyaki making fee ! but if you want to do this, you need time + 30min. we will do English guide this tour. If you need other language guide, please let us know. If you wanted to private tour let us know. Not less than 2 person. If it's raining possible to do this tour.
Price: $61.25
Duration: 1 hours
Our onigiri-making and miso soup experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japanese culture in an authentic and hands-on way. Unlike typical cooking classes, this activity takes place in the tranquil setting of a historic temple, allowing you to enjoy not only the art of making onigiri but also the peaceful atmosphere that Japan is known for. You’ll have the chance to personalize your own onigiri plate, experimenting with various fillings and flavors, and learn the process of creating a delicious miso soup from scratch using locally renowned Hida miso. This special blend of culture, culinary skill, and tranquility is something you won’t find in just any cooking class. Plus, our experience is entirely vegan-friendly, making it accessible for everyone. Join us to create lasting memories, nourish your body and soul, and take home a unique slice of Japanese culture.
Price: $27.84
Duration: 1 hours
Embark on a captivating journey to Hida-Furukawa, a hidden treasure nestled high in the Japanese mountains, far from the bustling metropolises of Tokyo and Osaka. This enchanting town transports you to a bygone era with its beautifully preserved Edo-period architecture, rich history, and artisanal traditions. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this immersive experience offers a glimpse into the heart of traditional Japan transporting you to a bygone era. Visit the Hida-Furukawa Festival Exhibition Hall to unravel its cultural tapestry, wander through the charming streets steeped in history, and discover the cultural gems of Hida-Furukawa in a single day.
Price: $159.40
Duration: 6 hours
Pickup at your hotel by your private certified Takayama guide. Enjoy your day with an itinerary that you can discuss and customize from the moment you meet your guide, with their advice on local festivals and weather. Get the most of your time in Takayama and get the experience you want with your personal local guide.
Price: $124.40
Duration: 4 hours
Shirakawa-go, a world heritage site that you should see once when you visit this region. Then hiking to enjoy nature-rich Takayama. You can be very satisfied because there are full-scale hot springs with beautiful facilities around Takayama City where there are many hot springs and you can go to various places all day long. Please bring few luggages. Towel for hot spring/ shoes for hiking we do this tour by English guide. Please let us inform when you need other language guide. This tour will use public bus. you need following bus fee (Dec.2022price) other than tour cost ・Takayama ⇄ Shirakawa 4600JPY/person ・Takayama ⇄ Hirayu 3200JPY/person But if you need taxi or bus we will arrange it. Sometimes we will do this tour for group if you want to do this tour as private Please let us know.
Price: $187.94
Duration: 9 hours
You will enjoy walking through scenic old-town Takayama as you make the rounds of six sake breweries, sampling a variety of different styles. Remember to take it slow. That's a lot of sake! Your guide is an experienced brewery worker who can explain what gives each sake its unique flavor. By the end of the tour, you should have a good idea of what kind of sake you like, and how to find it. Adults only, please (20 years old or older). There is an optional behind-the-scenes tour of the production facilities at one of the breweries (subject to availability).
Price: $76.57
Duration: 2 hours
Travel conveniently from Takayama to Kanazawa in our air conditioned buses. Along the way, stop for two hours in UNESCO village Shirakawago, famous for its beautiful natural scenery and gassho houses. Finally, arrive at Kanazawa. Avoid the hassle of planning and navigating public transportation, as we take care of the logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip. Store up to two pieces of luggage beneath the bus, and one carry on item in the bus (per person).
Price: $76.57
Duration: 6 hours
Set off on a private journey to the heart of the Japanese Alps with our tour through the Japanese Alps. Starting in Takayama, this full-day experience takes you to the awe-inspiring heights of the Shinhotaka Ropeway and the serene landscapes of Kamikochi. Ascend the Shinhotaka Ropeway for breathtaking views of rugged peaks and lush valleys, immersing yourself in the majesty of the Northern Japan Alps. Then, explore the peaceful beauty of Kamikochi, where pristine rivers, iconic bridges, and dramatic mountain vistas create a tranquil retreat. This private tour is crafted for nature lovers eager to discover the diverse wonders of Japan’s alpine regions. From the exhilarating ride up the Shinhotaka Ropeway to the quiet paths of Kamikochi, every step offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the Japanese Alps.
Price: $789.33
Duration: 9 hours
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Gifu’s cuisine features regional specialties such as Hida beef, prized for its marbled texture and flavor, often served as steak or in hot pot dishes. Other local delicacies include gohei mochi (grilled rice cakes with miso sauce) and ayu (sweetfish) caught fresh from local rivers. Dining customs emphasize seasonal ingredients and presentation. Noteworthy restaurants include those in Takayama specializing in Hida beef and traditional kaiseki meals.
Getting Around
Gifu is accessible by Shinkansen to Nagoya, then local trains or buses to key destinations within the prefecture. Local transportation includes buses and trains connecting towns and tourist sites. For convenience, especially when visiting rural areas, renting a car is recommended. Public transport is reliable but may have limited schedules in remote locations. Costs vary, with train fares generally affordable and car rentals moderately priced.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack layers for variable mountain climates and comfortable walking shoes. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet behavior in public spaces. Carry cash as some smaller shops may not accept cards. Safety is high, but always stay aware of weather conditions in mountainous areas.
Culture & Customs
Gifu’s culture is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese customs, including respect for nature and community. Social etiquette includes bowing as a greeting, punctuality, and modest dress at temples and shrines. Important festivals include the Takayama Festival, known for its ornate floats, and local harvest celebrations. Visitors should observe quiet respect during cultural events and follow guidelines when visiting historic sites.
