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What is there to do in Gifu City? Although not a major tourist destination, Gifu City is a nice place to relax and take a break from Japan’s bustling city centers. Located only twenty minutes by train from Nagoya, it’s an easily accessible destination. Here are three things you should experience while in Gifu City:

1. Kawaramachi Street

This quaint street embodies Japan’s traditional charm through wooden shophouses, stores, and restaurants. Learn about Gifu’s art of paper making, as well as admire the unique paper lanterns of the region. Also, be sure to sample some regional specialities—ayu-gashi (fish-shaped pancakes with sweet filling), gujo ayu (sweetfish from the Gujo District), or Hida beef—while popping in and out of the shops.

2. Mount Kinka

The small mountain Kinkazan (Mount Kinka) is surrounded by Gifu Koen (Gifu Park). From the park, you can take the Mount Kinka Ropeway to the mountaintop where you will find Gifu Castle and a museum. There are four hiking trails of varying difficulty leading up and down the mountain for those who would like to experience nature, too.

3. Cormorant Fishing

The highlight of Gifu City is watching ukai (cormorant fishing) at Nagarabashi (Nagara Bridge), where cormorant birds and fire are used to catch fish in the Nagara River. This centuries-old fishing technique takes place at night between May and October. Spectators can pay to sit on the boats with the fishermen for some up-close action or simply watch from the bridge for free. More information about the fishing can be found by clicking here.

I wouldn’t plan an entire trip around Gifu City, but it’s a good afternoon trip from Nagoya. For more places of interest, food, and travel tips for places in Japan and cities around the world, be sure to check out my travel guides! All of my travel guides are created from personal experiences, making them authentic and honest.

Peace & happy travels,

Tay