Timeless Japan, Naturally an Adventure

Image: Gero Hot Springs (Photo Credit: Gifu Prefecture Tourism Federation)

by Janeen Christoff
Last updated: 1:45 PM ET, Fri March 22, 2024

Explore the beauty and tradition of Japan with a trip off the beaten path to its Gifu prefecture.

Located in the central part of Japan, the area is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Gifu blends tradition and modern attractions with stunning natural beauty and outstanding opportunities for adventure, highlighted by the magnificent Mount Ontake and the enchanting Nagara River.

Visitors will discover many opportunities to explore stunning sights, such as the breathtaking views from Gifu Castle, as well as the area's traditional crafts such as Mino washi paper and Seki cutlery.

Gifu was named one of the world’s top 100 green destinations for sustainable tourism, which includes destinations like Shirakawa Village, Nagara River Basin, and Gero Onsen in the years 2020, 2021, and 2022, which highlights the world’s recognition that the essence of sustainability lies in this region.

The prefecture is also home to the famous Takayama Festival, featuring elaborate floats and traditional performances.?

Must-See in Gifu

Gifu has long been famous for its rich nature and world-class traditions and culture so there are many highlights for visitors traveling to the area.?

One must-see is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go. Found in one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall areas, it is lined with gassho-zukuri houses. These large homes with steeply pitched thatched roofs are the only examples in Japan.? People make a living growing mulberries and raising silkworms and the historic village is an example of a traditional way of life, perfectly adapted to the environment, the social and economic situations of its people. It is like a fairytale world.?

Another must when traveling to Gifu is Takayama Old Town. Known as Sanmachi, the old town retains the atmosphere and charm of a castle town from hundreds of years ago. It is a 10-minute walk from the Takayama Station and features old merchant houses and sake breweries, which line the streets.

Gero Hot Springs is one of the three most famous hot springs in Japan and a must-see in Gifu. These springs have been chosen as one of the “Top 100 Sustainable Tourism Destinations in the World” at Green Destinations in 2022, and its “water of beauties” attracts people from around the world.?

Traveling the Nakasendo is something visitors to Gifu will enjoy. The ancient highway that connects Tokyo and Kyoto is home to several post towns where travelers can spend the night. It has existed for more than 450 years and winds through Japan's mountainous terrain.?

Gifu Itinerary

Spend four days and three nights in Gifu embracing true Japan and exploring onsen, the Nakasendo Trail and World Heritage Sites.?

On day one, travelers can explore the Nakasendo, strolling around the post town, Magome-juku and hiking Magome Pass while savoring the opportunity to travel the way people have through centuries. In the evening, spend a relaxing night at the historic and atmospheric onsen town, Gero Onsen.?

Day two, depart Gero Onsen and travel to Gujo Hachiman, a castle town known for its natural surroundings and sightseeing spots. Next, head to Takayama, to see its well-preserved old town and explore its historical districts, arts, architecture, folklore and local cuisine.?

Start day three at the Takayama Morning Market to see local specialties and products then enjoy nature on a cycling journey, following a former railway line.?

On the last day of your stay in Gifu, visit the village of Shirakawago, the UNESCO World Heritage site where you will see the traditional “Gassho-zukuri” farmhouses, some of which have been standing for more than 250 years since they were built.

For travel consultation and arrangements, contact JTB USA Inc., Luxury Escapes at 888-864-7118; luxuryescapes@jtbusa.com.?

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